Cydelia House
Cydelia House
Two heritage terraces
We designed the interiors of Cydelia House for the Cybec Foundation, in consultation with the University of Melbourne, which manages the buildings. The project refurbished two adjoining terraces within the heritage-listed Drummond Terrace in Carlton as accommodation for postgraduate scholarship students, many of whom are refugees, young mothers and Indigenous students.
Bedrooms and tutor accommodation
The terraces now hold 20 bedrooms, 16 with ensuites, some with kitchenettes, and accommodation for live-in tutors. The bedrooms are spatially generous, with natural light and ventilation. New services and sprinklers run throughout, concealed within the heritage fabric.
Old and new fabric
The terraces were dilapidated but structurally sound, and the remnants of their finishes shaped the interior response. We worked closely with Heritage Victoria so that new work reads as distinct from the old. Rendered walls and existing timber floors remain. Blackbutt timber portals frame new wall openings, and terrazzo tiles line the new kitchen. Saturated hues against cool white walls set the tone. Automated new windows and upgraded IT and security systems sit within the design.
Shared living spaces
The shared kitchen, dining and living areas sit between the two terraces and overlook a landscaped outdoor space with decking, vegetable planters and enclosed bike facilities. The dining area is an infill that connects the two formerly separate terraces. Exposed internal brickwork and mechanically operated clerestory windows bring light and ventilation deep into the plan.
