Set up on a concrete plinth and covered in large tiles, the fireplace actually acts as a thermal mass that helps keep things toasty in the cold Victorian winters. Unlike the region around Sydney, the Melbourne area has quite a drastic change in climate throughout the seasons. The steps you see in the foreground lead into a little antechamber (used as a nursery) and then the master bedroom. Photo 12 of 16 in Courtyard House by Rowan Opat by Aaron Britt

Courtyard House by Rowan Opat

12 of 16

Set up on a concrete plinth and covered in large tiles, the fireplace actually acts as a thermal mass that helps keep things toasty in the cold Victorian winters. Unlike the region around Sydney, the Melbourne area has quite a drastic change in climate throughout the seasons. The steps you see in the foreground lead into a little antechamber (used as a nursery) and then the master bedroom.