Dior Constructions

Where Heritage Meets Contemporary Living

Timber Character at the Front. Modern Performance at the Rear.

Some of the most successful renovations are those that respect a home’s original character while embracing contemporary living. This beautifully executed residence in Elsternwick is a perfect example, where traditional streetscape appeal transitions seamlessly into a light-filled, architecturally designed extension.

Working alongside Dior Constructions, Valley Windows supplied a carefully selected combination of custom timber and aluminium windows and doors, ensuring each part of the home complements its architectural style while delivering outstanding performance.

Preserving the Heritage Streetscape

From the street, the home’s timeless elegance has been carefully maintained through the use of custom-made timber double hung windows. Their traditional proportions and detailing blend naturally with the original façade, preserving the home’s heritage-inspired character while providing the benefits expected in a modern home.

Double hung windows remain one of the most practical choices for period-style homes. Their classic appearance is matched by excellent ventilation, allowing the top and bottom sashes to be opened independently to encourage natural airflow. Combined with modern double glazing, they also provide significantly improved thermal performance, acoustic comfort and security compared with older timber windows.

The result is a façade that feels authentic and refined, demonstrating that energy efficiency and heritage aesthetics can work together beautifully.

A Contemporary Transformation

Moving through the home reveals a striking contrast.

The rear extension embraces clean architectural lines, expansive glazing and warm timber cladding, creating bright, open living spaces that connect effortlessly with the outdoor entertaining area.

To complement this contemporary design, Valley Windows supplied a suite of high-performance aluminium windows and sliding doors. Their slim sightlines maximise natural light while framing views to the landscaped garden and outdoor living spaces.

Large glazed openings allow daylight to penetrate deep into the home, creating a sense of openness while maintaining excellent thermal efficiency through modern double glazing and high-performance framing systems.

The Best of Both Worlds

Combining timber and aluminium within the same project allows each material to be used where it performs best.

The timber windows at the front provide warmth, craftsmanship and traditional detailing that respects the original architecture.

The aluminium windows and doors at the rear deliver contemporary styling, larger spans, low maintenance and exceptional durability for modern family living.

Although visually different, both systems work together to create a cohesive home that feels connected from front to back.

Built Through Collaboration

Projects like this highlight the value of close collaboration between builder and window manufacturer from the earliest design stages.

Working with Dior Constructions, Valley Windows manufactured custom window and door solutions tailored specifically to both the heritage façade and the modern extension, ensuring every product met the architectural vision while delivering outstanding performance and longevity.

Project Highlights

• Traditional timber double hung windows preserve the home’s original streetscape character.
• Contemporary aluminium windows and sliding doors maximise light and outdoor connection.
• Double glazing enhances energy efficiency and year-round comfort.
• Bespoke manufacturing ensures each window and door is made specifically for the project.
• A successful blend of heritage architecture and modern design.

This Elsternwick renovation demonstrates how thoughtful product selection can bridge two architectural eras. By combining the timeless beauty of timber with the sleek performance of aluminium, Valley Windows and Dior Constructions have created a home that honours its past while embracing the way families live today.

Photography: Dominic Bonnici