Bunurong Boon Wurrung and Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung peoples
Victoria
Exploring the potential of blending two architectural precedents from the same era has transformed a dark, overshadowed 1930’s home into a flexible, light-filled sanctuary. Retaining the original Queen Anne façade and most of the internal structure, rather than merging rooms, the majority of the internal masonry was preserved to create distinct spaces connected by sealed openings, enhancing intimacy and thermal efficiency while stabilising indoor temperatures and minimising energy use.
As a counterpoint, Pierre Chareau’s, Maison de Verre (1928–1932) served as the key precedent for the new additions. By minimising the footprint and pulling the structure from boundaries, the design increased reflected ambient light through expanded exterior spaces and gardens. Glass bricks create translucent walls of light—offering cost-effective, thermally efficient, and private alternatives to full glazing. Despite differences in scale and proportion, a cohesive material and colour palette unifies old and new, creating a seamless, high-quality living environment.
The Australian Institute of Architects acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.
