Two Homes Combined: This Melbourne House Is a Lesson in Smart Space Planning

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

Local House, completed in 2022, is a contemporary and sustainable residence situated within the historically significant Mount Eagle Estate in Eaglemont, Australia. Designed by Zen Architects, the project reinterprets the architectural character of the suburb while integrating seamlessly with its meticulously landscaped environment. The Mount Eagle Estate, originally planned and designed by Marion Mahoney and Walter Burley Griffin in 1915, is known for its winding roads and community parklands that follow the natural topography, with dwellings designed to be secondary to the natural landscape. The Griffins, proponents of modern architecture, advocated for designs free from stylistic precedents. This historical context informed the architectural approach for Local House, adhering to the estate's guidelines which encourage modern designs while complying with heritage, landscape, and vegetation protection overlays. The residence spans 214 square meters and was constructed by CBD Contracting Group. Key materials used in its construction include wood, concrete, and brick, contributing to its sustainable and contextual design. The architectural team was led by Ric Zen as the Design Architect, with Luke Rhodes as the Project Architect, and Madeleiene Ingham and Sanderson Bell serving as Architectural Assistants. OPS Engineers provided the engineering expertise for the project. The design prioritizes harmony with the natural surroundings, a core principle of the Mount Eagle Estate. This is evident in the integration of the house with its garden and facade, featuring numerous windows that allow for ample natural light and views of the landscape. The interior spaces are designed with a focus on natural materials, incorporating wooden elements, exposed beams, and thoughtful layouts that enhance functionality and aesthetic appeal. The presence of large windows throughout the house, including in living areas, bedrooms, and bathrooms, highlights the connection between indoor and outdoor environments. Courtyards and patio areas further extend the living space into the garden, providing opportunities for outdoor enjoyment and interaction with the natural setting. Interior photography showcases various rooms, including living areas with wooden tables and chairs, a kitchen with contemporary countertops and shelving, and bedrooms designed for comfort and natural light. The bathroom features modern fixtures and large windows, reinforcing the bright and open aesthetic. The overall design emphasizes a minimalist yet warm ambiance, achieved through the careful selection of materials and the strategic use of natural light. The project successfully balances modern architectural principles with the historical and environmental sensitivities of the Mount Eagle Estate, creating a dwelling that is both innovative and respectful of its unique context. #ResidentialArchitecture #SustainableDesign #ModernArchitecture #MountEagleEstate #ZenArchitects #Melbourne #Australia #ContemporaryHouse #EnvironmentalIntegration

Steffen Welsch Architects undertook an intensive makeover of a traditional semi-detached house in Melbourne, focusing on creating a sense of flow within the interior spaces. The project was guided by the principles of Feng Shui, an ancient Chinese art, which the architects found to correlate surprisingly well with their understanding of good design. This correlation involved ensuring sunlight access, proper air and ventilation, balanced natural light, an equal relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces, comfort, privacy, material balance, and a well-organized environment. The initial structure, a semi-detached house on a long, narrow plot, required a new extension to accommodate additional bedrooms and a spacious kitchen and living/dining area. The design incorporated a courtyard to separate the existing structure from the new addition, a strategic choice intended to draw light and air into the deeper parts of the floor plan. The new extension unfolds gradually as one moves through the house, beginning with a study area integrated into a wide central corridor. This corridor features a curved wooden wall that discreetly conceals a storage area. Beyond this point, the house opens into a generous main living space, encompassing the kitchen, dining area, and a sitting area, all of which seamlessly connect to a deck and the garden beyond. The central staircase plays a dual role, functioning both as a sculptural focal point and a conduit for natural daylight. It emerges from the family zone with bold curves and Barraganesque flashes of color as its planes twist and turn. Material choices throughout the space further enhance the design's intentional flow and aesthetic. For instance, the timber flooring in the dining room is mirrored by the wood-clad ceiling in the sitting area, which creates a detached, cocoon-like tranquility, blurring the lines between the inside and outside. The innovative design of the new roof also contributes by forming a covered balcony and a planting area, integrating natural elements into the extended living space. The project was driven by the philosophy of "Build less, accomplish more," indicating a focus on maximizing impact through thoughtful and efficient design rather than extensive construction. This approach allowed the architects to achieve significant functional and aesthetic improvements within the existing footprint, demonstrating how the ancient principles of Feng Shui can be translated into contemporary architectural practice to create harmonious and well-balanced living environments. #FengShui #HouseExtension #MelbourneArchitecture #SteffenWelschArchitects #ResidentialDesign #InteriorFlow #SustainableDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation

This article features the "Bike House," a project by fmd Architects in Melbourne, designed for an active family with a passion for cycling. The architectural approach addresses the constraints of a tight budget and limited urban space by employing a stacked structure to minimize the building's footprint and maximize garden area. This structural choice influenced the façade's arrangement, incorporating shading devices and privacy screens to create a private and sheltered environment for the occupants. The exterior of the house, constructed from cement and steel, features elements that fold outwards to function as privacy screens. A perforated aluminum fence extends from the building towards the street, a material chosen to deter graffiti. In contrast, a recycled brick wall serves as a designated canvas for street art, blending urban aesthetics with functional design. The design prioritizes flexibility in the interior spaces, anticipating the evolving needs of the family as their children grow. A significant influence on the design, and the source of the project's name, was the family's active lifestyle, particularly the father's dedication to cycling. This necessitated creative solutions for storing multiple bicycles, impacting both the layout and specific details of the house. Inside, the design adopts a more dynamic and vivid aesthetic, featuring angular geometries that convey a sense of activity. Contrasting materials such as concrete and timber are used, with recycled brick introducing a textured element alongside smoother surfaces in the kitchen. An oblique section of Vic Ash timber is integrated into the ceiling, extending downwards into the cabinetry, mirroring the folding patterns observed on the façade. Large windows and sliding glass doors in the dining room extend the living space into the enclosed garden, enhancing natural light within the home. The perforated aluminum material, also used for the exterior fence, is repurposed as a privacy screen in the bedroom, allowing light to filter through its openings. The children's bathroom features clean white tiles, arranged to echo the twisting and folding architectural motifs seen on the exterior. Beyond the primary living areas and bedrooms, the house incorporates three additional "flexible zones" to accommodate the family's active lifestyle. These spaces can adapt to various functions, such as a playroom, study, home office, lounge, or an extra bedroom, demonstrating a thoughtful use of every millimeter of space. The design ensures these spaces are adaptable to changes in family dynamics over time. The backyard includes a rich wood deck, built by the family, which provides a warm visual counterpoint to the concrete and steel structure of the house. A cleverly concealed shed on the south side offers storage for bicycles and tools. #ModernArchitecture #UrbanDesign #FamilyHome #FlexibleSpaces #SustainableMaterials #CyclingLifestyle #AustralianDesign #PrivacyScreens #CompactLiving

The article discusses the Designing Affordable Sustainable Housing (DASH) initiative, developed by the Monash Architecture Studio in collaboration with several Victorian government departments, to address the pressing need for affordable and sustainable medium-density housing in Australian cities. Major urban centers in Australia are grappling with escalating land costs, restrictive planning legislation, complex taxation systems, and a conservative private housing sector, all of which hinder the provision of diverse housing options. These issues, compounded by a widespread affordability crisis and growing environmental concerns, make it challenging to achieve housing targets in a manner that is both socially and environmentally responsible. The DASH project aims to introduce new, viable housing models that appeal to both consumers and developers, thereby enhancing the long-term quality of urban environments. A key objective is to demonstrate how architectural design can significantly contribute to environmentally and socially sustainable outcomes, leading to enriching and inspiring urban forms. The project outlines several goals: to showcase that high-quality, innovative architectural and urban design can create excellent living spaces that benefit the public realm; to establish a model for best practice sustainability in medium-density housing through life cycle assessment; to integrate affordability and diversity as positive elements compatible with high-quality, sustainable, medium-density outcomes; to develop a model adaptable for other middle and inner-ring sites; to substantially increase residential densities in target localities; to incorporate Ecologically Sustainable Design (ESD) principles to improve existing environmental conditions, reduce occupation costs, and enhance social environments; to ensure a percentage of dwellings are allocated as affordable housing with mechanisms for perpetual affordability; and to elevate design standards beyond current market offerings, improving amenity, type diversity, and delivery efficiency. To achieve these ambitious aims, DASH employs an integrated design research approach, developing design models and guidelines alongside a thorough review of relevant socioeconomic and physical contexts. This research has led to two distinct design models for medium-density housing in metropolitan Melbourne's middle-ring sites. One model prioritizes optimized initial capital costs, while the second adopts a longer-term costing perspective, where higher upfront investment is justified by reduced life-cycle costs. A central focus of DASH is the reconciliation of affordability and environmental sustainability. The research highlights the interrelationship between social and environmental sustainability in housing design. For instance, an apartment design that allows for separate zoning is an effective environmental strategy because it enables dynamic adaptation of dwelling size to household composition. The most effective way to balance affordability and sustainability involves an integrated design approach, encouraging diverse consultant input, system-based building methodologies, refinement of conventional construction techniques, and optimized site utilization. Life-cycle analysis costing is employed to provide a comprehensive view of a project's total costs, encompassing both initial capital and operational expenses over its entire lifespan. Affordability in the DASH project is influenced by a complex array of factors beyond just design or construction methods. These include the involvement of housing associations, non-unionized construction, and other non-physical elements that significantly impact overall affordability, as building costs typically represent only 45–50 percent of a housing development's total cost. The project also emphasizes spatial flexibility in apartment design to cater to diverse contemporary households. Features like two points of egress and cluster stair morphology facilitate various habitation options, such as live/work arrangements or cohabitation. Adaptable space allocation between living, bedroom, and recreation areas, achieved through effective spatial design, allows for efficient use of a smaller footprint. These flexible occupation strategies are combined with passive ESD approaches, focusing on designs that maximize comfort with minimal heating and cooling requirements and reduce resource consumption. Design outcomes prioritize comfort, liveability, and environmental impact reduction. Single-loaded designs enhance cross-ventilation and thermal mass utilization for temperature control. North-facing living areas, maintained aspect at both ends of apartments, and quality private and communal outdoor spaces improve liveability. While balancing long-term benefits with short-term costs, DASH prioritizes passive design solutions with relatively low additional costs to achieve environmentally sustainable outcomes. The project adopts a three-story-plus-basement, single-loaded sectional typology, which represents the maximum building envelope achievable by the domestic residential sector, offering a significant cost advantage over commercial construction. This scale provides high yields (up to 140 dwellings per hectare) with simpler construction processes and reduced technical equipment requirements compared to commercial multi-story developments. The single-loaded form is also superior for environmental performance, and the low building height enhances solar penetration. For construction systems, precast concrete was chosen over timber framing due to its similar cost at this scale and its ability to provide adequate thermal mass for passive heating and cooling. External walls feature prefabricated metal composite panels and precast bracing elements, with exposed concrete on alternating internal walls. In conclusion, the DASH project and its accompanying research highlight the complexities of reconciling sustainable and affordable development. It does not claim to offer comprehensive solutions but aims to provide practical insights for industry and government to improve housing provision. The project underscores the necessity of a fully integrated approach, encompassing new financing models, whole-of-life costing, inclusionary planning, diverse tenure models, district-wide systems, and innovative construction methods. Such an integrated approach enables design to more effectively contribute to social, environmental, and aesthetic outcomes. #AffordableHousing #SustainableDesign #MediumDensityHousing #UrbanPlanning #ArchitecturalInnovation #LifeCycleCosting #EnvironmentalSustainability #SpatialFlexibility #MelbourneHousing

The Newburgh Light House, an apartment building in Victoria, Australia, designed by Splinter Society, offers a highly sustainable housing solution on a challenging, almost unbuildable site adjacent to a historic train station. The project accommodates up to 21 residents across 10 levels, with each residence occupying a full level. The architects faced significant design complexities due to the site's lack of street access, a north facade directly bordering VicTrack land, and stringent fire, building methodology, acoustic, equitable light, and stability requirements. The architectural response to these constraints involved a 'mini-tower' typology, utilizing glass blocks as a primary material to fulfill both fire safety and lighting needs. Conceptually, the building's translucent facades, coupled with reflective interior finishes, create a lantern-like effect for the public realm while fostering an ethereal atmosphere within the residences. The design emphasizes modularity and a clean, simple aesthetic, often observed in dense urban environments, to address construction challenges. Prefabricated elements were incorporated into the north and south facades, which feature glass block panels and operable recessed glazing. This design maximizes natural light and views. The decision to use full translucency on these facades, combined with a minimal core, was critical for future-proofing access to light, particularly in scenarios where adjacent private land to the north might be developed. The ground level is constructed from concrete, chosen for its ability to withstand a potential train derailment, and includes integrated seating to activate a small coffee shop fronting the entry and a pedestrian railway link. Bluestone cobbles extend from the adjacent lane through to the pedestrian walkway, creating a complementary patterned surface and enhancing ground-floor permeability despite the compact plot. Client brief aimed to attract the 'leafy suburb down sizer' market, seeking safe, convenient accommodation with an 'inner city' feel. This led to a programmatic arrangement of full-level apartments with direct lift access and private car allotments. To broaden its appeal, especially given its proximity to the train station, the design incorporated separated bedrooms and bathrooms, the potential for a third separable room, and dedicated storage/bike space, catering to students or individuals sharing. This layout was not only functional but also instrumental in achieving required light levels, considering potential future development, and ensures excellent cross-ventilation. The interior material palette reinforces the architectural grid through timber paneling, natural stone, and ceramic tiles. The glass blocks provide a distinctive internal finish, creating dynamic light effects throughout the day. Textured glass doors and internal walls contribute to the permeability of light across the floor plate. The building includes a bespoke penthouse on the upper level and one two-level residence, offering unique living spaces despite the building's overall modular efficiency. The project demonstrates a balance between performance, scale, and site constraints, achieved through close collaboration among the design, consulting, and construction teams. By day, Newburgh Light House offers adaptable homes with abundant natural light; by night, it transforms into a beacon, illuminating the Auburn village and its historic train station. #AustralianArchitecture #ApartmentDesign #GlassBlockArchitecture #SustainableHousing #UrbanDevelopment #ModularConstruction #ModernApartments #ArchitecturalInnovation

Zen Architects undertook the ambitious task of converting a 2,583-square-foot leaky warehouse from the 1960s in Melbourne into a contemporary, energy-efficient family home. The design philosophy centered on retaining and reusing as much of the existing structure and materials as possible, aligning with the spirit of upcycling. The project successfully achieved a 6.1-star energy rating, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability without compromising on comfort or modern living standards. The conversion involved a meticulous process of repurposing original elements. For instance, mezzanine-level rooms were strategically introduced to float within the vast original volume of the warehouse, preserving the expansive feel while creating distinct living zones. A significant addition was a new raised deck, which acts as a bridge between the interior living areas and a newly integrated courtyard. This courtyard was a crucial design element, intended to introduce a garden within the existing interior footprint, thereby enhancing natural light penetration and optimizing heat gain during the winter months, contributing to the home's energy efficiency. To address common challenges in warehouse conversions, such as a lack of natural ventilation and varied sightlines, the architects employed careful placement of internal and external glazing. This not only floods the interior with light but also creates multi-directional views, fostering a sense of openness and connection throughout the home. Furthermore, automated high-level louvers were installed to facilitate cross-ventilation, a feature typically absent in traditional warehouse structures, ensuring a comfortable indoor climate year-round. Inside, the open-plan kitchen features custom cabinetry and an island crafted from recycled timber, reinforcing the project's upcycling ethos. The existing floor slab was deliberately preserved, partly due to site access constraints but also to honor its inherent character, adding to the home's unique aesthetic. New bedrooms and en-suite bathrooms are creatively nestled into plywood-clad pods within the roof volume, utilizing the space between existing trusses. One such bedroom, with its angled ceilings and concealed strategic lighting, opens onto a roof-deck, offering views of the Australian city. The dining area is demarcated by custom cabinetry, a large wooden dining table, and colorful glass pendant lights. The north-facing courtyard plays a pivotal role in the home's thermal performance, providing ample light and warmth in colder seasons. To manage waterproofing challenges inherent with an internal courtyard, a hob was constructed around its perimeter, and a new slab was laid to direct water to a central storm-water pit. This practical solution is aesthetically disguised by a recycled timber deck, blurring the boundary between indoor and outdoor spaces. Movable planter boxes made from Cor-Ten steel were incorporated to introduce greenery, further enhancing the garden feel. The culmination of these design choices is a warm, livable, and energy-efficient family home that retains the industrial charm of its origins while offering modern comforts and a strong connection to its environment. #WarehouseConversion #EnergyEfficientHome #UpcyclingArchitecture #SustainableDesign #MelbourneArchitecture #ZenArchitects #ResidentialRenovation #AdaptiveReuse #ContemporaryLiving

The "Inside Her Home" series offers a glimpse into the residences of everyday women, detailing their renting or homeownership experiences. This installment features Lauren Li, a 45-year-old interior designer residing in Ivanhoe East, Melbourne. She lives with her husband and three children in a three-bedroom, two-storey home with an additional granny flat, which they rent for $3,910 per month. Lauren describes her home as a mid-century modern dwelling, built in 1961, retaining much of its original architecture. She emphasizes a deep connection to the house, feeling it "chose her" and that she and her family are deeply content living there. Lauren’s home is situated approximately 10km north-east of Melbourne's Central Business District. She highlights the fair price for the rental and expresses a strong belief that renters invest significant care and effort into making their houses feel like home. She and her family have occupied the property for three years, and her appreciation for the space has only grown. The house holds historical significance, having been the former residence of Victoria's first female Supreme Court judge, the Honourable Rosemary Balmford, who lived there since 1963. Lauren attributes the home's positive atmosphere and abundant built-in bookshelves to its previous owner, noting Balmford’s pioneering role as the first female lecturer in the University of Melbourne’s law faculty. The layout of the home is particularly appealing to Lauren, featuring a spacious living room with a fireplace, which provides ample room for the family while maintaining a sense of togetherness. The property also offers lovely views of trees, a beneficial feature for Lauren and her husband, who both work from home. The kitchen retains its original 1960s charm, which Lauren appreciates. The house includes an elevated deck that has been the setting for numerous family gatherings and summer dinners, contributing to its cherished feel. Their 12-year-old daughter enjoys a room with an impressive view of the Yarra River, while her 11-year-old sister and three-year-old brother share the other bedroom. Lauren explains that their move to this particular house was almost serendipitous. When their previous apartment was put up for sale, they needed to find new accommodation swiftly. A friend connected them with a real estate agent, and upon seeing the Ivanhoe East property, Lauren immediately felt a strong desire to live there. Her attachment to the house is so profound that she declares she is "never going to leave," underscoring her long-term commitment to the home. The article concludes with an invitation for other individuals to submit their homes for inclusion in the "Inside Her Home" series, encouraging [email protected] to be contacted for submissions. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #MidCenturyModern #RentalProperty #MelbourneHomes #FamilyLiving #RealLifeStories #HomeTour

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

The "Hug House" by FIGR Architecture & Design, completed in 2025 in Australia, is an architectural project focusing on spatial layering, material richness, and seamless indoor-outdoor integration. The design concept revolves around a central courtyard, which functions as a "green heart" to ensure privacy while allowing natural light and ventilation to permeate the residence. This approach creates a sanctuary-like environment, promoting a deep connection with the natural surroundings. Key design elements and features of the Hug House include a thoughtful arrangement of spaces that interact with the central courtyard. The project emphasizes visual and physical porosity, allowing residents to experience the changing light and air throughout the day. Material selections contribute to the richness of the design, likely incorporating natural textures and a palette that complements the Australian landscape. The integration of indoor and outdoor areas is achieved through large openings and strategic placement of living spaces that extend into the courtyard, blurring the boundaries between built form and nature. The project details indicate a 230 m² area, suggesting a moderately sized single-family dwelling. Collaboration was a significant aspect of its creation, involving industrial designer Corey Baker, JP Building Group PTY LTD for the collaborative build, Fusion Engineering Group for structural engineering, James Wallace as the landscape consultant, and Oliver Smith as the lead carpenter/craftsman. ARCH STYLING, led by Cat Brown, was responsible for the interior styling. These collaborations highlight a multidisciplinary approach to achieving the architectural vision. Photographs by Tom Blachford capture the essence of the Hug House, showcasing its design principles. The imagery typically focuses on how light interacts with the spaces, the quality of materials, and the connection to the outdoors. The project is categorized under 'Houses' and is located in Australia, reflecting a contemporary Australian architectural style that prioritizes environmental responsiveness and comfortable living. In summary, the Hug House exemplifies a modern residential design that prioritizes a harmonious relationship between the built environment and nature. Its central courtyard, material choices, and indoor-outdoor flow are integral to its identity as a light-filled, airy, and deeply connected living space. The project represents a collaborative effort to deliver a dwelling that serves as a private retreat while maintaining an open and engaging atmosphere. #ResidentialArchitecture #Houses #Australia #FIGRArchitectureAndDesign #CourtyardHouse #IndoorOutdoorLiving #SustainableDesign #ModernArchitecture

This article showcases twenty Australian homes that excel in integrating indoor and outdoor living spaces. From Perth to Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane, these residences demonstrate various architectural approaches to blur the boundaries between the interior and their natural surroundings. The first example features a multitiered addition to a Federation-style Melbourne home by WALA, which includes a lush courtyard and addresses a flood-prone site. Full-height sliding glass doors connect the raised deck to a self-contained pavilion and a large rear courtyard anchored by a Japanese maple tree, harmonizing old and new structures. Another featured home is an energy-efficient prefab holiday home in Bundeena, designed by architect Hannah Tribe. This 540-square-foot residence uses prefab technologies, with a minimalist timber-clad exterior that references local fishing cottages. Passive heating and cooling are achieved through the concrete slab's thermal mass and strategic siting that allows breezes to flow through floor-to-ceiling sliders. Mitsuori Architects expanded a historic Victorian home in Melbourne with a two-level rear addition. A spacious living, dining, and kitchen area on the ground level opens to a patio and backyard via large telescoping sliding glass doors, maximizing the outdoor connection. Hogg & Lamb's renovation of a Queenslander cottage, known as B&B; Residence, incorporates a geometric indoor/outdoor extension to embrace its subtropical setting. The interior features interlinking planes that engage a raised grass courtyard. In Byron Bay, Micka Etheridge of SPACEbuilt expanded a 1980s home into an 'h'-shaped structure, with a central living space utilizing sliding glass doors to maintain visual connection with children outdoors and lush gardens for a year-round oasis. Megowan Architectural's renovation of the single-story 'Pleated House' in Melbourne introduced a bold zigzag roofline, inspired by midcentury modern forms, to bring light into the interiors through clerestory windows. Splinter Society's 'Bungalow 8' renovation in Melbourne aimed for modern, free-flowing connected living spaces while preserving the existing layout. An angled roofline guides the new arrangement and contributes to passive heating, creating a unique indoor-outdoor juncture. Nic Brunsdon's renovation of the East Fremantle House in Perth includes a rear extension with white stucco and warm timber. An 'airy common space,' referred to as the 'garden room,' features a massive sliding door connecting the interior to a sunny green courtyard. Modscape designed an energy-efficient modular extension for a Melbourne family residence, wrapped in black-stained timber. Light-filled living spaces with floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding glass doors overlook the backyard, optimizing solar passive principles and cross-ventilation. CplusC Architectural Workshop's 'Totoro House' in Sydney, inspired by 'My Neighbor Totoro,' celebrates human relationships and nature. A rear extension with an open-plan living area blends seamlessly with an outdoor deck and landscaped garden. Architects EAT designed the 'Bellows House,' a low-slung beach house constructed with concrete masonry blocks, featuring a U-shaped southern end enclosing a private courtyard and communal living spaces opening to a north-facing garden. Zuzana Kovar and Nicholas Skepper updated a Queenslander cottage in Brisbane, reorienting the kitchen, dining, and living room towards a verdant garden to connect indoor and outdoor areas. Rob Kennon Architects reimagined an Elwood bungalow in Melbourne, drawing inspiration from Sir Roy Grounds's Hill House with a circular, glass-walled courtyard. The extension similarly encloses a circular, artfully planted garden, with a cost-effective material palette of recycled masonry and concrete. Polly Harbison expanded her sister's 1940s Sydney home, adding a new kitchen, a bedroom with an outdoor shower, and expansive garden views. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors and wooden screens in communal areas slide open completely, providing fresh air. Studio Prineas extended a Federation home in Sydney, creating a sleek rear addition that connects the open-plan living, kitchen, and dining area with the garden and pool through sliding glass walls. Kim Bridgland of Edition Office designed a single-level home in Kyneton where the garden, accessible via sliding wood-framed glass window walls, is central. The home uses thermal mass from recycled brick and cross-ventilation for passive cooling, with an air-exchange heat pump for winter. Cavill Architects revamped a prewar worker’s cottage in Brisbane with a Mediterranean-inspired interior, featuring white stucco walls and large sliding glass doors that integrate living spaces with the lush garden. Christopher Polly designed a two-floor addition to a Sydney home, with polished concrete floors extending into the garden and cedar-framed sliding doors and windows offering views of a jacaranda tree. Ben Callery Architects' Melbourne extension, known as 'Glide House,' incorporates renewable features such as high insulation, double glazing, and recycled materials, with a corrugated-metal roof gliding over the indoor/outdoor home. Finally, Studio Bright reincarnated a declining Edwardian home in Melbourne, the 'Ruckers Hill House,' into a contemporary family home with a walled garden and cream-colored LOHAS Nilo Rustic bricks on the addition, respectfully differentiating it from the original red-brick structure. #AustralianHomes #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ArchitecturalDesign #HomeRenovation #SustainableDesign #CourtyardHomes #PrefabricatedHomes #ModernArchitecture #GardenIntegration

This article highlights a new home in Auckland's Mt Albert, designed by Milieu Architecture, which exemplifies successful densification in a suburban context. The project features two separate yet connected dwellings: one for a couple and their dog, and another for their parents, built on a subdivided section. The architectural design addresses the challenge of creating privacy and individual spaces while fostering connection between the two households. The couple’s home integrates living areas below with bedrooms above the garage, while the parents’ single-story residence is distinguished by a protruding brick form with slot windows that provide privacy and light. Architect Kate Beilby emphasizes the design's use of overlapping volumes to achieve both internal and inter-dwelling connectivity. The home's exterior material palette was influenced by Mt Albert’s heritage zoning. White shiplap weatherboards on the upper floor are paired with aged red brick from The Brickery, chosen for its traditional method and rustic aesthetic, which complements the crisp timber and integrates with the surrounding neighborhood. A notable design element is the continuous brick wall that extends from the exterior into the kitchen, visually linking the indoor and outdoor environments. Complementing the brick, Shinnoki oak veneer linings contribute to the interior’s warm, natural color scheme, used for the staircase and concealing storage areas and garage access. Inset shelves along the hallway provide display space for personal items, including a 3D-printed model of the house. Inside, polished concrete floors and a Caesarstone Airy Concrete benchtop in the kitchen maintain a consistent natural tone, further enhanced by pistachio green cabinetry. A curved upper cabinet in the kitchen mirrors curved brick garden borders outside, adding a cohesive design detail. Upstairs, the master bedroom serves as a luxurious retreat, featuring deep blue tones and Designers Guild chinon textured wallpaper. This room opens into a thoughtfully designed sunroom that offers views of the Waitakere Ranges. Initially, a balcony was considered, but due to complexities with waterproofing and the desire for an evening-use space, a sunroom was developed, employing timber flooring and shiplap lining to evoke an outdoor feel. Interior design was largely overseen by Mary Ellen Hinton of Hello Saturday, who aimed to imbue the home with personality and comfort through patterned wallpapers in powder rooms and bedrooms, and luxurious fabrics. Emphasis was placed on soft textures, including carpet, velvet chairs, cushions, beds, and wool beanbags, along with comfortable couches like the Axel with slouchy arms. Patterned wallpapers were strategically used to add depth and reflective qualities to the rooms. While the parents’ dwelling features a more understated color scheme, it maintains the same high standard of design, with abundant natural light and a harmonious mix of materials. This project stands as a prime example of achieving increased density in an established streetscape without compromising privacy, space, or aesthetic coherence, showcasing a modern, well-considered approach to multi-generational living. #ResidentialArchitecture #MultiGenerationalLiving #SuburbanDensification #ModernDesign #ArchitecturalMaterials #InteriorDesign #NewZealandArchitecture #SustainableLiving #UrbanPlanning

The 2025 National Single Stair Architectural Design Competition invites architects, designers, students, and planners globally to conceptualize innovative multifamily housing designs for typical urban parcels in the United States, utilizing single-stair configurations. This competition directly addresses what are considered outdated building codes that frequently mandate double-loaded corridors in multifamily housing. Such conventional designs often lead to inefficient spatial layouts and inadequate access to natural light and air within residential units. The initiative emerges in the wake of successful reforms concerning single-stair building codes in various U.S. cities, notably Los Angeles. These reforms highlight a growing recognition of the potential benefits associated with single-stair designs. The competition therefore challenges participants to move beyond traditional constraints and propose models that are not only more livable but also achieve greater spatial efficiency and sustainability. Participants are expected to demonstrate how single-stair buildings can meet contemporary housing demands while adhering to principles of good design. This includes considering aspects such as fire safety, accessibility, and structural integrity within the single-stair framework. The competition seeks to foster a discourse on how regulatory changes can spur architectural innovation and improve the quality of urban living environments. The designs should explore various architectural styles and material applications, illustrating the versatility of single-stair layouts across different urban contexts and scales of multifamily development. The competition encourages creative solutions that could potentially influence future building code revisions and urban planning strategies across the nation. Submissions are anticipated to showcase a range of approaches, from compact, infill developments to larger-scale residential complexes, all unified by the single-stair concept. Ultimately, the competition aims to gather a diverse collection of proposals that advocate for a shift towards more adaptable and resource-efficient housing solutions. By focusing on single-stair designs, the organizers hope to generate practical and visionary ideas that can contribute to the ongoing evolution of multifamily residential architecture in the United States, promoting healthier and more sustainable urban communities. #ArchitecturalDesign #HousingInnovation #SingleStair #MultifamilyHousing #UrbanPlanning #BuildingCodes #SustainableDesign #ArchitecturalCompetition

Modern two-storey house designs offer a blend of aesthetic appeal and functional living, characterized by innovation in space, style, and utility. These homes maximize vertical space, especially on smaller lots, by incorporating distinct upper and lower levels. Key features typically include sleek and minimalist designs with clean lines and geometric shapes, large windows for ample natural light, and open-plan layouts that foster a spacious and connected living experience. Architectural elements often involve a mix of materials like glass, steel, wood, and concrete, balancing form and function while emphasizing energy efficiency through sustainable materials, insulated windows, and smart home technology. The ground floor commonly hosts communal areas such as living rooms and kitchens, while the upper floor is dedicated to private spaces like bedrooms and bathrooms. The article showcases 15 modern two-storey house design ideas, ranging from contemporary townhouse designs suitable for narrow lots to homes featuring wooden and glass latticework, simple aesthetics, and earthy color palettes. Specific designs include houses with four bedrooms and balconies, basements with integrated garages, and exteriors adorned with stone or wooden lattices. More innovative concepts highlight sloped roofs for natural ventilation and protection from the elements, vertical garden facades that enhance curb appeal and environmental benefits, cantilevered structures for dramatic visual interest, and minimalist black and white facades for timeless elegance. Designs featuring exposed brick and metal accents combine rustic charm with industrial sophistication, while those with rooftop terraces offer functional outdoor spaces and elevate the home's utility and aesthetic appeal. Building a two-storey house can be a significant investment, with costs typically ranging from Rs 1.2 Cr to Rs 2.5 Cr. This cost is influenced by land size, structural complexity, material choices, and special design features. Two-storey homes generally incur higher costs than single-storey ones due to the increased construction steps. To manage expenses, homeowners can adopt strategies such as efficient space utilization to reduce square footage, simplifying architectural designs to avoid intricate detailing, and selecting cost-effective yet durable materials. Incorporating prefabricated components can save time and labor, while investing in energy-efficient features can lead to long-term utility savings. Optimizing structural designs to minimize material use and considering DIY tasks can also contribute to cost reduction. Advantages of a two-storey design include a larger living area for the money invested, especially where land costs are high, and the potential for a lower overall cost compared to acquiring equivalent space in a single-storey home. These designs offer greater flexibility in layout, allowing for clear separation between public and private spaces, and often provide better views from the upper floors. However, there are disadvantages, such as longer construction times due to complex foundations and stair building, and the staircase itself can consume significant living space and pose challenges for young children or the elderly. Two-storey homes may also have lower ceiling and attic heights compared to single-storey homes of similar area. Designing a modern two-storey house involves defining specific requirements, researching architectural styles, and optimizing space. Embracing natural light through large windows, selecting modern materials like glass, steel, concrete, and wood, and focusing on sustainability are crucial steps. Collaborating with architects, interior designers, and contractors ensures structural integrity and adherence to building codes. Additionally, Vastu Shastra principles can be incorporated to promote positive energy, with considerations for staircase placement, room distribution (e.g., master bedroom in the southwest, kitchen in the southeast), and main entrance direction. Common mistakes to avoid include neglecting sun orientation and ventilation, poor staircase placement, focusing solely on aesthetics over practicality, overlooking future needs, using too many design elements, and skipping professional consultation, all of which can lead to costly or inconvenient outcomes. #TwoStoreyHouse #ModernHomeDesign #ArchitecturalTrends #HomeConstruction #SpaceUtilization #SustainableLiving #VastuShastra #PropertyInvestment #InteriorDesign

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

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

The multifamily development sector in 2025 is characterized by an increasing focus on user-centric design, driven by extensive resident feedback. Architects and designers are prioritizing the preferences, lifestyles, and interests of future residents, often gathering this information before the design process begins. Key demands frequently include communal spaces for social interaction and work, alongside amenities like fitness centers, wellness areas, and access to outdoor environments. There's also a significant surge in demand for pet-friendly facilities, such as dog parks and pet wash stations, largely influenced by the increase in pet ownership since the COVID-19 pandemic. Within individual units, residents are seeking flexible spaces that can be easily adapted to serve as quiet work zones, accommodate guests, or expand living areas as needed. These resident-driven insights are crucial in shaping design decisions, leading to living spaces that are precisely tailored to the specific tastes and requirements of target tenants. Several prominent trends are expected to define multifamily design this year. Sustainability and carbon reduction are paramount concerns for both tenants and buyers, making environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals integral to most projects. This commitment to sustainability not only aligns with resident values but also provides developers with a competitive marketing advantage. Energy-efficient systems and smart home technologies are becoming standard, including advanced HVAC systems, LED lighting, smart metering, and renewable energy sources like solar panels. These innovations collectively aim to reduce energy consumption and minimize carbon footprints, fostering a more sustainable and environmentally friendly living experience. An exemplary case is the Azure Oceanfront Residences in Jacksonville Beach, Florida. This project incorporates automated interior shading systems that use sensors to adjust drapery based on the sun's position, thereby enhancing cooling efficiency. A sophisticated lighting control system senses occupancy and follows a dimming schedule to optimize light levels while conserving energy. All residential and amenity space equipment at Azure surpasses code requirements with Energy Star ratings and features highly efficient plumbing fixtures. Public areas are equipped with HEPA-filtered air circulation systems to improve indoor air quality. Moreover, architectural materials are PVC- and formaldehyde-free, with at least 30% recycled content from post-industrial or post-consumer sources. Furniture is sourced from manufacturers with robust sustainability initiatives, and wood components are procured from FSC-certified suppliers. The widespread adoption of hybrid work models has made work-from-home amenities an essential design feature. Multifamily properties are now expected to provide diverse, flexible, and inclusive environments that cater to various work modalities. Amenity spaces are designed to support productivity with high-speed internet, ergonomic furniture, and soundproofing. Personalization is emerging as a critical differentiator in the multifamily market. Properties in 2025 will increasingly offer customizable living spaces, allowing residents to tailor their homes. Features such as adjustable lighting, smart thermostats, and modular furniture that can be reconfigured are becoming common. Integrating smart technology, including digital concierge services, home automation, and advanced security systems, enhances convenience and connectivity. Residents will have more opportunities to personalize their spaces with choices in paint colors, fixtures, flooring, and layout configurations. Designs will also emphasize flexibility, allowing for post-completion adjustments. Color and materiality trends for 2025 will combine boldness with warmth. Saturated colors like mustard yellow, deep terracotta, and vibrant blues will create dynamic interiors, complemented by layered textures and intricate patterns. Simultaneously, warm minimalism, characterized by soft, muted tones, will continue to provide cozy and inviting environments. Material palettes will feature a mix of rough-hewn wood, sleek metal, plush textiles, and tactile elements like rattan and leather, adding depth and visual contrast. The emphasis on sustainability will lead to an increased use of recycled and eco-friendly materials, such as recycled glass countertops, reclaimed wood furniture, and eco-conscious upholstery fabrics. The demand for communal spaces continues to grow, as residents seek social interaction and community engagement. Access to outdoor areas like terraces, courtyards, and green spaces is crucial for balancing work and relaxation. Features such as outdoor workstations, Wi-Fi connectivity, and comfortable seating create inviting environments for remote work or leisure. Wellness-focused amenities, including meditation rooms, fitness centers, yoga studios, and spa facilities, support residents' physical and mental well-being, especially in a work-from-home context. #MultifamilyDesign #RenterFeedback #SustainableDesign #SmartHomeTechnology #WorkFromHomeAmenities #PersonalizedLivingSpaces #ColorTrends #Materiality #CommunalSpaces