For many, the process of finding and creating the perfect home is a process of concentration and refinement with non-negotiable factors; It is an interpretation of hidden expectations, real priorities and internal patterns of livability. Inspired by these emotions and the crystal ball, Lande Architects' Malvern House allows the beauty of traditional homes to be carried into another design language, swinging between the peaks of tradition and innovation.

The existing conditions of Malvern House as a single Victorian facing villa include a well-preserved front facade element in keeping with the historical narrative of the streetscape, and an addition located at the back of the house that, despite being relatively new, provides additional indoor living space. This provided an opportunity to raise the volume at the rear to create an internal courtyard, an idea borrowed from a near-perfect home the client had previously seen.

In conversations with Lande Architects, the architects discovered the potential to bring a new and contemporary meaning to the house. Slowly, the idea of connecting the side and rear gardens emerged to inject the essence of nature into the space, a house that borrows from the outside, introducing light and air in a way that changes the experience of the space, and ultimately giving a new definition to its cohesive function.

In the house, Lande Architects retained the traditional figurative volumes, while in the rear volumes there is a complete conversion to bold colour and graphic material expressions. Combining the two is an ongoing dialogue with the surrounding gardens. Lande Architects repositioned the complexity of the home. As a matter of practice, they have great respect for Melbourne's traditional houses. They are very fond of using inheritable fabrics because they have different forms and period details.