Published - Mitchell Street Project - Lunchbox Architect

When Brodie from Lunchbox Architect contacted us to feature our Mitchell Street Dual Occupancy project we were thrilled - we love his ethos of featuring affordable, innovative residential projects and although he doesn't generally feature multi unit developments he agreed with us that this one is 'one out of the box'. You can read all about his thoughts on this spectacular build here - Article - A dual-occupancy project to stand out from the rest or read on below:

A Dual-occupancy Project to Stand Out From the Rest

When a builder came to Little Brick Studio to design a high-quality dual-occupancy in Mornington, they jumped at the chance. "We work so hard on our designs and can sometimes be disappointed if the project doesn't get built, or we lose touch when the client chooses a builder we don't know personally," explains Amy Hart from Little Brick Studio, "So, on a project like this where the client and builder are one, it’s wonderful to see our designs come to life as they should - sometimes even better!"

Mitchell Street Duplex project by Little Brick Studio

Raw red brick creates a bold entrance for each dwelling

The shine of the alucobond cladding contrasts with the raw texture of the brickwork

It's not often we feature dual-occupancy projects here on Lunchbox Architect and, to be honest, that's because they often don't meet the same levels of quality as this project; build to sell, not built for living. "While there are numerous duplex developments going on in the surrounding area," adds Amy, "much of it is stock standard, mirror image, pitched roof, conventional housing – a format we didn’t want to follow."

Reflections of the recycled brick in the entry mirror

The double height entry ensures a light filled passage, despite the duplex design

Little Brick Studio divided the generous block down the middle, creating enough space for two generous homes. One was to be a family home for the clients, the other for future sale so needed to be 'investor friendly' in both budget and style.

The split level design kept the build efficient so it flowed with the contours of the site, reducing the need for substantial excavation

The entry void is framed by the glass balustrade and feature pendant

A study nook at the top of the stairs provides a practical and efficient work space

"We wanted the dwellings to have a sense of individuality whilst maintaining a consistent design theme throughout the development", says Amy. Therefore, while they look similar from the outside, each home has its own unique style and character.

The cathedral ceiling in the living area provides a wonderful sense of space, despite the compact unit design

The neutral palate adds to the light, bright living and kitchen area

Subtle marble splash backs add some texture to the generous kitchen space

Using the orientation of the site, each dwelling was designed to capture the maximum north facing sunlight

The building designers ensured the two floor plans responded to the site, surrounds, existing vegetation and bay views in the distance. The ground floor of both homes steps down in the middle, to account for a slope over the site. By keeping the second level towards the front of the homes, the step helps to create more generous volumes in the living areas, without creating unnecessary height which would impact on the neighbours

The living space leads to an undercover terrace, the large sliding doors extending the space

Stunning Artwork by Anya Brock

The ply ceiling was an addition by the owner/builder - we loved the late addition!

The two homes break away from their party wall to create a light court next to the living areas, ensuring plenty of natural light in these important spaces in spite of a challenging orientation. The other benefit of keeping the bulk of the second story towards the front was the ability to create raked ceilings and highlight windows in the living areas for even more light.

Master Bedroom

Master Ensuite

Master Ensuite

Main bathroom

The upstairs terrace has distant views of Port Phillip Bay

Contrasts in texture, quality products left in their raw state and a considered plan which prioritises light have created two homes which stand out from the budget-driven duplex developments we're used to seeing. This project demonstrates the potential of this type of development to achieve budget requirements while also creating homes, not just for 'the market', but for living.

Mitchell Street Duplex project by Little Brick Studio