In collaboration with Architect Ben Lloyd, Dan Gayfer Design transformed a typical North Melbourne Victorian terrace house situated on a bustling corner street, giving a prime location to make a statement.

The project involved retaining the front two rooms as children's bedrooms on the ground floor, while adding a family bathroom and a living space with a sunken dining area opening into a Mediterranean-style courtyard. A second level was introduced to accommodate the master suite including a rooftop terrace.

The renovation included removing the post-war lean-to at the end, which is customary in such projects. Working within a compact space, the focus was on maximising the footprint's potential. This involved careful planning and innovative design solutions to optimise every inch of the interior space.

The materiality of the building reflects the inner-city Melbourne location with industrious workman like exterior through the usage red brick and other components. They wanted a refined interior by using minimal characteristics and materials to juxtapose the rugged exterior.

They were drawn to the refined nature of the lever; it fitted that perfect balance of not too plain but not too over the top with a simplistic design. The finish also coordinated well with the mid-century modern aesthetic and other tones used throughout the interior.

The Brodware tapware in Statue Bronze finish used in the kitchen and bathrooms and the bronze cabinet handles used on the kitchen joinery.

Navigating the uncommon presence of high voltage power lines along these streets, they had to carefully consider offsets for the house extension to ensure safe distance from the lines.

It was an opportunity to work with a new supplier and explore their range. We were impressed with the collection of hardware and finishes, and this Fitzroy project became the inaugural project. Windsor is certainly getting a foot hold of the Australian market.

“Windsor stood out from the crowd of door hardware suppliers who had contacted us” – Dan Gayfer.