Vanessa Fong Revives a Long and Narrow Victorian House

How local architect Vanessa Fong defied tradition and brought light into long and narrow Victorian

While heritage homes have a charm only time can develop, light-filled interiors are not often a key feature of these coveted buildings of the past. Tasked with reviving the soul of a long and narrow Victorian home, Vanessa Fong Architect proposed a complete reshuffling of the interior spaces (built by Mazenga). The design not only aimed to modernize but also to infuse the home with a sense of openness and light, converting the existing kitchen into a minimal and bright living area. This transformation embraces the home’s history while creating a fresh, functional space for contemporary living.

Natural light pours in through a 32.5-square-metre window, transforming this narrow home into a bright, airy space.

Blue-sky views were introduced via a 32.5-square-metre window within a new double-height space, allowing soft northern light to gently illuminate the living space and counteract the “bowling-alley” nature of this 100-year-old home. The expansive window creates a dynamic visual connection between the interior and the outdoors, providing a sense of openness that was previously lacking in the narrow layout. This clever design feature not only brightens the home but also brings a feeling of serenity and spaciousness.

The light well seamlessly unites the second storey with the first, offering both levels visual access to two decks and the expansive outdoor space beyond. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors on the ground floor create a fluid transition between the indoors and outdoors, perfect for enjoying the fresh air. A simple coat of white paint further enhances the natural light, ensuring the space remains inviting and warm even on the cloudiest of days. VF-A.COM