INTO THE FOLD

Aptly named Chatterbox House, this Melbourne bungalow's two-storey extension was inspired by the children's paper-folding game.

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Aptly named Chatterbox House, this Melbourne bungalow's two-storey extension was inspired by the children's paper-folding game.

Athoughtful, extensive renovation has transformed what was once a dark and dated bungalow into a charming and light-filled family home, brimming with considered additions, colourful art and abundant greenery.

The homeowners bought the house on the land of the Wurundjeri people in 2017 and asked Emilio Fuscaldo of Nest Architects to breathe new life into this inner-city Melbourne property.

Part of their brief was for a house with functional spaces that were linked but not open, with the garden and courtyards a priority. They also wanted a house that could adapt to the changing needs of their family, including separate living spaces for their children as they grew older and room for elderly parents.

“It wasn't in great condition,” says Emilio. “In terms of the state of the house, the fabric was compromised and the site itself is on an old creek bed. So, we had lots of issues to deal with, hence why the new work was so extensive - there wasn't much to keep.”