This 1870s Victorian terrace home has been the epitome of creative spatial planning. Occupying a compact 100m2 section, practicality was at the forefront of the design planning for this two-story cottage. The natural terrace layout of long hallway with three small bedrooms spilling off one side makes for a purposeful and direct flow.

Light filled spaces expanded the footprint through steel doors that occupy the entire south wall, oversized original windows and sky lights used on the upper story which created the most magical master ensuite.

The continuity of marble throughout the home used on built in desks, shelves, kitchen benches and floor features are a particular highlight for the homeowner.

This home is the perfect mix of old and new, cosy and spacious and with the pops of colour and layers of texture, it creates interest around every corner.

What was your inspiration?

Preserving the heritage of the Victorian terrace house was a fundamental part of the design process. The homeowner is fond of the light, bright and natural colour palette, which was important to layer textures to provide depth in each space.

How does the door hardware fit into that?

Due to the preservation of the solid brick details and utilising this as a unique feature and nod to the origin of the home, the solid brass handles complemented this. The knurling embellishment again tied into the heritage of the home, but with a modern take on it.

What did you match the finish to?

The Matt Black finish worked well to blend seamlessly into the exterior doors, with the original front entrance door, and the black steel rear door out to the patio. It then juxtaposed against the crisp white doors used through the internal rooms. The knurling details has been carried through the tapware used in the bathrooms and kitchen, albeit mixing the metals with having the tapware in brass.

What is your favourite piece?

The homeowner’s favourite piece is the statement art in the living room by Melbourne-based abstract expressionist Kerry Armstrong. The expressive textures and modern aesthetic tie in perfectly with the revitilisation of this Victorian terrace home.