Imagine living in a house that beautifully combines the elegance of the past with the comfort and style of modern design. That's exactly what the Fitzroy North Terrace by Field Office Architecture has achieved. This stunning home perfectly balances historic charm and contemporary touches, creating a light-filled haven for a young and creative family.
About 15 years ago, this grand Victorian Terrace on Wurundjeri Country, underwent a renovation. But something was missing: it didn’t bring in enough natural light and didn’t feel connected to the outdoors. When the current owners brought in Field Office Architecture, they had a clear vision. They wanted a home that felt bright and open, with a strong connection to nature: a place that would be their “forever home.”
From the front, the terrace looks virtually the same as it did 100 years ago, but head down the side lane and the home steps into the modern era. The new rear section and the added garage and guest accommodation are clad in understated materials like stained silver-top ash and reclaimed bricks. It’s a nod to the home's historic roots but with a modern twist.
Step inside, and you’ll be wowed. The interior is a feast for the senses, with a mix of sandstone, terrazzo, ceramic tiles, and rich walnut veneer. These materials create a warm and inviting atmosphere that blends seamlessly with the home's original period features. The design also aligns with the family's love for eclectic furniture and decor, giving the home a clear sense of style.
And the garden? It’s not just an outdoor space; it’s an extension of the living and kitchen areas. This integration blurs the lines between indoors and outdoors, making the whole house feel connected to nature. It’s a perfect spot for family gatherings, quiet reflection, or just enjoying a cup of coffee in the morning sun.
Field Office Architecture didn’t just focus on making the house look good. They also thought about how it would work day-to-day. The layout is optimised to ensure every space has a purpose, and the home is designed for passive ventilation and thermal comfort. This means the house stays comfortable year-round, without needing a lot of artificial heating or cooling.
Every detail, from the placement of windows to the choice of materials, was carefully considered to create a home that feels effortless and delightful to live in. It's a place where the family can relax, recharge, and enjoy their time together.
The Fitzroy North Terrace isn’t just a house; it’s a reflection of the Japanese concept of ikigai, which means “reason for being.” This idea is all about finding balance and purpose in life, and it’s beautifully embodied in this home. By blending historic elements with modern design, Field Office Architecture has created a space that’s both functional and inspiring—a perfect backdrop for the family’s life.
So, if you ever wondered how to mix the old with the new in a way that feels natural and inviting, Fitzroy North Terrace is a brilliant example. It shows that with thoughtful design, you can create a home that not only looks stunning but also enhances the quality of everyday living. It’s a place where history and modernity coexist harmoniously, making it a truly special home for the family lucky enough to live there.