Richmond Hill House is an exercise of rejuvenation. The surrounding Richmond area is steeped in a vibrantly restored architectural history that pays homage to its heritage roots, whilst also looking forward through the often eclectic and contemporary emerging design language of an inner-city Melbourne suburb. In a specially considered combination of heritage restoration, coupled with a contemporary interior refurbishment - the home blends both eras joyfully and thoughtfully to create something more than the sum of its parts.
In purchasing Richmond Hill House, the client’s primary objective was to restore the dwellings original character, whilst revitalising the home to reflect the modern needs of a growing family. Following initial site inspections, it became evident that that home had suffered from significant neglect and was uninhabitable in its current form. Faux brick asbestos boards had been installed as an exterior cladding, with many of the homes original interior features lost or damaged amidst decades of neglect.
In reactivating the home’s possibilities, non-original structures were carefully dismantled, with the existing footprint of the home reimagined and extended to create a more spatially dynamic interior, whilst still maintaining the character of the original dwelling. In parallel with the project’s restoration focus, it is the all-encompassing 110sqm utilisation of space that is also central to the project’s success. The home celebrates design and functionality in equal measure. Built-in joinery is seamlessly integrated to ensure that storage is maximised, creating anchor points throughout the home coupled with an interior design outcome that aims to mature with age.
The use of colour and texture throughout the interiors is purposely restrained and neutral, imbuing an experience of lightness and timelessness whilst remaining inherently functional. Fundamental to this longevity, was to also create moments of surprise and delight. Vibrant stone accents and colourways of contrasting depth were introduced to create moments of intrigue, offering a delightful counterpart to the neutral simplicity that defines the rest of the dwelling.
From a sustainability perspective, the home goes beyond its heritage restoration and reinstatement, committing to passive sustainability practices. Daylight is maximised through the introduction of skylights, with window and door openings positioned to encourage natural ventilation throughout the home. Eco-conscious materials have also been selected wherever possible, durable in nature to ensure longevity and minimal maintenance.
Most importantly – amidst its rich history, Richmond Hill House emerges from its neglect, proudly taking place as a home that will stand the test of time for decades to come.
