Residential, alteration and addition
St Kilda East, Melbourne
Completed 2015
Photographer, Fraser Marsden
Houses Awards 2016, Shortlist
About the project
|
St Kilda East house is an alteration and addition to a semi-detached dwelling. The existing dwelling is a red clinker, double brick structure built in the early 20’s. Built as a duplex construction on a relatively small block the house has little windows to the north, blocking out a lot of natural light, while low ceilings and small rooms restrict the flow and quality of air throughout the home.
The design objective was to keep the existing bones at the front part of the house, rework the internal fabric and demolish the back half of the dwelling to make way for a new open plan double storey addition at the rear.
With a north facing back yard and rear street access, the house has been designed with individual zones that allow two generations to live together, permitting independence while still allowing interaction under the one roof.
The union of these two different zones has been expressed through opposing elements of solidity and lightness, void and form, elevation and poise, black and white, giving the scheme a contrasting yet cohesive expression of its owners and how they’ll occupy the home.
With a north facing back yard and rear street access, the house has been designed with individual zones that allow two generations to live together, permitting independence while still allowing interaction under the one roof.
“I engaged Taylor Knights as architects and interior designers for this challenging renovation and addition to my Federation home in St Kilda. They far exceeded my expectations with service and innovative design.
Peter and James carefully listened to the complex brief, responding in a considered way delivering a house exceptional in design and on budget. Maximum advantage was made of the space available, even converting the existing roof space into a home office, something I hadn’t considered.
By working the traditional heritage features with the contemporary an element of surprise and sophistication has been achieved throughout. I particularly love the connection with the outdoors and the use of natural light which streams through the skylights on even the dullest days. Attention to detail is evident everywhere. This is a fantastic home and I would highly recommend Taylor Knights.”