The brief for this project was to create a modern family home that respects the style and integrity of the existing 1920’s character dwelling on the site. The original Arts and Crafts style house had been subject to substantial additions over its lifetime, which had left the interior spaces in a warren-like state, lacking connection to the expansive gardens. Our client approached us wishing to retain and upgrade the original dwelling and create a contemporary addition to sit empathetically alongside.
The proposed additions and alterations were designed specifically to feature forms, materials and components that are complementary to the special character values of the existing dwelling and other period buildings within the surrounding area. At the projects centre sits a spacious and lofty living pavilion that opens out onto a large terrace for entertaining within the much enhanced gardens. It serves as the heart of the home, offering an open-plan family environment with a seamless connection to the exterior; contemporary qualities that the compartmentalised nature of the original house did not offer. A sculptural stair and series of skylights add delight and surprise to the space, whilst the fluted marble fireplace and kitchen touch on the glamor of the bygone era. The intentional palette of oak and marble assimilates the old with the new, connecting the new sleeping quarters of the house with the original dwelling along with thoughtful detailing that echoes the Arts and Crafts sensibility.
The surrounding neighbourhood is of a leafy, green character and access is via a slim ring road that runs alongside native bush. The large setback of the original house has been maintained in the project whilst sensitive landscaping and hardscaping have enhanced the connection to the streetscape and gardens. The additions to the existing dwelling are largely unseen from the street and sit respectfully at the rear of the site so as not to distract from the image of the 1920’s character home within the existing streetscape for cohesiveness.