Nestled in the coastal town of Mount Martha, Australia, the Mori House stands as a striking architectural collaboration between Aires Mateus and MAArchitects. This modern beach house reimagines the classic Australian beach shack through a lens of minimalist design, blending Japanese, Portuguese, and Australian influences into a tranquil retreat.
The name “Mori”, meaning “forest” in Japanese, reflects the project’s deep connection to nature. Designed for a multigenerational family, the home embodies Zen principles—harmony, simplicity, and respect for natural materials. The exterior is defined by raw concrete walls, while the interior balances minimalist concrete surfaces with warm wooden accents, creating a serene yet striking contrast.
A defining feature of the Mori House is its concrete staircase, dramatically framed by towering walls in the central patio. The home is organized around a series of voids and skylights, allowing soft sunlight to filter through, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere. The open-plan layout includes a stainless steel kitchen, a long wooden dining table that doubles as a workspace, and a tatami room with a low wooden table—an ode to Japanese modest living.
The living spaces seamlessly transition to the outdoors through large openings and patios, reinforcing the connection to the surrounding landscape. A rooftop belvedere offers sweeping views of Port Phillip Bay, further integrating the home with its breathtaking coastal setting.
Built by Jeff Provan of Neometro, the Mori House exemplifies enduring architecture, using off-form concrete and natural timber to create a timeless structure. The project was captured by Derek Swallwell, an acclaimed architectural photographer whose work has appeared in Vogue Living and Wallpaper*, highlighting the home’s bold yet elegant design.
The Mori House is a testament to the power of cross-cultural design, where Aires Mateus’ sculptural concrete mastery meets MAArchitects’ thoughtful spatial planning. The result is a harmonious sanctuary that celebrates beach life, minimalist aesthetics, and architectural innovation.