Feng Shui guides the design of this Melbourne house extension

Brighton House, a residential project located in Dendy, Australia, was completed in 2021 by FIGR Architecture & Design. This 225 square meter dwelling, documented by photographer Tom Blachford, involved a comprehensive renovation and extension of an existing period home. The architects aimed to create a design that honored the historical context of the original structure while integrating contemporary elements and addressing the challenges posed by its previous alterations. The project approached the existing dwelling as a historical artifact, with its accumulated layers of previous renovations forming part of its narrative. Rather than erasing these layers, the design sought to weave them into a new, cohesive whole. The concept for the extension drew inspiration from the client's desire for a space that felt both connected to and distinct from the original house, leading to the idea of an 'iceberg' typology. This approach involved creating a new volume that appears minimal and reserved at street level but expands significantly below ground and towards the rear, maximizing usable space without overwhelming the existing context or neighboring properties. Key design decisions focused on materiality and spatial organization. The exterior features a material palette that distinguishes the new intervention from the old, while maintaining a sense of continuity. The 'iceberg' design facilitated the inclusion of expansive living areas, a large kitchen, and dining spaces that open onto a landscaped garden, optimizing natural light and ventilation. The transition between the original house and the new extension is handled with careful consideration, ensuring a fluid experience for the occupants. Interior spaces are characterized by a thoughtful selection of finishes, including wood, brick, and natural stone, contributing to a warm and inviting atmosphere. Manufacturers such as Fisher & Paykel and Miele supplied kitchen appliances, while other notable suppliers included Anaca Studio, Apaiser, Artedomus, Astral Walker, Colorbond, Globewest, Hub Furniture, Qasair Range Hoods, Radial Timbers, and SKPietra Natural Stone. The project team included Shape Building as builders and Mud Office for landscape design, with structural and civil engineering by Meyer Consulting Engineers and building surveyors from Michel Group Building Surveyors. Barbie Vongphone served as the project architect, with Adi Atic and Michael Artemenko as design directors, and Michael Artemenko also as project director. Ruth Welsby provided styling for the interiors. The design integrates various functional zones, including living rooms, a kitchen, dining areas, and bathrooms, all designed with attention to detail and a focus on creating a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing environment. The landscape design complements the architectural intervention, enhancing the overall living experience by providing seamless indoor-outdoor connections. The project exemplifies a design strategy that respects historical lineage while embracing modern living requirements and expanding space in unexpected ways. #ResidentialArchitecture #HouseInteriors #AustralianArchitecture #Renovation #Extension #ModernDesign #Materiality #SpatialOrganization #InteriorDesign

Zen Architects undertook a significant renovation of a family home in Melbourne, Australia, which the owners had occupied for over two decades. The original 2,150-square-foot house, characterized by a square, four-rooms-deep, and four-rooms-wide floor plan, suffered from poor natural light penetration and a lack of connection to its garden. The central areas were dark and underutilized, prompting the residents to arrange furniture along the perimeter in an attempt to be closer to the outdoors. The renovation aimed to resolve these issues by introducing a curved glass extension, drawing inspiration from the curvilinear designs of the nearby Mount Eagle Estate, established in 1914 by Marion Mahoney and Walter Burley Griffin. The architectural intervention involved sculpting a curved glass void into the living area, specifically designed to funnel light and nature deep into the home's interior. This new structure was carefully integrated behind the existing heritage facade and within the original footprint, minimizing its impact on the established garden and streetscape. The curved glass element brings the garden closer to all living spaces, enhancing the indoor-outdoor connection. The family room was repositioned at the heart of the home, with the kitchen and dining area wrapping around the northern side of the new glass facade. The kitchen features reeded glass window backsplashes that softly filter light, while rounded edges on the timber joinery and benchtops create an open and inviting atmosphere. A high-level window in the dining area introduces dappled northwest light, partially obscured by tall pine trees outside. Deep eaves around the glass facade provide protection from intense summer sun, yet allow the winter sun to align with the teardrop-shaped extension, offering panoramic views as it descends. On the opposite side of the curving glass, a sunken living room receives abundant northern light, which radiates over the teardrop form. The lowered floor in this area, combined with a consistent ceiling height, creates a distinct sense of coziness and verticality, contrasting with the expansive and horizontal feel of the main living area. This variation in volume offers a fresh perspective of the landscape, with a specific window framing a centuries-old pre-settlement mahogany gum tree. The front section of the house was modernized and repurposed to accommodate an office and the main bedroom, complete with a walk-in robe and en suite. Two additional bedrooms, a bathroom, and a laundry area are situated along the southern side, now occupying better-proportioned rooms than in the original layout. The detailing and finishes from the kitchen are consistently applied throughout the wet areas of the house. Externally, a terrace and deck extend around the living areas, integrating the house with the sloping terrain and embedding it within the landscape. The deliberate absence of balustrades facilitates a seamless transition between the indoor and outdoor environments. The material palette for the renovation, including off-white dry-pressed brick and dark stone flooring, was chosen to complement the predominantly masonry and stone residences found in the estate. These robust materials are softened by timber cladding, decking, and ceilings, reflecting the presence of significant gum trees. This material selection contributes to a warm, natural, and cozy interior that emphasizes the vibrant greens of the surrounding garden, drawing attention to the natural setting. #HomeRenovation #MelbourneArchitecture #CurvedGlassExtension #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ModernDesign #NaturalLight #ZenArchitects #GardenIntegration #SustainableDesign

Krisna Cheung Architects has completed the 'Pergola Extension' project, a transformative renovation of a Victorian inner-city Melbourne property. This project aimed to convert an existing historic house into a generous and functional domestic hub for a local family, addressing the common habitability issues found in older Victorian homes in the area. The architectural team, led by principal Ray Cheung, drew inspiration from the house's original translucent polycarbonate rear garage façade, integrating this material into the new roof and ceiling of the living and kitchen areas. This design choice not only opened up the interior space towards the rear garden but also created the titular pergola, clearly distinguishing the extension as a contemporary addition. The use of contemporary shapes and materials for the pergola structure prominently highlights the new intervention as a modern layer upon the historic fabric. Inside, the design fosters an open-plan layout, achieved by repositioning the kitchen and merging the living and dining areas into a continuous, flowing space devoid of corridors or partitions. This seamless integration of interior spaces with the external planted areas creates a sense of spaciousness and connection to nature. Beyond aesthetics, the architectural interventions primarily focused on improving the home's environmental performance. Ray Cheung noted that many Victorian houses in inner-city Melbourne suffer from poor heating, cooling, and daylighting, leading to suboptimal living conditions. The 'Pergola Extension' dramatically enhances natural ventilation and daylighting, which in turn reduces overall energy consumption and promotes a healthier indoor environment. Sustainable strategies employed in the project include an acoustically and thermally insulated polycarbonate roof and ceiling, optimized natural ventilation, and the creative reuse of existing building materials. For instance, bricks and timber flooring from the old house were salvaged, with the rear façade bricks being repurposed for the garden's landscaping. Krisna Cheung Architects is recognized for its expertise in navigating challenging urban sites and developing innovative inner-city building solutions. Their previous projects, such as 'Colour Shingle House' in North Melbourne, demonstrate a consistent approach to revitalizing existing properties with creativity and flair, often within modest budgets. The firm's methodology emphasizes maximizing spatial generosity and optimizing both functionality and the unique personality of each design. This project exemplifies their commitment to creating impactful architectural solutions that enhance livability and sustainability without necessarily relying on large-scale budgets. The 'Pergola Extension' therefore stands as a testament to thoughtful contemporary design that respects historical context while delivering significant improvements in environmental performance and spatial quality. It successfully blends modern architectural elements with sustainable practices, offering a vibrant and efficient home that meets the needs of a contemporary family within a historically rich urban setting. #Architecture #ResidentialDesign #MelbourneArchitecture #HomeExtension #SustainableDesign #VictorianHome #KrisnaCheungArchitects #OpenPlanLiving #PolycarbonateRoof #UrbanRenovation

This article details the comprehensive renovation of a century-old Sydney home, originally built in 1914, transforming it into a modern family residence. The property, located on a corner block near Centennial Park, underwent extensive refurbishment after being purchased in 2017 by a young professional couple. The house was in a state of disrepair, requiring new wiring, plumbing, a new kitchen, and repairs to a collapsing ceiling. The owners enlisted architect Carla Middleton to oversee the project, aiming to create a 'forever home' suitable for a growing family. Middleton describes the original house as dilapidated but an amazing blank canvas. The renovation strategy involved reducing the number of bedrooms from six to three, which would be housed in a newly constructed second storey. Conversely, the number of bathrooms was increased to four, plus a powder room, emphasizing quality over quantity in terms of sleeping quarters. On the ground level, the design focused on creating expansive living areas. The original front rooms were preserved and repurposed as family rooms, a study, and a sitting room. Great care was taken to restore original features such as skirtings, cornices, fireplaces, and stained-glass windows, maintaining the home's historic charm. A key design objective was to implement an open-plan living concept, moving away from the smaller, separated rooms of the previous home. The new extension at the rear features an 11x8-meter living space that seamlessly connects to a sun-drenched deck. Given the home's north-south orientation, a primary goal was to maximize natural light in this area. Carla Middleton achieved this through a striking void space that reaches 6.7 meters at its highest point and extensive glazing. This design ensures that the northern light floods the living/dining area and extends to the upstairs bedrooms overlooking the void. The exterior of the extension, clad in James Hardie Scyon cement-composite boards, contrasts with the original brick structure while subtly referencing its form through a new roofline composed of three gables. These gables correspond to the kitchen, dining, and living zones downstairs. The original hallway was also maintained as a central axis, creating a clear vista from the front door to the light-filled rear living space. For the interior design, Carla Middleton collaborated with the owners to establish a palette that blends her neutral, natural material preference with their crisp, contemporary style and appreciation for darker tones. This resulted in an interplay of black, white, and mid-grey hues, complemented by stone elements throughout the home. The kitchen, a focal point for entertaining, exemplifies this blend with black and white cabinetry by Holtz Joinery and Elba marble benchtops and splashback, featuring a substantial 4x1.3-meter island bench. The renovation was completed as the family grew, with the owners welcoming two children during the project, making the newly transformed space a comfortable and functional home. #HomeRenovation #HistoricHome #ModernExtension #SydneyArchitecture #OpenPlanLiving #NaturalLightDesign #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #CarlaMiddletonArchitect #AustralianHomes

Tribe Studio, a Sydney-based architectural firm, undertook a unique project to renovate House Au Yeung, a typical inter-war bungalow in Roseville, Sydney. The family residing in the bungalow desired a more spacious and functional home with an improved connection to their 362 sq m garden. The architects made an unconventional decision to slightly reduce the building's footprint while simultaneously enhancing its spaciousness. This project, which took two years from design to completion, focused primarily on the rear and upper levels of the house. The original structure featured a poorly connected series of rooms at the back, which were replaced with a new pavilion. This strategic alteration resulted in a minimal reduction of the building's footprint by 4 square meters, bringing the total to 129 sq m. The new rear pavilion now accommodates a large open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area, fostering a better flow and interaction with the garden. Additionally, one of the original formal reception rooms at the front of the house was repurposed into a master bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, optimizing the use of existing space. The renovation also included the addition of a roof extension with an extended gable. This new upper level skillfully incorporates two children’s bedrooms, a bathroom, and a playroom, demonstrating an efficient use of vertical space. Hannah Tribe, the founder of Tribe Studio, described the house as possessing a 'whimsically and nonsensically detailed' character, blending elements of Tudor and California Bungalow styles. The design aimed to preserve and enhance this inherent charm. A key design element involved a 'material palette call and response' between the public and private areas of the building. Miriam Green, Tribe's managing associate director, meticulously recreated the brick sunburst feature from the original front elevation at the back of the house. Similarly, the lead light windows found at the front were reinterpreted as modern steel window frames in the rear, creating a harmonious visual dialogue between the old and new sections of the bungalow. The seamless integration of modern interiors and design elements behind the original red brick facade maintains the home's historic charm while offering contemporary living spaces. The playful block color bathroom tiling further contributes to the whimsical style of the house, adding an unexpected touch of modern design. #TribeStudio #BungalowExtension #SydneyArchitecture #ResidentialDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #OpenPlanLiving #HistoricPreservation #ModernInteriors

Steffen Welsch Architects were tasked with expanding a 1930s, 1,291-square-foot Californian bungalow in Melbourne to accommodate a growing family and frequent guests. The clients sought increased space alongside sustainability, flexible interiors, evolving privacy considerations, and future accessibility. The architectural solution involved adding a 1,259-square-foot rammed earth wing that sweeps off the back of the original house, curving along the property line to maximize solar gain and create a communal courtyard. The design divides the home into four distinct zones. The existing bungalow now serves as the children and guest area, comprising two bedrooms, a playroom, and bathrooms. Each zone in the expanded home features its own outdoor space. The architects strategically positioned the new addition to capture sunlight, forming a central courtyard that allows occupants to view their own home rather than a boundary fence, addressing the challenge of a south-facing extension on a compact inner-city block. Sustainability was a core principle, focusing on minimizing both embodied and operational energy. This was achieved through passive solar design, optimal building orientation, high-performance windows and doors, and the use of rammed earth. Rammed earth was chosen for its low embodied energy and its contribution to the building's thermal mass. An entry hall connects the original bungalow to the addition, leading to the new master suite. Built-in storage, clad in charred wood, was incorporated for flexible use and accessibility. The connecting corridor, featuring polished concrete screed floors, leads to shared living spaces, with high clerestory windows in the rammed earth walls providing ample natural light. A study is integrated into this corridor with external access, and an interior window from the kitchen overlooks the study and hall. The shared living spaces open onto the communal courtyard through a curved glass wall. The kitchen features flat-front cabinetry and round backsplash tiles with a pastel glaze. Material selection emphasized functionality and user interaction, with a focus on solar heat radiation, natural ventilation, and durable surfaces. The bathroom incorporates wood-paneled walls that echo the rammed earth striations, using wormy chestnut and recycled blackbutt for the counter. The playroom, located in the original house, also faces the new courtyard. The addition's design thoughtfully combines the lightweight timber-clad aesthetic of the original bungalow with the robust character of earth construction, creating a home that is both functional and aesthetically harmonized with its surroundings. #HomeDesign #RammedEarth #SustainableArchitecture #BungalowExtension #MelbourneArchitecture #FamilyHome #PassiveSolarDesign #FlexibleLiving #ArchitecturalRenovation

The article details the transformation of two conjoined homes in Melbourne, Australia, into a single, cohesive living space for entrepreneur and yogi Cheryl Mainland and her three children. Mainland, who has lived in numerous cities globally, sought a home that could integrate her diverse collection of artwork and souvenirs while accommodating her family's needs. After an extensive search, she found an unconventional property in Armadale consisting of two merged houses, complete with two inner stairwells and two living rooms. Despite its ample size and lush garden, the property required significant renovation to align with Mainland's 'industrial beach chic' aesthetic. With the assistance of interior design studio Eat.Bathe.Live, Mainland initiated a comprehensive remodel. This included renovating existing bathrooms, adding a primary en suite, polishing concrete floors, and creating a dedicated library and office space. The subsequent phase focused on incorporating Mainland's cherished belongings, a task that led her to collaborate with Melbourne stylist Simone Haag. Despite their contrasting design preferences—Haag favoring neutral tones and Mainland having a strong affinity for color—they established an immediate rapport. Haag's team, led by senior designer Melissa Strauch, translated Mainland's vision, which explicitly excluded brown and 1970s styles, into a design that blended bright and muted hues, playful silhouettes, and natural fibers like sisal. The design drew inspiration from key pieces like neon Chinese icons by artist Juno Shen, London and California posters, and a Kit Kemp mannequin, establishing a vibrant palette of lilacs, pinks, and turquoise accented with natural tones. A particular challenge arose in the layout of the downstairs living spaces, where the entry points of the original two structures converged, creating what initially felt like a large circulation area. The existing concrete flooring and steel banisters contributed to a cold, industrial ambiance. To address these issues, Strauch creatively utilized awkward nooks under the staircases, incorporating sculptural storage solutions such as a rounded rattan console and a hand-painted hanging shoe cabinet. The designers introduced cozy textures through elements like a rainbow-hued wool, mohair, and alpaca fabric chair by Pierre Frey, seagrass floor cushions, and lima bean-shaped wood stools, aiming for a less structured, modern conversation pit aesthetic. The main bedroom became Mainland's favorite space, featuring a custom, channel-tufted headboard that spans the room's unusual width, providing scale and gravitas. The most dramatic transformation occurred in the powder room, which was adorned with graphic brushstroke wallpaper covering the walls, ceiling, and door. This was further enhanced with pink tile grout, a black-lit mirror, and a rose-toned sink basin, creating an immersive and joyful space. Mainland expressed immense satisfaction with the outcome, highlighting how the design team successfully integrated her love for colors and clashing prints, ultimately creating a house that truly feels like home after years of international living. #HomeTour #InteriorDesign #SpacePlanning #MelbourneHome #Renovation #EclecticDecor #ColorPalette #SustainableDesign

The Clifton Hill Courtyard House is a renovation and extension project located in Clifton Hill, Australia, designed by Studio mkn and Eliza Blair Architecture. Completed in 2022, this project focuses on adding a brick and glass extension to the rear of an existing double-fronted weatherboard worker’s cottage. The design strategically maximizes natural light and integrates views of a pre-existing bottle brush tree to the south, creating a serene and well-lit interior environment. The total area of the house after the renovation is 224 square meters. The architectural approach addresses both the specific site conditions and the family's long-term need for adaptable living spaces. A significant feature of the extension is its thoughtful orientation, designed to capture ample natural light from the north. This not only enhances the interior brightness but also contributes to the thermal performance of the house, potentially reducing the reliance on artificial lighting and heating during certain times of the year. The integration of the bottle brush tree into the design ensures that natural elements are a constant presence within the living spaces, providing a green and calming backdrop. In addition to the main house extension, the project includes a double-storey garden studio positioned at the back of the site. This studio is designed to complement the main residence and offers future flexibility, catering to various potential uses such as a home office, guest accommodation, or a creative space. Its placement at the rear of the property, accessible via a laneway, allows it to serve as a discreet and verdant visual anchor from the internal perspectives of the main house. The studio’s design and location contribute to the overall aesthetic and functional coherence of the property. The project involved several key collaborators, including Studio mkn and Eliza Blair Architecture as the architects. Studio mkn also served as the interior designers, ensuring a consistent design language throughout the project. Peachy Green was responsible for the landscape architecture, contributing to the harmonious integration of the outdoor and indoor spaces. Kleev Homes acted as the builders, and Rubble Landscape handled the landscape construction. Shannon McGrath is credited with the photography, capturing the essence of the completed residence. Materials used in the construction include wood, glass, and brick, which are fundamental to the aesthetic and structural integrity of the extension. Manufacturers such as Creative Windows, Everest Timbers, Fibonacci Stone, Goodwood, Krause Bricks, New Age Veneers, Signorino, and Woodcut supplied various components and finishes, contributing to the quality and detailing of the project. The careful selection of materials and the collaborative effort of various professionals were crucial in realizing the architectural vision for the Clifton Hill Courtyard House. #ResidentialArchitecture #HouseRenovation #ExtensionDesign #CourtyardHouse #AustralianArchitecture #CliftonHill #StudioMKN #ElizaBlairArchitecture #GardenStudio

A 1920s bungalow in Sydney’s southeast underwent a significant transformation, evolving from a subdued, white-on-white aesthetic into a vibrant and highly functional family home. The renovation, spanning 18 months for the main house and an additional year for the backyard pool and dwelling, was spearheaded by interior designer Gemma Gillett of Studio Gemma, with Bianca and Josh Orr as the homeowners. The couple, with two young children, Alfie and Zoe, and three French bulldogs, aimed for a design that prioritised personality, storage, and family-focused functionality. The initial design challenge involved moving from Bianca’s original preference for an all-white interior to embracing a bolder color palette. This shift is evident from the exterior, where the house is painted in Dulux Black Caviar with a glossy Wattyl Charmed Forest front door, chosen for ease of maintenance under a flight path. Throughout the home, custom joinery by Studio Gemma and East 2 East Joinery plays a crucial role, providing extensive storage solutions and a tailored aesthetic. This was a deliberate choice to accommodate the needs of a growing family, ensuring that clutter could be managed effectively. The renovation strategically retained a traditional character in the front section of the house, which houses the four bedrooms and two bathrooms. This area features hand-poured plaster cornices, detailed timber window frames, and Shaker-style cabinetry, all designed to appear original to the 1920s bungalow. Each bedroom is equipped with custom joinery, contributing to the home's integrated storage philosophy. The color-blocked bedrooms create a cozy atmosphere, with one bedroom featuring Dulux Remote Control on the walls for a serene feel, and Zoe's room in Dulux Warm Neutral, accented with Beata Heuman bow handles and a yellow 'Aalto Chair 69'. Moving towards the rear, the home transitions into a modern, open-plan extension encompassing the kitchen, living, and dining areas. This section is characterized by a soaring pitched roof and expansive glass sliding doors that fill the space with natural light. While white walls dominate here, rich timber accents, a microcement-finished curved fireplace, and a sage green kitchen with subtle organic patterns introduce depth and texture. The kitchen's island, for example, features an oak veneer sprayed with color, allowing the wood grain to show through and add warmth. Calacatta Monet marble benchtops and Porter’s Paints Olive Grove cabinetry further enhance the kitchen’s sophisticated appeal. The living area includes thoughtful details like a built-in walnut drinks cabinet, which opens to reveal a Calacatta Monet marble interior and Dulux Rusted Crimson accents, and a window-seat with hidden storage, designed to keep toys and clutter out of sight. The back of the property is designed for entertaining, transforming the old yoga studio and leather workshop into a cabana with an outdoor kitchen, a hotel-style bar overlooking the pool, a European laundry, and an emerald-green powder room. The converted studio above serves as a guest retreat. Environmental considerations were also integrated into the design, with windows positioned for cross-ventilation, concrete flooring for thermal mass, and solar power for renewable energy. The outdoor areas feature a pool with a metal fence in Dulux Deep Brunswick Green, chosen for practicality over glass, and an outdoor shower with checkerboard tiles by the back door. The overall design embraces a blend of colors, eras, and styles, reflecting a courageous approach to decision-making during the renovation process. The homeowners, Bianca and Josh, credit Gemma Gillett for guiding them through the transformation, resulting in a meticulously shaped home that functions as both a sanctuary and a vibrant space for entertaining. #BungalowRenovation #ColorfulInteriors #FamilyHomeDesign #CustomJoinery #ModernExtension #SydneyHomes #InteriorDesign #OutdoorEntertaining #SustainableDesign

House Howley, designed by Mark Szczerbicki Design Studio, is an extension and restoration of a Californian bungalow in Rodd Point, Sydney. The project emphasizes informality, openness, and a strong connection to the outdoors, echoing the original intent of Californian bungalow architecture. The existing bungalow, previously untouched for fifty years except for a series of awkward additions at the back, was transformed to create a modern family home for new owners and their three young children. The design team's brief was to incorporate specific required spaces and functionalities, while also selecting durable materials. Beyond these requirements, the studio was given creative freedom to develop the architectural form, volume, and plan, aligning with complying development standards. The design strategy involved creating spatial transitions that gradually morph the building from its traditional front, featuring the existing gabled roof, to a contemporary two-storey extension at the rear. These new and existing forms are strategically arranged around a central courtyard, which optimizes northern sun exposure to the back of the house. The interior spaces and their relationships were meticulously refined to suit the clients' desired lifestyle. The two-storey addition is discreetly positioned, largely unseen from the street, extending behind and atop the original structure. The roof design progresses from a pitched terracotta-tiled profile that matches the existing bungalow, through terraced sections of terracotta and corrugated steel, culminating in a contemporary gable form at the rear with an off-centre ridge and obtuse angle. The original bungalow has been carefully restored, preserving its street presence, original mouldings, materials, and the traditional character of distinct, cozy rooms. This section of the house accommodates the family room, guest room, study, and updated bathroom and laundry facilities, which blend modern styling with vintage elements. The new addition houses the kitchen, dining, and living areas, which are oriented around the central courtyard and open directly to a covered outdoor space, garden, and swimming pool. The bedrooms and additional bathrooms are located on the upper floor. Key design elements include the meticulous attention to angles in transitional areas between the old and new sections. A subtly splayed glazed wall and stairwell, along with a chamfered kitchen wall, introduce an informal aesthetic, integrate garden views, and establish clear sightlines between adjoining spaces. The kitchen serves as a central hub, offering comprehensive views of the courtyard, garden, and even the carport via a glass splashback. A double-sided fireplace delineates the dining and living areas, while stacking glass doors provide access to both the courtyard and garden. The interior features a neutral and minimal palette, designed to highlight the vibrant colors of the garden, which is an integral visual element from every vantage point. The garden, conceived by Melissa Wilson Landscape Architects, also progresses through various zones, with plantings that complement both the heritage bungalow and the contemporary extension. The material selection balances the old and new, incorporating low-maintenance options such as polished concrete floors, black cedar joinery, brown timber veneer, and white aluminum window and door frames. Shiplap cedar cladding extends from the exterior into the living room ceiling, and reclaimed brickwork from previous additions is used for the ground floor of the extension, with a painted section and an exposed feature wall in the dining area. The stairs, with spotted gum timber treads, connect the levels and offer dynamic views throughout the house. The upper floor includes a hallway leading to children's bedrooms, a bathroom, and a main bedroom with an ensuite, walk-in robe, and balcony overlooking the garden and pool. The overall design prioritizes generosity of space and functional relationships, reflecting the informal and open spirit of the original Californian bungalow, while ensuring thermal comfort and a strong connection to the surrounding environment. #CalifornianBungalow #HomeExtension #ResidentialArchitecture #SydneyDesign #IndoorOutdoorLiving #Renovation #ContemporaryDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #FamilyHome

This article showcases a meticulously renovated 19th-century Melbourne home, “Victoria House” at 24 Northcote Road, Armadale, that seamlessly blends mid-century modern aesthetics with classic English farmhouse influences. Interior designer Tali Roth led the project for a couple in their 30s who appreciated the home's heritage architecture but desired a more contemporary feel without compromising its original integrity and soul. The renovation journey, undertaken during the COVID-19 pandemic, allowed for a deliberate and thoughtful selection of furnishings, with international lead times aligning fortuitously with the construction timeline. The design philosophy embraced the clients' contrasting tastes: one favoring modernist elements and the other, an English-farmhouse look. This dichotomy is evident throughout the house. For instance, the rose-pink library features a cheerful Giancarlo Valle ‘Smile’ chair alongside an 18th-century French verdure tapestry. In the sitting room, a pale grey modular USM ‘Haller’ unit is paired with an armchair re-covered in a decorative, puzzle-pattern fabric. Significant structural changes were made to optimize space and flow. A former bedroom, walk-in-robe, and ensuite were reconfigured into a sitting room, linen closet, and a redesigned bathroom. Existing corridor shelves were retained and repainted, and a floating desk and study nook were converted into a coat closet. The entryway and powder room feature new tumbled Carrara and Bardiglio marble tiles laid in a checkerboard pattern, extending from the hall to the powder room walls. The kitchen, though retaining its original layout due to the extensive scope a larger renovation would entail, underwent a complete rebuild. It now boasts a sophisticated and traditional look with classic tapware, shaker cabinetry, a reeded glass storage cupboard, and Arabescato Corchia marble countertops, replacing the old timber veneer joinery. The living area is thoughtfully curated with a custom steel coffee table, a plump Arflex ‘Marenco’ sofa upholstered in blue mohair velvet, and a large circa 1940s French oak sideboard, aiming for a purposeful, inviting, and usable space within a small footprint. Upstairs, the principal and second bedrooms share a bathroom. A home office overlooks the backyard, while a grand library, overlooking the street, is enveloped in Porter’s Paints French Wash in ‘Victoriana’ pink. This room serves as a reading space, featuring an antique Palladian bookcase, a six-panel Chinese privacy screen, an Artemide ‘Shogun’ floor lamp, and an oversized 18th-century French verdure tapestry. The master bedroom adopts a mid-century aesthetic with calm, muted tones, including Venetian plaster walls and a custom bed and wardrobes. The master ensuite features integrated Calacatta Viola stone for the bath and a custom travertine curved stone sink. The homeowners expressed satisfaction with the outcome, highlighting how Tali Roth's design successfully merged their personalities and preferences, creating a modern yet soulful home that can evolve with them. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #MelbourneRealEstate #MidCenturyModern #EnglishFarmhouseStyle #HeritageHome #LuxuryInteriors #DesignCollaboration #PeriodArchitecture

Branch Studio Architects, an Australian practice, designed an addition to an existing 1990s family home, titled 'A Pavilion Between Trees.' The addition was created to accommodate a new master en-suite for the clients. Unlike the existing home's architectural style, the new pavilion was conceived to interact intimately with its natural surroundings, specifically the numerous trees on the site. The design prioritized preserving existing trees, integrating them as focal points and functional elements within the new spaces. The structure itself is a parallelogram-shaped building organized into three distinct zones, each offering a unique sequential experience intended to mark the beginning and end of each day. Access to the addition is through a singular hallway from the original home, leading into the new programmatic elements. The floor levels are subtly raised using platforms to differentiate the functions of each zone. The lowest level houses the master bathroom, where the hallway divides the space into an indoor/outdoor shower and tub on one side, and vanities and a water closet on the other. Full-height glass walls and an external courtyard connect the bathing area to the outdoor gardens, with a steel mesh providing necessary privacy. The next level up features separate 'his and hers' closet areas. The woman's closet, located on the south side, incorporates a glass wall that opens to an open courtyard centered around one of the existing trees, showcasing how the structure is built around the natural vegetation. A continuous element transitions from a bench to a sideboard and then into a dresser, strategically angled to draw attention to the exterior views. In contrast, the man's wardrobe on the north side features a smaller clerestory window, directing views towards the tree canopies, which also naturally filter light into the interior. A protruding window in this area provides a seating space elevated above the landscape. The procession culminates in the bedroom, situated at the highest point of the addition, overlooking the surrounding gardens. This room is encased by full-height glass walls on two-thirds of its perimeter, offering expansive external views. The lighting scheme in the bedroom is designed to create a specific ambiance, using indirect lighting to complement natural light throughout the day, aligning with the architects' intention for this space to influence the waking and sleeping experiences of the occupants. The material palette was carefully selected to harmonize with the site's natural characteristics, featuring raw and exposed elements to evoke comfort and tranquility. The exterior boasts charcoal rammed earth, glass, and steel, chosen for their ability to reflect the surroundings and age gracefully. Internally, the same palette is used, augmented by stained plywood soffits and timber fixtures to introduce warmth. Detailed connection points and joinery elevate the raw materials, with each edge meticulously crafted to achieve an eloquent and refined design. The project encompasses a total area of 85 square meters, with construction managed by Martin Builders and structural engineering by WSP Consulting Engineers. The design successfully integrates modern living spaces with the natural environment, creating a serene and thoughtfully crafted extension. #Architecture #HomeExtension #ResidentialDesign #PavilionDesign #BranchStudioArchitects #SustainableDesign #NatureIntegration #MelbourneArchitecture #MasterEnSuite

This article explores how the ancient Chinese practice of feng shui can be applied to home decoration to enhance career success. The entryway of a home is identified as crucial in feng shui, as it sets the tone for the entire living space and is believed to influence how opportunities enter one's life. Specifically, the Kan Gua, which is the career area of a home, is located near the front entry. The colors associated with the Kan Gua are black, navy blue, and dark blue. Incorporating these colors in the Kan Gua area is said to enhance career opportunities. However, the article emphasizes that balance is key in feng shui; using excessive dark colors can trap energy and counteract the intended positive effects. The article further explains the significance of the front entry as representing one's 'face to the world' and its connection to the path in life, the season of winter, and the element of water. Black and dark blue colors, wavy shapes, and water elements are symbolic of this area and are believed to increase career success. The baqua map is introduced as a tool to determine which areas in a home correspond to different life segments. While the Kan Gua is always along the front wall, its exact location may vary, meaning that if the career area falls in another room, the recommended color cures and enhancements should be applied there. Individual rooms, such as a living area or an office, can also be mapped with the baqua to apply these enhancements to specific workspaces. Practical tips are provided for integrating feng shui principles to support career goals. These include placing a black welcome mat that is close to the width of the entry door to encourage cash flow, using black accent pieces in the entry, or even painting the front door black to strengthen the home's energy. Accent walls in deep blue are suggested for entryways. Bringing in the water element, such as ocean- or fish-related art or an aquarium, can further enhance the space. When using dark colors, adequate lighting and reflective materials like mirrors are crucial to ensure proper energy flow. The article also advises choosing items with high energy or special meaning, such as natural stone like black marble, granite, or obsidian for flooring or accessories. Black walnut furniture or ebony wood carvings are also recommended. Finally, black lacquer, shiny enamel, or porcelain vases, along with black and white photos or black-rimmed mirrors, can serve as effective accent pieces. An area rug with a swirl pattern can metaphorically create a feeling of walking on water, symbolizing good fortune. #FengShui #HomeDecor #CareerSuccess #InteriorDesign #ColorPsychology #EntrywayDesign #BaquaMap #ChinesePhilosophy

The Westgarth House project, located in Melbourne's inner-north, involved the revitalization of an elegant Edwardian home by architect Michael McKeon. This architectural endeavor was influenced by both the personal history of the family, who had owned the house for generations, and the property's architectural heritage. The neighborhood's heritage overlay dictated that the front and side facades of the original structure be retained, while allowing for a contemporary yet sympathetic extension to the rear. The renovation scheme preserved four original rooms: a formal lounge and three bedrooms, all accessible from a central hall. Significant effort was dedicated to restoring the dwelling's historical elements, including a stained-glass bay window, high ceilings, and decorative cornices. However, the house also required extensive structural work due to its location on unstable ground near Merri Creek, which had led to considerable cracks in the brickwork over its century-long existence. This structural remediation was a critical first step in ensuring the longevity and stability of the home. Beyond the preserved original rooms, a compact courtyard was integrated on the eastern side of the central hall. This courtyard serves to introduce natural light and greenery into a newly added bathroom and an existing bedroom, enhancing the living experience within these spaces. A deliberate design feature, a simple archway, marks the transition from the subdued elegance of the original Edwardian section to the brighter, more contemporary extension. This archway is part of a larger design strategy to differentiate the programs of the old and new sections of the house. As one passes through the arch, the ceiling height momentarily drops, creating a sense of compression, before expanding upwards and outwards towards the east. This deliberate shift in spatial experience guides occupants from the traditional private areas to the open communal spaces. The new extension houses the kitchen, living, and dining areas under a distinctive raking ceiling. The kitchen design emphasizes functionality and clean aesthetics, featuring abundant full-height storage and an island bench with a convex end. Details such as brass tapware and minimalist appliances, including a cylindrical rangehood, contribute to an uncluttered and refined appearance. Material selection played a crucial role in harmonizing the old and new sections of the house. Dark timber floors, characteristic of the period rooms, were extended into the new rear volume, providing visual continuity. Additionally, lush walnut joinery was consistently used throughout both sections, acting as a unifying element. Michael McKeon noted that the expression of the cabinetry, with its vertical fins, was inspired by the repetitive patterns found in Edwardian architecture, such as the fretwork on the front verandah or the mullions of the bay window. This subtle nod to heritage through modern elements helped bridge the architectural styles. The interior palette is minimalist, featuring fine detailing, pale stone benchtops with slender edges, and a matching splashback. The contrast between the rich dark timber and the light stone surfaces contributes to an aesthetic that, according to McKeon, evokes an Edwardian sensibility. The new volume's open plan and extensive glazing contrast with the more enclosed Edwardian spaces, inviting natural light and connecting the interior with the surrounding garden. An unusual side entrance provides direct access from the garden to the street via a covered porch. The roof of the new extension is clad in vertical timber, with its angular form subtly echoing the heritage rooflines of nearby properties. The project successfully blends the warmth and character of the original dwelling with modern design elements, creating a home that respects its past while providing a suitable environment for future generations. #EdwardianRenovation #HomeExtension #ArchitecturalHeritage #InteriorDesign #MichaelMcKeonArchitecture #ResidentialArchitecture #MaterialPalette #MelbourneHomes #SpatialTransition

Architecture studio Naturehumaine undertook a comprehensive renovation and extension of the Des Érables residence in Montreal's Rosement La-Petite-Patrie neighborhood, merging two distinct units into a cohesive single-family home. The core of the project revolved around creating a new, central dog-leg staircase that seamlessly connects the original structure with the new rear extension. This intervention not only improved circulation but also introduced a distinctive aesthetic and functional element to the home. The design ethos for the new staircase focused on a modern material palette that contrasts with the existing traditional architectural details of the house. Plywood, known for its warm and contemporary appeal, was selected to clad the staircase, providing a clean and minimal look. This choice of material highlights the transition between the older and newer sections of the house, creating a visual and tactile distinction while maintaining a sense of continuity. Complementing the plywood, white metal handrails were incorporated, echoing the clean lines and bright tones found in the newly designed kitchen and dining areas. This material combination ensures a cohesive interior design where modern elements are thoughtfully integrated with the home's original character. A particularly innovative feature of the staircase design is the integration of a children's play nook on the ground floor. This dedicated space demonstrates a thoughtful consideration for the family's needs, providing a practical and engaging area for children within the central hub of the home. This element adds a playful dimension to the functional staircase, making it a focal point for both movement and family interaction. The rear extension dramatically alters the ground floor layout, introducing a double-height kitchen and dining room. This expansive space is bathed in natural light, thanks to the installation of large, floor-to-ceiling windows that offer views and access to the back garden. The architects chose a dark-brick feature wall for this double-height area, which not only grounds the light-filled space but also harmonizes with the external facade of the extension, creating a consistent architectural language. Suspended black geometric pendant lights further enhance the contemporary aesthetic of the kitchen and dining area, adding a touch of sophistication and defining specific zones within the open-plan layout. Beyond the ground floor, the renovation extended to the upper levels, where a master bedroom, a dedicated yoga area, and a private balcony were added to the first floor. These new additions benefit from the natural light flooding in through the extensive new windows, fostering a sense of openness and connection to the outdoors. The outdoor space was also reimagined to include a comfortable dining area and steps leading down to a pool, enhancing the home's capacity for leisure and entertainment. On the uppermost level, the master suite is strategically positioned at the back of the house, offering privacy and direct access to a balcony overlooking the garden. A pocket door provides the option to close off the master suite from the main stairwell, ensuring a secluded retreat for the homeowners. Two additional bedrooms are situated at the front of the house, facing the street, alongside a newly created small office space. This allows both homeowners the flexibility to work from home comfortably, addressing modern living requirements. Naturehumaine, founded in 2004 by Stéphane Rasselet and Marc-André Plasse, has a notable portfolio of residential renovations in Montreal. Their previous projects showcase a consistent approach to blending modern design with existing structures, often incorporating unique elements such as a staircase enveloped by black rods in a duplex renovation, a plant-covered wall to enliven a mid-century home, and minimalist interiors for a prairie-style suburban property. This latest project continues their tradition of creating functional, aesthetically pleasing, and family-oriented living spaces. #ResidentialArchitecture #HomeRenovation #HouseExtension #InteriorDesign #PlywoodDesign #MontrealArchitecture #Naturehumaine #ModernLiving #StaircaseDesign

Kristin O’Connor’s Midlothian lakefront home exemplifies the integration of feng shui principles to create a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing living space. O’Connor, with a background in advertising and a passion for home building and renovation, collaborated with Scott Stephens of SMS Architects and feng shui consultant Robyn Bentley, known as the Feng Shui Diva, to realize her vision. The process began by dividing the property and house plans into eight compass directions, allowing Bentley to identify and utilize positive energy patterns while neutralizing negative ones based on the home's construction year and orientation. This precision extended to determining the most auspicious direction for the house to face. Room by room, the design focused on balancing the five elements of feng shui: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. Bentley also incorporated O’Connor’s astrology chart, identifying her as a “double-fire Sagittarius,” which influenced the use of fire, metals, and earth colors throughout the home. While most of the house maintains a minimalist aesthetic with Benjamin Moore White Chocolate walls, allowing O’Connor’s art collection to stand out, the dining room offers a striking contrast. It features metallic elements like a crystal and gold metal chandelier, and the walls and built-in shelves are painted in a bronzy Willow by Benjamin Moore, aligning with O’Connor's personal feng shui. Addressing an imbalance in O’Connor’s bedroom, Bentley introduced metal elements to counteract negative earth energy. This involved painting the walls in Benjamin Moore’s Odessa Pink and strategically placing metal barbells in her nightstand. Bentley also used O’Connor’s kua number, derived from her birth year and gender, to determine the optimal sleeping direction, emphasizing its significant impact on well-being for both adults and children. The kitchen design is grounded in earth-based feng shui, featuring European-style cabinetry made from strong-grained cherrywood and stone finishes. A warm gray quartzite waterfall island, countertops, and backsplash anchor the social areas, balancing the expansive water views. A unique backsplash by New Ravenna Tile, named “Personal Space,” adds a celestial theme, creating a playful contrast with the earthy elements and a 'galactic wink' at the cocktail station. Nature plays a crucial role in the home's feng shui. The design maximizes views of the surrounding trees and lake, with the north-facing side of the house predominantly glass. O’Connor meticulously planned window placements based on seasonal lighting. The indoor and outdoor spaces seamlessly merge at the patio, where a saltwater pool and fireplace are nestled within the nooks of the home’s two wings, enhanced by high-gabled roofs. This U-shaped design creates a sense of embrace, symbolizing a perfect balance of water, air, and earth elements. Bentley advised against an infinity pool, suggesting it would symbolize prosperity flowing away from the home. Richmond designer Wendell Welder contributed to the natural landscape plan, opting for low-maintenance hydrangea gardens and natural meadows with wildflowers, eliminating the need for mowing, blowing, or chemical use. This approach has attracted diverse wildlife, including butterflies, bumblebees, hummingbirds, bald eagles, geese, deer, and foxes. O’Connor emphasizes that the thoughtful and personalized planning ensures every part of the house feels good, highlighting that the unseen emotional and ethereal energies of a space are as crucial as its visible design in fostering a harmonious environment. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #FengShui #ArchitecturalPrinciples #HomeHarmony #RobynBentley #MidlothianHome #SustainableLandscape #ElementBalance