Gable House by Folk Architects and Studio Doherty

Gable House stands as a celebration of suburban escapism and bold creativity, offering a tailored response to the needs of an energetic family.

Encircling a resplendent garden oasis with imaginative diversity, Gable House is unapologetically centred on the family who reside within. Located in a leafy pocket of inner Melbourne, it’s not a precious place but rather an expressive home – crafted with care and alive with social connection. Here, formality gives way to a vibrant interplay of colour, light and life, in every sense.

The architecture is anchored by a singular, unifying idea: to develop a formal language that respectfully echoes the picturesque character of the heritage dwelling while clearly defining a contemporary addition.”

Instigated by a brief to transform a maze of rooms into a functional, contemporary home, a seed was planted for what would organically evolve into an eclectic assemblage of forms. “With two growing teenage children, one of the key objectives was to zone the house, providing a separate but connected children’s wing with communal areas for family gatherings,” notes Tim Wilson of Folk Architects. “The brief called for a considered balance between restoration and innovation, resulting in new living areas and a sculptural rear extension.” The dwelling is a compelling example of boldly expressive design, elevated by the thoughtful contributions of a skilled collective.

This stylistic melting pot takes occupants on an uplifting journey, underpinned by a quiet reverence for the stately Queen Ann villa that stands prominently within its surrounding context. “The architecture is anchored by a singular, unifying idea: to develop a formal language that respectfully echoes the picturesque character of the heritage dwelling while clearly defining a contemporary addition,” describes Wilson. Conceptually, the plan is neatly organised around a central, light-filled courtyard, flanked by inclusive communal zones that delineate the parents’ domain from the teenage retreat – a two-storey annex clad in green-hued diamond zinc shingles and linked via a permeable walkway. The undulating rooflines of the new insertion establish a confident, contemporary rhythm – one that honours the heritage abode.

“Planting is deliciously lush and seductive, providing a peaceful green backdrop – the perfect salve for a busy family.”

Reflecting the spirit of the new addition, the interior is imbued with a sense of whimsy that reinvents itself from space to space. “Playful geometries and detailing are layered with pops of colour and deliberately unexpected material pairings, injecting energy and personality throughout,” explains interior designer Mardi Doherty of Studio Doherty. A soaring pitched ceiling defines the cooking and living area, creating a light-filled atmosphere and asserting clear spatial order. Against a backdrop of soft timber and painted brick, colourful adornments take centrestage – such as a chunky, purple breakfast table, coral-toned kitchen cabinetry and polished stainless steel. In the bathrooms, mauve mosaic tiles and red accents add a decorative flourish, while minty-fresh paintwork nods to the asymmetric addendum.

Inspired by verdant suburbia, the landscape is intrinsic to the residence’s rhythm, encouraging engagement between family, friends and passers-by. “Planting is deliciously lush and seductive, providing a peaceful green backdrop – the perfect salve for a busy family,” muses landscape designer Mira Martinazzo of Mud Office. An immersive experience unfurls through a series of outdoor moments and clever design gestures, conceived as a natural extension of the interior. A meandering pathway leads to a conversation pit, while an immersive rear courtyard invites both leisurely play and quiet repose.

Devised around escapism, community and creativity, Gable House presents as a tailored response to the infectious energy of an active, growing family.

Devised around escapism, community and creativity, Gable House presents as a tailored response to the infectious energy of an active, growing family. Light-hearted in spirit and expressive in both material and form, the project is elevated by the collective efforts of the people and process that brought it to life.

Architecture by Folk Architects. Interior design by Studio Doherty. Build by Exceed Group. Landscape design by Mud Office.