Celebrating Heritage Charm – Batvia South Yarra by Robson Rak

Celebration the charm of the original home’s grand proportions, Batvia South Yarra sees a cohesive narrative applied across the old and the new. Robson Rak brings a well-honed approach to authenticity in the preservation and repurposing of heritage architecture.

Set within its neighbourhood of heritage grand homes, this Victorian beauty stands in good company, and is of key importance as a piece of architectural history. Located in Melbourne’s inner south, Batvia South Yarra sees Robson Rak apply a cohesive narrative across the old and the new. Referencing the original grand proportions, the resulting renovation and addition works embrace and multiply the home’s original charm.

Located in Melbourne’s inner south, Batvia South Yarra sees Robson Rak apply a cohesive narrative across the old and the new.

Almost in opposition to its original aesthetic, where the Victorian period saw exceptional ornamentation and opulence, the approach taken by Robson Rak is one of restraint. The contrast between the old and the new is further exemplified by the accentuation of the Victorian details against the subtle, elegant interventions. This deliberate control over the palette and the new contemporary elements allows a balance to be created between the old and the new, in which they work in unison as an expression of one another. The overwhelming grandeur of the existing proportions is accentuated by the decision not to add any competing new elements. There is no blurred line between old and new – the timing is clear and, as a result, the home delineates the two beautifully.

The approach taken by Robson Rak is one of restraint.

Robson Rak brings a refinement, as with all of their work, that speaks to an understanding of materiality and an authentic respect for the history of the home. Through the application of texture and tone, in lieu of a complex array of materials, the design achieves a richness of space and added depth that allows the original features to flourish. Designed as a space that will allow its young family to grow, the materials selected reflect a robustness and durability, without compromising on the stately elegance needed for this calibre of space. The use of limestone flooring, warm muted timber and white plaster walls allows for clean lines and a sense of calm to prevail.

Robson Rak brings a refinement, as with all of their work, that speaks to an understanding of materiality and an authentic respect for the history of the home.

Balancing the old and the new, the key to expressing the original features of Batvia South Yarra is the contrast between the original features and the contemporary intervention and addition. The home connects strongly to its landscape and lush garden elements and, through large and refined metal glazing, these become an extension of the interior spaces.

With a sophistication worthy of such a stately home, Robson Rak offers a respect for history, creating a home that cohesively acknowledges its past 100 years, and prepares for its next century.