Discover a Radiant Multi-Purpose Space in Melbourne
Nestled in the garden of a Melbourne home, the Laneway Studio, known as the Melbourne Lantern Studio, by Australian architecture firm Olaver features a striking facade of glass blocks framed by recycled white brick and a concrete band beam. This two-storey addition is not just visually captivating; it caters to a family’s growing needs by providing an innovative alternative to traditional home expansion.
An Adaptable Living Experience in the Lantern Studio
This unique space shines during the day, reflecting sunlight off its glass blocks, and transforms into a glowing beacon at night. It combines a study and guest room with an en-suite and terrace on the upper level, and an open-plan living space downstairs equipped with concealed laundry and bar areas.
Positioned behind the main house, the Laneway Studio integrates seamlessly with its surroundings. Landscape architect Penny Starr reimagined the garden to include a pool and lush foliage, and large glass sliding doors connect indoor and outdoor living areas, offering a harmonious transition.
Expansive Design Beyond Size
Olaver employed oak and steel-clad sliding doors to connect the studio’s ground floor with the surrounding garden and laneway. Emlyn Olaver, the firm’s director, stated that the open-plan design makes the space feel more expansive, allowing the family to enjoy a continuous flow between the home, garden, and this radiant addition.
Inside the Lantern Studio, the minimalist design is anchored by neutral terrazzo flooring and oak cabinetry, which disguises storage and utility areas while framing a central bar. This studio design ensures flexibility, adapting to the changing needs of the family as children grow and circumstances evolve.
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Innovative Solutions to Constraints
The east-facing wall on the first floor employs a glass-block facade above a band beam to navigate planning restrictions, admitting soft light without sacrificing privacy. At night, the studio emits a gentle glow, earning its “lantern-like” descriptor.
The first floor also offers a study and guest bedroom with an en-suite, utilizing red tiling and panelling for a cohesive design. The foldable bed is concealed within oak joinery, adding to the multifunctional nature of the space.
Olaver’s project illustrates an innovative solution to expanding family homes without intruding on outdoor space. This project, instead of the typical backyard extension, maintains the garden’s integrity while enhancing the site’s utility and charm with modern architecture.
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This project exemplifies how thoughtful design can introduce flexibility and density in residential architecture. Recent projects like the Camber Sands studio made from waste materials, and a green-tiled studio in a London garden, also highlight this trend on Dezeen.
Source: dezeen.com
Frequently asked questions
What inspired the design of the Melbourne Lantern Studio?
The Melbourne Lantern Studio was inspired by a combination of glass blocks framed by recycled white brick, creating a lantern-like appearance that glows at night.
What features does the Lantern Studio offer?
The Lantern Studio includes a study and guest room with an en-suite and terrace upstairs, while the downstairs features an open-plan living space with a concealed laundry and bar areas.
How does the studio integrate with the garden?
Large glass sliding doors connect the indoor and outdoor living areas, offering a seamless transition between the studio and the garden reimagined by landscape architect Penny Starr.
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