Calmly Contained – House on a Lane by Rob Kennon Architects

A composition of built forms and a series of open walled gardens, House on a Lane explores the concept of recessive architectural gestures as a means to integrate respectfully among existing heritage buildings. Rob Kennon Architects carefully folds in the needs of the contemporary family brief with moments of relief and outward connections to create a balanced and calming abode.

Among the rich and diverse historical architecture that comprises the inner suburbs of Melbourne, House on a Lane inserts itself modestly, recognising the contrast a modern home offers the established surrounds. Providing both a place of respite and relief from the enclosed nature of the structure, the dedicated outdoor spaces buffer the appearance of neighbouring properties and create private sanctuaries across the site. Entered through one such space, House on a Lane is envisioned by Rob Kennon Architects as a journey through open and closed spaces, with a consistent outward connection throughout.

Among the rich and diverse historical architecture that comprises the inner suburbs of Melbourne, House on a Lane inserts itself modestly, recognising the contrast a modern home offers the established surrounds.

House on a Lane responds to the surrounding vernacular through a contextual lens. Whilst the ornateness of the Victorian-era surrounds is heightened, the in situ concrete addition takes on a more reductionist approach. By expressing the structural solidity of the form, a sense of restraint underpins each detail and junction, seeing them concealed rather than showcased. The mix of native plantings offers a less formal arrangement to the linear nature of the form, whilst the openness expressed throughout the home aligns with a more contemporary occupation and desire for a connection with the outdoors.

As the house sits back from the streetscape behind its front garden space, its presence is passive, with the focus on the integration of the natural elements. Blending the existing built form with the new insertions, an increased thermal performance and overall comfort within is added, yet the home’s legacy remains. As a continued exploration of how to best create appropriate infill in areas so very heavily saturated with layered pasts, the studio is drawn to an open approach, specifically utilising the garden and landscape as a balancing agent to the architecture of a home.

As a continued exploration of how to best create appropriate infill in areas so very heavily saturated with layered pasts, the studio is drawn to an open approach, specifically utilising the garden and landscape as a balancing agent to the architecture of a home.

Navigating the tight and complex issues surrounding such sites, House on a Lane is a composure of restraint. Rob Kennon Architects focuses on the inner experience, highlighting the importance of private outdoor space to improved liveability and ensure long-lasting enjoyment.