Soudan Road House is a carefully considered renovation and extension for a family of five, transforming a modest inner west dwelling into a home that is open, connected and attuned to contemporary living. The design balances the character of the existing house with the evolving needs of a growing family, bringing together old and new through a clear and confident architectural language.

Set within one of Melbourne’s established inner west suburbs, the project responds directly to site orientation. A north-facing internal courtyard forms the heart of the home, drawing natural light deep into the plan while establishing a constant connection to landscape. Living spaces unfold around this central void, allowing the interior and exterior to read as a continuous environment.

Guided by biophilic design principles, the home is shaped to strengthen the relationship between people and nature. Natural light, ventilation, greenery and material tactility are deliberately integrated to create a sensory connection to the outdoors. A green wall to the western boundary acts as both a visual and environmental buffer, softening the built edge while providing passive cooling and protection from the harsh afternoon sun. Together, these elements support wellbeing, fostering a calm and restorative environment that enhances daily life.

The built form is deliberately restrained, maximising openness without overdeveloping the site. A careful interplay of built and unbuilt space introduces moments of pause throughout, where light, ventilation and spatial relief enhance the overall experience. These considered insertions of negative space support a series of interconnected living zones that accommodate both family life and entertaining, while maintaining privacy where required.

Materiality is grounded and cohesive, reinforcing a connection to nature and complementing the surrounding context. Each space is oriented toward garden outlooks, ensuring consistent access to daylight, cross ventilation and greenery across the home, while natural textures and finishes contribute to a sense of warmth and tactility.

Key to the project is the integration of courtyard, planning and material expression into a unified whole. The result is a home that feels generous yet controlled, where light, space, landscape and environmental performance are embedded in everyday living.

This project is currently in pricing, with work due to start on site mid 2026. Follow along with the progress of this project through construction over on our Instagram.

Please get in touch with us if you would like to know more about this project.