HERITAGE RESTORATION
Finch Barton | Heritage Restoration & Modern Design
A Heritage Gem Reimagined
Finch Barton is a heritage-listed 1900s Federation-style home in North Adelaide. This residence carries history, charm, and character, and the brief was to honour all of it while creating a layout that works for modern living. Finch Constructions delivered the full internal renovation, working collaboratively with Messis Studio to bring their design vision into a beautifully crafted reality.
From the beginning, the vision was clear. Preserve the heritage significance of the home while introducing thoughtful, functional changes that make everyday living easier. This project became one of our favourites because it combines heritage restoration, modern design, and meaningful local craftsmanship.
Supporting Local Trades and Suppliers
A key priority for the clients was to support local trades and suppliers wherever possible. This philosophy shaped many of the material and design choices throughout the renovation. One standout example is the use of locally made handcrafted terracotta tiles from Bennetts Pottery in Magill, selected for their authenticity, quality, and connection to the South Australian community. This focus on local craftsmanship helped maintain the home’s character while investing back into the local economy.
A Thoughtful Transformation
The original floor plan had the narrow, separated layout typical of early 1900s cottages. Movement felt restricted, natural light was limited, and several key rooms no longer suited the clients’ needs. To improve functionality and flow, we redesigned the internal layout to create a more open, flexible, and welcoming home.
Key changes include:
- New ensuite for the primary bedroom to enhance comfort and privacy.
- Expanded bathroom that now includes a cleverly concealed laundry closet and large skylight for natural ambience.
- Guest bedroom to provide comfort for visiting family and friends.
- Relocated kitchen and dining area, opening up the rear of the home for better connection and usability.
- Larger open-plan living zone, creating a warm and social heart of the home.
- Built-in dining bench with hidden cellar access, allowing the original cellar to remain part of the home in a functional and creative way.
Material selections were chosen to respect the heritage setting while adding subtle modern refinement. The hand-painted joinery brings personality and craftsmanship, complementing the home’s original details and the new terracotta features.
“A narrow, disconnected floor plan was reimagined into a warm, open home that celebrates both heritage and modern life”
Respecting History While Leading With Design
Finch Barton now balances the character of its 1900s origin with the comfort and flow expected in contemporary homes. Heritage features were restored where possible, and every new addition was designed to feel considered and timeless. The result is a home that feels cohesive, warm, and full of history.
A Project Close To Home
Finch Barton sits just two doors down from our 2022 HIA award-winning renovation, making it a meaningful project for our team in North Adelaide. It reflects our passion for heritage work, our design and construct expertise, and our commitment to delivering homes that are beautifully restored and thoughtfully reimagined.
Finch Barton is more than a renovation. It is a celebration of local craftsmanship, a respectful heritage restoration, and a carefully executed redesign that will be enjoyed for generations.
Client:
Sue
Project Year:
2024
Custom Built & Designed By:
Finch Constructions
Collaborator: Messis Studio
Photography By:
JM Visuals
Supporting local trades and suppliers was central to this renovation, bringing authenticity and craftsmanship into every detail.
The Building Journey For This Heritage Home...
Before | Finch Barton Heritage Home Renovation, North Adelaide
During | Finch Barton Renovation Progress, North Adelaide
After | Finch Barton Completed Heritage Renovation, North Adelaide
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- After
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- After
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