Typical of much of the housing stock in Melbourne’s inner north, the normally generous proportions of houses from the Federation era had been wedged into what felt like a small Victorian terrace.
The site has a tight 5m width and the existing house is heavily shaded by a large double-storey brick house on its northern boundary.
The Wedged project, designed by Alison Dodds Architect, is an extension to a Federation-era home in Melbourne’s inner-north, where the clients wanted to maximise their exposure to natural light and fresh air.
In addition, flexible spaces were needed for extended family gatherings, and to accommodate out of town guests.
Landscaping was also a priority, and, having 48m of length, meant that there was the opportunity to weave outdoor and garden spaces throughout the narrow site.
The landscaped front and rear garden are complemented by a light well, a courtyard, and two balconies, all with northerly aspects, allowing natural light and ventilation to all downstairs areas.
Windows and bi-fold doors open to the north facing courtyard, connecting the kitchen and dining area to a sunny outdoor space.
Retractable awnings and external zip blinds provide relief from summer heat.
Reflective and more decorative materials bring light and energy to these small outdoor spaces.
Light green glazed brickwork and handmade green terracotta pavers reflect the solidity and craftsmanship of the original Federation house.
The external walls at ground level are firmly anchored by their double brick construction, another nod to the original residence and a good thermal bank for the Melbourne climate.
Heritage concerns dictated that the addition “disappeared” from the streetscape.
The first storey leans into the imposing brick boundary wall, its raked form an extension of the neighbouring pitched roofline.
It recedes back from the street, behind dark metal cladding.
Reflective windows are camouflaged behind a black facade of horizontal louvres.
These operable louvres provide afternoon shading from strong westerly sun, and open for views over nearby parkland at other times of day.
Looking back towards the rear garden, the bedroom balcony is screened with vertical louvres to prevent overlooking to neighbours.
In the middle of the site, the roof form swings in the opposite direction to mitigate impact on the adjoining neighbour’s private open space and to optimize solar gain.
Solar panels cover the angled roof area entirely and are ready for battery installation.
Pedestrian entry from the rear laneway provides access via the garage to a separate first floor studio.
The more utilitarian finishes, including the rubber flooring and minimal joinery, are fitting for a workshop space.
For occasional visitors, the hidden tilt-bed folds out and it becomes a self-contained guest room.
Construction materials mirror those of the main house with Bowral Bricks at ground level and dark metal cladding above.
The balcony area that hangs over the garden is carved into the building form, again with a lighter more decorative material, in this instance green aluminium cladding.
The balustrade forms part of the external metal clad walls, and, like the bedroom balcony, frames views of neighbouring Eucalyptus treetops against the sky.
Project Details
Project Size – 270 m2
Site Area – 240 m2
Completion Date – 2019
Building Levels – 2
Project Team
Architecture
Alison Dodds Architect
Alison Dodds Architect is a small practice based in South Yarra that specializes in high quality residential architecture and interiors.
A considered response to site, context, affordability and program, contribute to the evolution of each project. Their primary aim is to listen to our client’s specific needs and generate spaces that are configured pragmatically, but can also enhance the emotional experience of the home. The ADA team gain immense satisfaction from taking their client’s ideas and making them a reality.
Landscape Architecture
Amanda Oliver Gardens
Amanda Oliver Gardens is a small landscape design and garden making company that has a reputation for plant focused gardens and spaces. They offer collaborative design expertise, alongside extensive plant and horticultural knowledge.
www.amandaolivergardens.com.au
Structural Engineering
Meyer Consulting
Meyer Consulting is a small-medium Melbourne based structural and civil engineering company with many years of experience and expertise in all aspects of building projects.
Construction
Lew Building
Lew Building specialises in architectural new homes and renovations with a direct hands-on approach and an individually tailored service for every client and project.
They value projects that honour sustainability and functionality.
The Lew Building team aspire to make their clients’ experience a positive one from start to finish through being available and responsive to their clients’ needs.
Lew Building operates with a consistent, reliable and professional team of tradespeople.
Photography
Alex Reinders
Alex Reinders is an editorial and commercial photographer specialising in interiors, architecture, food and portraits. Based in Melbourne, Alex works both in studio and on location. With an aesthetic described as clean, lush and timeless, Alex has shot spaces and people across a diverse range of industries and practices.
Photo Gallery
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Design © 2020 Alison Dodds Architect. All Rights Reserved.| Images © 2020 Alex Reinders. All Rights Reserved.
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