Ansari Architects

Ansari Architects is a small, design-led practice in Northcote, Melbourne, led by architect Alexandra Ansari. It was established in 2012, after years leading multi-residential projects in Brisbane and Melbourne, out of a desire to work more closely with clients. The studio is "founded on the belief that good architecture begins with listening", and energy efficiency, sustainability and longevity are the starting point, not add-ons. Their aim, in their words: "Bringing your family's vision to life through sustainable and thoughtful renovations that nurture connection, well-being, and harmony."

On Lunchbox, Brighton East House updates a Tudor revival-style home where nearly every room was dated or impractical, from a dark south-facing living room to a '90s kitchen with a bar used only for storage. Rather than rip everything out, the renovation made the most of what was there, and the quirky red marble fireplace that looked out of place became the focal point of the new living room.

See Brighton East House on Lunchbox below.

A Quirky Fireplace Becomes the Focal Point of This Modern Renovation

The owners would have ripped this out-of-place fireplace out if they'd had their way, but it's become the centrepiece of this reno...