Toorak House 2

Toorak House 2

9.9K profile views
6 saves

Toorak House 2 exemplifies a refined approach to residential extensions, seamlessly integrating a contemporary first-floor addition with the existing heritage fabric of the home. Our team at Windiate Architects collaborated closely with the client’s builder and interior designer to craft a design that responds thoughtfully to site constraints, including a stepped rear yard and close neighbouring properties. The renovation involved reimagining internal spaces, notably removing the original low-ceilinged entry and reconfiguring the stair to enhance flow and visual openness, while also improving the connection to the rear garden. The new first-floor master suite appears to float elegantly above the original brick structure, distinguished by contrasting timber cladding and slender black steel-framed windows that provide a crisp, modern detail. The reconfigured rear conservatory was transformed into a functional rectangle, tying together exterior materials and form to create a cohesive aesthetic. Additional enhancements include a reoriented kitchen with a new island and a smaller butler’s pantry, as well as a landscaped pool cut into the slope, offering tranquil views from the dining room’s floating window seat. Bi-fold doors further open the living spaces to the outdoor environment, creating a harmonious indoor-outdoor flow that elevates the home’s everyday living experience.

Toorak House 2 exemplifies a refined approach to residential extensions, seamlessly integrating a contemporary first-floor addition with the existing heritage fabric of the home. Read more

Visit Website

Like this Project?
Hire Windiate Architects

Professional Reviews

1 / 20

“There were many challenges in the brief we gave to Gary. We wanted a contemporary house in a heritage area. We also wanted a house that would be easily accessible for older and disabled persons. The land is narrow and slopes to the rear. Gary worked collaboratively with us on the design; he listened and constructively resolved the many issues that confronted us. The Council provided very few guidelines in relation to these requirements, but Gary was able to work through the impediments and obtain the approvals. We wanted a modern house that would stand as an equal to the historic 1880’s terraces around us. The appearance of the house needed to be in proportion with the adjacent double story victorian terrace. This was achieved through clever and nuanced design elements that elongated the façade, and was then absorbed into the rest of the house through interesting ceiling and room configurations. The hallways and rooms needed to accommodate possible future wheelchairs. So, all spaces are sufficiently wide and internal steps have been replaced with ramps. The use of internal gardens, both downstairs and upstairs, plus the liberal inclusion of skylights provide wonderful light and ventilation. An important feature is a large basement that has the laundry, a great deal of storage and work area, and all of the services such as hydronic heating, hot water, pumps, solar inverters and future batteries and the lift that moves through each of the three levels. Gary has achieved an outcome with which we are extremely pleased and he can feel justifiable proud of.”

William Robb