East Melbourne Residence by Hecker Guthrie

Having undergone many transformations since its Victorian-era origins, East Melbourne Residence is a reflection of Hecker Guthrie’s endeavour to integrate new insertions amid a heritage context.

Hamish Guthrie, director of Hecker Guthrie, explains the significance of the building and the preservation of key elements and says that “the client came to us with a pretty open brief.” “They wanted us to unlock the full potential of the house,” he adds, “and create a really bespoke response that was centred around how they really wanted to live.” Drawing inspiration from the building’s original architecture, particularly its distinctive arched windows, Hecker Guthrie seamlessly integrated contemporary elements amid the existing. “The arched windows that sat along the exterior of the building provided strong cues as to how we could create and bind other points of connections internally while remaining consistent.”

Drawing inspiration from the building’s original architecture, particularly its distinctive arched windows, Hecker Guthrie seamlessly integrated contemporary elements amid the existing.

Originally designed and built in 1864 by Joseph Reid as a grand Victorian home, it has since been dissected into four separate townhouses. In capturing the essence of the owners, the design approach focused on creating interconnected spaces that flow seamlessly. “Each space is so inherently connected directly to one another,” adds Hamish, “and we didn’t necessarily want a kitchen to look like a kitchen, but more to create a series of rooms that had a really nice connection to each other.”

Artedomus plays a key role throughout the home, shaping spaces with the integrated products. “We’ve used Artedomus products quite extensively throughout the project – from the marble in the kitchen, which also becomes the hero of the entryway, and then again within the kitchen and the ensuite of the home … being marble, it automatically elevates a space.” While the overall palette remains grounded by neutrals, the bedroom and mezzanine are painted in the same green colour to lengthen the internal ceiling height. One of the most striking features of the project is the formal bedroom with its voluminous space, which presented an opportunity for creative exploration. “Colour was an important way to embrace the uniqueness of the space, and how we tied it into the other heritage elements within the space was key,” says Hamish.

One of the most striking features of the project is the formal bedroom with its voluminous space, which presented an opportunity for creative exploration.

Within East Melbourne Residence, Hecker Guthrie prioritises a contemporary and broad-minded approach in renovating the heritage residence. “This home resonates with how the owners wanted to live and there is now a real purpose around each room,” says Hamish.

Interior design by Hecker Guthrie. Build by Conscious Homes. Landscape design by Eckersley Garden Architecture. Stone and bathware by Artedomus.