Glen Iris House – serenity in the suburbs

Behind a traditional facade in the leafy eastern suburbs of Melbourne, lies Glen Iris House,  a beautiful blend between old and new.

Downsizers are renowned for leaving these suburbs in search of a more cosmopolitan lifestyle. However, the owners of Glen Iris House have done the opposite – moving back to suburbia to be closer to their growing number of grandchildren. Luke Fry Architecture & Interior Design has brought together a period frontage and a sleek modern extension to create an elegant and peaceful home.

The architect struck gold with this house, with the building in near-original condition. This allowed for a complete gut and renovation without dealing with the handiwork of previous builders or rogue DIY attempts from previous owners. A heritage listing meant that there were some limitations but otherwise, the architect had free reign over the extension.

While the original footprint of the house was barely touched aside from cosmetic renovations more accommodating to a modern lifestyle, the rear extension is what truly steals the show. A glass walkway and structural curves inspired by the original facade lend organic lines to a house otherwise defined by its sleek, minimalist palette. These architectural features draw the eye to the home’s stunning central focal point; a truly modern green kitchen replete with marble. This flows into an open-plan living area, which overlooks manicured gardens, designed by Greenbits Studio.

The softly curved walls and the addition of a built-in Stûv 16 fireplace, are key design highlights that set this home apart.  An interior palette of green hues, natural stone, and light timbers creates a sense of tranquillity and unison throughout. The sage colour of the cabinetry is picked up through the marble bench tops and splashback, with a distinct green ripple tying everything together.

Adding a modern addition to a heritage home can sometimes lead to jarring contrasts between competing design styles. Yet, Glen Iris House seamlessly blends old with new, creating a chic and contemporary home with ample space for growing grandchildren and family gatherings.

Photographer: Derek Swalwell