smart planning and clear execution.

North Melbourne
House Extension

A handcrafted extension blending heritage character with modern liveability.

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PROJECT OVERVIEW

A Character-filled House Extension with Vaulted Ceilings and Handcrafted Details

This North Melbourne extension reimagined a period home by thoughtfully expanding the rear of the property. Designed to complement the home’s original character, the new space features soaring vaulted ceilings, custom-crafted exposed timber trusses, and refined heritage detailing aligned with local guidance from Heritage Victoria.

Limited site access demanded a high level of problem-solving and craftsmanship. Each truss was meticulously fabricated and assembled on-site to realise the structural design vision. The result is a seamless, character-filled extension that honours the home’s heritage while delivering modern functionality for contemporary living.

We take a hands-on, collaborative approach to every build.
Learn more about our design and construction process →

timber truss framework during north melbourne house extension construction

Timber trusses taking shape during the North Melbourne house extension project, showcasing custom craftsmanship.

From Deterioration to Renewal: A Home Reimagined

Before work began, the rear of the property was dominated by a deteriorated outbuilding and overgrown yard, offering little usable space and none of the character the owners wanted to preserve.

The transformation wasn’t simply an extension, it was a complete reimagining. Through careful planning, expert craftsmanship, and a strong respect for the home’s heritage, we replaced the aging structure with a light-filled extension that seamlessly blends into the original fabric of the house while delivering modern liveability.

The result is a space that feels like it was always meant to be there — a natural continuation of the home’s story.

BEFORE
rear of north melbourne property prior to house extension, showing deteriorated structure and overgrown yard.

Original rear structure of the property, prior to extension and restoration work.

AFTER
completed interior of the north melbourne house extension, featuring exposed timber trusses, vaulted ceilings, and heritage-style detailing.

Completed handcrafted extension, blending heritage character with modern functionality.

Project Highlights

Bespoke Timber Trusses

Custom-cut, fabricated, and assembled onsite to achieve architectural precision within limited site access conditions.

Heritage Detailing

Carefully selected materials and joinery details to ensure seamless integration with the existing period home.

Character-First Design Approach

Every element crafted to blend with the home’s historic aesthetic while improving functionality for modern living.

Vaulted Ceilings with Skylights

Designed to enhance natural light flow and amplify the feeling of space while preserving heritage character.

Site Access Problem-Solving

Innovative onsite assembly and logistical planning to overcome restricted property access without compromising build quality.

Client-Centric Construction

Frequent on-site consultations and adjustments to ensure design vision and structural requirements aligned perfectly throughout the project.

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“We don’t build to impress. We build to belong.”

Features OVERVIEW

Bringing the Vision to Life: Key Finishing Details

Custom Skylight for Light and Space

To enhance natural light throughout the new living areas, a handcrafted skylight was custom-designed and installed. The skylight draws light deep into the vaulted space, adding warmth, height, and a sense of openness while maintaining the heritage character of the home.

Seamless Entrance Between Old and New

The new entrance was carefully crafted to create a welcoming transition between the original home and the extended living spaces. By blending period detailing with a more open design, the entrance upgrade respects the home’s history while offering a clear sense of arrival and flow.

Handcrafted Timber Trusses and Vaulted Ceilings

Inside the extension, soaring timber trusses and vaulted ceilings define the new living area. Each structural detail was handcrafted to echo the home’s original materials and forms, delivering a seamless integration between old and new.

A Character-Filled Living Space Completed

The completed extension offers a light-filled, character-rich space tailored for modern living. From material selections to architectural detailing, every element was designed to feel timeless, authentic, and fully connected to the original home.

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process OVERVIEW

Construction Process: Crafting Strength and Character

Construction

The construction phase of this North Melbourne extension required a combination of precision, problem-solving, and hands-on expertise. With the site offering limited access and the design calling for bespoke structural features, every element of the build was carefully planned and executed on site.

Trusses / Framing Focus

Custom timber trusses were fabricated and assembled on site to accommodate access constraints and ensure the highest structural integrity. Each piece was measured, cut, and fitted with meticulous attention to both function and architectural intent, preserving the heritage feel while meeting modern engineering standards.

Floor and Structure Build

A new subfloor and framing system were established to extend the home’s footprint, setting a strong foundation for the soaring ceilings and detailed interior elements that define the finished space.

Seamless Integration

Throughout every stage of construction, our focus remained on delivering seamless integration between new and old — ensuring the extension feels like a natural evolution of the original home.

Client's Testimonial

I have worked with Dmitri on multiple complex residential projects since 2004, including top-end homes and detailed renovations. Dmitri is well-organised, thorough, and shows a strong understanding of structural aspects of building

He reads and interprets engineering drawings with precision, builds as documented, and consults when needed — ensuring work is executed to a high professional standard.

— David Landy,
D.M Landy and Associates, Consulting Structural & Civil Engineers

Questions our Melbourne Clients Ask Us About This Project

Still have a question?

 

If your question isn’t listed here, we’re happy to help.

Send us a message and we’ll get back to you with answers specific to your home.

Thinking of extending your home?

We take on a limited number of design-led extensions each year to ensure exceptional outcomes. If quality matters, we’d love to hear about your project.