Iwanoff House
Architectural brickwork delivered in collaboration with Assemble Building Co at the heritage-listed Iwanoff House, Floreat.
A project connected to Western Australia’s architectural history.
Working on the Iwanoff House is not something that comes around often.
Designed in 1959 by Bulgarian-born architect Iwan Iwanoff, the Floreat residence is one of Western Australia’s most recognised examples of mid-century modern architecture. Recently added to the State Heritage Register, the home is known for its distinctive use of concrete besser blocks, geometric forms, and carefully balanced materials.
Red Rock Brickworks was engaged by Assemble Building Co to complete new blockwork elements that sit respectfully alongside the existing structure.
When working on a home with this level of architectural significance, every detail matters.
Builder: Assemble Building Co
Architect: Iwan Iwanoff (Original 1959 Design)
Location: Floreat, Perth
Brickwork: Red Rock Brickworks
Working on heritage architecture means respecting what already exists while making sure any new work sits naturally beside it.
Brickwork Scope
Red Rock Brickworks was engaged to complete new blockwork elements as part of the broader works on the property. Our scope focused on ensuring the new construction respected the original architectural language of the home.
Our work included:
- Construction of new blockwork walls
- Integration with existing besser block architecture
- Careful mortar and material selection to suit the existing palette
- Precise set-out to maintain alignment with the original geometry
Every element was approached with the understanding that the brickwork needed to complement the home’s existing design rather than compete with it.
Working Within a Heritage Context
Projects like this require a different mindset from standard residential builds.
With heritage-listed architecture, the goal isn’t to stand out — it’s to ensure any new work feels like it belongs there.
That meant careful attention to:
- block selection
- mortar tone
- alignment with the original architectural grid
- clean execution of every course.
The aim was simple: deliver blockwork that quietly supports the architecture rather than competing with it.
Respecting the Original Architecture
Iwanoff’s work is known for its strong geometric language and distinctive use of masonry.
Even when contributing smaller elements to a site like this, the responsibility is to make sure the new work carries that same language.
Clean lines, consistent joints, and accurate set-out were critical in ensuring the new blockwork integrated naturally with the original home.
Collaboration & Outcome
Working closely with Assemble Building Co, the project required careful coordination to ensure the works respected the heritage significance of the property while supporting the broader renovation.
Our contribution may be a small part of the overall project, but it plays a role in the continued life of one of Western Australia’s most recognised architectural homes.
Projects like this are a reminder that good masonry doesn’t always need to shout — sometimes its role is simply to sit quietly within a much bigger story.
On Site at Iwanoff House
Hear from Ryan and see the team working on site.
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