south melbourne house

The project was a renovation and extension to a victorian house on a corner site. beyond all the practical constraints, the question is how to integrate new with old, in a way that works for both- neither diminished by the other, and ideally enhanced by the juxtaposition.

The typical inner city house extension can hide between neighbours- presenting a pristine heritage front to the street, with a fully contemporary and private extension to the rear, so this project presented a challenge .

The brief was also to not lose any of the already small garden space, so the additions were kept to a minimum, and incorporated a small basement.

With new works facing north to the garden and city views (1st floor), the design maximises openings with deep overhangs for best north sun enjoyment.

The new street side extension faces west, so the glazing needed to be selective- very deep reveal slot windows, preserve privacy and also allow views of neighbouring reserve gums, and allow the beautiful afternoon glow- without intense summer heat.

Locally sourced blue-grey brickwork on the new provides a subtle foil to the lighter grey render of the old building.

The recessed continuous vertical slot window between the old and new, puts a respectful distance between the 2 distinct building types.