Original Melbourne Home Addition Exudes Positive Vibes, Balance

Kiah House, by Austin Maynard Architects, is an architecture extension to a weatherboard cottage in North Fitzroy, Melbourne. The project brief hinted towards creating an extension with plenty of positive vibes: a sanctuary for the couple living here, but also a place to entertain friends and family.

“The extension comprises of two separate pieces of architecture,” the architects explain. “The master bedroom haven—which sits beside the original house extending to the northern boundary—and the separate office poised above. The original Victorian-era house, built in 1927, has been respectfully restored and updated with a new kitchen and bathroom.”

The architects took inspiration from Japanese gardens and Buddhist retreats of Kyoto to create the homeowner’s desire for peace and balance. “At Kiah House, we were charged with the task of creating spaces, both private and shared, that spill out into the garden, and are yet adaptable enough to create solitude and privacy when needed.”

The master bedroom haven includes a dedicated Buddhist prayer space. It opens up to the garden and ponds via sliding, double-glazed glass panels, blurring the lines between indoors and out. The towering, lemon-scented gum tree is enclosed by a small deck area: a place for the owners to sit and meditate.”

Elevated above the original house and accessed via spiral staircase, the owner’s home office enjoys vantage views of the surroundings. The wall mural underneath the office window, envisioned by artist Seb Humphreys, depicts a gentle swirling of color, adding an original touch. Enjoy our pictorial tour, and leave a comment and let us know what you think!