Willow Urban Retreat is a minimalist space located in Armadale, Australia, designed by Meme. Working within two narrow heritage buildings, the two titles are opened up with the insertion of a central courtyard, an oversized arch to the shopfront and long skylights along the perimeter of the building, maximizing space, volume and natural light. Further arches slice through the dividing wall to connect the café and spa, encouraging circulation within the multipurpose space. Arches seem fitting within the Victorian vernacular and inform a spatial language of soft, seamless curves at intersections and meeting points between wall, floor and ceiling. The palette of materials includes natural stone and jade green onyx, a continuous hand applied cement render and a hand poured, pigmented cement bar. Finishes are understated, minimal and robust to withstand high usage and the interchangeable programs at the retreat.

Photography by Sharyn Cairns