Rucker’s Hill Sage Bungalow

The Context
Situated in the Rucker’s Hill precinct of Northcote, this classic bungalow had strong underlying character but suffered from a poorly executed previous extension. The layout featured under-utilised spaces and a disconnect from the outdoors. While the property was not subject to a statutory Heritage Overlay, the owners valued the history of the house and opted for an "elective heritage" approach to their renovation.

The Challenge
The design team at andever proposed a practical two-stage approach: a strategic internal renovation to reorganize the living zones, followed by a modest 12.8 sq.m. extension. Because heritage conservation was voluntary on this site, the challenge was striking the right balance between introducing necessary contemporary utility—like improved natural light and better spatial flow—while actively preserving the home’s original charm.

Our Strategy
Heritage Workshop was engaged to provide specialized design guidance for this elective heritage project. Working alongside the design team, we helped identify opportunities within the existing structure rather than working against it. We provided strategic advice to ensure the new contemporary elements and internal reconfigurations responded respectfully to the historic fabric of the bungalow.

The Outcome
A highly functional and comfortable home that successfully bridges past and present. The clients achieved a layout that suits their daily routine, featuring better flow, improved gathering spaces, and a stronger connection to the garden, all while maintaining the historic integrity of the original building.