Located on a long narrow site in Clifton Hill, this project expands on an already grand Victorian terrace, responding to the slope of the site by incorporating a series of gentle internal and external level changes in the new extension. The result is a succession of spacious and light-filled living areas at ground level, and an expansion of the existing dark and damp subfloor spaces to create a new large rumpus room and feature wine cellar.

Existing spaces in the original front part of the house have been largely retained, refreshed by new internal finishes and light fittings. A new generous kitchen and dining at the rear are separated from a sunken living room by a double-sided wood fireplace and hearth, whose white stacked brickwork provides a solid visual anchor for the surrounding spaces. The palette of pale oak timbers and warm grey tiles and stone keeps these south-facing spaces bright, with contrast provided by natural walnut veneer joinery and black steel-framed windows and doors.

Photography: Tatjana Plitt

Client Testimonial:

“Anthony & Brett designed us an attractive and functional new home that well exceeded our expectations. They made the most of our block and we just love our new home, it’s spaciousness & use of natural light. Chan Architecture’s service is professional, attentive, responsive & efficient. We felt supported during the building process and would highly recommend Chan Architecture!”

The Elms is a boutique development of 5 apartments located on a quiet, tree-lined street in the bayside suburb of Brighton, Melbourne. 

The architecture of the Elms was inspired by the beautiful Elm trees which line both sides of the street providing an ever changing streetscape with colour and texture.  The large leaves of the Elm trees are oval in shape with distinctive veins, both of which have been referred to in the façade patterning of the two large architectural elements on either side of the front entrance.

A variety of materials were chosen for the façade to complement and reference the streetscape colours and textures, including cypress pine fencing, textured white brickwork, spotted gum linings on the eaves and hand-crafted metal cladding on the walls.

The organic, curved concrete patterning on the external façade of the building continues into the lobby area with timber battens on the walls backed by a bronze-coloured glass.  This is complemented by a wall of sheer curtains, timber stairs and natural stone floor tiles which add balance and softness into the space. 

Each apartment has been designed to be spacious and stylish, each with access to natural light and direct views to the street trees from their main living spaces.  Each space has been carefully designed with functionality in mind, complemented by a combination of natural timber, marble, natural stone and glass.  Brass highlight elements including custom curved finger recesses, solid brass shelves and custom, locally designed light fittings add individuality and personality to each apartment.

Located on a long and sloping site along the Mornington Peninsula, the McCrae Bush house is a dwelling that was inspired by its unique surrounding context of native bushland and the close proximity of Port Phillip Bay. Located on the highest point of the site towards the rear so as to take advantage of the water and treetop views, the curved driveway approach to the building was carefully considered in the design of the building form which begins with the house appearing to nestle within the bush context then gradually becoming more dramatic and angular as one as one gets closer.

The elevated angular form of the building was driven by the client’s brief of wanting to be able experience the site from an elevated positing amongst the treetops as well as being able to have a double height living space with a mezzanine library/sitting area above. External windows were precisely located to frame specific views of the surrounding bushland the water views from the kitchen, dining and outdoor terrace.

Recycled red ironbark was chosen as the external wall cladding which has been designed to weather to a natural silver finish, so as to blend in with the colours of the native bushland. External materials, walls and windows were also carefully selected and located to ensure bushfire attack level compliance and durability considering the close proximity of saltwater.

The dwelling can be divided into three zones – the entrance and meditation room on the ground floor, the main living spaces upstairs on the first floor to the north and the bedrooms to the rear. The main living areas were located on the first floor to take advantage of the elevated water views and outlook into the surrounding bushland, whereas the bedrooms were located to the rear for greater privacy. The meditation room downstairs was to be a quiet, contemplative space away from the rest of the house with its’ own self-contained accommodation for visiting Zen masters to stay overnight.

Sustainability was also an important principle of this project as well, from the extensive use of recycled materials and natural finishes with low chemical content, to optimal orientation to capture the sun, high performance glazing and utilization of natural ventilation throughout to minimise the amount of heating and cooling needed throughout the year.

Located on a relatively deep site in the inner city suburb of Northcote, the aim of this project was to renovate and restore a double fronted Victorian terrace house and provide a new spacious, light-filled modern rear and upstairs extension to the rear.

To achieve this, the existing building footprint was used to accommodate the master bedroom, two bathrooms, gym and home office, while a new pantry, laundry and hallway were added. The new open kitchen, dining and living area was created to the rear, leading to a feature steel and glass staircase that takes you to the first floor. Here, there are three additional bedrooms, a shared family bathroom and a teenage retreat.

Large stacker sliding doors open up to the backyard which includes an undercover dining area, a new swimming pool and a four-car garage. The interiors were designed with a subtle palette of materials that add warmth and texture to each space while balancing the clean lines and high ceilings. The focus was on dark natural timbers, marble finishes and neutral colours.

Situated on a prime beachfront corner site, this project encompasses the development of two upscale townhouses in Altona. Designed to embrace the stunning views of Port Phillip Bay, the front residence features elevated living spaces facing the ocean views, alongside ancillary areas branching off from a central double-height circulation zone with an adjacent north facing courtyard.  This circulation zone serves as a focal point, guiding access to the upper-level bedrooms, bathrooms, and a children’s retreat.  The upstairs master bedroom that captures the panoramic view of the ocean, serves as a standout feature. 

Internally, a material palette comprising charcoal-coloured engineered timber floors, warm grey stone, dark timber veneer joinery and sleek black furnishings give the spaces a modern sophisticated feel.  Each bathroom is appointed with luxurious finishes including a marble feature wall, oversized porcelain tiles, dark timber veneers and contrasting long black tiles, complemented by strategically placed skylights that bring in natural light.

Externally, the facade balances clean modern lines with an interplay of textures including metal, concrete, timber and perforated white bricks, lending depth and visual interest to the composition. Curved glass windows soften the facade and frame picturesque views from the living areas.

Set on a generous former farmland block in suburban Balwyn, the Kenny Street House draws inspiration from its rural past. Its barn-like form and central siting recall the original homestead, reimagined here as a bold, contemporary family home that feels both grounded and sculptural in its suburban context.

Designed around passive solar principles, the home maximises natural light and thermal comfort year-round. A soaring, double-height living space anchors the plan, connecting to a north-facing courtyard and overlooked by a mezzanine retreat. The layout offers both shared family zones and quiet pockets of privacy, tailored to the rhythms of everyday life.

Sustainability is embedded in the architecture—from a roof pitch optimised for solar panels to thermal mass concrete floors and cross-ventilation via operable skylights. Externally robust with metal cladding and drystone walls, the house softens internally with timber curves and refined textures, striking a careful balance between performance and beauty.

Client Testimonial:

"Massive thank you to Anthony and his team at Chan architecture who played an integral part in our new home project. Throughout the whole process, Anthony's team was attentive to every detail, patient with all our requests and we now have a beautifully designed, unique, sustainable and most importantly high quality home for life. Anthony guided us through the whole process from personalised detailed design through to trustworthy builder selection and project management. Thank you Anthony and Bowen for all your hard work, invaluable advice, and professionalism. I recommend Chan architect unreservedly to anyone who is thinking of building "

- Kong Way and Maylin Lee

Set within a heritage precinct in Hawthorn East, this renovation and extension transforms a double-fronted Victorian terrace into a light-filled, contemporary family home. The original front rooms were carefully restored and repurposed as a master suite, home office and guest bedroom, with updated finishes and fixtures that breathe new life into the period architecture.

To the north-facing rear, a new open-plan kitchen, dining and living area connects effortlessly to the landscaped backyard through expansive sliding doors. A soft palette of pale oak, warm greys, textured stone and subtle blue accents brings a calm, refined warmth to the interiors. At the heart of the home, a central courtyard and steel-framed glass staircase create a dramatic lightwell, linking both levels and leading to two upper bedrooms, bathrooms and a kids’ retreat.

Externally, the rear façade contrasts clean cement-sheet cladding and handmade pressed bricks, framed by sculptural curves in the garden. Sustainability was a key focus, with passive design strategies, high-performance insulation, double-glazed PVC windows, and a heat recovery system contributing to a low-energy, high-comfort home tailored for modern family living.

Client Testimonial:

“Working with Chan Architecture on the extension and renovation of our period-style house was an absolute pleasure. From the outset, Anthony and Mitch embraced our vision and worked collaboratively to bring it to life. They brought their own ideas but also embraced ours, working as a team to bring together a design that was thermally efficient at the same time as being aesthetically pleasing and functional as a family house. The end result exceeded our expectations - a seamless blend of modern design with the charm of the original architecture. We couldn't be happier with the outcome.

Thank you, Chan Architecture for your expertise and dedication to delivering such a fantastic end product. Highly recommended!”

-Elsa Green

Situated on a heritage-graded street in Hawthorn East, this project seamlessly blends the enduring charm of a double-fronted Victorian terrace with contemporary design to create a multi-generational family home.

The original front section of the house has been carefully preserved, repurposed as three bedrooms, a study, and two bathrooms. Beyond the historic facade, a modern extension reveals a spacious open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area - designed as the central hub for family gatherings. A glazed hallway wraps around the new swimming pool, guiding you to a rear structure that houses a self-contained residence for elderly parents, a double garage, and a staircase leading to a dedicated children’s retreat.

A key design challenge was to bring natural light into the south-facing rear living spaces. This was achieved by integrating two internal courtyards, a large kitchen skylight, and a butterfly roof form with north-facing highlight windows, ensuring a bright, inviting environment throughout the year.

The interior design features a palette of natural blackbutt flooring, dark timber-veneered joinery, and large-format porcelain benchtops, with timber battens and mirrors adding layers of texture and visual interest.

In line with a strong commitment to sustainability, the project incorporates passive design principles to reduce energy consumption and minimize its carbon footprint. Key sustainable features include highly insulated double-glazed windows, extensive thermal insulation in walls and roofs, and high-performance building wraps to limit air leakage. The result is a home that remains comfortable year-round with minimal energy requirements.

Client Testimonial:

“We first met with Anthony to discuss our initial ideas regarding what we needed and wanted to achieve in our “renovator’s delight” Victorian house. It was important to us to have home that would accommodate multiple generations including growing teens / young adults and the option for an older parent to live with us.

We knew straight away that Anthony was the architect for us. From our first meeting Anthony listened to us, and we immediately felt a sense of calm which is absolutely what is required throughout a significant design and build process. At that early stage, we knew Anthony understood us.

Throughout the process there was amazing collaboration with Anthony and Meyvin. Our ideas and suggestions were listened to and worked into the design and build process. No question or suggestion was too silly or dismissed. Anthony and Meyvin project managed the build for us, and it was clear to see they had a great, positive relationships with our builder and their trades.

We’ve been in our home for over a year now and we’ve experienced how Chan Architecture’s design and final product work so well in the rough and tumble of family life. Without a doubt there is nothing we would change.

Anthony, we trusted you and Meyvin to help us polish an uncut stone on a south facing block and to design a light, bright, welcoming family home that was modern and would stand the test of time and use by our family, extended family and friends. What we received was treasure trove of wonderful spaces for all of us – the light, feel and sense of place you’ve created is truly amazing.

We love coming home! We are so thankful to Anthony and his team for helping us to realise this amazing gift for our family.
We would highly recommend Anthony and Chan Architecture to help you find your own treasure.”

- Cathy Tan

The Boundary Street House is a striking, new house on a small, irregular site in Port Melbourne.  The project is unique in its context, situated on the border between commercial, industrial and residential areas and so provided an opportunity for a distinctive design.

The conceptual framework of the project was to draw inspiration from the industrial warehouse building type, and rework it to suit a residential brief.   Strong, angular lines were used on the façade in conjunction with brickwork /that was hand recycled from a demolished warehouse.

The façade was then ‘peeled open’ via the use of perforated mesh exposing the steel structure underneath.  This created varying levels of transparency and privacy whilst allowing natural light into the entrance area.  Black sheet metal cladding completed the façade which made reference to the industrial aesthetic in the area whilst also providing contrast and texture.

The double height entrance area forms the spine of the house, connecting the main living spaces downstairs with the sleeping areas upstairs.  This circulation area is filled with light throughout the day, with the combination of the perforated mesh screening and timber balustrade creating constantly changing light effects on the interior.

The client’s brief was for three bedrooms, two bathrooms and flexible open-planned living spaces.  Our response was to thoroughly understand the needs of the client and how they use each space, so that each space could be customised and detailed specifically to the their needs.

Due to the passive design principles employed in the design, the house is comfortable all year round, only requiring minimal heating and cooling.  In addition the downstairs living spaces wrap around a north facing internal courtyard, providing natural light and ventilation to the main living spaces and the double height entry area allows for hot air to be flushed out of the house during summer.    

Client Testimonial:

“Anthony and team are friendly, responsive and professional. We have an odd shaped block and had a long list of requirements! Anthony and the team did a fantastic job getting the most of our block, taking into consideration our budget. We’ve been in our home for a while now and love living in our beautiful space. We get comments all the time about the creative design and optimal use of space. Thanks Anthony and team!!”

- Deanna Nixayathirath & Steve Leong

Located on a small residential site in the bayside suburb of Middle Park, this project sought to renovate and restore a single fronted Victorian terrace house as well as provide additional accommodation to the rear. Due to the heritage status of the existing building this prompted us to design the new works to minimise it’s visibility from the front by setting the rear extension well back from the street.

Our approach was to retain the front hallway and two bedrooms which then leads into the new living, dining and kitchen area at the rear which can be opened up to the courtyard to the rear. By designing the main family space with high ceilings and spanning the full width of the site, the sense of space in this room is unexpected and striking. The white metal feature stairs takes you to the first floor which houses the master bedroom, ensuite and parent’s retreat.

Due to the small site size, every element of the design had to be well considered and customised to suit the clients’ needs to be both functional and beautiful at the same time. A durable, tactile palette of materials of metal and timber add warmth and texture to the external façade whilst internally the selection of materials and fixtures add character and individuality to each space.

Interior Design by Doherty Design Studio

Photography by Dave Kulesza

Client Testimonial:

“Anthony and the team at Chan Architecture worked tirelessly to design and oversee the build of our home. It was even harder doing this during a pandemic but he made it all as stress free as possible. Now we are in we are loving our new home! Thank you Anthony and your whole team.”

-Lauren Jackson

This project was a rear and upstairs extension to a double fronted Victorian terrace house in Hawthorn East. The brief was to retain the character of the period home at the front of the house and design a spacious, light-filled modern extension to the rear.

Our response was to introduce a series of large skylights, light courts and highlight windows to bring natural light into the house, creating changing qualities of light throughout the day.

The kitchen was designed to be at the heart of the home, with an oversized feature island bench, subtle textures and fine black shadow lines to compliment the steel framed doors and large skylight over which allows natural light into the kitchen at all times of the day.

The living room was designed to be a more intimate space, with finely detailed steel framed doors which open the room out to the backyard, increasing the sense of space and providing flexibility depending on the weather and the social situation.

The rear external form features an upper façade of vertical timber battens which provide visual warmth, balance and fine detailing to the rear elevation as well as provide privacy to the upstairs master bedroom.

Situated on an elevated, sloping site in Glen Iris, this project involved expanding a 1920s Art Deco residence encompassing the addition of a new kitchen, dining area, living space, three extra bedrooms, a home office, three fresh bathrooms, and a garage and laundry to the rear.

Existing spaces and period details in the original front part of the house were retained, with the front living room repurposed as a master bedroom, walk in robe and ensuite with a new powder room and stairs worked into the existing building footprint.

A new light-filled spacious kitchen, dining and living room was added to the rear, running along the south side of the block so as to maximise the opportunity for north facing windows. The south side of the room was punctuated by a long skylight to allow natural light into the south side of the room.

Externally, the extension presents itself as a dark-toned, contemporary structure with clean lines, contrasting with the Art Deco style of the original dwelling. Dark grey vertical blades provide visual interest and architectural expression whilst offering privacy for the first floor bedrooms.

Internally a material palette featuring black cabinetry, warm timber veneers, and natural marble was carefully selected to create a striking contrast with the white-limed engineered flooring. Each bathroom was adorned with beautifully crafted handmade feature tiles, adding a touch of uniqueness and individuality to the interiors.

Photography: Tatjana Plitt

Client Testimonial:

“We couldn't be happier with the work of Chan Architecture on our home renovation/extension project. Anthony and his team are great communicators and were always very responsive to our feedback. They made sure we were fully informed and comfortable at all stages of the journey.

The team did a great job with the design which fully realised all the key aspects that we really wanted in our new home. We retained /enhanced the features of the original home that we loved while the extension gave us the space and modernity that we wanted for our family. They also project managed the build stage and we greatly appreciated them taking care of the challenges that occurred along the way.

We would highly recommend Anthony and the team for any architectural project.”

- Connie and Tom Sankey

This project is a new residence located on a generous site in Toorak. The spatial brief called for the home to be divided into three distinct zones. The main house was designed to include the primary living and dining spaces, an enclosed kitchen with a walk-in pantry, and an upstairs master suite complete with a private sitting area.

Connected to this was the children's wing, comprising five bedrooms—each with its own ensuite—leading through to a self-contained two-bedroom dwelling at the rear.

The third component is a standalone structure housing a four-car garage, along with accommodation for the driver and housekeeper, including two bedrooms and a combined living and kitchen area.

Beyond the spatial requirements, the client sought a home that offered a range of atmospheres to suit different occasions—from a dramatic double-height void at the entrance to more intimate, cosy spaces ideal for smaller gatherings. All of these elements were designed to wrap around a large central landscaped courtyard, bringing natural light deep into the home and creating a strong connection to the outdoors.

Gable House is a contemporary two-storey residence located on a compact, narrow site in Hawthorn East. Designed to respond to the constraints of its urban setting while maximising natural light and spatial flow, the home features a crisp front façade composed of hand-made brickwork, timber cladding, and refined metal detailing. This carefully curated material palette expresses a modern architectural language that is both understated and enduring.

At the heart of the home lies an open-plan kitchen, dining and living area, oriented to the north to take full advantage of solar access and garden views. Large sliding stacker doors create a seamless connection to the backyard, extending the living space outdoors and enhancing the experience of light and openness. The interior palette is deliberately restrained, with warm white joinery, pale oak flooring and soft, textured stone surfaces contributing to a sense of calm, cohesion and tactile warmth throughout.

Despite its modest footprint, Gable House delivers a spacious and functional family home through considered spatial planning and a strong connection to the outdoors. The project reflects Chan Architecture’s ongoing commitment to finely crafted residential architecture, where light, materiality and functionality are thoughtfully balanced to enhance everyday living. The result is a timeless and inviting home that responds sensitively to its site and context.

Located on a long and narrow site in the bayside suburb of Middle Park, this project sought to renovate and restore a single fronted Victorian terrace and provide a spacious, light filled modern extension to the rear. Due to the heritage grading of the existing building and its’ streetscape, the new works were designed to minimise it’s visibility from the front by setting the rear extension well back from the street.

Our approach was to retain the front hallway and two bedrooms which leads to a central feature stair and light court that brings natural light and a sense of space to the centre of the site. This leads into the new kitchen, dining and living area at the rear which can be opened up via steel bi-fold doors to the courtyard at the rear. By designing the main family space with high ceilings, skylights and spanning the full width of the site, the sense of space and light in this room is unexpected from such a narrow site.

The central feature stairs takes you to the first floor, which houses the master bedroom, WIR and ensuite, plus an additional bedroom and shared family bathroom. To the rear of the site there is a double garage with a self-contained studio above which also acts as a double-height vertical garden which creates a unique backdrop to the rear courtyard.

A subtle, tactile palette of materials were chosen for the interiors to add warmth and texture to each space with an emphasis on natural timbers and neutral colours, punctuated with black highlights such as pendant lights, finger recesses and shelving items.

Concealed behind a front wall made of handcrafted bricks, the front façade of the house sits long and low on the block, a clean and modern form with sharp detailing and a palette of exposed steel, concrete-lined walls and timber battens.

As you step through the front entrance the ceiling dramatically angles towards the east, allowing natural sunlight to illuminate the main living and kitchen areas. These spaces seamlessly connect to the internal courtyard through stacker sliding doors, providing both a spacious recreational area and a source of natural light, ventilation, and a green outlook for the main living space.

Moving towards the rear is a home office with a direct view into a workshop dedicated to BMW rally cars – a life-long passion of the clients. This well-equipped workshop can house up to four BMWs and boasts a double-height space with two vehicular car hoists.

Inside, the interiors have been thoughtfully designed to provide each space with warmth and texture while maintaining clean lines with high ceilings. The materials included dark-stained timbers, natural marble stone, and a palette of neutral colours.

Photography: Tatjana Plitt

Client Testimonial:

“What a pleasure having Chan Architecture design our new home. Anthony very quickly grasped the concept and style of what we were looking for, and paid particular attention to our specific requirements. With Brett Hudson they fleshed out the details and we now have a beautiful home that is full of light, has excellent proportion of the spaces, and is so easy to live in. Their process from concept drawings to construction drawings was seamless. Highly recommended !!”

- Bill and Sue Cutler

This project was a modern rear extension to a New-England style home characterised by a high pitched slate roof, dormer windows and red clinker brickwork. The brief was to renovate and repurpose the existing rooms and façade and to add a new open planned kitchen/dining/living room and master bedroom at the rear as well as create a better connection to the backyard.

The main challenge of this project was how to add new modern spaces to the existing house whilst maintaining the charm and character of the original period home. This was done by incorporating architectural elements into both new and old parts of the house, such as steel framed doors and windows, herringbone timber flooring and soft window furnishings.

The new rear extension runs along the south side of the block, allowing access to northern light to all the main living and dining spaces. Large, full height sliding doors run the length of the extension on the northern side of the extension, blurring the lines between inside and outside, giving the impression of one large space.

One of the defining features of this project was the use of in-situ concrete for the internal and external seats, the water feature and the mitred, cantilevered kitchen island bench. This compliments the industrial feel of the steel framed windows, whilst adding subtle variances in colour and texture.

Client Testimonial:

“We engaged Chan Architecture for our house renovation and extension, we are really happy with the final outcome and would like to recommend them to whoever needs architectural service.”

- Dawei Ding

Dale Street House is a bold reimagining of a 1960s mid-century modern home, known for its bluestone walls, flat rooflines and exposed beams. While the original structure had undeniable charm, it lacked natural light, connection between spaces, and the room needed for a growing family. Our clients wanted to preserve its character—while completely transforming how it lived.

Our design introduced a new open-plan living area that flows into a covered alfresco and integrated pool, creating a strong indoor-outdoor connection. A dramatic double-height void links the two levels, bringing in light and volume. Upstairs, three new bedrooms with ensuites and a retreat offer elevated views and privacy, while downstairs was reconfigured to better suit family life.

At the heart of the home is a sculptural 5.6-metre Calacatta marble island bench, paired with custom timber joinery and a refined material palette of stone, timber, and marble. Carefully balancing old and new, the design retains the bluestone walls as a defining feature—creating a warm, timeless family home that honours its past while embracing the present.

Client Testimonial:

“After an extensive search for an architecture firm for our “forever home” renovation project, we found Chan Architecture and could not be happier with the choice. From the first meeting with Anthony, to the final handover meeting, Anthony and Mitch were professional, attentive and extremely supportive, helping us navigate our first build process.

Their designs were absolutely beautiful, perfectly capturing our vision and enhancing it in ways we hadn't even imagined. The design layout and configuration enabled us to keep the essence of the original property while also ensuring it would meet our needs and desires for our forever home.

The team at Chan Architecture was incredibly collaborative, going above and beyond to ensure our satisfaction. They were always on hand to provide advice and assist with selections, often reworking them until we were completely happy. Their organised project management and keen attention to detail made the entire process smooth and stress-free. What truly stood out to us was their unwavering commitment to our project. We never felt that anything we wanted was too hard for them or that they were unwilling to help. Their dedication and willingness to go the extra mile made us feel valued and assured that our project was in the best hands.

We highly recommend Chan Architecture for anyone seeking a team that is not only skilled and creative but also truly invested in bringing your dream project to life.”

-Emily Tay

Renovating a semi-detached, single fronted Edwardian terrace house always poses a unique set of challenges.  The sites are often long and narrow with a shared party wall on one side and an existing house which can be over 100 years old.  The main challenge is always how to create modern, flexible, light-filled spaces with limited site access and a tight budget.

With the Brunswick Rd house, we designed the extension to be built to boundary on both sides with high ceilings, light internal materials and strategically placed skylights to bring the light in from above.  We also designed the cabinetry to be customised to the client’s needs so that everything had a place and how each space was to be used was carefully considered.  The kitchen and dining areas also completely open up to the backyard, extending the feeling of space to the north.

The external view from the backyard was designed to showcase the clean, rectilinear lines of the first floor extension with fine perimeter detailing, and the vertical batten cladding providing visual depth and transparency to the façade.  The steel box around the window provides shelter, shading and privacy to the upstairs windows.

The materials were carefully chosen to provide texture and variety to give each element and room its' own individuality, in particular with the selection of flooring, wall tiles and joinery finishes.

Client Testimonial:

“Couldn’t recommend more. Superb design, easy to work with, access to trusted, quality builders. We did a major construction with Anthony and team and the results were spectacular. The design was well thought out. Interacted with us professionally and took on all our ideas. Managed the project efficiently and to budget.”

- Tom Novak

Located on a relatively narrow, sloping site in Kew, the Molesworth Street House is a bold renovation and extension of a freestanding Edwardian home. Surrounded by established trees and close neighbours, the design had to balance privacy with openness. The brief was clear: create a striking, modern family home with clean lines and light-filled spaces.

At the heart of the home, the extended central hallway leads past a sculptural stair and wine wall into an open-plan living zone. North-facing bi-fold doors connect the kitchen, dining and living area to a tiered backyard, while a custom counterweighted split-fold window in the living room opens to an in-situ concrete bench with uninterrupted garden views. The upper level includes three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a retreat, cleverly screened by pivoting angled blades that provide privacy, shade and a dynamic, ever-changing façade.

Inside, the palette is warm, tactile and understated—smoky grey floors, timber veneers and in-situ concrete bring a sense of grounded elegance. Every material and detail was selected to enhance light, texture and liveability—resulting in a home that is both sculptural and serene.

Client Testimonial:

“We could not recommend Anthony and the team at Chan Architecture more highly. Finding an architect to help you design your dream home is not easy but from the first meeting we knew that Anthony and his team were the right choice. They listened to what we wanted and incorporated their own flair to design us something very special. One thing that really stood out to us was their attention to detail throughout the process which you can clearly see in the build. Thanks Anthony and team for our amazing home.”

Designing two townhouses on a typical quarter-acre block presents a unique challenge: each dwelling must feel spacious, private, and distinct—while together reading as a cohesive whole within the suburban streetscape. This project balances both by staggering the rooflines and setting the first floors back from the boundaries to reduce overshadowing and enhance light access throughout the day.

Each townhouse is tailored for modern living, with a downstairs master suite, two separate living zones, and a bright, open-plan kitchen. Full-height stacker doors open onto private gardens, blurring the line between indoors and out, while skylights and highlight windows bring sunlight deep into the interiors. Ample storage, low-maintenance materials, and secure access make them ideal for downsizers or families with older children.

Externally, a refined palette of metal cladding and aluminium battens conceals services and creates clean, contemporary lines. Internally, warm textures, curated finishes, and subtle material contrasts give each space its own personality, proving that compact living can still feel generous, elegant, and uniquely crafted.

Photography: Tatjana Plitt

Client Testimonial:

"We followed Anthony Chan's architectural career for 7 years prior to engaging him as our architect three years ago. From an architectural perspective we had been impressed with the other similar type products that he had undertaken for clients.

The decision as to which architectural firm one chooses is an important one.

For us it was not just based on a perceived creative ability, but finding a firm that we could trust and that would respect and help us achieve our wishes. After three years working hand in glove with Anthony and his team they have certainly ticked all those boxes.

We found that over the three years we have not just benefitted from Chan's creative expertise, but his considerable commercial experience and astute judgement. All of which has at various time been important to us with our dual townhouse development.

Chan has mustered together a hand picked team. We have found great confidence in working with Rick Meachem. An accomplished architect with considerable expertise. A tireless professional.

Chan Architecture have enabled us to create two contemporary townhouses with a distinct WOW factor. Chan from the outset was intent upon helping us create something special with a distinct contemporary character. Having concluded the project, this has materialised as we frequently experience cars stopping outside our townhouses in awe at their design and appeal.

A feature of working with Chan architecture is that they listened.

Furthermore they afforded us scope to include what we wanted in our new home.

We have been in our home for four weeks and it is a dream come true thanks to Chan Architecture."

- Jenny & Charles Kneale

This project is an artist's studio in the backyard of an existing house in Thornbury, which was done in collaboration with Phillip Johnson Landscaping.  The brief was to create a beautifully detailed, creative space for painting and sculpturing that would encourage and inspire creativity.   The studio was to sit comfortably within an organic landscape design which included a 'natural' pool that did not require any chemicals, a waterfall and creek, which was to provide a recreational space for the children.

The external materials chosen for the studio were all natural materials with an emphasis on timber that would silver over time, making it blend in with the timbers, water and rocks of the landscape.  Internally, the blackbutt flooring and plywood were used on the floors, walls and ceiling not only as a robust surface for artwork, but to blur the traditional boundaries of floors, walls and ceiling so that it did not feel like a conventional residential space.  Instead, the result is a unique, sculptured space that is warm and textured, designed for indirect light ideal for painting and sculpture.

The roof of the studio was used to warm the water of the pool in the colder months, whilst the water from the roof ran down the decorative rainchain into the pool to replace the water that was lost through evaporation.  The overflow of the pool was connected to a creek that run through the backyard, connecting the different areas of the landscape.

This project was a rear and upstairs extension to a heritage listed Queen Anne/Federation home in Hawthorn. The brief was to renovate, extend and rearrange existing rooms whilst retaining the character and charm of the original period house.

The main challenge of this project was working within a framework of the existing 100 year old structure whilst adding new, modern, light-filled spaces including a new kitchen, dining and living room, three new bathrooms and an additional storey which also contained three extra bedrooms and a retreat.

In this project there are many examples of how the new spaces have been inserted into the original period fabric and how the careful balance is found between new and old. This is done by respecting the original details and geometries and making subtle references throughout through the selection of colours, textures and detailing.

In order to make the first floor extension appear sympathetic with the original period house, a tiled pitched roof design was incorporated into the design which also gave us the opportunity to create a unique, complex plastered ceiling to the first floor. The geometry of this first floor ceiling and its’ subsequent play of light is one of the defining features of this project.

Client Testimonial:

“We have just finished our renovation and Anthony has been fantastic. He is personable and has great ideas, which are easy to visualise with the amazing renders he produced. He helped us negotiate the tricky permit approval process in a heritage area, and oversaw the whole building process. The builder he recommended was excellent. We had friends recommend using a drafts person to produce drawings or project manage ourselves to save on costs, but I must say that using Chan Architecture has been very worthwhile and adds so much more to the whole process.”

- Sharon Lee

Located on a typical quarter-acre site in the leafy suburb of Malvern East, this project sought to renovate and restore a double fronted Edwardian residence as well as provide additional accommodation to the rear.

Our approach was to retain the front hallway and front four bedrooms, converting one bedroom into a master walk in robe/ensuite and the other into a sitting room/library. The new addition included two additional bedrooms, the main bathroom, powder and hallway which lead into the new modern kitchen, dining, living area at the rear. By locating the main family space lengthways along the south sound of the block with high ceilings and full height north-facing windows, the expression of light and space is particularly striking.

Internally a material palette of exposed brick, natural timbers and stone adds warmth and character to the main living spaces.

We are spending so much more time at home because of the lockdown and we are absolutely delighted to find our home is such a beautiful sanctuary to be in. We love it so much. It is a calm, serene, and functional space for every member of the family to work, study, and enjoy.

Client Testimonial:

“We are spending so much more time at home because of the lockdown and we are absolutely delighted to find our home is such a beautiful sanctuary to be in. We love it so much. It is a calm, serene, and functional space for every member of the family to work, study, and enjoy.”

- Kate Barnett

This project was a renovation and extension to a single fronted, double storey Victorian terrace house in South Melbourne.  The existing house was long and narrow, and consisted of a series of dark, dilapidated rooms planned in a linear configuration.  In addition, the site had numerous challenges, with limited access, 100-year-old two storey brick walls on both long boundaries and a site that sloped away to the rear.

 The brief was to create a striking, modern extension with light filled open spaces whilst reconstructing the period house at the front.

We started by locating all the wet areas – bathrooms and laundries in the centre of the house, with access to internal courtyards which also allowed light into the kitchen and bedrooms via a series of skylights and light shafts.  This allowed the main living spaces to open up to the rear, allowing light and natural ventilation through the house.

 The client also wanted to create a house that had its’ own identity and personality which viewed from the rear courtyard.  So we custom-designed a laser-cut metal screening device at the rear that makes reference to the period iron lacework at the front of the house.  So whilst it is made of metal and has a lace-like appearance, it also appears very light and provides varying levels of transparency.  It also provides privacy to the upstairs bedrooms and creates interesting shadows through the day.

Internally, the open stairs connect the three levels up to a large roof deck, which provides additional open space for the clients to enjoy.  It also provides a thermal chimney effect to minimise the need for mechanical cooling.

This renovation and extension in Kew transforms a c1930s single-storey Art Deco brick home, originally characterized by a central kitchen and a series of small, dark rooms leading to an uninviting backyard.

Embracing the home’s original charm while unlocking its full potential, our design reconfigures the front rooms into spacious bedrooms and introduces a contemporary rear addition. Featuring high ceilings, expansive north-facing glazing, and a seamless indoor-outdoor connection, the new space is bright, open, and perfectly suited to modern living.

Client Testimonial:

“We are currently working with Chan Architecture on our second project. Obviously, as a return customer we have been more than happy with their design process, attention to detail and most importantly the finished product. We could not have been more happy with our house designed by Chan Architecture. Our meetings were something that we looked forward to as Anthony and Brett listened to what we wanted and came back to us each week with new concepts until together we found the one that suited our family best. Our second time around, we have been reminded how easy the process is working with Anthony and his team. Their ability to design something we never could never imagine with the use of new materials, renders as well as incorporating light and features into the home is amazing. Both homes have had heritage overlays and have successfully mixed the old and new design details of the homes. Anthony and the company are fabulous to work with and we do not hesitate in recommending them.”

- Tracey and Mat Wescott

Renovating this single-fronted Victorian terrace in inner Melbourne meant tackling the usual challenges—narrow site, poor planning, dark interiors, and a patchwork of outdated additions. The brief was clear: retain the charm of the original two front bedrooms and create a light-filled, modern extension with two additional bedrooms, two bathrooms, a laundry, and generous open-plan living connected to the garden.

The design inserts a timber-lined services core—containing the bathroom, laundry, and staircase—between old and new, creating a clear transition while maximising light through north-facing courtyards. The open-plan living, dining, and kitchen areas flow effortlessly to the backyard through full-height stacker doors, bringing in winter sunlight and cross-ventilation to enhance comfort year-round.

Upstairs, the new bedrooms and ensuite are carefully positioned to preserve neighbour privacy and introduce skylights that draw light deep into the home. A rich mix of materials—textured tiles, soft timbers, and curated finishes—adds warmth and character, giving each space a distinct, inviting atmosphere.

Interior Designer: Studio Doherty
Photgrapher: Folded Bird Photography

Client Testimonial:

"Anthony is an exceptional architect. He designed our renovation last year in Prahran and it is totally amazing. So much light, great use of space and so many cupboards, it's like a dream!

He worked extremely well with our Interior Designer, Mardi Doherty of Doherty Design Studio. The house is magazine quality and is going in a magazine this year.

Anthony has a very calming personality, and nothing is too difficult. His attention to detail is unbelievable, and his project management skills are second to none. The builders said he had the most detailed, comprehensive drawings they'd ever seen.

We would recommend him to anyone."

- Natalie Doherty

Renovating and extending a typical Victorian terrace always poses a unique set of challenges.  The blocks are often long and narrow, with a symmetrical arrangement of period-style bedrooms at the front of the house divided by a central corridor, leading out to a small lean-to structure that was typically constructed in the 1960s and 70s.  This creates a house that has the 'nice' part of the house at the front, whereas the rear living spaces are often small, dark, cramped and often awkwardly planned.

So the main challenges with any extension such as this are firstly how to seamlessly transition from the old part of the house to the new, and how to create a sense of spaciousness and light in the new living spaces, whilst sill respecting the original building.

Our approach was to firstly separate the new and the old via the insertion of a black timber-lined box, containing the two bathrooms on both sides accessed via hidden doors.  This created a clear visual break between the new and the old, as well as create a sense of drama when one walks through the dark corridor with the lowered ceiling into the new light-filled living space.

The new living area opens up towards the garden, via a raked ceiling and fully openable stacker doors to allow the backyard to be part of the house, allow sunlight to penetrate into the living spaces in the winter months, and allow for natural ventilation to run through the entire house.

Whilst the living, dining and kitchen areas are part of the same area, they have been defined by the pendant light fittings, furniture and soft floor furnishings.

The material palette was carefully chosen to provide softness and warmth to the clean lines of the design, by using natural materials such as plywood on the ceiling, the sheer linen curtains and the blackbutt flooring.  At the same time the detailing was carefully considered via concealed pelmets for furnishings and lighting, concealed fixings of ceiling linings, flooring and joinery, and minimal use of handles so as to not distract from the form and expression of the design. 

From a sustainability perspective, passive design principles were adopted throughout, including shaded double glazed windows to the north preventing heat in the summer and allowing sunlight in the winter, large openable windows on opposite ends of the house for natural ventilation, recycling water from the roof and laundry, solar panels to generate power and extensive insulation and sealing to prevent heat loss.   This all combines to create a dwelling that requires almost no artificial heating or cooling.

This renovation of a double-fronted Edwardian home in Abbotsford involved a bold rear and first-floor extension on a tight, west-facing inner-city block. With numerous site challenges—including a diagonal easement, large existing trees, poor soil, and tricky access—we embraced the constraints to craft a highly considered and creative architectural response.

Curved forms, both in plan and elevation, reference the traditional bull-nosed verandahs of Edwardian homes while introducing a sense of fluidity and movement. The green rear façade draws inspiration from the surrounding Eucalyptus trees, providing a fresh, nature-inspired contrast.

Internally, varied ceiling heights, clerestory windows, and an internal courtyard work together to bring natural light deep into the home, creating bright, open living spaces that feel calm and connected to the outdoors.

Client Testimonial:

“Simone and I want to formally thank you for our beautiful home. Since moving back "home" we have had numerous visitors to our house and they have all commented on how fantastic the design is. Unexpectedly numerous tradesmen completing the final touches have taken the time to make positive comments. But most importantly our family is happy and enjoying the final result.

When we had our first meeting with you over two years ago our aspirations were naive. We wanted the best parts of our Edwardian house retained- the large front rooms and the high ceilings. Crucially we wanted a modern house to meet the needs of our young family for the next 20 years. One of main reasons that we chose to engage you at that meeting was that we felt you "got it". You listened and were open to our needs and idea. Throughout the next two years that calm, patient and responsive approach was repeatedly demonstrated.

The Sketch Design, Design Development and Town Planning phase is now a distant memory but it was at this stage your organisation and attention to detail became apparent. At this stage it seemed that almost no idea or request from us was too hard or unreasonable. We felt very reassured that we were able to explore a variety of concepts to arrive at what is now a pleasurable house to live in.

Your advice and support in choosing the fittings, finishes and materials made this process so much easier. You gave us the knowledge and resources to make informed decisions. When tendering your efforts in seeking a builder to work within our budget constraints ensured that the final design became a construction project.

It is hard to believe that I considered doing the contract administration myself. Miriam and your ability to work with the builder has saved our sanity! I had no idea how complex joining an 80 year old house to a new extension and liaising with so many trades could be. Whenever a friend asked: "How is your renovation is going?" I replied: "I don't know what I would do without Chan Architecture."

At our site meetings I was regularly impressed at your ability to work with the builder to solve problems as they arose. I was worried about cost blowouts but amazingly cost variations were kept to less than 3% of the total budget. I think key to managing all of this was the high level of accurate documentation and organisation. As I now know you minimised the builder queries and decisions required from us. The clear phone, email and personal communication minimised much of the stress for us. It seemed that at any time I could call with a query and either Miriam or yourself would patiently answer.

All the organisation, good communication and attention to detail would be pointless if the final product wasn't what we wanted. After just a few weeks of living at home we are enjoying the creative ways you introduced natural light in our house. We love the way the old and new join together. The rooms flow together so that home is a pleasure to be in. The spectacular upstairs extension provides exactly the quiet parents retreat we desired. Your guidance of finishes means the internal looks calm and subdued.
Whilst the external is already a pleasurable talking point in Abbotsford.

I could go on but suffice to say we anticipate will still be enjoying the design and efforts of Anthony and Miriam and be for grateful for the services of Chan Architecture. We would be pleased to discuss any queries from prospective clients and if it is helpful show them the finished product."

- Daniel and Simone Quinn

Original 1920s Californian Bungalows often have the same layouts – a fairly square layout with the formal rooms on one side, bedrooms on the other, and the kitchen in the middle.  However this also comes with a number drawbacks – a dark, small kitchen, no flow from front to back, a small living room and very little connection to the backyard.  The challenge with this renovation/extension to this home in Hawthorn East was to open up the middle of the house to bring light and space into the central kitchen, allow for better circulation from the entrance and to connect the living spaces with the backyard.

This was done by removing a number of internal walls and opening up the central kitchen space, which also allowed circulation past the kitchen rather than through it.  This leads to a new, larger dining and living space which open to an expansive outdoor terrace via fine steel framed doors.

The outdoor terrace is protected from the elements by a white pergola structure which creates reflected light into the living spaces.  The extension then connects to the backyard via a series of platform landings connected by floating steps.

Sustainable materials were carefully chosen to provide individuality to each space via subtle textures and colours and to create different moods throughout the house.

The result is a beautifully crafted house that creates light, liveable and modern spaces that also respects the character of the original period home.

This early 1900s Queen-Anne Style brick home in a quiet heritage pocket of Hawthorn has been reimagined as a contemporary family residence that balances period charm with modern sophistication. The original structure—complete with leadlight windows, intricate cornices, and decorative fretwork—has been carefully preserved and forms the foundation for a seamless architectural journey from old to new.

A wide verandah leads into a light-filled entry and formal living space, where high ceilings and refined detailing create a sense of calm. Towards the rear, the home opens into a striking modern extension—anchored by a marble island bench and state-of-the-art kitchen.

The spatial planning is both functional and luxurious: a master suite with walk-in robe and ensuite sits alongside a trio of generously sized bedrooms and a beautifully appointed family bathroom. The result is a thoughtful fusion of heritage character and contemporary living, perfectly suited to the needs of a growing family.

This project involved renovating and extending a californian bungalow in Canterbury, Melbourne.  The existing house was a collection of a number of small rooms with little practical or visual connection, including a formal dining, formal living room and a small central kitchen leading to a add-on sunroom at the back.  The challenge was to create a central family room area that linked all the rooms together, bringing light and space into the house.  This family room was to incorporate a new kitchen, dining and living room all connected via an open stair.

The approach was to carve out the family room from the existing house and extend it towards the rear of the house.  This incorporated a double height void, which allowed light into the centre of the house as well as the first floor hallway, thereby linking the family room with the bedrooms upstairs.  This void had openable skylights at the top which also allowed hot air to be expelled out through the middle of the house. 

 The extension also incorporates a semi-basement level, exterior deck and an inground swimming pool to the rear.  Linking all three levels is an open, central staircase that allows direct access to all the spaces and also adds an architectural feature to the space.

There were also numerous site constraints, including a steeply sloping site, sandy soil conditions and an existing house in original condition from the 1930s.

There was a strong emphasis on sustainability in this project, incorporating passive solar principles, natural ventilation, PVC double glazed windows, solar PV panels, solar hot water and solar pool heating.  All australian native hardwoods were also used in the project, including spotted gum flooring and victorian ash handrails and timber screens.

This project is a rear and upstairs extension to a single fronted Victorian terrace in Port Melbourne.  The brief was for three bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms and an open spaced family room with high ceilings.

Our response was to lower the level of the existing house by two steps to create additional height through the ground floor.  The main steel structure was also exposed, along with the existing red brick wall along the west to create an industrial warehouse aesthetic.

Light was brought into the ground floor via a light court behind the kitchen and long skylights in the living room.

Externally, the rear façade was inspired by the different textures and transparencies of period stained glass windows, with different panels with varying sizes and levels of texture.

Located in Brighton, this project involved a thoughtful ground floor renovation and a striking first-floor extension to an existing 1980s home. The aim was to retain the character of the original dwelling while reworking its layout to better suit the needs of a growing young family.

Key changes on the ground floor included relocating the laundry, upgrading bathrooms, enlarging the previously cramped kitchen, and introducing a light well with a feature staircase to bring light deep into the home. These updates modernised the spaces while improving functionality and flow.

Above, the bold new upper level added two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a study, all within a clean, cantilevered box form that makes a confident architectural statement. Angled western shutters provide privacy, shade, and filtered light to the master bedroom—balancing outlook, solar control, and neighbourly respect in one elegant move.

Client Testimonial:

"It is now two months since we moved back "home" and we wanted to let you know how happy we are with the way in which everything has turned out.

We remember very well that first briefing meeting at our house when we discussed the needs of our growing family and what we were hoping to achieve with our renovation. It was a great meeting and we really liked the way that you listened carefully to our thoughts and were prepared to start bouncing some interesting ideas around with us. It gave us a very good insight into you and how you thought as well as what it would be like to work with you on what was a very personal and important project for us.

We knew then that we had chosen the right architect.

This experience was echoed through the creative, detailed design and building processes. You continued to listen to and respond to our needs while not being afraid to keep on stretching our thinking well beyond what we might have initially thought possible.

This was followed up by rigorous attention to detail by you and Mei to make sure that all of the materials, finishes, fixtures and fittings and integrated works were just right and by your ongoing commitment to quality right to the very end of the project, continuing to work with the builder and other professionals to make sure that a successful, stress-free outcome was achieved.

The end result is that we have a new home that not only looks beautiful on the outside but which flows and works exceptionally well on the inside. In a few words, it's smart, modern, edgy, fun, warm, easy, comfortable and welcoming. What else would you want from a house?

We love our new home and couldn't be happier with the experience that we enjoyed working with you and Mei to create it.”

- Danny Dale & Catriona Larritt

This project was a substantial renovation/extension to a dark, single level 1960s brick villa with low ceilings.  The brief was to add three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a library, new kitchen and an underground wine cellar.

Our response was to create a central double height space in the centre of the house over the main living room which all the new areas would radiate from.  This created the feeling of spaciousness and light throughout the house throughout the year.

This renovation and rear extension in Hawthorn East transforms a disconnected 1920s double-brick English Cottage-style home into a light-filled, open-plan residence tailored for modern family living. The original series of closed-off rooms made way for a central living, dining, and kitchen space that embraces northern light and opens directly to the pool and backyard.

The design involved propping up the existing first floor and inserting a bold, contemporary extension with high ceilings and expansive sliding doors. A dark timber-lined corridor marks the transition between old and new, creating a dramatic reveal into the spacious new addition.

The project also includes a new ground-floor master suite with ensuite and walk-in robe, two renovated upstairs bathrooms, and a roof deck that captures sweeping city views—seamlessly blending heritage charm with modern comfort and connection.

Client Testimonial:

"We engaged Chan Architecture from a recommendation of our friend who was a former client of Anthony Chan to design and project manage our extensive house renovation. We have an English Cottage styled house with many separate and disconnected rooms, as well as small bathrooms. We wanted a modern feel for the rear of the house by adopting an open concept and bringing the outside in.

We were based overseas and relied almost entirely on Anthony and Michelle to manage and oversee the entire project. We kept in close communication through emails, skype and phone calls and knew we could count on them to get the job done.

We are very impressed with the standard of professionalism displayed by Anthony and Michelle. They were able to take our vision for the house and execute it down to every little detail.

It was a dream come true to see our house transformed. Because of Anthony and Michelle’s hard work, we now have a smooth flow of traffic coming in from the entrance leading to the rear renovation in maximising the north facing aspect and view of the pool. We simply love our new open kitchen concept, informal dining and entertainment area.

The new downstairs bedroom en-suite and walk in wardrobe was well incorporated with the whole house and stylishly designed. Now, we have a balcony upstairs, taking full advantage of the beautiful city views to the west.

Thanks to Anthony, we now have a wonderfully designed home to unwind and relax. It was truly a pleasure to work with Anthony and his team and we strongly recommend him to anyone looking for a house transformation."

- Jordan & Doreen Ter

This project was the renovation of an existing 1960s brick veneer house in Caulfield.  The brief was to renovate the outside of the house to make it look more modern, add a new garage and entrance canopy.  The inside was to incorporate a new kitchen, two new bathrooms and a remove a series of walls to open up the main spaces of the house.

The external solution was to render the exterior of the house to make it look like off form concrete, add a garage with curved walls with timber batten cladding, and a ‘floating’ angular entrance canopy.  The internal spaces incorporate subtle curves to gently lead people into the various spaces, which have all been renovated and modernized.

This project was the demolition of an existing 1960s concrete housing commission home in Chadstone.  The brief was to create a family home that incorporated four bedrooms, three living spaces, 3.5 bathrooms, an open planned family room leading out to an outdoor deck, and a double lock up garage.

The main challenges of this project were to create generous living spaces, all with access to good natural light.  One of the ways this was done was with a central void with skylights above, that brought light into the centre of the house, the hallways and the rooms connecting to it.  It also created a double height void that can be used as a thermal chimney effect on hot days.

Client Testimonial:

"We would like to formally acknowledge the tremendous assistance that you and your team at Chan Architecture have provided us throughout the whole process of designing, building, and project managing our new home build.

From the very beginning we were impressed with your thoughtfulness and attention to detail and consideration of all our requirements. And this did not waiver, even throughout the respective one year design and one year build phase.

We are very grateful for your inspired vision! Together with the builder’s attention to detail this has given us a beautiful modern home that we will be able to enjoy with our family and friends for years to come. The gulf in comfort, sophistication and style between our old and new home could not have been greater!

You gave us the confidence and delivered an amazing result, and we cannot highly recommend enough your services and team to anyone looking to build a modern house, customised to meet their every requirement."”

- Trevor Giacometti

This project is a single storey rear extension to a single fronted Victorian terrace house in Hawthorn East. The brief was to maintain the first three bedrooms, add two bathrooms and a new light filled living space at the rear.

Our response was to locate the two bathrooms within a timber-lined ‘black box’ which provided visual separation between the old part of the house and new. The other challenge was how to bring in natural light into the main living spaces, which was done by angling the ceiling over the black boxes, allowing north light via highlight windows into the kitchen. The spaces were also punctuated by lower height windows which allowed for framed green views, which was balanced by the natural timbers and restrained colour palette.

The Cruikshank Street Residence is a two-storey rear extension to a period home in Port Melbourne, designed for a young and growing family. The brief called for a spacious open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a child-friendly backyard—creating a home that could evolve with the family over time.

The interiors reflect an urban industrial aesthetic, with polished concrete floors, black steel-framed windows, oversized pendant lighting, and layers of greenery throughout. Generous glazing and careful spatial planning flood the home with natural light, balancing the raw materials with warmth and livability.

Client Testimonial:

"We chose Chan architecture to project manage and design our new home after an interview process.

Anthony and his team worked very closely with us in designing, planning and building/renovating our home from start to finish. The time frames set were adhered to and we moved into our home within our contract time.

We found Anthony and his team extremely professional, easy going and great to work with. They listened to what our goals/needs were in our new home and what was important to us in the design and building process. They also guided us with all the exterior/interior aspects of fittings/costings which helped us stay within our budget and take alot of the stress out.

We would be very happy to use Chan Architecture again in the future if we ever needed too. We couldn't be happier with the end result, our home is everything we expected and fits our needs perfectly."

The Kew Artist’s Studio is a tranquil, light-filled retreat perched above a carport and nestled among the treetops in leafy Kew. Designed as a peaceful escape from the main house, the space serves both as a private painting studio and a gallery for showcasing the client’s artwork.

Conceived as a simple yet beautifully crafted volume, the studio balances restraint and elegance—creating a calm, contemplative environment that lets the artwork take centre stage. Every detail was considered to enhance natural light, connection to the surrounding landscape, and flexibility for both solitary creativity and small exhibitions.

Client Testimonial:

"We engaged Anthony Chan to build an artists studio away from the main house.

The design and documentation phase took about 4 months where Anthony discussed our requirement extensively and then came up with solutions and new ideas. Besides communicating with us, Anthony also worked well with the engineering firms, the many suppliers such as the kitchen cabinet representatives, the tile shop, and the window suppliers.

Anthony assisted us in finding a suitable builder and acted as our representative during the renovation phase to make sure that the project was completed as designed and specified, on time and within budget.

We are very pleased with the result and have no hesitation in recommending Anthony Chan to any prospective client."

Located on one of Melbourne’s most picturesque tree-lined avenues, the Victoria Avenue Residence in Canterbury transforms a modest single-storey home into a bold, contemporary family residence. The project involved the addition of a second storey featuring a new entry with a dramatic double-height void, an upstairs rumpus room, study, and a refined internal fitout to the rear.

A key design objective was to enhance the home’s street presence and move away from the dated mock-period aesthetic of the original house. The result is a confident, modern façade that sits comfortably within the streetscape while reflecting the needs and personality of a growing family.

Client Testimonial:

"Chan Architecture provided a full service from design through construction supervision with a renovation of a two level house to add a third level and a room extension on the bottom level. Anthony combined innovative and attractive design with practical building solutions that made the project affordable.

Prior to construction we moved overseas and Anthony and his staff provided effective communications on all the critical issues. He regularly e-mailed photographs to keep us up to date and with 3d drawing images we were able to provide effective input where required.

Site reports including cost management were sent monthly allowing us adequate project oversight. Importantly Anthony has worked diligently with the construction contractor ensuring timely and effective resolution of outstanding issues after construction completion.

We are delighted with the result which has enhanced the look, liveability and value of the house significantly."

The Mowbray Street Townhouses are a bespoke dual-occupancy development designed for multi-generational living—one home for a young family, the other for their parents next door. Each townhouse includes basement parking, a spacious main living zone, a secondary living area, four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a dedicated home theatre—offering comfort, privacy, and flexibility for modern family life.

Built on a sloping site, the design carefully resolves level changes while ensuring abundant natural light throughout all living spaces. From the street, the architecture strikes a deliberate balance—giving each residence a distinct identity while maintaining a cohesive overall form that respects the character of the neighbourhood.