get to Know Eliza Blair Architecture…
At Eliza Blair Architecture, we specialise in renovations and new homes. Each project is unique because it's tailor-made for you. First and foremost, architecture is about you, not us. That's why we love to find design opportunities that emerge from your values and lifestyle. The design of your home is driven from the unique characteristics of your site, the way you live (or would like to live) and the context of your existing home and neighbourhood.
We work in a collaborative way, taking the time to get to know you and your needs before putting pen to paper (or, put mouse to mousepad, as is more common these days). Renovating can be a daunting proposition. Eliza works closely with you, providing a one-on-one, personalised service so you feel supported and in control through the whole process.
We also draw on the expertise of other professionals, so you can be sure to get it right. We gain a lot of inspiration by working collaboratively with talented interior designers, landscapers, builders and consultants so that you get the best team possible for your project.
Rather than be seduced by fads, fashions and what's trending on Pinterest, we think about how the spaces in your house will work now and in the future. We will propose materials and finishes that suit the design concept and the budget and will stand the test of time. All of our designs are also energy-efficient and environmentally considerate, because other than costing you less to run and maintain, an energy-efficient home is a comfortable home.
Whatever your design challenge, we'll take the time to get to know you and your needs. We'll consider the opportunities with your existing home and understand your lifestyle (or your desired lifestyle) to design a home that suits you. The whole time we ask the question, 'is there a better way to do this?' to ensure you get the best outcomes and end up with a home you love.
Meet Eliza…
BArch (Hons), The University of Melbourne
Architects Registration Board of Victoria (ARBV) Registration Number: 17131
Eliza is a registered architect with over 18 years of experience in some of Australia and the world's most respected practices, Denton Corker Marshall and HASSELL. It was working in smaller practices prior to this which ignited her passion for residential architecture and allowed her to experience the full spectrum of the architectural process. In 2016, Eliza established EBA, taking all that she had learnt over the years to create something of her own, much like the process you’re about to embark on.
Eliza is involved with each and every EBA project, from inception through to completion. She loves to work one-on-one with you and help you design your dream home.
With kids of her own, Eliza understands the chaos of family life and how good design can bring a sense of calm to the everyday. That’s why she believes investing in quality of space rather than quantity of space is the best way to create a home that works for you and your family and will stand the test of time, no matter what phase in life you are at. Your home is probably your largest investment and definitely the place you’ll spend most of your time, so be sure to invest wisely.
Ballarat Barn is a barn-like addition to a beautiful heritage home. With three children who are quickly growing up, the clients realised the way they live is changing and wanted to create a new space that could help them spend more time outdoors in their generous backyard. Accordingly, the design acts like a pavilion attached to the original home, with a light-filled open plan space opening onto the backyard.
At Ballarat Barn it’s all about the backyard and, in particular, an exisiting Silver Birch tree. We were asked to design the house around the tree, so that’s exactly what we did! The addition has a full-width wall of glazing to capture views of the backyard and that special tree. The textural asphalt shingles has the quality of bark, paying homage to the beautiful tree and distinguishing the addition from the original weatherboard home.
The roof of the addition has a steep, barn-like pitch which is revealed inside and lined with beautiful timber to create a grand volume for this special living area.
Even in the coldest Ballarat winters this home will stay warm, with a heated concrete slab and double glazing to keep the chill and out and inside toasty. In warmer months, the doors slide open to help family life spill outdoors.
In the original part of the home, which had previously been restored, the lounge room will become the new main bedroom plus a smaller space for the kids.
Throughout, a neutral palette of naturally beautiful materials will draw the eye to the greenery outdoors and create a durable and timeless backdrop as the family grow.
This home will transform the way the owners live, helping them to achieve more enjoyment from their backyard, that special tree and the simple joys of family life.