Timeless Presence – Fitzroy Laneway House by Andrew Child Architect

Inspired by the eclectic heritage homes that surround Fitzroy Laneway House, Andrew Child Architect transforms and expands the original mid-late 19th-century house by using a former laneway as a design driver. The restored spaces heighten a warm, relaxing and playful experience within and around the remaining portion of the family residence, all while engaging with its laneway presence.

In preparation for the years to come, the interiors of Fitzroy Laneway House are expertly reworked to open up and incorporate a level of flexibility into each space. Uniquely, the home presents two connected façades, both of which respond individually to the streetscape. The surrounding laneways and diverse styles of neighbouring abodes all contributed to the architectural approach adopted by Andrew Child Architect, influencing the process as a result. Furthermore, the orientation of the house allows for natural light to beautifully flood the interiors, which, in turn, reduces a reliance on external energy sources.

Uniquely, the home presents two connected façades, both of which respond individually to the streetscape.

Andrew Child Architect seamlessly blends old and new elements together, merging eras and grounding the dwelling in place. The transformed abode accommodates a young family who have developed a newfound appreciation for the privacy that the reworking affords them. While opening up the home and fostering smoother transitions between spaces was key, enhancing a sense of retreat once inside was also essential. An interplay between existing and newly introduced features creates a bespoke residence marked by distinct materials, lighting and thresholds that celebrate heritage and innovation.

“Although residential architecture necessarily involves a high degree of architect-designed customisation to achieve meaningful spaces,” says Andrew Child of Andrew Child Architect, “underlying the project is a sense that the enjoyment and durability of these spaces would benefit from a degree of ongoing customisation by the inhabitants.” With sustainability and flexibility at the forefront, the home’s unique design allows for interior spaces to evolve and adapt over time, as needed. With versatile openings, adaptable furnishings and clear, logical spaces, the house offers a canvas for ongoing personalisation.

An interplay between existing and newly introduced features creates a bespoke residence marked by distinct materials, lighting and thresholds that celebrate heritage and innovation.

By incorporating contemporary features into the heritage home, a sense of timelessness is created, and Fitzroy Laneway House becomes a physical testament to both the past and present. With an established connection to place, Andrew Child Architect ensures this is reflected in the warm materiality used throughout the abode, which heightens a sense of retreat experienced within.