Merri Creek House by Alexandra Buchanan Architecture

A Contemporary Dialogue Between Heritage and Landscape

The Merri Creek House by Alexandra Buchanan Architecture is a sensitive renovation and contemporary extension of a historic weatherboard cottage located in the leafy suburb of Fitzroy North, Melbourne. Rooted in a strong connection to landscape design, the project redefines the traditional house-with-backyard typology by interweaving a series of lush courtyard gardens throughout the home’s layout. These green pockets dissolve the singular idea of a “backyard,” instead dispersing outdoor spaces across the residence to enrich everyday use.

Indoor-Outdoor Harmony Through Courtyard Integration

At the heart of the design is the ambition to maintain a visual connection to nature from every room. The interior spaces are organized around intersecting courtyards, fostering a fluid interaction between inside and out. These landscaped gardens not only provide natural ventilation and daylight but also create ever-changing green vistas, making nature an integral part of the domestic experience.

Restoration Meets Modernity

The existing heritage home has been carefully restored, with non-original extensions removed and the building’s period features reinstated. The original hallway acts as a strong organizing axis, leading into the new extension and providing spatial continuity. A glazed walkway serves as a transitional element—connecting old and new—while subtle level changes articulate distinct zones within the open-plan design.

Spatial Planning for Light, Function, and Privacy

The service areas are smartly located along the western boundary, shielding the home from the intense afternoon sun while opening up the eastern façade to capture morning light in the living areas. The kitchen, as the social core of the home, is positioned centrally on the ground floor, anchoring the communal zones. Meanwhile, the upper level serves as a kids’ retreat, designed with voids that allow acoustic and visual links while preserving privacy.

Material Palette and Architectural Expression

A restrained, low-maintenance material palette enhances the contrast between old and new. The extension is composed of charcoal timber cladding, concrete, and brickwork, which act as a modern counterpoint to the restored weatherboard cottage. The architectural expression is minimalist yet tactile, balancing functionality with timeless character.

All Photographs are works of Tom Ross