Project: Shot Tower Terrace
Architecture: Design by AD
Location: Melbourne, Australia
Year: 2023
Photo Credits: Tatjana Plitt
Located on Noone Street, right next to the historic Clifton Hill Shot Tower, Shot Tower Terrace by Design by AD transforms urban living by combining tradition with modern design. This newly restored and expanded home brings warmth through familiar materials, honoring the area’s heritage while meeting today’s living standards.
Honoring History with Thoughtful Restoration
The Noone Street residence was originally a Victorian-era workers’ cottage. Design by AD preserved its original shape and charm, creating a seamless link between the past and present. The restoration keeps the cottage’s authentic proportions while adding new elements that make the home more spacious and functional. The careful expansion balances old and new, turning the weathered cottage into a modern, lasting home.
Blending with the Surroundings
Next to the iconic Clifton Hill Shot Tower, maintaining the home’s character was essential. The façade features two inverted rooflines separated by a flat section, echoing the traditional look of nearby houses. This design choice reduces the building’s visual impact and adds a unique touch. The vertical break in the roofline keeps clear views of the Shot Tower and the surrounding area, giving the home its own identity while respecting its location.
Quality Materials and Stylish Finishes
The original red brick is paired with new materials like cement sheeting and timber profiles, creating a balanced and sophisticated look. Dark elements frame the new additions, while inset windows add depth and a sense of permanence. These windows allow natural light to fill the home and provide privacy from the outside. Different materials for the upper and lower floors highlight the blend of old and new, making the modern parts appear to float above the brick base. Inside, a warm and inviting atmosphere continues the exterior’s welcoming feel.
Bright and Comfortable Interiors
Inside the home, light and muted colors make the spaces feel larger and more open. Natural light streams in, and a simple color palette keeps the look clean and uncluttered. Walnut-lined cabinets add texture and richness, offering a modern twist on traditional design. Concrete floors, exposed brick, black-framed windows, and grey stone accents tie the interior to the local area, creating a stylish yet comfortable living space.
Rooftop Terrace: A Peaceful Retreat
One of the highlights of Shot Tower Terrace is the rooftop terrace. It offers beautiful views of nearby trees and the distant skyline, providing a peaceful escape from the busy city below. The terrace includes a bar, planters, and a cozy courtyard, perfect for relaxing or entertaining guests. This outdoor space connects the home to nature, enhancing the overall living experience.
Conclusion
Shot Tower Terrace is a standout example of how to restore and expand a historic home while making it suitable for modern living. By preserving the Victorian roots of the workers’ cottage and incorporating contemporary design elements, the project creates a home that is both timeless and up-to-date. Thoughtful design choices and a minimalist approach show how tradition and innovation can work together, offering a beautiful and functional space for today’s homeowners.
