Japanese
Design

Beauty, Simplicity and Refinement

At Arkular, our spaces are efficient in every possible way. Each plan is carefully considered using Japanese design principles to minimise wasted space in cohesion with Scandinavian utilitarian efficiencies, whilst maintaining the Australian style essential for a refined and relaxed lifestyle. Read on to learn more about Japanese and Scandinavian design techniques and how we utilise these principles within our design process.

Wabi-Sabi (侘寂)

Wabi-sabi is a Japanese concept that seeks to find beauty in objects, landscapes and designs, even when imperfect and simplistic in nature.

The movement has become increasingly popular in the Western world, with many designers, architects and artists drawing inspiration from the practicality and mindfulness of the concept.

“Seek beauty in things that evolve and age with time.”

Instead of resisting the process of ageing, Wabi-Sabi emulates the acceptance and appreciation of the beauty of those changes and imperfections.

We encapsulate these principles within our design process by utilising natural materials. The use of sustainably sourced Silvertop Ash timber at our Bonnie Doon project will see the house mature gracefully to reveal a silvered aesthetic, naturally welcoming the beauty and charm of aging.

Explore the details of our Bonnie Doon House. 

What is Scandinavian Design?

Scandinavian design is deeply utilitarian, aiming to release attachment to clutter and promote a purer, happier way of living.

The focal elements of Scandinavian design are functionality, simplicity, and artistry. A majority of Nordic-style designs also favour natural materials, especially pale woods such as ash, wool and linen textiles. Scandinavian-style designs have an understated, minimalist appearance.

Scandinavian interiors and furniture designs feature white, off-white, and grey hues along with muted blue and green colours. Darker accents can also create bold colour contrasts.

Hygge

Pronounced “hoo-gah” the Danish concept Hygge represents cosiness and surrounding yourself with the things that make life meaningful, such as friendship, laughter and security.

Hygge is such an integral part of being Danish that it is considered “a defining feature of our cultural identity and an integral part of the national DNA,” says Meik Wiking, the CEO of the Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen.

At Arkular we are inspired by the principles of Scandinavian design, curating spaces of comfort, security and happiness.

Solar
Power.

What’s the Deal with Solar Energy?

An increasing number of households are choosing to install solar panels in their home to help reduce their carbon footprint, bills and costs. By using the power that you’ve generated on your own roof, you can save hundreds each year and become less reliant on the power grid.

Read on to learn why solar could be a good option for you.

Let’s Go Solar

It doesn’t matter if it’s summer or winter, throughout the year our country bakes under the relentless sun.

Australia is not called the Sunburnt Country for nothing: we experience more solar radiation per square kilometre on average than anywhere else in the world. The Sun gives us 10,000 times the energy annually than Australians consume in a year, with the utilisation of solar panels allowing us to make the most of this incredibly large and renewable source of energy.

Solar electricity panels capture the Sun’s energy and convert it into electricity that we can use in the home to power our appliances.

Energy from the Sun can also be used to warm your water and to heat your home. Heating water can account for up to one-third of a typical home electricity bill. Even just heating your household’s water with a solar hot water system can make a difference to the amount of energy you draw from the grid.

Advantages of Choosing Solar

Many variables impact the cost and savings associated with solar panels. As a whole, solar panel systems will provide payback within 4-5 years, with high-quality solar power systems delivering savings for up to 25 years.

According to Solar Victoria:

“Installing rooftop solar panels saves the average Victorian household $1,073 on their annual energy bills. And in doing so, households reduce their overall carbon emissions, which helps to tackle climate change.”

The environmental advantages of opting for solar include:

1. Using less water
2. Reducing air pollution
3. Reducing your carbon footprint

From reducing greenhouse gases to improving air quality and conserving water, solar energy can help to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and lower energy prices for years to come.

Image: Ark S3

Clever L-shaped
Modular Design.

L-shape Modular Home Designs & Floorplans

Style plays a role in responding to context, but the real value lies in a well-considered plan. An L-shaped layout works harder than most, framing outdoor space, strengthening indoor/outdoor connection, and drawing light and views deep into the home. It naturally creates zones for privacy and openness, shaping spaces that feel both connected and calm. Read on to explore five L-shaped Arkular designs that just make sense.

1. The Ark S3 – An L-Shaped Design That Looks Good And Feels Great

Dream home! An L-shaped modular design that works hard for you and your family, looks great and is kind to the environment.

This 4 bedroom + 2 bathroom layout divides private spaces from shared areas, with an open-plan living space flowing outward, ideal for everyday living and entertaining.

The versatility of our set designs allows you to easily expand or modify your space. Considering adding a guest space or a home office with stunning ocean views? Let’s get started!

View the Ark S3 here.

Image: Jindabyne House (Floorplan)

Image: Jindabyne House

Image: Jindabyne House

3. Banksia House – a Comforting Retreat Inspired by the Native Landscape

Banksia House by Arkular capitalises on the uniqueness and resilience of the iconic Banksia tree, resulting in a comforting family home that will be shared across generations.

Set delicately amongst the coastal landscape, Arkular’s latest modular home is a relaxing retreat inspired by the iconic Banksia integrifolia native to the area.

Reminiscent of the unique sculptural form of the natural flora, the segmented façade is symbolic of the intricate serrated leaves, with the design offering intrigue and delight through its distinct architectural identity.

View the Shoreham Banksia House here.

Image: Banksia House

Image: Banksia House

Image: Portsea Beach House Floorplan

Image: Portsea Beach House

Image: Portsea Beach House

5. Flinders House – An Open Plan Home with Heart

The main premise of the design was to open up its outdoor areas towards a more public interface, breaking down the private/public zones.

Allowing opportunities for neighbours engagement and interaction, a habit encouraged within a beachside community where young kids can grow and be part of the lives of those around them.

View more about our Flinders House here.

Image: Flinders House

Image: Flinders House

Have a project
in mind?

Ready to design and build your own L-shaped escape? Get in touch to learn more about our prefab modular homes. Start the conversation contact us here.