Project: The Big Little House
Architects: Nic Owen Architects
Location: Fitzroy North VIC, Melbourne, Australia
Area: 1,668 sq ft
Photographs by: Christine Francis
The Big Little House by Nic Owen Architects
Designed by the Melbourne studio Nic Owen Architects, The Big Little House is a compact, 1,668 sq ft modern residence located in the Fitzroy North neighborhood of Melbourne. It is actually a renovation and extension of an existing mid-terrace house for a couple and their two children. The renovation represents a pair of steel-clad volumes with pitched roofs and glazed gables providing additional living space behind the ornamental facade of the Victorian terrace.
From the architects: “A renovation and extension to the rear of a heritage Victorian terrace in Fitzroy North, Melbourne. This project is for a young family with 2 children who wished to stay in their current house and renovate to suit their requirements. The 2 story renovation and extension includes 4 bedrooms, study and 2 bathrooms on a very small site of 140m2 whilst respecting the amenities of neighbouring buildings and historic concerns.
With clever design small spaces can feel larger than they actually are. Filled with natural light, vaulted ceilings and the abundance of skylights this 5 metre wide site borrows views and connects to the outside creating a feeling of space. A project which despite historical restrictions, solar limitations and the small site a family house was created which addresses all key concerns, creating the ‘big little’ house.”
