Ormond Terrace

by Cera Stribley Architects

This grand two-story terrace home in Kensington received all the special attention it deserved in its restoration and extension to both the architecture and interior to bring it firmly into the 21st century for its new custodians, a young family who plan to enjoy it as their forever home. A grand two-story terrace home in the heart of Kensington, Ormond Terrace required special attention to restore the dilapidated façade and front rooms of the building. Period details such as the Hawthorn brickwork, ornamental pediments and stained glass of the front door have been brought back to life by specialist trades and crafts people. The house has a new extension at the rear, that incorporate some luxuries of contemporary living like the glass encased wine cellar under the stairs.

Inside the house, the finishes were selected to emphasise the stately aesthetic of the building and richness of the original details. The warm timber flooring, natural stone and dark accented cabinetry then create the bridging connections to the new spaces in the addition. With some rooms in Victorian houses being notoriously dark, the aim for the new spaces was to draw in as much natural light in as possible. Designing in steel doors, and windows at the back perimeter of the kitchen and dining area allow for sundrenched breakfasts. With measure and balance between the old and the new, the design for Ormond Terrace has created a new home for the clients, where they have been able to put their own stamp on the spaces, while also embracing the heritage story of their building.