Sustainable Coastal Home Extension: Marianne House by Victoria Merrett Architects

A Harmonious Blend of Heritage and Sustainability on the Mornington Peninsula

Located in the serene coastal setting of Rye on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, Marianne House by Victoria Merrett Architects exemplifies the seamless integration of heritage, sustainability, and contemporary design. Completed in 2024 and spanning 208 m², this residential extension reimagines the potential of existing architecture through a thoughtful and sustainable coastal home extension strategy.

Preserving Character Through Contemporary Design

The architectural narrative of Marianne House is grounded in the preservation of the original structure’s essence, including its exposed rafters, pine-lined walls, and central brick fireplace. Rather than erasing these features, the design reinterprets them through a modern lens—ensuring that the extension not only complements the old but elevates it into a new architectural dialogue.

Victoria Merrett Architects have approached the project with a clear respect for contextual sensitivity and material authenticity. By retaining the spirit of the existing home, they have crafted a modern coastal residence that feels timeless and inherently tied to its environment.

Material Integrity and Contextual Cohesion

Materiality plays a central role in unifying the original and new volumes. Locally sourced, walnut-stained Blackbutt timber and recycled brick were chosen not only for their tactile warmth and beauty but also for their sustainability and relevance to the home’s coastal setting. The use of these natural materials reinforces a commitment to sustainable design practices, creating a cohesive visual language across old and new.

A central courtyard anchors the home, forming a spatial and experiential bridge between the original and extended sections. It bathes the entry in natural light and provides framed views of native vegetation, seamlessly blending built and natural environments.

Environmentally Responsive Design Principles

The project is a refined example of passive design at work. Oriented to face a north-west garden, the extension harnesses natural light throughout the day while promoting cross-ventilation and thermal comfort. These strategies reduce reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems, ensuring energy efficiency year-round.

The adaptive reuse of the original structure significantly reduces construction waste and material consumption. By integrating reclaimed timber and other recycled materials, the project underscores its environmentally responsible ethos while maintaining high aesthetic standards. Every architectural choice, from ventilation systems to glazing placement, is made with a long-term sustainability mindset.

Flexible Living for a Growing Family

Functionally, Marianne House has been designed to evolve alongside the family it serves. The extension introduces a generous kitchen, dining, and living area alongside a master suite and service spaces. Meanwhile, the original home has been reorganized to host bedrooms, a study, and a second lounge. This intelligent layout fosters spatial adaptability and ensures the home will continue to meet the family’s changing needs over time.

Economical, Durable, and Future-Focused

The project delivers lasting value not only through environmental performance but also via strategic material choices and efficient planning. Durable, low-maintenance materials reduce long-term costs, while the minimal structural alterations maximize spatial impact without inflating the budget. The result is a home that balances coastal lifestyle comfort, ecological awareness, and economic practicality.

A Model for Sustainable Coastal Home Design

Marianne House stands as a compelling blueprint for sustainable coastal home extension projects. It shows how a modest family dwelling can be transformed with care, creativity, and environmental intelligence. Rooted in place and designed for longevity, this home doesn’t just occupy its site—it strengthens its connection to it.

In a time where sustainability is paramount, Marianne House proves that respectful renovation, contextual awareness, and flexible design are not only compatible—they are essential.

All Photographs are works of Tasha Tylee