Home Tours

Meet ZouHouse; A Modern Scandi Home with Mediterranean Influences

Instagram: @zoubuild

Located in the leafy inner suburbs of Brisbane sits ZouHouse. Built by Christal and Chris Fysentzou of Zou Build, ZouHouse is redefining the idea of the classic Queenslander family home. From the Grecian-styled pool area to soft curves and essential modern elements, this Scandinavian style dream home is one for the vision board. Come with us as we take a tour of ZouHouse and discover the inspiring combination of functionality and aesthetics.

Christal and Chris Fysentzou first stumbled upon a post-war three-bedroom home six years ago and it wasn’t love at first sight. However, with their industry experience, the couple could easily see the potential. In 2020, the Fysentzous began working in collaboration with Koda Design on the ZouHouse project. Reworking the home’s existing structure had extensive challenges accompanied by a small, sloping block and council character overlays. These issues ended up paving the way for ZouHouse to become the first knockdown rebuild project for the couple.

Starting from scratch allowed Christal and Chris to create a family home that focused on functionality and aesthetics. The goal was to build a space with a relaxed, sophisticated vibe centered around lifestyle. From this goal grew the vision of creating a different form of Queenslander that celebrates the couple’s Greek heritage while embracing the ever-so-popular Scandinavian style. Christal and Chris knew ZouHouse would become their forever home, so they took their time crafting the project to perfectly reflect their dream.

Upon arrival at ZouHouse, you’re immediately greeted by an effortlessly sleek façade that boasts an incredible hero peaked glass feature. Due to the size of the block, Christal and Chris decided to not include a garage and instead opted for an open multi-purpose space. This clever design detail maximised the space by extending the backyard and providing more internal area. The couple’s appreciation for Scandi minimalism can be noted in the cool whites and clean lines that seamlessly flow from outside in.

Once inside, ZouHouse feels bright, warm, and inviting. All achieved through elements like neutral tones and textures, in the form of light oak flooring, Dulux Lexicon Quarter, Adairs terracotta bed linen, and sofas from Lounge Lovers. The soft curves within the home organically soothe the space and have been strategically utilised to add interest to necessary bulkheads, the kitchen island bench, furniture, and décor.

The simplicity of ZouHouse continues long past the décor and into the elements that allow for functionality to be fully optimised. Modern integrated appliances and customised features make for a stylish kitchen with no compromises. Glass walls and 16 strategically placed skylights work in synergy to achieve a fresh space soaked in natural light. Even the layout of the home has been cleverly crafted to cater to every moment.

Hints of the couple’s Greek heritage can be noticed throughout the home, but the Mediterranean influences really take centre stage within the outdoor area. A Grecian palette of bright whites, custom-made curved concrete daybed, and a secluded pool position instantly transport you to a spot somewhere deep in the Mediterranean Sea. The custom-built fireplace and stools from Trit House have been added to create a relaxed and natural environment. The block is surrounded by lush greenery further creating an area to sit back and enjoy the Queensland weather.

Between the alfresco, pool, and fireplace, ZouHouse enables the family to entertain all year round. A statement spiral staircase sits to the side of the alfresco, connecting the home with the outdoor features. Wanting to spend their weekends enjoying their home, rather than maintaining it, Christal and Chris engaged Elizabeth Weyer to create a picturesque landscape design for the small space. Faux turf along with carefully selected plants was a must for this project as the area needed to not only look incredible but be a space the family wanted to spend time in.

We hope you’re feeling inspired by ZouHouse, it certainly has us dreaming of a Mediterranean getaway. If you’re looking for a little more inspiration on how to create your own holiday-at-home space, why not check out our mood board tool here.