Farnham House by Foomann Architects – A Playful Family Home in Melbourne

Farnham House, designed by Foomann Architects, is a vibrant residential extension in Melbourne tailored for an illustrator, her builder partner, and their three young children. The project transforms a traditional brick home into a modern, light-filled family residence, balancing functionality, playfulness, and robust design.

A Compact Yet Dynamic Extension

The clients approached Foomann to create an extension that redefined family living while respecting the character of the existing brick structure. The new addition introduces a kitchen, dining, and living area on the ground floor, along with a study or guest room upstairs. Despite its compact footprint of 65 square meters, the extension delivers a variety of spatial experiences, natural light, and seamless indoor-outdoor connections.

Welcoming Entry and Playful Touches

The entrance was relocated along a landscaped garden path, leading to a bright pink front door that sets the tone for the home’s playful personality. The entryway opens onto joinery that organizes the space while offering views of a spiral staircase and a light-filled courtyard beyond. Bold color accents, including pops of fluorescent spray paint, reflect the creative spirit of the family.

Ground-Floor Living with Outdoor Connections

The brick-clad ground-floor addition houses the main living functions—kitchen, dining, and lounge. A concrete reveal frames expansive glass doors, bringing northern light deep into the interior while providing shade in summer. This detail also integrates seating, blinds, and an operable flyscreen, demonstrating thoughtful functionality paired with craftsmanship.

Lofted Volumes and Warm Interiors

Above, the timber-clad first-floor addition accommodates a study/guest room and a dramatic void overlooking the family room. Instead of maximizing floor space, the clients prioritized openness and loftiness, enhancing the home with generous light, views, and vertical connection. Timber detailing around the void adds warmth and texture, particularly striking when illuminated at night.

Kitchen and Interior Details

The kitchen design balances refinement with durability, featuring a robust Grey Tundra stone benchtop that withstands family life. Custom oak veneer joinery conceals a pantry while a built-in sideboard provides storage and frames a lively picture wall. Open shelving, white brick walls, and spiral stairs maintain lightness and continuity throughout the home.

A Family Home of Character and Function

At just 65 square meters, the Farnham House extension exemplifies compact design with maximum impact. It creates varied, light-filled, and robust spaces that encourage family interaction while respecting the existing home. The project reflects Foomann Architects’ sensitivity to playful expression, material honesty, and functional living for modern families.