Malvern Family Home by Neil Architecture

Built on a compact, square block of land, this Malvern double-storey renovation was designed for quintessential Australian living; regular outdoor entertaining and ample space for both kids and adults alike. Acknowledging the original bones of the home, Neil Architecture, in collaboration with owner and builder Neil Sargeant have transformed it into a light-filled, open and family-oriented abode.

With an appreciation for contemporary architecture, the active entertainers required a home that would cater for their family’s lifestyle. Homeowner Emma Sargeant says the home also needed to represent their love of modernism, while allowing for closed-off zones to provide personal space. “The design process was very much a collaborative process,” Emma says. “We were all on the same page with our ideas and David (Neil Architecture) delivered.”

 A key part of the brief was to bring as much sun into the north-facing communal areas as possible. External louvres, fully adjustable from inside, balance light, privacy and heat as needed. The central stair void adds a sense of spaciousness and light to the core of the home, complemented by the timber floor and wall panels.

The decision to conceal joinery handles and integrate appliances in the kitchen lets the cabinetry and materials be the main focus. Japanese inax tiles from Artedomus form the splashback. “The elements combined with the natural timbers provide a textural appeal that keeps the house from being stark in any way,” David Neil says.

Outside, Virginia creepers over the rear external entertaining area provide summer shade as well as contrast with the concrete facade. The home features owner Emma Sargeant’s outdoor tables from her brand Cubo Living, inspired by travels through Italy. Fuelled by the limited options of statement outdoor living pieces, Emma incorporates Bisazza tiles into her unique designs. 

A respectful collaboration between the homeowners and architect has made way for a highly-tailored abode, meeting the family’s design requests to a tee.