Rethinking the Renovation: Austin Maynard Architects’ Sensitive Approach to Federation Homes
Melbourne’s Federation-era homes are frequently updated with large, often imposing, extensions. However, a growing movement prioritizes respecting the original architecture and the value of existing outdoor space. Austin Maynard Architects exemplifies this approach with projects like Erindale, a renovation that expands living areas while celebrating the garden.
The Challenge of the “Box” Extension
A common architectural solution for renovating Federation homes in Melbourne involves demolishing the rear of the property and adding a substantial two-story extension. This often results in a structure that dominates the backyard, diminishing the original garden space. Austin Maynard Architects, however, advocates for a more considered approach.
Erindale: A Garden-Centric Design
The Erindale project, designed by Austin Maynard Architects, centered around the client’s desire to maintain and enhance their garden. Andrew Maynard, director of the firm, explained the challenge: “How do we give them all the space they need and celebrate the garden?”1
A Curving Extension and Holistic Design
Rather than a traditional box-shaped addition, the architects opted for a curving extension that integrates with the backyard. This design maximizes the home’s northern orientation and creates a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living. The extension adds 150 square meters of living space, designed to feel like a natural extension of the garden. Reclaimed brick flooring further blurs the lines between the interior and exterior.
Maximizing Space and Light
The design incorporates a white steel overhang supported by hairpin columns, providing shade during the summer months while maintaining a sense of lightness. Andrew Maynard describes the dining room as feeling like “a beautiful greenhouse in the middle of a garden,” emphasizing the importance of maintaining intimacy with the outdoor space.1
Reimagining Existing Spaces
The renovation also focused on optimizing the existing home’s layout. Instead of a conventional bathroom design, a narrow service path was extended to create an outdoor bathing area, a feature embraced by the homeowner. Bedrooms and a seldom-used living room were reconfigured to create a more generous main bedroom with an ensuite, a son’s bedroom, a laundry, a study, and a multipurpose room connected to the modern living area.
Preserving Neighborhood Character
A key design consideration was maintaining the home’s original street presence and preserving the character of the Ripponlea neighborhood. The house appears largely unchanged from the front, and a new terracotta roof matches the adjacent, mirror-image Federation home. Andrew Maynard notes that the two homes now “present a correlative charm.”2
Radical Sufficiency and Sustainable Design
Erindale embodies a philosophy of “radical sufficiency,” prioritizing thoughtful alteration over extensive demolition and rebuilding. This approach minimizes environmental impact and focuses on making the most of existing resources.2
A Counterpoint to Conventional Extensions
Austin Maynard Architects encourages homeowners, designers, and builders to reconsider the ubiquitous “box” extension. They advocate for designs that prioritize scale, natural light, garden views, and a holistic connection to the surrounding environment.1
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