Whole In One
Years of saving and preparation paid off big time in Melbourne’s south-east.
New homeowners often dive right into renovating, sometimes biting off more than they can chew both physically and financially. Following the more patient, measured path to a forever home, however, can reap untold rewards. Just ask Anthony and Jo Upton.
The couple bought their “typical double-fronted Victorian” home in Melbourne’s south-east in 2006, shortly after they were married. “We knew we would renovate the house when we bought it,” says Jo. “We envisioned a home that would take us from our 30s through to our 50s in terms of style, as well as provide a wonderful environment for our children to grow up in.”
With such grand plans, the couple determined that the best course of action would be to renovate the whole house in one go, even if that meant waiting a while. “We saved and saved and saved so the project could be properly completed, inside and out,” says Jo. Seven years and a daughter – Fox, now six – later, they were ready to begin, and approached the team at B.E Architecture to help set their plans in motion.
The architects designed a modern two-storey extension for the rear of the house, which contains a new entry foyer and open-plan kitchen/ dining/living room downstairs, and three bedrooms and two bathrooms upstairs. “The site is adjacent to a large multi-residence development, so it was important to reorient the floor plan away from it,” says Andrew Piva, architect and director at B.E
Architecture. “There is a clear distinction between old
and new, but the extension sits quietly behind the original structure, allowing the family to operate as they need to.” Relocating the entrance was a key part of the design too. “Having the entrance around the side means people enter directly into the heart of the home, allowing the original part of the house to be a private retreat,” says Jo.
The next step was to draw more light into the south-facing rear of the house. To achieve this, the architects designed the extension in a U shape, with floor-to-ceiling expanses of glass along the lengths and a courtyard at its centre. “The courtyard is the perfect solution,” says Jo. “It opens up the home to allow natural light to flood in and provides a beautiful green space for us to enjoy every day.”
In the spirit of beginning a new chapter for the home, Jo and Anthony took the opportunity to redecorate throughout. “I prefer neutral tones – black, white, camel, browns – whereas Anthony likes a bit more colour and excitement,” says Jo. “Working closely with the architects, we were able to have both: a neutral base palette with hints of colour in the furnishings and artworks for strengthand interest. The effect is dramatic and moody – exactly what we were after.”
Since the renovation was completed, the family has welcomed a new member, son Cody, now two. “I am so proud of what we have created,” says Jo. “It’s a family home and a retreat where we can enjoy spending time with our nearest and dearest. It also showcases our appreciation for beautiful art and design, and for nature.” B.E Architecture, Prahran, Victoria; (03) 9529 6433 or www.bearchitecture.com.