A Conversation with Light – Nicholls Residence by Tecture

In response to a growing family, Nicholls Residence is opened up to allow flexibility and to accommodate the anticipated dynamism of the years to come. Tecture respectfully integrates the heritage elements of the home through a contemporary overlay, opening volumes to encourage light in.

Working within the restraints of a single-fronted heritage home in Malvern, Tecture focuses on opening up and optimising the existing structure. Nicholls Residence sees the expansion of its previous self, making way for flexibility and fluidity in planning for its young and growing family over the coming years. Both in needing additional space and in wanting a better use of the overall volumes and how they interact, the owners wanted to enhance the quality of lifestyle as a key focus. Through retaining the existing front portion of the home and bringing in natural light where possible, the rear is opened up and out to add an additional level. An open and shared living, dining and kitchen then sits below, creating an effortless connection to the rear landscape space.

Textured surfaces are integrated throughout, mirroring the existing handcrafted elements and adding a modern sensibility without distracting or competing with one another.

Focusing on an increased flow, Nicholls Residence is built by Kube Constructions and, through the insertion of glazing and operable elements, encourages movement between inside and out. Balancing privacy and openness, screening features allow a sense of control on the upper level for both solar and heat gain whilst screening onlookers in the process. With limited site space, the decision to build upward allowed for a stacking of functionality while creating open and connected areas. Pushed back from view, the addition was deliberately positioned to ensure the established streetscape was maintained.

Allowing the character features to be celebrated, a monochromatic and muted palette is used throughout, allowing light to illuminate the spaces and add variety throughout the day. Textured surfaces are integrated throughout, mirroring the existing handcrafted elements and adding a modern sensibility without distracting or competing with one another. Timber flooring runs underfoot throughout, binding the old and new, whilst greys and whites form the base. Introduced furniture, lighting and artwork then add layered colour and texture, creating an opportunity for self-expression. As time passes, these elements can be easily swapped out or replaced, allowing for continual change and adjustment that the client was after.

Timber flooring runs underfoot throughout, binding the old and new, whilst greys and whites form the base.

Tecture’s Nicholls Residence takes full advantage of the otherwise restrictive site, combining a muted calm with the opportunity for change over time and elevating the experience of the home.