Adella Court was a rare opportunity to breathe new life into a much-loved 1920s home, one I’d come to know well through work with the previous owner. The existing structure was rich in heritage detail, but a later rear extension had compromised its liveability, creating disjointed spaces and blocking natural light.

For Susan and Chris, busy professionals with four young children, the house needed to become both sanctuary and support system—practical, light-filled, and connected. With a strong vision for calm, timeless interiors, we worked together to introduce clarity and cohesion without sacrificing the home’s character. Skylights, custom detailing, and carefully considered spatial planning brought modern functionality into harmony with original charm. Delivered during the height of Melbourne’s lockdowns, this project became more than just a renovation, it was a collaborative effort grounded in trust, care, and resilience.

Today, the home stands as a warm, welcoming space where legacy and contemporary life coexist with grace.

“Alex was wonderful to work with. She went above and beyond at every step of the journey. While she is clearly a talented and experienced architect who listened to what we needed and delivered the best outcome for our family, it was the project management and her constant desire to make things easy for us that really sets Alex apart. She was a constant, calming presence during a very stressful period. It's hard to imagine how we would have made timely decisions and completed this renovation without someone as skilled and human-centred as Alex.” - Susan and Chris

Completion: 2021

Site size: 836m²

Building levels: 2

Suburb: Elwood

Council: Port Phillip, on the traditional lands of the Bunurong People

Construction: The Zimmermann Oz

Photography: Michelle Williams

Styling: The Cali Design