This house reflects the distinctive 1850's Victorian style that had evolved over at least three major construction phases. The current owners are the third generation of Mc Callum's in ownership. The clients brief was to:   enlarge the living spaces,   improve internal comfort levels,   integrate the internal and proposed external spaces,   create a self sufficient upstairs  flat  with external access. The problems major dysfunctional collection of rooms and general poor internal circulation.   built form represented a disharmonious array of accretions and materials.   no external transition or entertainment areas. Carport & Garage  Existing points of egress, car parking and Carport were retained.Recommendations graound floor (existing footprint slightly modified ) Entry - new steel and Glass   circle canopy Entrance Hall - as existing Laundry - new Bathroom & WCs - new guest toilet also upgraded & modified existing Dining room - original stables, slightly enlarged towards the south with bay window and   circle verandah link. Master Bedroom - conservation to original 1850's lath & plaster ceilings. Original termite decayed Oregon timber lintel over western bay window replaced with steel. FIRST FLOOR Children's bedrooms - general repairs, paint and electrical outlets. Games Room - with access to northern deck, external stairs & garden. General repairs, paint and electrical outlets. Internal Stair & landings - conservation works to original termite damaged hand rail, staircase. Dressing Room

leading to Bathroom Kitchens - New kitchen. Dining Room --with access to Northern Deck, Connecting deck & Stairs to garden area Sitting Room -- with access to Western Deck and bridging deck & Stairs to garden area.
 

Architectural expression & concept
By retaining the original foot print of the historic building as well as its original finishes and details, Brasse Architects has achieved to create a new lifestyle for the client by adding out door living spaces, better internal circulation and grouping of spaces as well as linking the internal and external living spaces. The design solution incorporates a lightweight upper storey bathroom which harmonizes with the overall Victorian character and addresses the previously neglected 'rear' of the villa by means of quality construction and better stylistic 'presence'.

Relationship of the project to site and context
The house is set at the rear of a level allotment behind a lawn tennis court. It is flanked by mature Lemon Scented gums and in essence still reflects its  Victorian Picturesque  origins despite its present urban context. The original building was a tectonic massing of generational additions which lacked any comfortable circulation patterns as well as sheltered out door spaces. The   circle elements assisted in unifying the generational additions, as well as providing sheltered spaces to all principal facades, adding life style value in the context of its garden setting.