This house for two sisters is an extension to an inherited state bank Californian bungalow, located in Melbourne.

Both sisters desired to have separate accommodation with similar spatial arrangements – the layout has been mirrored along a mutual firewall.

Simple detailing with fine materials has been used to achieve an uncluttered design.

The slim footprint has been embraced and any spatial opportunity is utilized.

The two units show their individual character in the interior fit-out. The owners selected materials fixtures and fittings themselves. One unit is minimalistic and cool featuring white and splashes of colour only whereas the other is warmer with wooden floors and a darker colour scheme.

The dilapidated existing house was beautifully restored and split in the middle to accommodate a fireproof wall – the most difficult part of the job. The double-storey rear extension is not visible from the front.

The new homes are sitting discretely behind the heritage building, offering front accommodation within the existing traditional house and living and entertainment in the new modern rear part.

The attic-style upstairs offers guest space, home office and additional bedroom. The traditional roof form matches the surroundings and has been designed in accordance within the heritage guidelines for the area.

Details for all inhabitants were a key consideration - dog door details with stair and balustrade.

And this is where we started from.

Photographer: Heike Burkhardt