Renovation lifts architect Alastair MacCallum's Deakin home to new level

A thoughtful design has transformed a 1940s Deakin red brick into a modern family home.

Owner and architect Alastair MacCallum says he loves a refurbished house because it offers a sense of character. The original two-storey red brick home was set back from the street, leaving plenty of space at the front for extensions.

“There’s a new looking character to the house from the street, but we picked up on its original character at the back of the block,” Alastair says.

“The red brick work, weatherboard, masonry and details give the house a lot of character.”

The original house now has five bedrooms, while the newly created living areas progress from formal entertaining at the entrance to casual family spaces at the heart of the home.

Rooms have been designed to face due north and step down towards the street, creating interesting angles and high ceilings.

“There’s a courtyard in the middle of the home,” Alastair says. “It’s really private, quiet and gets fantastic sunshine. It’s got that lovely transparent feel.”

The upper level, now home to a parents’ retreat, captures magnificent views and features an en suite, walk-in wardrobe and private balcony.

Custom finishes and high-quality fixtures and fittings can be found throughout. The designer kitchen is a striking centrepiece opening onto the outside spaces.

Alastair, his wife Louise and their three children, Millie, Henry and Hannah, are moving to Sutton to embark on a similar project.

“It’s good fun,” Alistair says.

“When you refurbish a home you can repurpose it and give it a new lease on life.”

Auction: Saturday, June 3 at 11am, onsite. Inspect: Saturday, 11.30am-noon. Agent: Stephen Thompson and Lauren McDonald, LJ Hooker Manuka, 0466 724 039.