Playful Union – Northcote House by Mitsuori Architects
Mitsuori Architects respectfully responds to the home’s existing heritage and proposes a playful and interwoven series of forms. As the coming together of parts, people and history, Northcote House bridges the differences in the home’s eras to create moments of celebrated cohesion.
The extension to Northcote House ¬– an existing heritage home in Northcote – is both a formal and contemporary expression. The need to expand the original Victorian era home arose from the multi-generational nature of its occupants. Echoing the coming together of families and delineating the old and new volumes of the home, the architectural design of the residence reflects the needs of the client. Mitsuori Architects harnesses both the character of its occupants and the existing charm of the home to create a distinct architectural response.
Generously opening to the surrounding natural elements, Northcote House funnels movement to the rear of the home. Ensuring the existing façade remains, the extension is concealed from the landscape – spread over two levels and set back from passers-by. Aligning to the contemporary approach of open living, the proposed volumes extend the existing heights and spaces, whilst the incorporation of large windows allows natural light to infiltrate the home and allow views outward ¬¬¬– extending the perceived area of the home.
Northcote House both dynamically contrasts and complements its differing eras. Leaving the original red brick exposed, the addition sits pulled away from the heritage form, connected through a glass element. The glazing gives both a sense of relief in the overall form and provides a clear delineation between the volumes. As a labour of love, the extension is more than just a changed condition to the home – it becomes a personal achievement for the owners. With exposed polished concrete flooring running underfoot and light-coloured timber sheeting, the new sits in deliberate contrast to the original.
Through a generous and cleverly planned reconfiguration, Northcote House is opened up to the surrounding garden spaces, allowing for a perceived expansion of the home. Mitsuori Architects designs a home of contrast and complementing, ensuring both the existing and contemporary volumes take centre stage.
