Moorhouse Street

Moorhouse Street
© Pier Carthew
Moorhouse Street
© Pier Carthew

MOORHOUSE STREET

James Harbard Architects

BUILDERS
Gracelewin Construction, James Grace, Sam Lewin

PLANNER
Lucas Paterno

LEAD ARCHITECTS
James Harbard

STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING
Clive Steel Partners, Ian Flanders

PLANNERS
Urps

PHOTOGRAPHS
pier Carthew

AREA
120 M²

YEAR
2023

LOCATION
Richmond, Australia

CATEGORY
Houses, Renovation

Moorhouse is a veiled house on a public lane that holds stories and surprises within its walls.

Moorhouse Street
© Pier Carthew
Moorhouse Street
© Pier Carthew
Moorhouse Street
© Pier Carthew

Despite its small size, measuring only 4.5 meters wide, this Victorian terrace has been lovingly restored and transformed into a peaceful retreat on a modest budget.

The house boasts a facade adorned with movable white timber batten screens, providing privacy and shielding the interior from prying eyes and the harsh rays of the Western sun.

Depending on the day, it can appear as a kind of soft fortress, or a series of fluttering screens revealing glimpses of quiet lives unfolding inside.

Moorhouse Street
© Pier Carthew
Moorhouse Street
© Pier Carthew
Moorhouse Street
© Pier Carthew

Fluted glass windows line the laneway, giving subtle peeks into the world beyond while blurring the relationship between public and private.

Step inside, and you'll be greeted by a gentle, soft pink ambiance.

The muted pastel shades of the joinery emit warmth and create an atmosphere that feels far removed from the hustle and bustle of nearby Hoddle Street or the crowds of football fans making their way home.

Moorhouse Street
© Pier Carthew
Moorhouse Street
© Pier Carthew
Moorhouse Street
© Pier Carthew

Despite its narrow layout, the house defies expectations with clever spatial planning, making the most of every inch. 

Strategic placement of services and abundant natural light create an illusion of openness and spaciousness that surpasses its physical limitations.

Storage is highly considered. Integrated cabinets, hidden nooks, and multi-functional furniture conceal belongings, keeping the space tidy and free from distractions.

Moorhouse Street
© Pier Carthew
Moorhouse Street
© Pier Carthew
Moorhouse Street
© Pier Carthew

Every corner has a purpose, ensuring that everything finds its place and the house remains organized and spacious.

The blue stone courtyard outside echoes the charm of the laneway, serving as a bridge to the bustling world beyond. It's a reminder of the vibrant life just outside the house's peaceful sanctuary.

Moorhouse Street
© Pier Carthew


Moorhouse Street
© Pier Carthew
Moorhouse Street
© Pier Carthew
Moorhouse Street
© Pier Carthew


Moorhouse Street
Plan - Ground Floor
Moorhouse Street
Plan - 1st Floor
Moorhouse Street
Plan - Site


Moorhouse Street
Elevations
Moorhouse Street
Elevations


Moorhouse Street
Section
Moorhouse Street
Section