MG House by Williams Burton Leopardi

MG House is an exercise in restraint and intentionality, with Williams Burton Leopardi maintaining the existing footprint in an effort to retain the home’s character and charm.

Half-submerged, the two-level home is accessed at ground level by way of a half flight of stairs. Unlike other Victorian-era homes, the main parlour is elevated above the streetscape, with the lower level embedded in the earth. While most of the home remains as it was, the entry was relocated to the rear and the transitions between inside and out were refined to encourage a connection to nature.

Able to accommodate visiting friends and family on the lower level, the reworking of the floor plan and the creation of an entry that leads to both levels sets an example for incorporating increased density within heritage homes.

Integrating a sense of warmth into the interior was also a key driver. Able to accommodate visiting friends and family on the lower level, the reworking of the floor plan and the creation of an entry that leads to both levels sets an example for incorporating increased density within heritage homes. As seen in MG House, the answer to preserving heritage homes lies in carefully adjusting them and introducing the idea of co-living. The floor plan has been reconfigured, but the original character remains alongside select details.

The integration of the surrounding landscape also played a pivotal role in shaping the atmosphere of MG House. Each carefully framed view connects the interior to the lush garden, and features like the solar-activated skylights encourage day-round interaction with the outdoors. The dramatic new window to the rear of the kitchen and small dining area can be opened, allowing for natural cross-ventilation and also serving as a window seat. This indoor-outdoor connection becomes more apparent in the rear of the home as the more formal front rooms remain.

Each carefully framed view connects the interior to the lush garden, and features like the solar-activated skylights encourage day-round interaction with the outdoors.

An overall warmth and dedication to working with craft-focused professionals means the legacy of MG House continues. Through a considered process, Williams Burton Leopardi ensures the home feels connected to the past yet grounded in the present.

Architecture and interior design by Williams Burton Leopardi. Build by Wetherward Construction. Landscape design by Lee Gray Landscape Design. Joinery by Gawler Custom Specialist Joinery.