Diamond Creek

Diamond Creek House is a renovation and addition to a circa 1980s brick veneer home in Diamond Creek, Victoria. Set within a heavily treed suburban landscape, the project reimagines the existing dwelling for a growing family, balancing contemporary living requirements with a strong connection to its bushland setting.

The design introduces a restrained contemporary addition positioned alongside the original house, reorganising the floor plan to accommodate new living, dining and master suite spaces while retaining the existing structure as an integral part of the overall composition. This approach minimises unnecessary demolition and creates a clear distinction between old and new.

A simple skillion roof form defines the addition, rising towards the south to incorporate clerestory glazing that brings soft natural light deep into the interior. The elevated glazing also frames views of the surrounding tree canopy, strengthening the relationship between the home and its landscape setting.

A new deck is positioned between the existing house and the addition, creating a transitional outdoor room that resolves circulation between the two building elements. This space extends everyday living outdoors and enhances connections between interior spaces, the garden and the surrounding environment.

The street frontage is screened by carefully considered planting, forming a green veil that provides privacy to the home while softening its presence within the suburban context. This landscape strategy contributes to the project’s calm and understated character.

Materially, the addition is expressed through black metal cladding and exposed blockwork, grounding the building within its natural setting. Internally, stained birch plywood and spotted gum flooring introduce warmth, texture and continuity throughout the new living spaces, creating a cohesive and inviting family home.

Diamond Creek House demonstrates Alexandra Buchanan Architecture’s approach to residential renovation and extension projects, combining thoughtful planning, natural light and durable materials to create contemporary homes that respond sensitively to their site and context.