Restoring heritage houses is a delicate balance between preserving the past and creating a modern space that suits the needs of today's families. In this article, we explore some of our favorite recently restored heritage homes that seamlessly blend the old and the new. These projects pay homage to the original architecture while adapting the interiors to accommodate growing families, changing lifestyles, and unexpected circumstances.
Albert Villa, bureau^proberts
bureau^proberts director Terry McQuillan and his wife, interior designer Charlie McQuillan, took on the challenge of transforming a heritage-listed Brisbane worker's cottage into a modern masterpiece. Situated on a steep, small block, the couple's creativity was fueled by the limitations they faced. The result is Albert Villa, a contemporary garden pavilion addition that seamlessly merges with the classic Queenslander architecture.
Paddington Terrace, Porebski Architects
Sometimes, a small addition can make a big difference. Porebski Architects transformed a 1890s Paddington terrace by adding a 20-square-meter rear extension that maximizes space and enhances functionality. With smart space planning and clever joinery, the terrace now offers a well-ordered and organized living environment for a family of four.
Annandale House, Baldwin & Bagnall
Living in a thoughtfully restored Victorian terrace is a dream for many modern Australian families. Baldwin & Bagnall turned this dream into reality with the renovation of a c1880s terrace home in Annandale, Sydney. The project involved a restoration of the facade, interior renovations, and a redesign of the rear addition. The result is a harmonious blend of old and new that perfectly captures the essence of modern living.
Concrete Blonde, Carter Williamson
Dubbed an "architectural jewelry box," Concrete Blonde is an updated terrace house in Sydney's inner west. Designed by Carter Williamson Architects, this modern masterpiece showcases a delicate and considered array of materials, including concrete, brick, timber, and stainless steel. The interplay of light and shadow through skylights and a courtyard well adds to the overall allure of the space.
Reed House, Beth George Architect
The Reed House in Subiaco, Perth, is a mid-century modernist-inspired home designed by architect Beth George for the Reed family. The project involved the restoration of the facade of an original Edwardian house, renovations to the interiors, and a redesign of a zany addition to the rear. The result is a harmonious blend of old and new that allows the family to feel at home in nature.
Concert Hall House, Pandolfini Architects
For a private man with a deep love for music, Pandolfini Architects transformed a Victorian-era terrace into a haven for his passion. Dubbed Concert Hall House, this architectural gem was in dire need of restoration and lacked sufficient space for the client's piano, stereo, and music collection. The architects rose to the challenge and breathed new life into the terrace, creating a space that harmoniously blends the old and the new.
House B, Whispering Smith
House B is the second stage of an innovative project by Whispering Smith in Perth's Scarborough suburb. Kate Fitzgerald, founder of Whispering Smith, and her partner, Matthew Johnston, designed this dwelling on a small plot of land with limited space. Despite its compact size, the house comfortably accommodates guests and features sustainable design elements. It has become an exemplar for the state government's medium-density code.
Symmons Plains, Cumulus Studio
Symmons Plains, an historic property in Tasmania, underwent a remarkable transformation by Cumulus Studio. The Georgian architecture was carefully restored, and a contemporary addition was seamlessly integrated, creating a harmonious blend of past and present. The homeowners, an active and social family, now enjoy the best of both worlds in this stunning heritage home.
Henry House, WALA
Henry House is the perfect example of downsizing without sacrificing style and functionality. WALA designed this home for a semi-retired couple who love entertaining. Despite its smaller size, the house comfortably accommodates guests and provides a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
House Lincoln, THOSE Architects
THOSE Architects took on the challenge of updating a 1950s Californian brick bungalow in Sydney's Lane Cove. The design involved opening up the existing bungalow and adding a new wing, solving the space issues faced by the growing family. With a better sense of connection and additional living space, House Lincoln perfectly embodies modern family living.
These beautifully restored heritage houses showcase the creativity and craftsmanship required to breathe new life into old buildings. By respecting the original architecture while adapting to modern needs, these homes serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving our historical heritage.
