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A mid-century war services home, designed by Architect C.C. Sainsbury in 1957, has been sensitively updated and extended.

Located in the Melbourne suburb of Ormond, the raked forms and deep eaves were a challenging foundation for this first-floor extension. The new building is formed of two intersecting volumes topped with the same angle as the existing roof. This creates dynamic internal spaces; particularly at the crossing where triangular windows draw in light and sky.

The brief required additional space to showcase their collection of art and books.  This was largely resolved through the insertion of the stair and associated joinery. It displays sculpture and books while concealing storage and services with a simple presentation that belies its complexity.

Corten was selected to echo existing timber details and tonally transition from the brick. It was also chosen for its robust quality so that the updated home will continue to endure.

Builder: Fido Projects
Photography: Willem-Dirk du Toit

Foomann Architects
Victoria
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Professionals used in
Ruby Street

About the
Professional

Jo Foong and Jamie Sormann established Foomann in 2008. Our architecture practice is devoted to the realisation of beautifully simple, sensitive spaces. 

Located in the centre of Melbourne; we have projects across Victoria in residential, interior, hospitality, retail and multi-res fields with varied budgets. Utility, context and sustainability underpin our approach. 

We encourage collaboration and embrace ideas from aligned clients, building professionals and craftspeople. We immerse ourselves in every project and work towards inspired outcomes that elevate the experience of everyday life.

Associations
Jo is a certified Passive House Designer, an Examiner for the Architects Registration Board of Victoria (ARBV) and a member of the Australian Institute of Architects

Jamie is the current chairperson of the ArchiTeam Board of Directors

Carbon Neutral
Foomann runs as a Carbon Neutral practice as assessed by Pangolin Associates

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.