A high-yield heritage reclamation, reconciling derelict Queen Anne origins with high-performance bayside living.
The Constraint
The site was a complex assembly of multiple titles, featuring a derelict Queen Anne brick cottage and several dilapidated industrial sheds. Subject to a highly restrictive Heritage Overlay by the City of Port Phillip, the site appeared structurally and logistically locked. The developer required a feasibility-led solution that could unlock the site’s potential while respecting the historic streetscape and the cottage’s crumbling masonry.
A “Dual-Asset” strategy. We negotiated with the council to achieve a substantial, high-concept extension to the original cottage while simultaneously creating a new, contemporary home on the adjacent title. By utilizing our expertise in heritage negotiation, we transformed a liability into two individual residences that prioritize city views and open-plan fluidity. The result is a total re-invention of the heritage aspect, featuring high-spec amenities like the “neighbourhood-envy” garage and integrated outdoor living. If you’re searching for a residential architect in Melbourne, we specialise in blending modern design with functional living spaces.
SPATIAL FLUIDITY / BAYSIDE CULINARY INTERFACE
VOLUMETRIC FLUIDITY / OPEN-TREAD CIRCULATION & SIGHTLINE AXIS
COHESIVE MODERNISM / MONOCHROMATIC MATERIALITY & SKYLIGHT INTEGRATION
CONTEMPORARY INFILL / HIGH-AMENITY URBAN INFRASTRUCTURE
HERITAGE PRESERVATION / QUEEN ANNE BRICKWORK RECLAMATION
ASSET MAXIMIZATION / STRATEGIC CITY-VIEW ORIENTATION
1
STRATEGIC PLANNING
Spec: Comprehensive feasibility study and site-assembly strategy for a multi-title developer brief.
Outcome: Successfully navigated strict local council restrictions to double the site’s residential capacity.
2
HERITAGE OVERLAY
Spec: Careful restoration and integration of a Queen Anne brick cottage within a contemporary bayside context.
Outcome: Preserved the historical rhythm of Lyon Street while injecting modern market value into a previously derelict asset.
3
COMMUNITY VALUE
Spec: Redesign of the site to include professional home-office capacity and “good-neighbor” aesthetic upgrades.
Outcome: Enhanced the local streetscape through a sophisticated architectural dialogue between old and new.
