Project Photography William Mallat Photo ©

The brick warehouse form below with Spanish-inspired cantilever pool element and hanging plants above..

Hood House is a playful protector that respects the heritage character of Carlton North whilst celebrating purposeful change. It is a luxurious yet compact and hyper-functional home defined by an exploration of contrast: it is ornamental and restrained, subdued and lively, stately and casual, compartmental and open. For us, it is also a project with an unusual history. This dual-natured renovation evolved through the ownership of two separate clients. Originally intended to accommodate the needs of a young family of four, we shifted gears at the eleventh hour and adapted a thoroughly resolved design solution to the needs of only two. From a young, nuclear family to a blended adult one, our design solution was put to a test of flexibility. The result is a subtle renovation almost invisible from the street yet dramatic in its expressive qualities. An oblique view from the northwest reveals the playful zigzag of the new roof, the rippling metal hood. This is a form-making exercise that connects old to new as well as establishing spatial drama in what might otherwise have been utilitarian rooms upstairs. A simple palette of Australian hardwood timbers and white surfaces are complimented by tactile splashes of brass and rich moments of colour that reveal themselves from behind closed doors. Our internal joke is that Hood House is like Lazarus, risen from the ashes. We’re grateful that almost six years of hard work have culminated in this beautiful, protective and playful house, and so pleased that Glenda and Alistair get to call it home.

An eclectic and sophisticated kaleidoscope of experiences provide an entertainer’s retreat from the urban surroundings. Fuelled by the dream of two inspiring clients to create an industrial warehouse space that was to be designed around their particular needs, we went on an amazing journey that culminated in a unique and exciting result. The unusual layout is particular to the clients’ brief whereby a central courtyard is surrounded by the entertainment functions, whilst the living and bedroom spaces are located on the perimeter for access to the city and harbour views. The generous living spaces can be opened to flow seamlessly from one to the other, but can also be closed off to provide intimate, cosy areas for reflection. With the inclusion of materials such as recycled face-brick, steel, timber and concrete, the main living spaces are rich and vibrant. The bedrooms, however, have a quieter palette providing the inhabitants a variety of experiences as they move through the spaces.