Project: Victorian Italianate Villa / Villa d’Arte
Architects: SJB Architecture
Builder: Leone Constructions
Location: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Year 2018
Photography: Lucas Allen
The Victorian Italianate Villa by SJB is a restoration and renovation project that erases all traces of an outdated 1980s makeover. The design reconsiders the grandeur of the original heritage home while adapting it to a contemporary lifestyle—free-flowing, engaged, and deeply comfortable. The result balances drama and calm, opening heritage volumes while adding a striking modern extension.
Reversing the Idea of Downsizing
For this project, SJB collaborated with long-standing clients who were making the unusual move of leaving a sleek contemporary penthouse for the expansive spaces of a grand villa. Their transition came with challenges: not only did they need a new home, but they also wanted to integrate two substantial collections of furniture—one modern and the other historic, from their family farmhouse. This mix became a guiding thread throughout the design.
A Dialogue Between Heritage and Modernity
The contemporary extension, built in concrete and zinc, boldly inhabits the outdoor space while remaining visually distinct from the heritage fabric of the villa. This addition brings a fresh architectural language to the site without overshadowing the original Italianate character. Meanwhile, the restoration of the heritage rooms emphasizes their scale and atmosphere, creating a fluid journey between old and new.
A Kitchen at the Heart of the Home
Within the new extension, the kitchen and butler’s pantry take center stage. Here, black timber cabinetry and heavily veined black marble contrast the abundant natural light, creating a dramatic yet inviting environment. Brightly colored contemporary art adds energy, while the material palette ties back to the villa through the continuation of timber flooring. Views into the garden further reinforce the connection between house, history, and landscape.
Fine Details and Cohesion
SJB’s attention to detail ensures coherence across old and new spaces. Slim vertical black pendant lamps above the marble island echo the steel-framed windows and fine black lines repeated throughout the home. This careful layering of detail allows both the historic villa and its modern addition to feel part of a single, unified narrative.
A Home of Balance
Ultimately, the Victorian Italianate Villa stands as a carefully crafted balance between heritage restoration and modern living. By weaving together collections, memories, and contemporary design, SJB has created a home that feels timeless while responding directly to the needs of today.
