Surrounding Gardener’s House, a suburban residence in Melbourne, are inviting pockets of outdoor space, skillfully transformed by the Australian studio Splinter Society. This home has been thoughtfully extended and renovated for a couple of passionate gardeners eager to replicate the charm of their previous property, nestled an hour away amidst rolling hills.
The design intent was clear: to capture the essence of their former garden oasis within a more compact urban setting. Splinter Society focused on maximizing the views of the lush garden from every corner of the home, ensuring that the couple’s vibrant collection of exotic orchids takes center stage in their new sanctuary.
The elderly clients transitioned from a spacious garden property in the hills to a more urban environment, just three kilometers from Melbourne’s bustling heart. With gardening as their cherished pastime, they sought to recreate the tranquility and beauty of their previous home, albeit on a smaller scale.
To achieve this vision, the design strategy involved extending the rear of the existing house, allowing an abundance of northern light to flood the interior. This approach also ensured that the living spaces would be enveloped by the surrounding garden, creating a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors.
At the front of Gardener’s House, the darker, more intimate existing rooms have been repurposed as private areas. These include the main ensuite bedroom, two additional double bedrooms, a family bathroom, a utility room, and a spacious study, providing a cozy retreat from the vibrant garden.
The rear of the home underwent a significant transformation with the removal of an outdated concrete veranda, paving the way for a new extension. This addition features a large open-plan living and dining area that flows effortlessly onto a raised deck adorned with a pergola, perfect for enjoying the outdoors.
The extension is thoughtfully set back from the main house, connected by a sleek glazed walkway that invites natural light. Large picture-frame windows and sliding glass doors frame stunning views of the garden, creating a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor living.
Clad in cement panels, the new extension complements the original masonry of the house, while timber accents are designed to support plant growth over time, gradually softening its appearance. A rich, dark color palette throughout the interior contrasts beautifully with the warm red tones that refresh the front section of the existing home, creating a cohesive and inviting atmosphere.