Located in Melbourne’s Clifton Hill, the Northside Terrace by IF Architecture, responds to the classic model of the traditional terrace, reinterpreting its enduring presence in a contemporary manner. The approach gives the terrace a renewed expression, reshaping its spaces while meticulously restoring the historic façade and detailing throughout.
Responding to the practical and lifestyle needs of the household over time, a substantial rear extension was introduced, with the new rear façade forming a deliberate contemporary counterpoint (anathema) to the original terrace. Both distinctly new and in deliberate dialogue with the original, the new addition mirrors the solidity and materiality of the terrace through a carefully selected brick in keeping with the historic structure.
The new façade employs a subtle interplay of brick patterns—horizontal, vertical, and screened—to articulate changes in volume and highlight specific architectural gestures. Vertical brickwork emphasises cutaways and recesses, while the first-floor balcony introduces privacy and guides light into the interiors, creating a layered composition of form and texture.
A strategically placed semi-circular skylight penetrates the northern light into the central living area, balancing the solid mass of the rear extension with openness, and introducing a soft geometry that contrasts with the rectilinear forms. This gentle curve subtly references the historic detailing elsewhere in the home, linking the new addition to its heritage context.
The gentle curves extend into the warm concrete steps, built-in barbecue, and custom outdoor seating, flowing naturally into the landscaped garden.
Within the limits of the long, narrow site, the volume stretches to maximise width, maintaining the lofty ceiling heights of the original. Through a subtle tonal shift, the expansive fine steel-framed glazing connects to the garden, forming a warm, textural interior in which the brickwork’s materiality is carried inside.
Combining light and warmth, the material palette—including natural timber joinery and highly textured elements—supports comfort and flexibility. Inspired by the clients’ iconic colourful painting by Ken Done, the colour selections for the furnishings feature sandy tones, touches of warm colour, and subtle blue undertones running throughout the interiors.
Anchored by a long central bench, the kitchen repeats gentle curves in both the benchtop and overhead counterweight pendant light, with warm timber joinery and subtle heritage references in the tapware.
Quiet elegance characterises the front of the house, where elevated furnishings and layered textures establish a sense of formality and spatial separation, embracing restored fireplaces and ornate features.
On the upper level, the master ensuite and children’s wing are separated by the reinstated stair, with period-inspired details interpreted in a serene green tone.
Combining heritage character and modern living, the house realises the clients’ intention to create a home built with the lasting presence and endurance of a classic Victorian terrace.
Photography • @sharyncairns | Landscaping • @mudoffice | Contractor • @clancyconstructions
