St Andrews

Behind an iconic heritage home on the main street of Queenscliff, this project began with a subdivision. The existing block had the rare advantage of dual street access, allowing us to subdivide the rear and create a separate title. Working alongside J through the design and subdivision process, we navigated the heritage overlay requirements, resolved some challenging services connections and got the block to a point where construction could begin.

Demolition of the shed and outbuilding at the rear of the existing property was quick and before you knew it we had a compact two bedroom townhouse sitting at just 140 square metres, but you would never know it from the inside.

Raked ceilings through the main living area create an immediate sense of space, helped along by a generous run of windows that bring the outside in from every angle. The kitchen flows directly into the alfresco, giving the home an indoor outdoor zone that punches well above its footprint. A concealed entry door on the short setback street frontage gives just enough protection at the doorway without drawing attention to itself, considered, practical and exactly right for the heritage setting.

J came to us with a beautiful reclaimed solid red gum joinery unit that we repurposed across both the bathroom and ensuite vanities, giving each space a deep warmth and character that is difficult to recreate. Wormy chestnut timber flooring carries that same character through the home, while lining board ceilings, weatherboard external cladding, galvanised roof and guttering all tick the coastal feel while nailing the heritage overlay in a way that feels authentic rather than forced.

A European laundry tucked into the garage and a long walk in robe off the master keep storage sorted throughout, while composite decking means low maintenance from the ground up.

For such a small footprint, we sure packed a lot in. St Andrews is a quiet achiever and one we are really proud of.