Contemporary Elegance – Hotham House by Elenberg Fraser

A blend of functionality and craftmanship, Hotham House sees Elenberg Fraser marry the classic form of the Victorian-era terrace with the modern style and functionality of a contemporary family home. Building on a close relationship with the clients, Elenberg Fraser has crafted a haven for lovers of leisure and entertaining.

From the outside, Hotham House sits as staunch and regal as many of the heritage-listed Victorian-era terraces of East Melbourne do – it was this character that Elenberg Fraser wanted to maintain. A thoughtful restoration of the building’s exterior sees original bluestone pavers guarded by a wrought-iron fence, opening to patterned tiled entryway. Once inside, the incredible craftmanship of the Victorian-era is continued, coupled with a refined and modern interpretation for the family home.

A pre-existing relationship with the clients allowed Elenberg Fraser to inject a true sense of personality into the forefront of the design.

The interiors gradually open, inviting elements from the building’s Victorian heritage to find new life within. Modern interpretations of the building’s original design language can be found – from the steel framed interior glass doors to the repetitive geometry of the herringbone floor – providing a continuous and seamless interior experience.

A pre-existing relationship with the clients allowed Elenberg Fraser to inject a true sense of personality into the forefront of the design. From passionate aesthetic design choices – including neon lights on the staircase – to strategic spatial designs that saw the addition of two basement levels, the owners’ character is imbued into the space with poise and purpose. Hotham House is designed to be enjoyed; the extension affords dedicated spaces for hobbies and leisure whilst a home cinema, wine cellars and a piano room were heavily informed by the clients’ love of entertaining. Prioritising this also meant that the kitchen had to keep up with the social demands put upon it. A sculptural marble island bench sits as the centre piece whilst a concealed butler’s pantry and custom warming drawers sees the home cater to an elevated sense of functionality.

Raw stone and handcrafted metals imbue the interior space with a sense of opulence whilst soft natural light gently moves throughout.

Raw stone and handcrafted metals imbue the interior space with a sense of opulence whilst soft natural light gently moves throughout. The monochromatic, charcoal colour palette serves as a gentle backdrop for each piece of custom furniture from designer Mark Douglass. The materiality feels luxurious, seeing hand-crafted elements embed themselves flawlessly into the interior design, allowing for a unified and cohesive geometric language throughout the home.

With considered purpose, Hotham House is a lavish exploration of material, form and function. Celebrating the history of the building whilst championing their clients’ passions, Elenberg Fraser has crafted a timeless space for a modern and social family.