A Dynamic Reworking – Preston House I by Healy—Ryan Architects

Preston House I sees Healy—Ryan Architects transform an ageing Californian bungalow into a practical family home that thoughtfully layers the old with the new. With updated interiors and an extension to the rear of the original building, Healy—Ryan Architects delivers a dynamic reworking that creates new living possibilities for a young growing family in inner Melbourne.

General updates and additional space to suit the needs of a growing family were key to the approach of Healy-Ryan Architects, which saw a home be created that is far from ordinary. Harnessing the potential of recycled bricks, the new extension is instilled with character from its heritage-listed qualities whilst laying the foundations for a new chapter of family life. Economically and environmentally beneficial, the use of salvaged red brick throughout is a reminder of what can be achieved when embracing the potential of the existing elements.

The new extension is instilled with character from the original heritage-listed property whilst laying the foundations for a new chapter of family life.

Sizeable windows and expansive floor-to-ceiling doors connect gently to the exposed brick walls of the rear extension, creating unity between inside and out. The largest of these walls sits at the end of the original hallway, delivering a powerful impression upon entering the new rooms, which include a kitchen, living and dining space, and a rumpus room. To further weave the old and new, striking timber-lined eaves mirror the original hallway from above and offer valuable shading to the expansive north-facing, stackable glazed doors.

Internally, the design of the roof continues the elemental logic of the extension. Large, floating roof forms separate from adjoining walls with long highlight windows. A low ceiling in the kitchen and rumpus allows the roof above to respectfully slide under the existing rafters that connect to the original building. In contrast to the vast timber-lined ceilings in the dining and living areas, the lower ceiling height creates an intimate spatial quality in the kitchen and a dynamic interplay of space and light throughout the rear extension.

Natural and industrial materials are layered throughout the extension in a harmonious balance of texture and warmth.

Natural and industrial materials are layered throughout the extension in a harmonious balance of texture and warmth. The characteristic brickwork and solid concrete floor has a tactile quality that gives the space a welcoming softness when paired with the blackbutt timber ceiling boards. The floating pendant lights over the dining table, dark timber veneer on the island bench and muted green cabinetry in the kitchen further soften the atmosphere, creating a space that feels inviting and impressive.

For Preston House I, Healy—Ryan Architects takes an alteration and addition project and goes above and beyond to deliver a thoughtful home that celebrates its past. By embracing its history and potential, the historical property is transformed into a spacious family dwelling to be enjoyed for generations to come.