Watsonia residential extension & interior design

Modern living redefined:
A transformative addition in Watsonia

The suburban landscape of Melbourne is evolving, and nowhere is this more evident than in the growing demand for high-quality home renovations in Watsonia.
This project, a comprehensive alteration and addition to an existing single-story residence, stands as a premier example of how thoughtful design can transition a traditional suburban house into a contemporary masterpiece. By focusing on a "modern aesthetic" and functional longevity, we have redefined what it means to live comfortably in the North-East suburbs of Melbourne.

This ambitious project was born from a desire to modernise a dated floor plan.
Our architectural strategy involved significant structural changes to the original dwelling, ensuring that the finished home would perfectly suit the lifestyle needs of a growing family for years to come.

Architectural design: Embracing the modern aesthetic

At the heart of this Watsonia home extension is a design philosophy characterised by clean lines and a carefully selected neutral color palette. Moving away from the cluttered layouts of previous decades, the project focused on creating an inviting open-plan living space. This was achieved by strategically removing several internal walls and meticulously reconfiguring the interior layout.

By opening up the "bones" of the house, we created a sense of volume and flow that was previously nonexistent. This approach to residential design in Watsonia is increasingly popular among homeowners who want the benefits of a new build while staying in their established neighbourhood.

The rear extension: A hub for family life

The standout feature of the project is the generous extension at the rear of the property. This new wing was designed to be the primary hub for the family, encompassing several key zones:

  • Designer Kitchen: Equipped with modern appliances and high-end finishes, the kitchen serves as both a culinary workspace and a social centerpiece.

  • Spacious Dining Area: Positioned perfectly between the kitchen and lounge, the dining space facilitates easy entertaining.

  • Sun-Drenched Living Room: Perhaps the most ingenious element of the design is the inclusion of north-facing clerestory windows. These high-level windows allow natural light to flood the space throughout the day, enhancing the warmth of the home and reducing the need for artificial lighting - a key tenet of sustainable Melbourne architecture.

Functional additions and high-end finishes

Beyond the social spaces, the extension was designed to provide the practical amenities required for modern family life. To ensure the home functions at its peak, we incorporated:

  • A luxurious en-suite and a main family bathroom.

  • A streamlined, modern laundry room with ample storage.

  • A secure, integrated garage that complements the home's facade.

The exterior of the extension makes a bold statement with contemporary metal standing seam cladding. This durable and visually striking material offers a sleek, industrial edge that is softened by the use of high-quality aluminium windows and doors. These materials were chosen not only for their aesthetic appeal but for their ability to withstand the varied Melbourne weather conditions.

Local expertise in Melbourne and beyond

Navigating a home renovation in Watsonia requires a team that understands the local landscape and the specific requirements of the Banyule City Council. This project serves as a blueprint for successful suburban transformations, proving that you don't need to move house to find your "forever home."

Overall, this transformative project has successfully redefined the existing residence into a modern, functional dwelling. By prioritising light, space, and materiality, we have delivered a home that is as beautiful as it is livable.

Modern residential extension in Watsonia by Dean McCredden Architect
Modern residential kitchen and dining in Watsonia by Dean McCredden Architect
Modern residential extension in Watsonia by Dean McCredden Architect
Modern residential kitchen in Watsonia by Dean McCredden Architect
Modern residential dining and living in Watsonia by Dean McCredden Architect
Modern residential bathroom in Watsonia by Dean McCredden Architect
Modern residential bathroom in Watsonia by Dean McCredden Architect
Modern residential lounge in Watsonia by Dean McCredden Architect