Urban Escape

Despite the divide between the architectural periods of the contemporary extension and the Victorian-era original terrace, Matt Gibson has cleverly created a fluid sense of movement and continuity throughout the entire home. Retaining features of the existing dwelling that exemplified its high Victorian grandeur, including decorative fireplaces, ornate cornicing and affluent archways, naturally highlights the original parts of the home, which consist of the dining rooms, formal living and living spaces. Then, as you are gradually drawn in to the centre of the home, the contemporary renovation reveals itself in the service areas like the laundry room and powder room, while an integral light courtyard lets the natural light in.

Most traditional Victorian terraces are quite dark buildings, so the central light court in the new of the home that extends through into the rear becomes a focal design feature. Bringing in plenty of light into the core of the dwelling, it simultaneously provides a powerful anatomy of space and ‘bridges history’ between the old and innovative structures. It was also essential in connecting with the outdoor vegetation that provides a breezeway and natural temperature regulator for the ventilation and breathability of the home – a key sustainable element of the design. The architects also integrated a 20 metre long stone banquette from the interior, through the frameless glass and outside. There it becomes a barbeque bench providing a sense of flow and ‘extension of space’, creating movement between indoors and outdoors.

The philosophy behind the Bridport Residence was designing a home that adapts to the varied nature of everyday living. Matt Gibson intended it to be well-designed and practical in the sense that it could be both ‘intimate or expansive, cocooning or theatrical, an entertainment space or a retreat’. As an urban escape, it delivers a contemporary twist on a Victorian terrace home that welcomes its occupants and guests with features that adapt the old and grow with the new.