A Contemporary Addition For A Heritage Home In Melbourne

LSA Architects have completed the renovation of a heritage home in Melbourne, Australia, by adding a contemporary addition.

Sitting proudly in a row of grand Federation residences this house combines the appeal of the heritage dwelling with a bold rear contemporary addition. Created around a love of entertaining and family, the seamless link between the spaces allow for effortless flow with the strong use of texture and form.

Mindful of the heritage context, one of the underlying principles of the project was to slowly reveal the contemporary additions to the home. The formal gardens, heritage facade and bedroom zones of the stately Federation design welcome you and then the home opens up to reveal a thoroughly modern and playful rear family area.

Designed for a professional chef and his family, entertaining and lifestyle were at the core of the clients brief. The kitchen is the heart of the new interior with emphasis on the dramatic marble island bench and splashback. The dining, living, outdoor entertaining, pool and garden areas radiate off this central space.

The dining room and outdoor sitting area are enveloped in the oak lined Curve, this provides protection from the elements but offers intimacy allowing for the desired ability to entertain all year round. All rooms overlook the sapphire blue pool and lawn area. This is a home where formality, fun and family are melded into a cohesive whole.

The rejuvenated design has transformed the way the house is used and lived in. The south facing rear yard has been drawn into the house achieving a dramatic increase in light and extending habitable spaces as uses change. Whilst providing the clients wish for grand open spaces, the design team has been mindful not to create cavernous areas and jarring intersections.

The considered use of external spaces to the rear of the property has allowed the family to enjoy the substantial area to it greatest use with minimal maintenance.

The program of the building was constructed successfully on time and on budget through strong collaboration with the build team and designers. An emphasis on communication with the clients ensured their brief was met in regard to by design and timing and budget.