Architect | Crosshatch |
Location | Melbourne, Australia |
Area | 145m2 (1561 sq.ft.) Total 45m2 (484 sq.ft.) Extension |
Photographs | Jaime Diaz-Berrio |
Located in Melbourne’s inner north-west, the project is designed for a young couple with two small children. The family has outgrown their two-bedroom Californian bungalow and needed more room to move.
The architects created a compact, yet efficient 45 sqm additional floor space to comfortably accommodate a new kitchen, dining area, and laundry. The existing floor plan is also reconfigured to provide a third bedroom, additional bathroom and central lounge.
Due to the south-facing position of the extension, capturing northern light became a challenge. The solution introduced a central courtyard and strategically placed windows, giving the space even light penetration and strong relationship to the outdoors. Large picture window with deep reveals is found in the dining area and bi-fold glass doors open the area to the central courtyard. This active green space connects the old and new, creating a sense of spaciousness and visual connection between spaces, allowing the parents to keep an eye on the kids from the kitchen.
The name Tetris Extension came from the forms of the new addition, which are arranged in a Tetris-like configuration that is expressed in the plan, elevation, and section. The interior detailing, including bespoke cabinetry and timber handles further reinforce the Tetris concept.
Recycled red bricks are used for sections of the exterior walls, respecting the home’s original material palette in keeping with the area’s Heritage Overlay. The house’s original facade was also retained, so the extension was not visible from the street.