The East Melbourne Residence is a 2 storey extension that is concealed behind a heritage frontage in a Victorian streetscape. The site runs north-south with a block of units on its western boundary & an original period home to the east.

The brief was for a light filled modern home that would best utilise its inner city location. In all, 4 bedrooms, 1 study, 2 living areas & car parking for 3 cars were required plus amenities. Privacy from the neighbouring units was paramount as well as a connection to the original structure.

The private setting behind the original building provided the perfect context to create a secluded contemporary home. Our design strategy was to create a series of spaces to utilize the full extent of the small site for living. We imagined clean & uncompromised spaces that let the building envelope dissolve into the garden. The interiors needed to be compelling spaces with clarity & a highly considered but restrained palette of natural materials to enable the garden & outside spaces to work with in.

All extraneous elements have been meticulously integrated into the building fabric to create simple & strong forms whilst not compromising functionality. Glazing is recessed into the structure, the floors flow out into the garden, lighting & services are concealed and equipment is veiled so not to compete.

The building also offers a public face to the properties to the rear. A Victorian motive provides reference on the screen to the upper level to the original features of the property which can be enjoyed from neighbours at distance.