"My favourite place? Our bathroom" Blackwood House, Queensland (AUS)

Your Blackwood House is very open. Why is that?

In Australia, openness suits our climate and lifestyle. Unlike Europe, where homes have separate rooms, we prioritise flow and connection. At Blackwood, the kitchen and living area form an open space, with only bedrooms and bathrooms enclosed. To create intimacy, I lowered the living area, defining it as a cozy retreat. This openness also encourages cross-ventilation, reducing the need for artificial cooling. And yes, we even have a fireplace – rarely needed, but perfect for rainy evenings.

How did you handle the challenges of heavy rain?

Queensland’s subtropical climate makes rain a major design factor. Flat roofs are popular but pose drainage challenges. I didn’t want to disrupt Blackwood’s clean aesthetic with exposed downpipes, so I chose Geberit Pluvia. It uses negative pressure to remove water efficiently, with slimmer pipes hidden within the walls. Typically used in commercial buildings, it was the perfect solution.

Why Geberit?

In Australia, in-wall cisterns are still seen as a luxury, but I’ve trusted Geberit for over 20 years. My reputation depends on quality, and I won’t compromise. Geberit delivers the sleek, seamless design I strive for, while ensuring long-lasting performance.

Which detail is particularly important to you?

It’s never just one detail – it’s the small, deliberate elements that make a home special. The tapered roofline, the sharp angles of the pool, the way everything connects – each plays a role in creating a cohesive, striking whole.