Neville

A retired couple in Melbourne had a heritage home they loved but a layout that no longer worked for how they wanted to live. The front rooms felt formal and underused, while the rear of the house was dark and cut off from the garden they'd carefully tended for years. They wanted to age in place comfortably, with better natural light, easier access to the outdoors, and a kitchen where they could cook and entertain without feeling cramped. The home's character mattered to them, but so did creating spaces that felt open, calm, and low maintenance.

Gidaya Group approached this heritage renovation by opening up the rear of the home and connecting the main living spaces directly to the north facing backyard. We created an open plan living, kitchen, and dining zone with large black framed windows and sliding glass doors that draw sunlight deep into the floor plan and make the garden feel part of daily life. The kitchen uses clean lined white cabinetry with timber accents and a central island bench for prep and gathering. In the front living room, we retained the original plasterwork and ceiling details, pairing them with a statement chandelier to honour the home's heritage within a pared back, contemporary palette. The bathroom was simplified with a frameless walk in shower, dual wall niches, and neutral tiles for easy maintenance.

The result is a home that feels light, open, and easy to move through. Heritage character sits comfortably alongside how they live now, with materials and details chosen for low maintenance and lasting comfort over the years ahead.