In Port Melbourne, Australia, **
Blank Canvas Architects** have reimagined a historic workers cottage, House 184. The renovation brings a blend of Victorian charm and contemporary style to one of the neighborhood’s smallest homes. This creative transformation infuses the space with vibrant blue accents, color, natural light, and innovative design.
A heritage cottage revitalized with bright blue touches
The home’s striking facade retains its Victorian roots while embracing modern touches. The restored iron lacework and a fresh coat of paint ensure the cottage stands out, celebrating its history with a contemporary twist.
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Seamless living spaces
Stepping through the classic hallway, you find yourself in a bright, open-plan living space. This area seamlessly integrates the kitchen, dining, and living zones with blue highlights. Clever storage solutions maintain its minimalist elegance, making the extension appear larger than it is.

Art-led living room
The living room features a dynamic abstract painting that injects vitality into a predominantly white setting. Metallic pendant lights and oak finishes complement the room’s soothing palette, balancing modern elegance with comfortable style.

Expressive kitchen design
The kitchen’s soft blue cabinets draw attention. Paired with a striking Super White marble island, the space combines functionality with flair. Hidden appliances maintain the room’s seamless aesthetic, highlighted by bold blue accents.

Dining in style
In the dining area, vibrant artworks continue the home’s colorful theme. Hanging plants introduce texture and greenery, enhancing the dining space without intruding on floor area.



Outdoor-indoor harmony
Folding doors at the house’s rear transform the indoors by connecting seamlessly to a timber deck. This feature lets natural light and fresh air flow through the home, extending the living area outdoors.

Contemporary meets traditional
The backyard reveals the contrast between the original cottage and its contemporary extension. Instead of removing the 1990s gable roof, it becomes a pergola draped in greenery, with a clover-patterned balustrade mirroring the front facade’s iron lacework.

Bright and airy bathroom
Downstairs, a white bathroom maximizes its compact space with picket tiles, creating an illusion of size. The shower, with its window view of a tiny garden, brings a touch of nature indoors.



Light-filled bedroom retreat
Upstairs, the main bedroom opens to a balcony, inviting light and air. Louvre windows ensure ventilation without compromising privacy, enhancing the home’s livability.


Blue oasis in the bathroom with vivid touches
The upstairs bathroom uses blue picket tiles for a pop of color against marble finishes. A floating vanity and clever storage maintain a sleek, open atmosphere, enriched by these blue details.

By preserving historical integrity and introducing modern elements, House 184 by **Blank Canvas Architects** blends elegance with practicality, demonstrating the potential of small urban spaces.
Photography by **
Tatjana Plitt** | Builder: Matherson Construction Group | Joiner: J V Cabinet | Structural Engineer: Structural Bureau
Source: contemporist.com
Frequently asked questions
Who reimagined the Victorian workers cottage in Port Melbourne?
Blank Canvas Architects reimagined the historic workers cottage, House 184, blending Victorian charm with contemporary style.
How does the kitchen design blend function with flair?
The kitchen features soft blue cabinets paired with a striking Super White marble island, combining functionality with flair while hidden appliances maintain the room’s seamless aesthetic.
How does the house integrate indoor and outdoor spaces?
Folding doors at the rear of the house connect seamlessly to a timber deck, allowing natural light and fresh air to flow through and extend the living area outdoors.
