In the heart of Essendon, on Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Country, Pop-Up House by FIGR Architecture Studio is shaking things up in a neighbourhood full of old-school charm. Instead of following the usual script—big house, tiny front yard, walls that scream "keep out!"—this home flips the script. It’s open, inviting, and makes the most of every little space.
From the street, it looks like it belongs, with a roofline that gives a respectful nod to its heritage neighbours. But take a closer look, and you’ll see it’s doing its own thing. The upper floor appears to hover above a landscaped mound, creating a grand yet welcoming entrance that feels like an adventure instead of just a front door. The house even makes friends with the old brick walls on either side, blending the past with the present in a way that just works.
Now, let’s talk about that undercroft (aka the space underneath). Most houses would slap in a garage and call it a day. Not this one. It’s a carport, a workshop, an extra entertaining space—you name it. This zone is adaptable and multi-functional, allowing the homeowners to reimagine it depending on the season or occasion. Hosting a weekend BBQ? It doubles as an outdoor dining area. Need a workspace? Roll out a workbench and get creative.
Inside, no space goes to waste. A hallway becomes a study, proving that a home office doesn’t need to be boxed into a separate room. The terrace extends into a fun netted play area, where kids (or adventurous adults) can climb, lounge, or simply enjoy the outdoors. And that lush front garden? Not just for show! It stores bikes, collects rainwater, and acts as a green buffer between the home and the street, making it feel open while keeping things private where it counts. The landscaping isn’t just there to look pretty—it’s an integral part of how the home functions, reducing stormwater runoff and creating a cooling effect in summer.
And yes, it’s seriously sustainable. The walls, roof, and even the floor are insulated within an inch of their lives, keeping the home comfy no matter the season. The materials? Mostly local, keeping the carbon footprint low. The roof? Clad in Surfmist COLORBOND® steel to reflect heat and keep things cool. Solar panels? Perfectly positioned to soak up the sun. A 5000-litre water tank? Hiding underground and doing its bit for the garden and toilets. Even the western facade has custom screens that let in light but keep out the heat, so the house stays cool without cranking the air-con.
Beyond the big sustainability wins, this home also taps into something we often forget in modern design—connection. Connection to the street, to the neighbours, to the people walking by. The elevated green space at the front isn’t just a feature; it’s a gesture. It invites interaction, makes the house feel welcoming, and subtly encourages a stronger sense of community. Because at the end of the day, what’s the point of a beautiful home if it doesn’t engage with the world around it?
At just 198m² on a 342m² block, Pop-Up House proves that you don’t need a mansion to live large. It’s smart, flexible, and all about making life easy. FIGR Architecture Studio has nailed the balance between style and practicality, creating a home that’s not just a great place to live but also a friendly face in the neighbourhood. Who says you can’t have it all?
