Kingsville Remodel by Richard King Design

Designed in 2017 by Richard King Design, Kingsville Remodel is a modern single family house located in Kingsville, Melbourne, Australia.

Modern open-plan kitchen with natural wood cabinetry, green tile backsplash, and large dining table.
A modern kitchen with a vaulted ceiling, large windows, and a wooden island.
Modern staircase with built-in shelving, neutral tones, and natural wood accents.
Sleek, modern kitchen with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a grassy outdoor area.
Cozy attic living space with large angled windows, sleek furniture, and warm lighting.
A modern utility room with built-in wooden cabinetry, a sink, and recessed lighting.
A modern office space with a long wooden desk, a comfortable leather chair, and a large overhead light fixture.
Minimalist bathroom with gray cabinets, marble countertop, and curtained bathtub under window.
Modern A-frame architecture with large windows illuminating the interior space.

About Kingsville Remodel

Introduction to a Contemporary Transformation

RK-D took charge, leading both design and project management for a transformative two-year project. The mission: turn a dated workers cottage into a modern, family-friendly home.

From Old to Bold

Starting with a small, outdated cottage, we expanded it from 85 square meters (915 square feet) to a spacious 180 square meters (1,937 square feet). We extended the original gable end roof line, paying homage to the home’s architectural roots. The renovation cleverly incorporated a mezzanine and a double-height space, leveraging the ample roof height and proportions. We also maximized the property’s height by aligning with council zoning plans, resulting in enhanced living spaces.

Inside, the home balances private, social, and work areas seamlessly. The original front serves as a bedroom and adult living space, connected to the new extension by a central spine corridor. This leads to more bedrooms, a bathroom, and an expansive kitchen and social living area, culminating in a large mezzanine study and ensuite. Large sliding doors merge the indoors with a cozy garden, while the intentionally low corridor ceiling heightens anticipation, opening to a space filled with light and grandeur.

Embracing Sustainability

Sustainability drove the project, extending the home’s life by a century and incorporating passive-house principles. The rear’s double-glazed wall welcomes the morning sun, while deep eaves and a polished concrete floor moderate the home’s temperature. Cross-ventilation, rainwater collection, and eco-friendly materials underscore our commitment to environmental stewardship. We chose sustainable heating and cooling systems over traditional methods, reinforcing our green approach.

Preserving Heritage

Heritage considerations shaped our restoration of the home’s front. We updated the foundation, integrated original features with new additions, and replicated damaged period elements. A restored double-sided fireplace now adorns a bedroom, blending the old with the new.

Lighting and Materials: A Harmonious Blend

Manipulating light, both natural and artificial, played a key role. Strategic skylights and a 2-tier lighting system create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Externally, we respected the original aesthetic while introducing modern touches. Internally, natural finishes and robust surfaces like Carrara marble and terrazzo floors enrich the home’s character, marrying the architectural and interior design seamlessly.

This project exemplifies a thoughtful balance of contemporary design, sustainability, and heritage preservation, transforming an aging property into a vibrant, modern home.

Photography courtesy of Richard King Design

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- by Matt Watts

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