2020 Houses Awards: House in a Heritage Context

Jury comment

Fitzroy North House 02 by Rob Kennon Architects presents an elegant solution to the tension that can exist between a new house and its heritage streetscape. The home’s carefully composed form reflects the typical urban massing of Victorian cottages and replaces a non-contributory building in a heritage precinct of Melbourne. Rob Kennon Architects has used traditional materials, like timber, brick and corrugated metal, in a contemporary way to make a quietly powerful statement. The pitched roof, implied verandah and timber picket fence highlight the critical lines of the neighbouring properties, while restrained and thoughtful external detailing encourages closer inspection.

All expectations of the terrace house typology immediately dissolve, however, on entering Fitzroy North House 02. This is inner urban living with a delightful connection to nature and sky that belies the location. Conceived simply as a living zone surrounded by garden, with sleeping quarters above, the house delivers this intention beautifully. The living space opens seamlessly at either end to a full-width courtyard and a rear garden, respectively. Landscape and building are harmoniously linked with fluidity, and in a way that is inconceivable from the street.

The Award for House in a Heritage Context is supported by the Heritage Council of Victoria. See full image galleries of all the winning and shortlisted projects here.