Westgarth House by Michael McKeon Architecture

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 #EdwardianRenovation #HomeExtension #ArchitecturalHeritage #InteriorDesign #MichaelMcKeonArchitecture #ResidentialArchitecture #MaterialPalette #MelbourneHomes #SpatialTransition

26 months ago

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