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Matthew James is an award-winning, boutique interior design studio for those who have vision, and trust in the creative process to deliver it. 

Construction ETA: Underway
Interior Design: Matthew James
Renderings: Matthew James
Architecture: Attic Building Design

Wilson House /
A Shift Through Time

Wilson House is a full home renovation and extension in Melbourne’s inner north, reworking a tired, outdated floorplan into a home that better reflects how a young family lives today.

The original home carried a quiet charm; a humble facade with a sense of history worth holding onto. Rather than replace it, the front rooms were retained and carefully reworked, setting up a transition that moves from traditional to contemporary as you move through the home.

The new extension shifts the focus entirely. Kitchen, living and dining are brought together in a generous, open-plan space that connects directly to the backyard, creating a light-filled core for everyday living and entertaining. The planning prioritises flow, natural light and a stronger relationship between inside and out.

Materially, the approach is calm and deliberate. Blonde timber joinery with bespoke detailing is paired with durable, stone-look surfaces; balancing budget with longevity. Straight lines are softened by subtle curves, giving the spaces a sense of refinement without feeling overworked.

Upstairs, the master suite introduces a more private retreat, complete with an expansive walk-in robe and elevated views across the surrounding suburb. The ensuite continues the restrained material palette, with microcement used selectively to add texture and depth without dominating the space.

The original portion of the home takes on a different tone. Here, the design works to bridge old and new, pairing handmade tiles with contemporary finishes to create a layered, transitional feel that respects the character of the existing structure.

Wilson house is ultimately about connection between past and present, architecture and interiors, and the evolving needs of a modern family.