Iron House — South Melbourne

NEW HOME

A contemporary family home that honours South Melbourne’s historic Iron House legacy.

Set on a compact 120 sqm block in South Melbourne’s iconic Emerald Hill precinct, Iron House defies its modest footprint to deliver a spacious, sustainable and striking family residence. The site, steeped in local history, once housed one of Melbourne’s original pre-fabricated ‘Iron Houses’ - structures shipped during the gold rush era that symbolised the city’s early expansion. While the original home is now preserved in a museum, this rare vacant parcel provided an opportunity to reimagine its legacy for contemporary family living.

The new residence draws inspiration from its predecessor, reflecting the simplicity and innovation of the original Iron House. Steel-framed windows, carefully selected iron detailing and a restrained material palette create a seamless dialogue between heritage and modernity. Rooted in authenticity, the design also reflects the clients’ rural upbringing in country Victoria, delivering a relaxed, enduring and sustainable home. Warm, tactile finishes, including sustainable timbers and natural marble, are complemented by high-performance features such as commercial-grade double-glazed tinted windows and advanced ventilation systems, ensuring comfort and environmental integrity for generations.

Despite the tight urban footprint, this tri-level reverse-living home maximises light and volume. The ground floor accommodates three generously sized bedrooms, a full laundry, mudroom and two luxurious bathrooms finished in timeless Carrara marble.

The first floor is devoted to family living and entertaining. A chef-grade kitchen with butler’s pantry, powder room, wine cellar and open fireplace with integrated wood storage anchor an expansive living area that flows seamlessly onto a balcony featuring a productive herb garden - all framed by breathtaking views of the Melbourne skyline.

Crowning the home is an exceptional rooftop retreat. Accessed via a bespoke glass hatch, the limestone rooftop patio offers uninterrupted vistas from the CBD to the Bolte and Westgate bridges. Designed for year-round enjoyment, this outdoor haven features a built-in kitchen, open wood-burning fireplace, dining and lounge areas, and even a fold-out movie screen - perfect for alfresco entertaining or family movie nights under the stars.

Iron House is a contemporary reinterpretation of a historic legacy, balancing heritage inspiration, sustainable design and modern family living in one of Melbourne’s most cherished inner-urban precincts.

Builder: Hemming & Nicoll

Photography: Tess Kelly

Completed: 2022

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