Collaboration is key to any successful outcome, so taking on this project was a great opportunity to partner with Secret Design Studio, Balwyn Builders and our fantastic clients. Secret Design Studio provided their mid-century expertise to get this project underway and we jumped on board to continue the design, documentation and contract administration. A wonderful partnership has developed with our clients, who have a had a strong and clear of vision of mid-century modern design.
Our clients were keen to upgrade their dated mid-century home to reflect modern family life, whilst retaining the character of the architecture.
The site provided quite the challenge, it has beautiful sweeping views across the outer east of Melbourne, however it is very steep. The house also had several entry points, however no real sense of a focal point ‘front door’. One of the key goals was to improve access from the driveway to a formal front entry. More living space for growing children and guest accommodation for overseas visitors were also on the wish list.
Taking the initial design work and partnering with our clients and Balwyn Building, the construction has progressed smoothly with only minor bumps to resolve along the way – a real credit to the builder.
Who are the clients and what's interesting about them?
Our clients are expat-Canadians, who have made Australia their home. They were passionate about the mid-century style of their home and became experts in mid-century modern renovating and furnishing.
We developed a lovely relationship with our clients, their hands-on involvement and keen eye for detail were a real asset to the project.
What was the brief?
To create an accessible entry to the home, improve the livability for a growing family, including guest accommodation. Improve and expand the outdoor entertaining space and connectivity to pool.
What were the key challenges?
The property is located on a very steep sloping block of land, therefore careful consideration of building height, materials, accessibility and livability for clients were key considerations.
