Melbourne Home Builders worked alongside Sketch Building Design and Empire Interiors to renovate this beautiful Victorian terrace home. The cleverly designed utilisation of space along with the blend of the old and the new give this abode a unique edge.

There is an enveloping warmth first entering through the front door, which leads to one of two living rooms. Here, herringbone timber flooring, wainscoting on the main wall, plus the ornate cornices, architraves and skirting boast artistic character, complemented by the marble fireplace and feature pendant light to create a gorgeous statement. Past an elegant archway is the three-level staircase that leads to the roof-top terrace, the perfect place to entertain guests.

Towards the rear of the dwelling is a modern extension showcasing an open-plan kitchen and living area. The continuation of herringbone flooring steps down to a burnished concrete floor, a flawless and contemporary contrast. Blending well with the white walls, pale timber cabinetry and marble splashback is the tiled fireplace, providing a place around which the whole family can gather.

Hinting at all of this character and charm is the front façade. Melbourne Home Builders retained most of the original features, maintaining the street appeal the homeowners first fell in love with, further enhancing this with the black-and-white feature tiling on the porch and pathway.

Melbourne Home Builders is family-owned and -operated, founded by Rob and Wendy Wandaller in 2008. Rob has been a registered builder for nearly 20 years, while Wendy has ample experience in finance and business, managing the company’s operations. Together as a team, this husband-and-wife duo build ‘forever homes’ for their valued clients, giving attention to detail and continually striving for the highest quality.

The company services across Melbourne, including Elsternwick, Elwood, Armadale, Richmond, Surrey Hills and Balwyn, with a focus on inner-city projects. Melbourne Home Builders loves taking on more challenging builds, combining older styles with new ideas to extend the life of the home.

Photography by Tess Kelly Photography