ioa studio converts 150 year old pub into eclectic residence in melbourne

australian architecture firm ioa studio has converted the 150-year-old kings arms hotel in north melbourne into hoa’s house, a three-bedroom residence with plenty of storage spaces and nooks for the owner’s extensive collection of furniture and objects. characterized by curved surfaces and an eclectic selection of materials and colors, the project demonstrates an inventive way of dividing up the awkward, tiny plan of the old pub into a three-story warm, cozy home.

all images by tom ross

ioa studio has transformed the existing building, which had already been converted into a two-level office space when the melbourne-based architects took over, adding a whole new level into the existing roof of the old pub by removing the ceiling lining and structure. the studio has managed to create a sense of openness by forming a double height space with the newly added mezzanine, which hosts a third bedroom and small study.

characterized by their tactility and contrast to the roughness of the existing walls, materials throughout the house include seagrass, used to line the ceiling and floors of the upper level, curved blackbutt panels, found on the roof ceiling, a large velvet curtain that can close off the living area, and terrazzo details on the kitchen and bathroom. the playful interiors are finished with the owner’s collection of mid century furniture and accessories, displayed in the various small nooks and hidden spaces of the house.

project info:

name: hoa’s house

architect: ioa studio

in collaboration with: miles ritzmann-williams

built by: macca

location: north melbourne, australia