Let There Be Light

Thanks to a considered upgrade, this early 1900s cottage makes the most of its compact lot in sweet, sophisticated style.

- Jackie Brygel

THIS IS THE LIFE

While Bridie and Justin’s home may be just a quick tram ride to the CBD, a relaxed haven unfolds beyond the front door. “It’s incredibly quiet here, but we’re also so close to our favourite cafes and lots of buzzing eateries,” says Bridie. “The parks are great for our beloved labrador Barkley and will be wonderful places to visit with our baby, Archer, as he grows up. It’s the perfect location for our little family.”

Many renovations turn up the unexpected. But not every journey unveils such a sweet surprise as the one Melbourne homeowners Bridie and Justin uncovered: a magical view of the city skyline and, on clear nights, the moon, from the landing that leads to their new upstairs retreat. “Every time I walk up to our bedroom, I pause on the stairs for a few seconds to take it all in,” says Bridie. “It’s a very special view and a wonderful bonus of the renovation.”

Certainly, though, the couple were confident they were in good hands when they engaged Mikayla Rose, principal designer and director of Heartly, and her team to reimagine their home. “The house, a single-fronted Edwardian brick cottage, sits on a 136-square-metre block in a narrow one-way street surrounded by cobbled laneways,” says Mikayla. “The home had been tidied up, with a lean-to added at some stage, but it was very tired. The walls seemed paper thin and it was very cold – very difficult to live in during winter. Bridie and Justin wanted to substantially renovate and extend the house.”