Nelson
by Hancock Architects

Nelson’s journey began with a collaboration between Hancock Architects and the new owners, who sought to honour the building’s heritage while creating a functional space for modern family living. Stripped of many of its original features over the years, the restoration focused on reinstating the architectural details and grandeur that once defined the property. Large room proportions were restored, and new opportunities to enhance the home’s innate beauty were uncovered during the construction process. Remnants of the building’s varied past, such as hidden children’s toys, added poignant reminders of its layered history.

A unique challenge arose from the loss of the home’s original front façade, now located at the rear due to previous land subdivisions. Hancock Architects addressed this by crafting a new entry portico to define the current primary façade, while carefully reinstating the original rear façade, creating a seamless blend of history and functionality.