Canning Street House

Michael and Angela Kelly, along with their son Liam, possess an extraordinary passion for cooking. They avidly decode restaurant dishes to recreate them at home, always exploring new cooking techniques to enhance her culinary skills. Their fervour for food significantly influenced the design of their new home.
Situated in Carlton, one of Melbourne's oldest neighbourhood's established during the Gold Rush in 1851, the area boasts primarily Victorian-style brick townhouses with narrow plots accessed from both front and rear laneways. Historically, Carlton nurtured a vibrant Italian migrant community during World War II, earning its moniker as the city's 'Little Italy,' renowned for its authentic Italian eateries.

The Kelly's acquired two adjacent Victorian townhouses in Carlton, intending to merge them into one, restoring the original façade and adding a new rear extension. Preserving the historical layers of the property was pivotal, as well as harmonizing with the owner's culinary passion.

The house layout, oriented west to east, optimizes natural light with Northern and Southern zones. The extension, positioned in the southern zone, overlooks a garden, strategically allowing winter sunlight while shading from harsh summer rays.

Central to the design is the kitchen, serving as the heart of the home, seamlessly connecting indoor and outdoor spaces. The house juxtaposes old and new, with restored heritage-style rooms and a master bedroom overhanging to form a garden courtyard. The upper floor's twist aligns with the kitchen, welcoming morning sunlight.

With a commitment to sustainability, all demolished bricks were salvaged and reused. Perimeter walls, showcasing layers of history through varying brick styles, were left untouched, accentuating the house's historical significance.

The Kelly's, known for their vibrant social life, frequently entertain guests, fostering a strong sense of community. Thus, the garden opens onto the laneway, seamlessly blending outdoor space with the neighbourhood's Italian-inspired community spirit.

In essence, the Kelly's' home embodies their culinary passion, sustainability ethos, and commitment to fostering community bonds, creating a harmonious haven in the heart of Carlton.