Renovated by Freadman White, this Melbourne home is nothing short of a masterclass in marrying old and new.
The Victorian facade has been preserved at the front. The four main rooms were retained and redesigned; one serves as the master bedroom, complete with ensuite bathroom and walk-in robe; the others are configured as a flexible study or bedroom and as a second living space.
What was originally an inappropriate addition to the rear from the 1990s has now been completely changed.
“Our vision for the project was to create a home that seamlessly integrates architecture and landscape to enrich the spatial experience on a comparatively compact site,” says Freadman White principal Ilana Freadman.
Through this “mixed approach,” the architects created the surprisingly voluminous spaces that now support the owner’s modern lifestyle with two children in tow.
“The design carefully choreographs the path from the street into the interior, with the entry sequence designed to stimulate the senses – an unfolding series of spaces that manipulate proportion, light and views,” says Ilana.
Behind the existing listed components, the hallway leads to an arched opening overlooking the swimming pool and an inner courtyard designed by Florian Wild and surrounded by curved glass.
Steps lead down into the new extension, which opens dramatically to reveal a large, double-height volume that adapts to the original historic spaces.
Hardwood floors flow into striking Palladiana floors made from pink and white stones, adding a playful touch, while an island bench and Verde Bardini stone backsplash create a striking centerpiece in the kitchen.
An important inspiration for the redesign was the customer's childhood memories. Having grown up in Queensland, he remembered the swimming pool as the centerpiece of his family home – something Freadman White was able to recreate.
“The kitchen looks directly onto the pool, creating a tranquil atmosphere all year round, while a circulation cavity above enhances the feeling of floating and further emphasizes the central role of the pool in the life of the house,” adds Ilana.
Set amongst the cream brick and plastered walls of the extension, the powder room was designed to be a “jewel-like moment” within the house.
The red hues of the stone vanity are paired with matching Chifu WA-2804 tiles from Artedomus, continuing the whimsical pops of color and luxurious material palette of the interior.
Ilana notes that it is a home that is best experienced in person: “The interplay of light, reflection and volume transforms the experience of the interiors.” Moments of compression and relaxation, shadow and light connect the old and new parts of the house in fluid and unexpected ways.”
“As you stand in the room, you become aware of how the pool enlivens the architecture and throws movement and color onto the walls and ceilings.”