Hidden House

Concealing a contemporary extension behind a period home is par for the course in many inner-city neighbourhoods, but at Hidden House the concealment becomes its defining characteristic.

Privacy from neighbouring apartments was the catalyst for the expanse of pivoting timber screens that give this East St Kilda extension its distinctive personality. Opening the living spaces to the garden or shielding harsh afternoon sun, Hidden House’s full-height screens are a standalone feature and give the residents control over the nature of their home at any moment.

The grand presence of the existing Victorian home and its natural slope were seen as advantages by our design team. It meant the modern extension at the rear could be obscured from street view and allowed for a clear distinction between the original and the new, enhanced internally by an elegant steel portal and dark timber batten gallery walk.

The characteristics of the original home were preserved as part of a sympathetic renovation, deliberately contrasting with the airy, light-drenched new glass and concrete living pavilion. The stone kitchen and its sculptural stone bench becomes the heart of Hidden House, with an adjoining dining area connecting to a sunny outdoor terrace.

A contemporary interpretation of the ‘sunken lounge’ distinguishes the lounge room within the open plan, while extensive expanses of glass and slimline framing make it appear as though it’s floating where it extends into the lush garden.

Striking a balance between the durability required by a young family and a bold aesthetic statement, the interior palette embraces the authenticity of natural materials. Highly veined marble, sleek black timber veneer and robust black steel harmonise with the timber screens for a resilient, timeless appeal.