Carefully Considered – Carlton North Residence by Project 12 Architecture

Words by Bronwyn Marshall
Photography by Derek Swalwell
Interior Design by Project 12 Architecture
Styling by Natalie James
Joinery by Kurv Living

As a reworking of an existing Victorian era terrace home, Carlton North Residence adopts a thoughtful integration of old and new. Project 12 Architecture draws from the textured and handcrafted past of the original home, creating a natural extension of the existing.

Behind its preserved façade, Carlton North Residence sits unchanged from the streetscape, juxtaposing the interior of the home. By retaining the original façade and front room, the remainder of the terrace home has been recalibrated to reflect a contemporary occupation and the personalities of its current owners. To create a sense of cohesion across the varying chapters of the structure, the new additions needed to feel like a natural evolution. Through carrying consistent materiality, a shared celebration of detail, and the use of quality and durable materials throughout the project, the home’s previous eras harmonise to create the current result. Project 12 Architecture balances the needs of a family within a beautifully crafted series of spaces that allow for intended connection to the past, embodying the characteristics of a tranquil and calm dwelling.

By retaining the original façade and front room, the remainder of the terrace home has been recalibrated to reflect a contemporary occupation and the personalities of its current owners.

Occupied by a young family, an element of flexibility needed to be integrated into the residence to allow for adaptability over time as the family’s needs inevitably change. The retained front room becomes a dedicated area for the children – a separate space away from the combined living, dining and kitchen area to the rear. On the additional level above, a parent’s retreat showcases views out and downward to retain a connection to the garden space. The connection both internally and out into the landscaped spaces is key to a shared feeling of openness.

Bringing in light from above, skylights are scattered throughout the project to ensure that natural light is prominent. The anchoring of the form to the southern boundary also allows for the capturing of northern light, further increasing the climatic comfort of the home and a reduced reliance on energy throughout the year. As a forever home, a focus on quality and endurance was imperative; the selection of palette needed to reflect a timeless nature and be comprised of tones that would remain relevant beyond the present. Consequently, the bones of the home remain muted, with colour used sparingly with elements such as furniture, lighting and artwork – all interchangeable over time.

As a forever home, a focus on quality and endurance was imperative; the selection of palette needed to reflect a timeless nature and be comprised of tones that would remain relevant beyond the present.

With a focus on warmth and longevity, Carlton North Residence is an idyllic sanctuary, neatly tucked away from the street. Project 12 Architecture emphasises a crafted approach to ensure the adaptability and timelessness of the home, guaranteeing longevity and functionality for years to come.