Elm Studio
A garden studio designed for work and family life.
Positioned beyond the garden and overlooking the pool, Elm Studio is a purpose-built pool house that expands the way the family lives, works and connects. Designed by Nest Built as a complementary addition to the original Urban Habitats residence. The new structure establishes a quiet architectural dialogue with the home through its considered material palette, restrained form and strong visual connection.
Created in response to the changing rhythms of everyday life, the brief called for a dedicated work-from-home environment that could also evolve alongside a growing family. Rather than functioning as a singular office, the studio was conceived as a flexible retreat. Equally suited to focused work, children’s activities, quiet moments or entertaining beside the pool.
Although physically separated from the main residence, the pavilion remains intrinsically connected. Framed views across the garden, carefully aligned openings and a consistent material language create a sense of continuity. This allowed the architecture to feel both distinct and belonging.
The exterior palette of softly bagged brickwork, charcoal fibre cement cladding and refined detailing. This creates a calm, understated expression that sits comfortably within the established landscape. The interior continues the warmth of the original home through American oak joinery, natural white finishes and carefully considered lighting.
Construction presented a unique challenge. With no direct site access, every stage of the build required materials, equipment and trades to be carefully coordinated through a neighbouring supermarket car park. Despite these logistical complexities, the project was delivered ahead of the contracted construction program. A testament to thoughtful planning, close collaboration and the value of an integrated design and construction approach.
More than an ancillary building, Elm Studio demonstrates how considered architecture can adapt a home to changing lifestyles, creating additional space that feels separated yet, connected.
