A Peaceful Refuge: Courtyard House by Ha Architecture.

Inside this unassuming heritage-listed interwar bungalow in Hawthorn, Melbourne, a fundamental transformation has taken place. Designed by Ha Architecture, an idyllic and minimalist sanctuary lies beyond the facade—with abundant natural light on the south-facing side.

The brief was for a modest three-bedroom home on a similar footprint to the existing house, leading the studio to design not an extension but a reconfiguration. Conscious of the restraints and complexities presented by the home’s heritage-listed status the existing roof line was retained with a large courtyard carved out on the eastern side of the house.

Once inside, hidden doorways lead to the existing two bedrooms—one of which has been restored to honour the original house. A lightwell draws you towards a convoluted entry as the central courtyard is revealed. At its core sits a Japanese maple tree, emblematic of the spiritual and aesthetic energy of the house, yet it is the sensory experiences of the courtyard that best exemplify the actualisation of the clients’ vision: the sound of bamboo in the breeze; the trickling of running water; the temporal experience as light trickles through the battens.

Interview: Nick Harding of Ha Architecture.

"One of the biggest lessons we have learnt since starting the practice is that you can be the best designer, but if you cannot convince a client to be on board with your design direction you have nothing..."

Off the courtyard sits an onsen with its own private garden, connecting it to nature. Ha Architecture added an openable gate to allow for either a secluded bathing experience or, to leave it open and enjoy a view of the courtyard.

Operable timber screens and cladding provide relief to the heavy materials of the existing house—and allow the inhabitants to adjust to changing light and climatic conditions. Beyond the courtyard, a dramatic new double-height pavilion serves as the house’s main living area. The south yard has been minimised, and now serves as a backdrop to the living spaces. Throughout the house, framed views of a sequence of garden spaces only add to the tranquil ambience.

Distilled down to its most earnest and functional construction, Courtyard House benefits from the clients’ investment in design for longevity. Reflecting their travel history and personal philosophy, it is a harmonious and peaceful refuge—nestled discreetly amidst the leafy streets of Hawthorn.

Courtyard House in Glebe by Joe Agius / Cox Architecture.

This terrace house has been reconfigured referencing the Moroccan Riad principles to create a home around a central garden. All interior space begin to blur with the courtyard which takes on a dual role...

[Images courtesy of Ha Architecture. Photography by Tom Ross.]