Our brief was to restore a once magnificent 1890s Queen Anne style residence in East Malvern to its former glory. This included extensively renovating and re-instating previously removed and or damaged original features. The extension was to incorporate a new kitchen, meals and associated modern amenities to seamlessly connect with the existing residence, and most importantly a five car garage with storage. The overriding requirement was to match the balance, proportion and ambiance of the existing residence, not simply attach a modern box. A new fence was also required to compliment the grandeur and scale of the property.

'Werai', An A2 Heritage Victoria classified house of high local significance warranting careful and considered renovation to secure its future. Possessing a Queen Anne revival form the house features elements which distinguish it from others including the castellated window bay and entrance porch, combined half timbering with ornate fretted gable trusses and diagonally set chimneys. The dilapidated 1920s rear lean-to has made way for a proportionally sympathetic extension located to not intrude on the original homes grandeur. This design outcome was fully supported by council's heritage department while also appeasing all our client's requirements.

One of the key challenges for this project was to design a generous five car garage to sit alongside the heritage dwelling without detracting from it. Our addition locates the garage to the south east corner and is articulated to talk to the existing front facade. A new verandah and balcony was re-instated, an exact replica of the original, linking the two building forms together and bringing balance to the residence across the property. The reconfigured floor plan and extension achieves better flow and renewed entertaining zones achieving heritage style for best-practice contemporary living.

For over six years, in close collaboration with our clients, we transformed this home from a degraded condition to offer the finest 21st century contemporary living through restoring, renovating, reconfiguring the floor plan and adding a significant extension. Creating a home where it's hard to tell what is old and new, utilizing design, detailing, and quality materials and craftsmanship that have been largely lost in today's construction environment. From the new custom-made driveway gates and entrance lichgate, right through to every cupboard in the kitchen, every detail has been painstakingly considered to do justice to this significant Australian building.