Contemporary Farmhouse
Frame Colour: Textura Black
Glazing: Grade A Safety Toughened Low-e Double Glazing (Argon Fill)
Nestled into the natural slope of a bushland block, this stunning contemporary farmhouse by Jake Barrow Architecture showcases the perfect blend of architectural vision and functional design. The home’s strategic design creates a central courtyard experience that maximises the connection between indoor and outdoor living whilst delivering exceptional energy performance. Given the site’s location in a bushland area, all windows and doors were required to meet Bushfire Attack Level (BAL29) rating requirements. On the south elevation, certain products were specified with BAL29-compliant materials to ensure both safety and performance without compromising on the aesthetic appeal.
The architectural approach was centred  creating a home that would nestle harmoniously into the site’s natural slope, establishing a central courtyard as the heart of the design. “The strategic use of glazing was critical to the success of the external courtyard concept,” explains Jake Barrow of Jake Barrow Architecture. “Key views are framed and openings carefully positioned to maximise the indoor/outdoor experience without compromising on the energy performance. The result is a home that is filled with natural light in all of the key spaces at the most appropriate times of day.”
The home’s most striking features are the twin gables placed in the master bedroom and rumpus room. Each gable showcases an expansive 6-metre-wide 4-panel Fixed Lite Window, paired with Raked Windows for enhanced architectural impact.
Upon entering the home, visitors are greeted with a carefully framed view through a substantial 4m² Fixed Lite Window that perfectly captures the outdoor entertaining area and beyond.
The heart of the home features an impressive 6.5-metre-wide six-panel Stacker Door with a centre opening configuration. This opens out to the infinity edge pool and entertaining space.
Throughout the home, Awning Windows feature horizontal and vertical muntin bars which provide architectural interest and are a nod to traditional design. Featured prominently in the guest bedroom, all secondary bedrooms, and the master ensuite, these windows offer excellent ventilation control whilst maintaining the home’s clean aesthetic lines.
Strategically placed in walkways and transitional spaces, double-hung windows promote natural airflow. The operable bottom sash allows cool breezes to enter while the top sash expels warm air, creating natural ventilation without encroaching into living spaces.
Architectural refinement is evident in the custom offset Awning Windows featured in both the main bathroom and butler’s pantry, demonstrating how functional elements have been elevated to design features.
The specification of windows and doors was driven by multiple factors beyond aesthetics. “Rylock windows and doors presented the best value proposition for the project when considering quality and price point,” notes Jake Barrow. “The client’s experience of the sales process was also an important factor. Ricardo did an excellent job in helping the owners gain confidence in their selections and strike the perfect balance between their differing traditional vs contemporary style tastes.”
This collaborative approach ensured that the solution not only met the architectural vision but also aligned with the clients’ style preferences. The result is a contemporary farmhouse that feels both grounded in its natural setting and open, where every custom window and door serves both functional and aesthetic purposes in creating a truly remarkable forever family home.
