CLARKE STREET

Residential Project, A Californian Bungalow Reimagined

In this feature, we step inside a thoughtfully transformed 1920s Californian bungalow in Melbourne, brought to life by Sarah and Matt. With a clear vision and unwavering dedication, this creative duo has turned a charming period home into a serene modern retreat that celebrates its lush surroundings.

Nestled in a leafy suburb they plan to call home, Sarah and Matt saw the untapped potential of this property. Their renovation seamlessly bridges the indoors and outdoors, achieved through carefully placed oversized skylights and highlight windows framing tranquil treetop views.

At the heart of this transformation is a striking contemporary extension. The addition includes a versatile study, a sleek new bathroom, an open-plan kitchen and living area crowned by a soaring cathedral ceiling, and a master retreat with an ensuite tucked away on the second level. Materials like recycled bricks and polished concrete flooring lend a minimalist aesthetic while enhancing thermal performance, grounding the home in both style and sustainability.

Soundproofed by triple-glazed windows, the home offers a peaceful escape despite its proximity to a train line, proving that thoughtful design can overcome any challenge. The result is a space that feels as tranquil as it is visually captivating—an inviting, energy-conscious sanctuary.

Sarah and Matt have created more than just a home; they’ve brought an old soul into the modern era. By blending the charm of the past with innovative design, they’ve crafted a space that’s equal parts functional and timeless—a shining example of how a sensitive renovation can honor a home’s history while embracing the future.

“When designing and selecting the finishes for my own home, I buy a feature light or an item I cannot live without, then I layer colours and finishes around it, I think about the bigger picture and how I would like the space to feel.”

“We had a number of town planning challenges which set us back, an objection from the neighbor about the second story over-shadowing his solar panels, after weeks with the council they found the original 1920’s build was what was overshadowing his house.”