This Victorian terrace reimagines a compact one-bedroom house as a light-filled family home for four. Rather than expanding into the garden, the design builds upward, allowing the backyard, courtyard and mature Ash tree to guide the flow and remain central to daily life.

​

The project focuses on creating stronger connections between house and landscape. Openings were enlarged, an internal wall removed, and natural light drawn deep into the plan, bringing warmth, openness and a greater sense of space to the compact footprint.

​

The upper level mimics the L-shaped footprint below, set back to satisfy heritage requirements while creating a generous north-facing deck. Carefully positioned overhangs accommodate the ensuite, robes and children's bedroom, while giving the sense that the addition is perched in the trees. Abundant glazing filters light from all directions, with windows and sliding doors connecting the bedrooms, study and deck to the surrounding landscape.​

​

Materially, the house balances old and new through a restrained palette of timber, brick and cement sheet. Existing elements were retained and celebrated where possible (chimney bricks salvaged for the outdoor paving and a freshly exposed brick wall acting as a kitchen splashback), reinforcing the character of the original terrace while supporting a contemporary way of living.

​

Throughout, the design prioritises light, connection and adaptability, transforming a modest inner-city terrace into a far more spacious and enduring family home.

​

Photography by Martina Gemmola