Clare Cousins Architects

I first discovered award winning architect Clare Cousins via The Design Files back in 2011. In her interview with Lucy Feagins she talked about how she juggled the running of her business with two young girls, both under five. Knowing only too well how busy life was with my two boys being similar ages at the time, this was awe-inspiring. 

Clearly an overachiever (and super-organised) Clare is also incredibly talented. With numerous awards under her belt already, Clare has just been announced as one of three shortlisted contenders for the annual InStyle and Audi Women of Style Awards, along with product designer Helen Kontouris and theatre designer Alice Babidge. Aiming to award Australia's "most inspirational and innovative women across a range of categories", Clare certainly fits the bill. With the winner due to be announced at an event in May, I thought I'd share some of the remarkable work of Clare's studio (CCA) with you. I highly recommend clicking on the links to see the full house tours. 

Shingle House. Gorgeous indoor/outdoor flow thanks to a new extension. 

Brick House. If there's just one house tour you click over to, this should be it. Featured in numerous online and print publications, Clare designed this exquisite property for her own family. Showcasing her incredible attention to detail and enviable style, it is truly a dream home. Oh and just so you know, Clare completed it within two weeks of giving birth to her second child. Sigh.

Downshire Rd. A new U-shaped extension to this Californian Bungalow in Melbourne has resulted in a winning combo of light, views and space. 

A bit of background before we continue with the eyecandy. Clare's studio in Melbourne has been in operation since 2005. Working predominantly in residential architecture, the team carries out each project by way of a highly collaborative interaction with their clients. The young, energetic design team use their collective experience to create innovative outcomes that unite both form and function. In addition to CCA's incredible portfolio of homes, there are also some exceptionally cool retail and commercial projects, so I've popped a few examples of those in as well.

Picket. The bright yellow pickets of this Melbourne florist immediately caught my eye. I couldn't resist popping in for a look if I was walking past.

Moor Street Apartment. One of my fave CCA projects, this one comprises both a private residence (shown above) and an internal office fit-out (below). I love the open plan kitchen/dining area with its monochrome palette, pale wood accents and oversized industrial pendant light.

Moor Street Studio. An amazing large scale artwork by prominent Melbourne artist Rowena Martinich provides a vibrant and colourful backdrop to the meeting room.

Dotti. A cool perforated 'skin' allows for flexible merchandising and provides texture to the otherwise neutral backdrop of this fashion store.

Mocha. Mirrored surfaces, mesh curtain walls and copper combine to create a unique and eye-catching space for the accessories and jewellery store.

In addition to running her studio and producing award winning work, Clare also finds time to assist the broader design community, providing mentoring and education as a public speaker, committee member and industry representative. Clare and her team have also reached out to those who lost their homes in the Black Saturday bushfires by providing Pro-bono services. Truly deserving of many more awards, I look forward to following Clare's journey.  

All images via www.clarecousins.com.au