A Mindful Multi-Generational Family Home In Clifton Hill

This magnificent Clifton Hill dwelling occupies a uniquely big, 80 metre-extended block for Melbourne’s inner northern suburbs.

But the dimension also posed a challenge for Clare Cousins Architects, who have been requested to layout a new dwelling for a couple and their three teenage daughters.

‘The consumers expected a dwelling that could accommodate not only their day-to-day lives, but also be the upcoming dwelling for an ageing father or mother and browsing kin,’ director Clare Cousins says.

To prevent disrupting the heritage search of the spot, the structure took cues from the site’s current write-up-war cottage. Its old bricks have been salvaged and incorporated in the house’s id, ‘offering a perception of permanence and small-upkeep durability’.

One particular of the most putting components of Esplanade Household is its compartmentalised layout, described by curved partitions and unique wings — which merge at the heart of the home.

The entry is set back again from the footpath powering a absolutely free-standing ‘utility building’ adorned with hit-and-miss out on brickwork. It outlets bikes and solar battery storage, but Clare notes how this clever addition also makes sure privateness for the front courtyard and northern wing of children’s bedrooms.

The owners asked for that the residence search ‘at ease’ between the predominantly one-storey bordering houses. This lead to a discrete second ground that serves as the adult’s domain, that includes the principal bedroom and study. There is also self-contained studio at the rear primed for friends.

Inside of, sustainably sourced blackbutt timber complements the mild-crammed living spaces. And the moody inexperienced joinery in the kitchen incorportates one particular of the family’s favourite colours.

The client’s enjoy of gardening was also central to the venture. Walled gardens are damaged up about the sculptural architecture and a successful garden is the functional centrepiece of the backyard.

‘The elongated prepare weaves the residence and the Fiona Brockhoff-intended back garden jointly, supplying numerous outside configurations and vistas from all rooms of the household, though remaining sympathetic to its heritage context,’ Clare clarifies.

Esplanade Household showcases how thoughtful household structure can respect the earlier, even though remaining firmly anchored in the present — and guaranteeing relevance perfectly into the potential.

See a lot more of Clare Cousins Architects’ operate here.