Architect Julie Firkin says, “The design of Fenwick House was developed with close involvement by the clients. Maximising the available light and space on an oddly shaped block was the primary design imperative.”
The site is located in Clifton Hill, an inner city suburb of Melbourne in Australia.
The original weatherboard cottage, which addresses the street, has been maintained with a new, two-level addition at the rear.
The new extension provides a new kitchen, dining areas, and a master bedroom suite. It is angular and tapered in form with a crisp, cleanly detailed facade.
Inside, a variety of spatial volumes is achieved within a relatively simple overall form. The character of natural materials, such as timber, concrete and metal, is expressed.
Project Details
Completion date – 2014
Building levels – 2
Project Team
Architecture
Julie Firkin Architects
Julie Firkin Architects was established in 2009 and specializes in designing aspirational, carefully crafted and commodious homes. Our projects can transform older dwellings, unlock the potential of constrained, inner-city or suburban sites, or embrace the natural beauty of regional and rural areas. We incorporate passive solar design principles to ensure that our designs are thermally efficient, light and comfortable.
Julie has been involved in the design and delivery of a variety of projects both in Australia and internationally, including large mixed-use projects in Melbourne and bespoke projects in Europe and the USA. Julie holds a Master in Architecture degree from Harvard University and regularly leads design studios at the University of Melbourne, Monash University and RMIT
Construction
Overend Constructions
Overend Constructions was formed by Chris Overend in 1978. Based in Victoria’s Yarra Valley, it began as a team of two and has grown into a group of some 18 highly qualified people. Its roots were in environmental alternative construction and design. This has informed its development into a sophisticated and highly sought after company.
www.overendconstructions.com.au
Photography
Christine Francis
Melbourne photographer Christine Francis specialises in interiors, architecture and design. She greatly appreciates diversity and collaboration in her work, a preference that shines through in her images. Francis’ academic background is in visual communication – her photographs have featured projects in Australia and abroad.
Photo Gallery
Click on a thumbnail image to enlarge.
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