The term "Art Deco" is often used to describe the work of modernist architects like Harry and Penelope Seidler. The couple has been considered one of Australia’s most iconic architectural couples due to their unique contributions to the global landscape of design. Over the years, the duo has established an impressive portfolio of art deco-inspired buildings, with many of them dotting the landscape of Australian cities. The Seidler's unique style of architecture combines modernism and traditional elements to create a completely new aesthetic. Throughout their career, they have worked with a variety of materials to create striking homes that stand out in the eye of any admirer. Here are just 10 of the top art deco house designs created by Harry and Penelope Seidler that demonstrate the level of creativity and attention to detail they put into their work.Harry and Penelope Seidler House Designs
Harry and Penelope Seidler House Designs
The Seidler House in Killara is perhaps the most widely recognizable of the duo's art deco designs. Known for its unique combination of traditional materials such as timber and stone combined with modern materials like glass and concrete, the Killara home makes an impressive statement in a suburban setting. Designed to blend in with its natural surroundings, the Killara Seidler House is an architectural masterpiece that showcases the Seidlers' commitment to creating a unique aesthetic.Seidler House in Killara: Architectural Masterpiece
Seidler House in Killara: Architectural Masterpiece
Another renowned work from the duo is the Seidlers' Double Bay house. This remarkable design has been widely praised for its combination of local and global influences in the form of traditional and modern elements. From the intricate stonework and timbers to the sleek lines of modern concrete and glass, this house is a testament to the couple's ability to bring different styles of design together in harmony.Seidler House in Double Bay: Redefining Glocal Residential Architecture
Seidler House in Double Bay: Redefining Glocal Residential Architecture
The Harry Seidler House in Northbridge is another testament to the duo's Pioneering style of architecture. Built on a disparate parcel of land, the Northbridge Seidler House features a striking blend of angles and curves to create an impressive balance. The stonework walls and massive living area reflect the traditional elements of the home while the angled glass panels and flowing lines provide the perfect juxtaposition of shapes and styles.Harry Seidler House in Northbridge: An Expression of Balance
Harry Seidler House in Northbridge: An Expression of Balance
The Willoughby Seidler House stands as a testament to the power of modern architecture. Taking inspiration from the industrial revolution, the house stands out with its sharp lines and monochromatic color palette. The large windows and open living spaces allow for natural light to fill the interior, while adding a unique touch to the house's exterior.Seidler House in Willoughby: Constructing a Symbol of Modernism
Seidler House in Willoughby: Constructing a Symbol of Modernism
Penelope Seidler’s design sensibilities are the main feature of the Paddington Seidler House. The structure of the house is based around a completed rectangular form, which is surrounded by various textured elements to create a unique aesthetic. The traditional materials of timber and stone are the dominating features of the house, while the addition of modern elements such as the large glass windows and frameless swing doors gives the house an unmistakable allure.Seidler House in Paddington: A Reflection of Penelope Seidler’s Design Sensibility
Seidler House in Paddington: A Reflection of Penelope Seidler's Design Sensibility
The Wollstonecraft Seidler House stands as an example of the duo's commitment to innovating new architecture designs. Taking inspiration from the Australian landscape, the house features a sleek, modern design that pays homage to traditional materials. The use of curved glass walls provides an eye-catching focal point, while the exposed steel and timber framework makes for a unique composition.Seidler House in Wollstonecraft: Innovative Architecture Design
Seidler House in Wollstonecraft: Innovative Architecture Design
The Rose Bay Seidler House showcases the versatility of the Seidlers' design style. Combining traditional elements such as timber and stone with a modern design of glass and steel, the house stands out as a testament to the couple's commitment to combining beauty and functionality. The curved glass walls and façade provide a unique focal point, while the open interior allows for plenty of natural light to flood the house.Seidler House in Rose Bay: Streamlined Elegance
Seidler House in Rose Bay: Streamlined Elegance
The Woollahra Seidler House is the epitome of modern art deco style. Featuring a curved façade made up of various shades of glass, the house stands out on the streets of Woollahra with its vivid magnetism. The combination of timber, stone and steel materials create a homespun feel while the addition of modern elements such as the concrete-clad external walls adds a unique touch to the design.Seidler House in Woollahra: Vivid Magnetism
Seidler House in Woollahra: Vivid Magnetism
Seidlers' Balmoral House is a prime example of their ability to integrate different styles of design into one. Built on an isolated cliff-top location, the house features a sleek design inspired by the rugged Australian coast. The combination of glass and stone creates a feeling of openness, while the use of timber and steel helps to give the house a cozy atmosphere. The house also features an impressive outdoor entertaining area, which provides visitors with a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.Seidler House in Balmoral: Refined Cliff-Top Design
Seidler House in Balmoral: Refined Cliff-Top Design
The Famous Penelope and Harry Seidler House Plan
The
Penelope and Harry Seidler House Plan
has become an international icon of modernist architecture over the past few decades. Built in 1967 in the suburb of Killara, Australia, this structural masterpiece redefined the architectural disciplines with its superior design, sophisticated spatial layout, and efficient implementation of modern luxuries. It is a renowned example of mid-century modernist design and was the first fully formed house designed by the husband and wife team of Penelope and Harry Seidler.
The Eye-Catching Exterior
The exterior aesthetic of the Seidler Home Plan exemplifies the linear beauty of modernist architecture. The cascading horizontal lines of the panels, the multi-leveled balconies and terraces, and the glass-enclosed entranceway create a smooth, timeless look. The shape of the home itself rises inward to signify the public and private aspects of the dwelling, while the use of concrete, grey brick, and coloured glass are immediately effective methods of artistic expression.
The Spatial Network
The Seidler Home Plan also features a complex spatial network with a unique flow of communication between various parts of the home. The entrances at the front and rear of the house direct visitors and family members to the communal areas, such as the kitchen and living room. The corridors are equipped with curved walls in order to maximise use of the space, while the windows allow for natural light to beam into the overlapping levels.
The Intuitive Design Elements
The Seidler House Plan also features a range of intuitive design elements. These include dark slate floors, glass-top pool tables, circular built-in seating, recessed flat-screen TVs, and curved outdoor features to direct views and maximise the potential of the space. Respected and appreciated by many, it is an inspiration for architects and homeowners around the world.
