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This double storey Victorian terrace in Fitzroy had undergone serveral transformations throughout its lifetime. During the 1960’s it was separated into two dwellings and operated as a boarding house. A subsequent rennovation and extension in the 1980’s left it as two apartments with a series of dark disconnected rooms.

Maintaining the existing footprint and exterior façade, the entire house was largely stripped and rebuilt from the inside. Extensive structural works were required to facilitate the removal of two rooms in the centre of the house to create a double height atrium, now the centrepiece of this family home.

A cleverly designed screen takes the form of the original facade and hides this urban oasis from passers by on the street, while allowing sunlight to pour into the house and the owners to enjoy views out to Fiztroy and beyond.

Architect: Austin Maynard Architects

Photography: Derek Swalwall

Weiss Builders were able to establish rapport and trust with both AMA and us as clients through good communication, the quality of their work, and a depth of experience that was maintained regardless of circumstances to get the job done.

- Hilton & Vaan

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Urban Oasis - Helvetia House

Featured on Archimarathon

Urban Oasis - Helvetia House

A walk through with Andrew Maynard and Kevin Hui of the Helvetia House by Austin Maynard Architects. A home with an urban oasis in the heart of Fitzroy, Melbourne.

Professionals used in
Helvetia

About the
Professional

Since our inception in 2004 Weiss Builders have developed a focus on architectural residential building. Committed to construction quality, we are dedicated to delivering homes of architectural vision and endurance.

Weiss Builders understand the effort needed to create a new home and believe that the construction phase should be a pleasurable part of this journey. Engaging in a consultative and transparent management style, and backed by an experienced administration and planning team, we employ advanced construction techniques to bring the architects vision to life.

On site we exercise environmentally responsible practices where possible to ensure unnecessary waste is avoided and that methods, systems and equipment used protect our water ways and air. We are experienced working in inner urban areas with difficult access that require well-resolved construction management planning.

On site challenges and changes are carefully managed using strong technical resolution skills. Weiss Builders aim to provide the best information possible for sound decision making and optimal outcomes. We can be involved early in project development to provide sketch estimates as well as assisting in the design and prototyping of special construction elements.

Weiss Builders take the time to thoroughly analyse your plans to gain an intimate understanding of your project. We are proficient in both competitive tenders and comprehensive open book costings.

As your new home settles comfortably on the ground, patina and gardens grow, and memories are made, remember that Weiss Builders knows your home and will always welcome ongoing connection.

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.