Kellett House
by BQ Architects

BQ Architects have reimagined suburban living in the heart of Northcote with a refined and thoughtful residential redevelopment. Designed in response to a bold and highly considered brief, the project brings together spatial clarity, simplicity, and a deep understanding of contemporary suburban life. Collaborating closely with one of Melbourne’s leading real estate agents, the team gained valuable insights into the evolving expectations of today’s purchasers, resulting in a residence that balances form, functionality and enduring market appeal.

The site’s rare dual frontage allowed BQ Architects to create pedestrian and vehicular access from both front and rear, improving liveability and long-term functionality. The single-storey layout includes four bedrooms, two spacious living areas, a dedicated study and expansive open-plan living anchored by a generous kitchen and butler’s pantry. Full-height glazing connects the interiors to a landscaped garden and a rear retreat or garage, accessed via the secondary frontage.

One of the defining features of the home is its dramatic 4.5-metre rear living volume, carefully concealed behind a modest façade. From the street, the architecture presents a humble, single-storey profile with standard 2.7-metre ceilings, aligning with the neighbouring homes and maintaining a low visual impact. Internally, the design gradually reveals itself through a long, processional corridor leading to the light-filled central space.