Hidden House Victoria real estate design, Melbourne modern home images, Australian architecture

Hidden House in Victoria

4 April 2024

Architects: Eliza Blair Architecture and studio mkn

Location: Victoria, Australia

Photos by Shannon McGrath

Hidden House, Australia

Nestled at the back of a Victorian-era residence, Hidden House is a contemporary structure crafted from glass and concrete, seamlessly integrated into a lush garden. Utilizing the natural slope of the site and the grand presence of the original home, this modem extension remains discreetly concealed from street view.

Designed to accommodate versatile living, the emphasis is placed on craftsmanship rather than sheer size. The pavilion culminates with its glazed façade adorned with custom timber slat screens, capable of pivoting, providing both protection from the western sun and the option for privacy if desired.

What was the brief?
The clients sought a bold renovation that seamlessly merges the traditional and the modern, respecting the integrity of the original architecture while extending into the adjacent surroundings. The aim was to preserve the existing characteristics of the original dwelling, ensuring they coexist harmoniously with the innovative contemporary additions. An essential aspect of the briefing involved establishing privacy from the neighbouring apartments situated at the rear.

What were the key challenges?
The primary challenges involved a site facing west with an existing neighbouring development along the rear boundary, construction on a confined site situated at the end of a no-through street and the careful selection of materials suitable for a young family.

What were the solutions?
The original 1888 section of the home has been preserved, featuring traditionally sized rooms and sturdy brick walls, ideal for bedrooms. The main bedroom has been enhanced with the addition of a walk-in-robe, and a discreetly placed laundry is located within one of the homes original rooms. Another existing room offers a versatile space that can serve as a second living area or a guest bedroom, adapting to the evolving needs and circumstances of the family.

A steel portal and dark timber batten gallery walk elegantly links the existing home with the addition, establishing a clear distinction between old and new. By contrast, upon entering the new living pavilion, the open plan kitchen and dining area is flooded with natural light. A spacious stone kitchen and walk-in pantry now form the heart of the home. The dining area gracefully extends to a sunny outdoor terrace on the north side, while a step-down into the lounge room creates a distinctive sense of space within the open-plan layout.

Although the garden boasts ample space and lush greenery, its western orientation posed challenges such as potential overheating in the extension and the imposing presence of a neighbouring apartment building. Addressing these issues, a series of full-height pivoting screens emerges as a distinctive feature of the home. These screens offer the flexibility to open the lounge and open-plan living spaces to the garden or provide a shield against the heat and glare of the afternoon sun as needed.

The timber screens operate flawlessly, harmonising with other standout features of the house, such as the substantial natural stone island bench that resembles a sculptural artwork. The interior palette was thoughtfully curated to cater to the needs of a young family, emphasizing durability and functionality while making a bold aesthetic statement. Embracing the authenticity of natural materials, the design seamlessly blends highly veined marble, sleek black timber veneer and robust black steel – a timeless combination that stands resilient against the demands of daily life.

The new addition embraces a design ethos characterized by openness and abundant natural light. Large expanses of glass establish a seamless connection to the backyard, allowing the interior spaces to feel light and airy, emphasizing a harmonious integration with the surrounding environment. The house maximizes its spatial footprint, extending gracefully into its surroundings and culminating in a living space that appears to “float” amidst the lush garden. This thoughtful integration of design elements creates a cohesive and visually stunning environment that balances modern sophistication with practical living.