December 4, 2024

Shot Tower Terrace by Design by AD Marries Old with New in Australia

Design by AD has completed a house renovation and expansion in Melbourne, Australia. Shot Tower Terrace combines Victorian-era details with modern elements, respecting the original workers’ cottage proportions. Designed in 2023, the project restores and updates the home for contemporary living.

Modern black and red brick building with geometric architectural details.

A mix of old and new

Design by AD has completed the Shot Tower Terrace project in Melbourne, Australia, revitalizing and extending a Victorian-era workers’ cottage. The 2023 project embraces heritage while introducing modern elements, creating a clear rhythm between old and new architecture.

Cozy living room with large windows overlooking an outdoor garden and patio area.

Next to the historic Clifton Hill Shot Tower, the façade of the house features two inverted roof slopes with a flat section between them, echoing the traditional silhouettes. This design lessens the impact of the overall mass and introduces an unexpected element. In addition, the vertical break preserves views of the neighboring tower and creates a distinct identity for the house.

Minimalist living room with wooden console, potted plants, and abstract artwork.

The exterior mixes the existing red brick with sheets of cement and wood, making reference to stretched gable façades. These darker elements envelop the new form, set into deep windows for light and privacy. The new design contrasts materials, with lighter ones on top, giving a lighter appearance and a warm interior.

Modern kitchen with wooden cabinetry, marble backsplash, and minimalist dining furniture.

Careful choice of materials

Inside, Shot Tower Terrace uses light and soft tones to visually expand the space. Walnut woodwork provides texture and richness, reflecting a modern interpretation of traditional design. The house also features concrete floors, exposed brickwork, black-framed windows and gray stone – a reference to the nearby industrial area.

A modern kitchen with sleek wooden cabinetry, a marble countertop, and large windows providing natural light.

Above the upper level is a roof terrace overlooking the treetops and the city skyline. This outdoor space, along with an integrated bar, flower beds and an intimate patio, offers a connection to nature and the elements throughout the day.

Minimalist living room with large windows, potted plants, and modern furniture.

Design by AD’s work on Shot Tower Terrace is an exercise in restoration, with the aim of recovering the original beauty of the Victorian country house. The result brings continuity and contemporary relevance to the house, fusing its historical legacy with modern functionality in a compact urban environment.