Access was one of the defining challenges throughout construction. With a one-way street to the front and rear laneway access, deliveries, structural steel installation and concrete pours had to be carefully sequenced around a single access point.

Extensive structural steelwork allowed generous open living spaces to be created within the narrow footprint while maintaining the integrity of neighbouring properties and considering potential future development along the adjoining boundary.

The original suspended timber floor was removed and replaced with a new insulated concrete slab incorporating hydronic heating, significantly improving the performance and comfort of the existing home.

The Victorian frontage was retained and restored, allowing the house to maintain its original presence within the streetscape while accommodating a contemporary family home behind it.

A floating steel staircase creates a strong visual connection between levels, while bespoke joinery, intricate mosaic tiling, concealed lighting and carefully detailed screening bring refinement throughout the interior.

Each element was designed to maximise space and privacy without compromising the openness of the home.

A central courtyard brings natural light and openness into the middle of the narrow site, connecting the internal spaces with the outdoors.

At the rear, a commissioned artwork spanning the garage door and wall gives the home a distinct identity within the laneway while contributing to the character of its inner-city setting.

Designed by Fang Studio, Berkeley House transforms a narrow Victorian terrace into a contemporary family home that makes the most of every square metre.

From the street, it still reads as a traditional terrace. Inside, courtyard light, generous ceiling heights and the floating staircase completely change the sense of scale — creating a home that feels generous despite the limitations of its footprint.