Currently listed by Kay and Burton is 54 Mary Street in Hawthorn, which is part of the wonderful Grace Park precinct. The land size is very good at just under 1400m2 and the block has excellent width.

Originally constructed in 1910, this was likely designed by architect Christopher Cowper, who did so many fine homes in this area. The great thing about this architect was that he had a fine skill in making houses appear older than what they were - using slate for roofing for example.

This house oozes class. The formal rooms are clearly the highlight, with grand proportions, classic detailing and beautiful outlooks onto tranquil northern gardens. Street presence is very special here and symbolic of the Queen Anne style, which had very interesting roof forms and articulated facades. Where the house falls down, however, is to the rear where there is a series of small rooms, and a modern kitchen / informal living / dining area is much needed. Bathrooms are small and the master bedroom deserves so much more in terms of amenity.

My concept would involve reinstating many original rooms in the front part of the house back to bedrooms and retaining the sitting and dining areas. From here, a modern wing would be created along the eastern rear side, which would be very modern internally but, externally, would be very much in keeping with the original house. While you could extend up, I believe a single level is the way to go, as this would not affect the appearance of the original street facade and keeps the house more accessible to more people, particularly the elderly. A single-level home also has the advantage of casting smaller shadows into the rear yard and provides opportunity for roof glazing, which is particularly important for south-facing rear homes such as this one.

There will be a lot of blood, sweat and tears to bring this home into a style for modern families, but this century-old beauty will then once again be a tremendous Grace Park home.

Design smart.