Their immediate vision was to create a multi-use art and craft centre with amenities and separate office on the ground floor, a renovated dwelling on the first floor and an extended rooftop terrace above.

The owners also wanted to ‘future-proof’ the building for flexible use over time with the ability to subdivide between levels. Aside from solving plan layout to foresee possible circulation scenarios, building technicalities such as fire, acoustics and services were critical components to address to achieve performance and compliance. This was especially challenging with an old building.

The ground floor commercial works were separated from the upper floor residential works, which required planning approval. This prioritised operation of the business, removing the risk of delays, typically faced during the planning process.

The Victorian character and charm of the original building was reflected internally throughout the ground floor with decorative timber mouldings and features, alongside bold surface colour and texture for a contemporary feel. The shopfront within the decorating verandah was sympathetically restored with new hand-glazed subway tiles and powdercoated window frames. The art and craft centre is simply called ‘Alice’s’ in homage to the former shop.

“My partner and I purchased a Victorian double storey property in a heritage area needing much love and updating and very fortunately engaged Thy Tran.  The property was classified as having "significant heritage importance" and required diligent attention to comply with the many regulations. Thy not only navigated thru the enormous restrictions, she was able to design a superb considerable renovation that brought the property into twenty first century whilst retaining its heritage beauty.”

- Alice’s on Rathdowne Client