Arli Custom Case Study

Project Lumina, Melbourne

House size	318.69m²
Land size	287.58m²

Site	Heritage Extension
Completed	December 2024

Balancing the constraints of a heritage overlay and a compact urban site, our Melbourne project harmoniously fuses classic charm with modern elegance.

This thoughtfully designed extension preserves the home’s historic character while introducing contemporary living elements, creating a bespoke family space that complements its streetscape.

Nestled in Melbourne’s heritage precinct, Project Lumina seamlessly blends historic charm with contemporary sophistication. The renovation and extension of this heritage home retains its original facade while introducing luxurious interiors that harmonise heritage elegance with modern functionality.

In collaboration with DKO Architecture, we reimagined the client’s council-approved plans, refining the floorplan and designing bespoke interiors with carefully selected material palettes to enhance functionality and achieve a refined, timeless aesthetic.

Our team oversaw every aspect of the project—from design and town planning amendments to working drawings, engineering, demolition and construction—navigating the complexities of restricted site access.

The final design features expansive open-plan living, floor-to-ceiling windows, polished concrete floors, and a seamless integration of textures and finishes all in line with the clients budget.

This project reflects a balance of timeless sophistication and practical cost-efficiency, delivering a refined residence that honours its heritage while embracing contemporary living.

Challenges and innovative solutions

Constraints often shape the most considered outcomes. At Project Lumina, site and heritage challenges became catalysts for design innovation—refined through our integrated approach. If your project has stalled due to complexity, Arli can help bring it back into focus.

Design challenges and solutions

Limited access

The site presented logistical challenges with access restricted to the front door and narrow laneway at the rear of the property. Traffic management was required to facilitate manual deliveries and worker access on a tight, one-way street.

Utilising existing services

Accessing existing services such as stormwater, sewer, water, and gas required careful coordination. Entry to these services, located at the front of the property, was achieved through the subfloor of the existing premises, necessitating the removal of floorboards to complete the work.

Installation of structural steel

Due to the site’s constraints, crane use was not feasible for the installation of structural steel. Instead, specialised equipment was required to handle the weight and complexity of the structural members, ensuring precise installation within the confined space.

Key factors influencing higher costs

Polished concrete floors with hydronic heating
Polished concrete and engineered oak flooring
Natural stone finishes
Floor-to-ceiling double-glazed windows and doors
Customised joinery and fluted glass details
Extensive spans with cantilevered areas supported by large structural steel beams
Colorbond wall cladding and window shrouds
High site costs due to restricted access

Cost-saving strategies

Utilising Arli’s strong supplier relationships, we provided tailored and cost-effective solutions by thoughtfully replacing select premium materials with alternatives that maintained the desired aesthetic. These included using affordable natural stone and Laminex products instead of timber veneer. Structural elements were also redesigned to streamline construction and optimise overall costs.

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Arli Custom Case Study