Hawthorn East, nestled in Wurundjeri Country, boasts a parade of Victorian-era cottages and terraces that lend the suburb its timeless charm. But let’s face it: while these homes are delightful to look at, they’re not exactly built for the demands of modern Australian life. Enter Oberon—a brilliant transformation by Alexandra Buchanan Architecture that proves you can have heritage character and contemporary convenience.


This particular cottage had seen better days. A patchwork of lean-to extensions had left it with a dark, poky interior and a disconnected relationship with the outdoors. The task? Keep the front’s heritage charm intact (because the local council says so, but also why would you want to change it?) and inject the back with light, space, and seamless indoor-outdoor flow—all on a narrow block. No big deal, right?


The architects took the challenge and ran with it. Instead of trying to shoehorn in as many rooms as possible, they opted for a simple, compact layout that prioritised generous living spaces. The new addition is a wonderful example of making a modest footprint feel expansive. The ground floor features an open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area that flows effortlessly into the garden, while the entire upper level is reserved for a dreamy master suite. Goals.



The project feels as much like a work of art as it does a home. Custom joinery steals the show, cleverly dividing spaces while doubling as a gallery for the owner’s collection of curios and treasures. The attention to detail in these pieces elevates the home, ensuring even the most functional elements are a joy to behold.

Privacy levels were a playful part of the brief since the home is designed for just two occupants. The upper floor is a boundary-blurring delight, where the bedroom, bathroom, and library feel more like interwoven zones than separate rooms. A void linking the master suite to the lounge below creates a sense of openness and connection, proving that even narrow spaces can feel expansive.






Let’s talk about light—because there’s plenty of it. Long, sliding windows on the north and south elevations peel away walls, extending the indoors out and welcoming natural light in. A clever skylight above the kitchen doesn’t just illuminate the space; it also serves as a subtle marker separating old from new.

The result is a home that feels light, open, and perfectly tailored to its owners. It’s proof that even the most restrictive heritage overlays can’t stifle great design. Oberon is a modern love letter to Hawthorn East’s Victorian roots, blending nostalgia with practicality in a way that feels as effortless as it is inspiring.
