It isn’t often that you have the opportunity to work on an inner city corner site with three frontages and city views, nonetheless our Clifton Street project is exactly that. An inner city sanctuary with designated zones for the downsizing family, the proposal takes full advantage of the sloping site with outward views from all three street aspects, whilst still maintaining the privacy of the occupants.
At the Clifton Street frontage, the existing double fronted Victorian workers cottage has undergone a series of renovations throughout its life, leaving very little of the original detailing. The design approach implements referential details of what might have once existed, looking both to the neighboring houses, and the broader Richmond context for inspiration. Lean-to structures to the rear of the house will be removed creating a unique central courtyard and glazed link from the original dwelling to the modern addition at the rear creating a clear separation between the two structures.
With the clients having an appreciation for contemporary architecture the proposed addition incorporates large glazed windows softened by external timber louvers set within concrete surrounds and walls of handmade bricks. The carefully considered soldier course brick pattern gestures to traditional building techniques and provides distinct points of interest over each facade. All these elements are founded upon a concrete plinth which is drawn from the bluestone footings of the original dwelling. Multiple private outdoor spaces, including a formal contemporary hedge and birch garden to the front, and an undulating forested garden to the rear, are incorporated into the home. Providing an oasis for the clients and the public amongst the dense Richmond area, these spaces frame both the house itself and the dramatic views over Melbourne’s sports precinct and city skyline beyond.
This project is currently in progress and we hope to commence construction in the not too distant future.