The Linton House by Sonelo Architects

Formerly a block of flats, The Linton House can effortlessly accommodate different ways of living. Designed by Sonelo Architects, the home encapsulates a dynamic collection of rooms embracing verdant surrounds.

Overlooking a railway reserve in the Melbourne suburb of Kooyong, The Linton House is protected by a heritage overlay. Built in the 1930s, the residence features a hipped roof characteristic of early 20th century housing. Inside, the existing interwar flats are retained and mostly untouched. Recognising the spatial opportunities presented, Sonelo Architects carefully adapts the building to the needs of a couple, their three children and parents – though currently just visiting, the latter could move into the home permanently in the future. Amenities such as rear balconies, a communal laundry room and detached garage are removed, while a new stairwell and contemporary rear volume are added.

To establish an intuitive floor plan, Sonelo Architects makes minor alterations to the existing flats.

To establish an intuitive floor plan, Sonelo Architects makes minor alterations to the existing flats. Dog-leg corridors are removed as well as galley kitchens and the doorway between the living and dining room. A mudroom emerges from space originally occupied by a ground-floor bathroom and hallway. Existing mouldings and plasterwork are retained as the front bedroom is renovated for guests. While the rear bedroom is reimagined as a library and the dining room split into a study and powder room, the living room is kept for more formal gatherings.

On the first floor, the children’s bedrooms are created using existing bedrooms and a dining room. The living room is repurposed for play and an existing bathroom is extended into hallway space. Connected to the children’s quarters by a stair landing, the parents’ bedroom wing is located on the top floor of the addition. The level below offers a family living space that opens onto an outdoor dining area, positioned under a retractable shade. As the lush garden develops, backdropped by neighbouring trees, foliage will grow across a cable trellis overhead, further elevating the outdoor dining experience. The Linton House renovation is completed by an expansive basement, in which a garage and entertainment room are situated.

Spanning three levels, the new stairwell links the ground floor of the addition to the first-floor rooms in the old part of the house.

Spanning three levels, the new stairwell links the ground floor of the addition to the first-floor rooms in the old part of the house. Taking cues from period wainscoting, the staircase is a continuous sculptural form, built from timber and finished in walnut. The distinct visual language of the piece represents the transition between contemporary and interwar styles, and its seamless nature is enhanced by an integrated handrail. Dips in the steam-bent balustrade allow the feature to smoothly change height across the stairs and landing, as stipulated by building regulations.

Though created from multiple flats, The Linton House is experienced as a single cohesive home. With the addition of the vital stairwell, Sonelo Architects establishes a compelling connection between the old and new parts of the residence, ensuring a harmonious living environment.

Architecture by Sonelo Architects. Build by Dome Building Projects. Landscape design by Saint Remy. Landscape construction by Bespoke Landscapes. Structural and civil engineering by J&P Building Solutions.