Sarah Bryant from Melbourne based architectural practice Bryant Alsop, explains the methodology behind this little, Heritage-listed cottage.
A Spotted Gum timber pergola holds black steel trellis for an ornamental grapevine
DESIGN INTENT
The brief required a 2-bedroom heritage listed, workers cottage with 1970s addition, to be re-worked to create a light, connected family home, preserving maximum outdoor area, and whose spaciousness would defy the 220m² site. Extending the footprint by only 12m², we were able to add a second bathroom, third bedroom, two-way laundry/butler’s pantry, study area and generous living/dining. We also planned to allow a second stage with first floor to be added at a later stage, and conversion of the main bedroom to a second living area.
Re-use of existing structural elements allowed the project to be completed on a tight budget and within a limited program of 10 months for design, documentation, and construction, allowing the budget capacity for clever cabinetry providing both storage and adaptability.
The Victorian façade was restored and updated with a playful front door
Suspended cabinetry sits in front of a custom lasercut metal screen providing privacy and sun-shading to the main bedroom
The internal east boundary wall has continuous dark colour, texture and cabinetry which provides depth and contrast to the floor plan, and accentuates an existing 2.4m high ceiling which has lining boards running the length of the space which further lengthens the room visually.
The parapet roof and cement render walls contrast against the pitched roof of the weatherboard cottage which was extended to provide volume to the main living space and maintain a sense of continuity from both the north and south public views of the house. It was important that the house didn’t read as two separated buildings from the street and the park behind, but rather maintained a connection with its Victorian heritage and context when viewed from all angles.
ABOVE and UPPER LEFT
Kids rooms and the childrens bathroom are playful with bold colors used throughout
LEFT
The white kitchen island sits in front of a grey pantry unit that conceals a 2-way laundry/butlers pantry
SUSTAINABILITY
A driving force to re-use the existing structure has underpinned our sustainable approach both in reducing waste, and conserving energy. Rather than demolishing the 1970s addition, the structure was re-worked to utilise the existing slab, low flat roof form and masonry boundary wall. The L-shaped addition was orientated to take full advantage of the north orientation, and significant effort was made to maximise the private outdoor space where neighbouring properties tend to have abolished this. A custom laser cut screen, a pergola with deciduous vines, and the retention of a substantial Paperbark Tree, provide protection from western sun and privacy to the master bedroom.
Kids rooms and the childrens bathroom are playful with bold colors used throughout
Corner opening sliding doors allow the living spaces to flow freely to the outdoor deck
Architect and Project Team Bryant Alsop is a Melbourne based architectural practice working across Melbourne, regional Victoria and New South Wales. Work spans residential, commercial, hospitality, health, education and institutional sectors, underpinned by a belief that architecture should be uplifting, beautiful and honest. Their aesthetic is warm, textural and clean. Committed to achieving high design, and providing a service that instills confidence in their clients.
bryantalsop.com.au
@BryantAlsop