Oberon House

Oberon House is a contemporary renovation and extension of an existing Victorian cottage located in Hawthorn East, Melbourne. Set within a streetscape defined by consistent heritage terraces and cottages, the project carefully retains the original building while introducing a considered contemporary addition to the rear, responding to both heritage constraints and the challenges of a narrow inner-urban site.

The existing dwelling had been altered over time through a series of incremental additions, resulting in fragmented internal spaces with limited natural light and a weak connection to the garden. The architectural response reorders and simplifies the plan, transforming it into a coherent and legible spatial sequence that restores clarity, light and connection to landscape.

The new intervention establishes a compact and efficient layout that prioritises spatial quality over room quantity. At ground level, kitchen, dining and living spaces are arranged as a continuous, open composition, allowing light and movement to flow freely through the heart of the home. This collective living zone strengthens the relationship between interior space and the garden beyond, creating a calm and connected family environment.

Above, the upper level is conceived as a singular, continuous spatial volume dedicated to a master suite. Within this level, boundaries between bedroom, bathroom and library areas are deliberately softened, creating a fluid and layered domestic environment rather than a series of enclosed rooms. A central void connects both levels, enhancing spatial depth and allowing light to permeate through the heart of the house.

Joinery is treated as an architectural device rather than a discrete furnishing element. Integrated storage, display and spatial partitions organise the interior, shaping movement and defining thresholds without compromising openness. These elements contribute to a sense of continuity and precision throughout the home.

Daylight is carefully orchestrated through multiple sources. Generous sliding openings to the north and south frame views to the garden and allow for cross-ventilation, while a continuous skylight above the kitchen marks the transition between original and new construction. This element draws light deep into the plan, reinforcing the spatial distinction between existing cottage and contemporary addition.

Oberon House demonstrates Alexandra Buchanan Architecture’s approach to heritage renovation, where clarity of planning, spatial economy and material restraint combine to transform constrained inner-urban sites into light-filled, generous and enduring contemporary homes.