Set within one of Melbourne’s leafy inner-city suburbs, Danson Residence builds on the character of a 1950s weatherboard home. Rather than replacing what already existed, architect Jack Fugaro focused on retaining the original fabric while extending the house to support contemporary family life. The design approach emphasised longevity, connection to landscape, and a restrained use of materials.

The existing structure remains legible, with new interventions clearly expressed and considered in scale and detail. Cues from the home’s original era informed the new work, allowing old and new to sit alongside one another.

Reimagined living and private retreats

Internally, the living, kitchen, and alfresco areas were reconfigured to form a connected sequence of spaces oriented towards the garden. A new private retreat for a teenage daughter was introduced, providing separation while maintaining visual and spatial connection to the main living areas and outdoor zones. This zoning supports day-to-day use and reduces the need for extensive internal circulation, contributing to a more efficient use of space.

Outdoor spaces as living areas

Outdoor spaces play a central role in the project. The redesigned indoor-outdoor kitchen and alfresco area supports cooking, work, and social activity throughout the year. Twin glazed oculus roof openings introduce daylight into the plan and frame views of the surrounding treetops. A sheltered structure, supported by slender rod columns, engages lightly with the landscape and allows the outdoor areas to remain open and adaptable.

Working with the site

The natural slope of the site informed the landscape strategy. Stepped terraced platforms, integrated seating, and cascading planters address level changes and mediate between building and garden. Locally made clay bricks with subtle corbelling detail provide texture and durability, helping to situate the extension within its setting.