RENOVATION DREAM: think BIG

THE SENSE OF SPACE IN THIS MELBOURNE FAMILY HOME BELIES ITS PINT-SIZED FOOTPRINT

- KYLIE JACKES

When Alana and Tristan bought their Victorian worker’s cottage in Melbourne’s inner suburbs at auction five years ago, they had big plans. Keen to break free of the poky constraints of the tiny heritage home on a 145sqm block, they engaged architect Nicholas Byrne to design a completely new look. “We wanted to renovate and extend to create a contemporary home that felt huge,” says Alana. With countless hurdles to overcome, from heritage overlays to height restrictions and structural issues caused by termite damage, the couple forged ahead – and they gave Nicholas complete creative freedom to literally think outside the box. Having designed their forever home, the couple are thrilled with the transformation. “Engaging an architect was the single best thing we did,” enthuses Alana. “What has been achieved on such a small block is really remarkable. We love every bit of it.”

LIVING AREA

Tristan, Alana and children Judson, four, and Lottie, two (all pictured), enjoy the laid-back feel of their new lounge room (below). A defining feature of the sunken back section of the house is polished concrete floors, which were chosen for their thermal properties. “I just love the underfloor hydraulic heating,” says Alana. “In winter we don’t need any other heating on and in summer it has a cool feel underfoot.” Opting for family-friendly furniture, Alana says a Jardan sofa withstands the demands of young children, while the Globe West coffee table and Ikea rug add another layer of comfort.

DINING ROOM