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The original house was designed by architect and football legend Jack Clarke in 1963 for the family of his structural engineer. Designed in the optimistic modern style of the time being advanced by Robin Boyd and The Age’s Small Homes Service, which Jack Clarke contributed to at the time. My clients purchased the home as they are enthusiastic fans of this style of architecture and were keen to preserve a part of this important history.

Our design reimagines the original home through the lens of the source images that most likely was a source of inspiration for Jack Clarke. Referencing photographs taken by Julius Shulman of fifties and sixties West Coast architecture we developed a palette appropriate to the time while making only minor changes to the outward appearance of the house. Although outwardly unchanged the design extends the size and ceiling heights of the original bedrooms through re-modelling the roofline and an ensuite is been added.

The kitchen and dining spaces have been recreated and connected to a new outdoor terrace with a pergola over. The natural clay-fired clay tiles, American walnut veneer and cedar lining boards were selected for their nostalgic connection to the period. The design incorporates original features and materials to create an almost seamless result that leaves one wondering where the old has been replaced by the new. The home is now well placed for the optimism of the new owners and preserved for many years to come.

Photography: Derek Swalwell

Mid Century Modern renovation
Restoration Australia
##Frankston Mid-Century Modern

Professionals used in
Frankston Mid-Century Modern

About the
Professional

MRTN Architects is a design focussed architecture and interior design studio founded by Antony Martin and located in Melbourne. We have a reputation for our unique style and the recognisable homes that we create specifically for the families and individuals that live in them.

Award-winning city, country and coastal homes that are sustainable and contemporary. Experienced in designing to local council requirements, including BAL and bushfire prone areas, we are also recognised for our sensitive response to projects situated within a heritage overlay.

Our projects, regardless of scale or type, have in common a considered design approach that results in buildings that use materials wisely and are correctly oriented, sized and proportioned.

Our approach to design is not a prescriptive one, we enjoy getting to know our clients and working with them to arrive at an outcome together. This process should satisfy what is required of the brief and the desires for the project but also create something unexpected and wonderful.

Creating enduring spaces and forming enduring relationships.

At ArchiPro we recognise and acknowledge the existing, original and ancient connection Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have to the lands and waterways across the Australian continent. We pay our respects to the elders past and present. We commit to working together to build a prosperous and inclusive Australia.