Victoria
WOWOWA Hermon is an alteration to one of Hawthorn’s most beautiful red brick Federation homes. The brief was to manipulate a prior mock renovation, provide suitable, open living spaces and land a contemporary visual language as counterpoint to the decorative manor. The project required no additional footprint, only internals and a reshaping and amalgamation of the previously compartmentalised kitchen, living, dining.
A generous main bedroom was created with WIR and ensuite, lift access and a previous attic space became a new rumpus. The playful bathroom colours; lilac, blue and green supply a fresh colour injection and nod to the geometric front door stain glass. The kitchen is hard-working, split into two spaces, back of house and living room facing. The back of house runs through to the laundry and out into the back yard and clothesline.
This project is the perfect balance of both homage & embellishment, restraint & playfulness.
WOWOWA Architecture’s Hermon presents a nuanced play of colour, texture, and materiality, creating a soft extension to the back of a generous Federation house. Gently blurring the lines between old and new, even small and subtle insertions of joinery into the existing rooms play an important role in providing an elegant occupation of the spaces.
Soft light dances, bounces even. The interior is also drawn outside through a series of small pavilions that compliment and blur the lines between interior and exterior.
Prior to our renovation, our house had lots of small rooms, was dark and cold with all white and grey tones throughout. Opening up the spaces, adding some curves and the injection of warm native colours inspired by the original lead light at the front door has made the house feel comfy and inviting like a big hug. The design of the spaces doesn’t just feel comforting, but is functional for our work, study and lives. The reimagined outdoor space and garden means they can be easily enjoyed and the garden viewed from inside, framed by the large glass doors.
The Australian Institute of Architects acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.
