Malvern House 02 by Rob Kennon Architects

Modest and restrained, Malvern House 02 balances the detailed heritage of the home with the warmth and openness of modern living. Rob Kennon Architects employs a muted palette and a thoughtfully designed landscape that gently envelops the dwelling, enhancing its soft and inviting character.

Malvern House 02 was expanded to improve internal connectivity and engage more with the surrounding landscape. The renovation strikes a balance between the original Edwardian features and a modern, clean aesthetic. Materials such as brick, glass and metal are used in both the old and new sections, creating a cohesive look. The front four rooms maintain their original character and form, while the rear was transformed to enhance visual flow and facilitate movement. The existing spaces set the tone for the new additions, honouring the rich craftsmanship of the past and informing the overall palette.

The renovation strikes a balance between the original Edwardian features and a modern, clean aesthetic.

As the house transitions from the original structure to the new extension, the design language shifts while maintaining a cohesive colour palette that unites both areas. The lightness of the new spaces enhances the welcoming atmosphere typical of homes from this era. An open-plan layout fosters fluidity, complemented by sculptural furniture that adds interest without overwhelming the spaces. Unlike the more defined front rooms, the open rear area balances the original design’s significance. A central feature of the new design is a generous courtyard, providing a retreat and allowing for seamless movement between the indoors and outdoors. This connection makes the interior spaces feel expansive while maintaining a sense of separation from the landscape.

The outdoor space is designed as a lush, curated area that offers a private escape from the interior. The aim was to blend the built environment with the natural landscape in a way that feels organic. The extended eave is a contemporary architectural feature that draws the kitchen and dining areas into the landscape. This overhang provides shade and protection from the elements, creating a transition between enclosed and open spaces. Level changes throughout the site also help define areas and enhance the sense of separation. Muted, earth-inspired tones create a palette that adds lightness to the interior spaces. The materials are softened, and the transitions between textures are considered, allowing for  subtle variations that serve as an ideal backdrop for the interplay of light and shadow across surfaces.

The outdoor space is designed as a lush, curated area that offers a private escape from the interior.

Rob Kennon Architects has given Malvern House 02 a refreshing new life by respecting its existing charm. The design emphasises the home as a retreat, with the surrounding landscape enhancing this sense of tranquillity.

Architecture and interior design by Rob Kennon Architects. Build by Prolifica Building Co. Landscape design by Amanda Oliver Gardens.