This semi-detached Edwardian frontage features a strong contemporary addition beyond, unexpected in the heritage-listed streetscape. Transformed for a family with young children, this two-bedroom house becomes three – the master bedroom and ensuite elegantly divided by a central courtyard garden. The generous glazing surrounding the living and dining areas allows ambient natural light to enter the common spaces. In contrast with the period detailing of the original home, the new wing features exposed concrete block walls, celebrating the structure and materiality in its honest form. Exposed steel lintels, stainless steel taps and bespoke steel shelving create a cohesive material palette throughout the home. Native planting in the courtyard and spotted gum joinery reference the natural Australian landscape, whilst adding warmth to complement the coolth of concrete and steel.
In a long and narrow site, approximately 300 square metres in area, storage and servicing has been thoughtfully concealed behind built-in banks of spotted gum. Through the passage leading to the master bedroom, a sweeping wardrobe lines the walls. Likewise, the kitchen has been reduced to a few key elements to allow the fluidity of spaces to remain unencumbered. Texturally, the materials are subject to change through the illumination of northern and western sun; a directional and timely change transforming each surface.
Completed 2017
Photography by Tom Blachford
Office Statement
Architecturally
RITZ&GHOUGASSIAN established their architecture and interior design practice in 2015. Located in Melbourne, they focus primarily on the user experience and ones relationship to the built environment through an interiorised lens. Working across both public and private sectors a collaborative process ensures their work is considered and resolved.
Socially
Quintessentially each of their projects is developed within a social and physical contextual framework. They place an emphasis on locally sourced materials, craftsmanship and landscaping celebrating the characteristics of each site, creating engrained relationships between environment, material and trade.
Intellectually
Volume is loosely defined, held together in tension by the architectural shell, the original vessel. This vessel naturalises the externalities present in the immediate context creating harmony and a series of moments or pauses. Detailed studies of light, space and materiality create opportunities for design and the creation of spaces that are both profane and mundane, spaces of memory and imagination.
Coherent
Architecture, interior design and landscaping intersect through a cohesive design language. Materiality is reimagined both internally and externally for each project, creating a palette that is coherent throughout the whole design. This process underlines a reductionist philosophy aimed at expressing the architectural volume through a simplification of the elements.
Jean—Paul Ghougassian
Director
Jean-Paul pilots the interior design projects within the studio. His experience within the realm of design is unique and extensive having worked across a number of sectors. His oeuvre illustrates a high level of critical thinking and controlled spatial composition, and together with Gilad, he brings a holistic approach to the projects within the studio.
Gilad Ritz
Director
Gil leads the architectural discourse within the practice. His interest in architecture and the built environment stems from a focus in field studies and phenomenology. After initially studying economics at Monash University, he later undertook a Masters in Architecture at The University of Melbourne.
A highly rational thinker, with the ability to navigate constraints and work within a creative framework. Through the layering of time and patina, Gil sees architecture as constantly changing, negating its previous condition into something different. He is passionate about transforming simple and honest materials into something more precious.