Open and Naturally Softened – Prahran Residence by Project 12 Architecture

Prahran Residence takes formation around a series of open spaces to ensure a consistent natural connection. Project 12 Architecture retains the home’s heritage façade whilst proposing a considered arrangement of forms that increase internal flow and are outwardly focused.

Behind its Victorian-era worker’s cottage façade, Prahran Residence is the reformation of a family home that cleverly transforms its narrow allotment into a connected, efficient and supportive series of gestures. Though little of the original home remains, the front room and façade stand as a reminder of the past and provide a consistent appearance with the rhythm of the streetscape. Project 12 Architecture ensures clear visual access throughout and stretches the home deeper into the uniquely native and soft outdoor areas, further reinforcing ideas of privacy whilst introducing a clear connection to the surrounds.

Behind its Victorian-era worker’s cottage façade, Prahran Residence is the reformation of a family home that cleverly transforms its narrow allotment into a connected, efficient and supportive series of gestures.

At the core of the new works is a commitment to coalescing old with new and the built elements with the natural. Creating moments of reprieve and retreat from the surrounding streetscape was pivotal in the desired experience of the home. Supporting this feeling of escapism, the rear form becomes encased in a lush greenery as the vines grow over the structural framework. The resulting green wall works to temper the interior zones and filter incoming light.

Prahran Residence is the product of a close team – an attuned attention to detail underpins the final resolve. Adjusting the home’s floor plan, the new structure sees a series of independent bedroom and retreat spaces emerge. Each space is self-supported with its own bathroom – mini residences within the greater whole. The combined living area encourages an atmosphere of togetherness where the family comes together to cook, eat and socialise. An enlarged garage then makes use of the site’s length, whilst private outdoor areas break up the overall silhouette and influence how the occupants use the home.

Project 12 Architecture ensures clear visual access throughout and stretches the home deeper into the uniquely native and soft outdoor areas, further reinforcing ideas of privacy whilst introducing a clear connection to the surrounds.

With considered colour and material choices, Prahran Residence balances the traditional and the contemporary. Project 12 Architecture creates a bridging vernacular, celebrating the home’s past and present whilst also looking to the future.