Transformation of a dilapidated single storey dwelling into a light filled family haven, in an inner city Heritage Conservation Area.

Typical of its era, the original residence had been modified over time, with kitchen and bathroom additions that cut off the home from the outdoor area. The primary objectives for the owners were:

Three bedrooms (master with ensuite bathroom)
New bathroom with bath and shower
Provide on site parking for a single car
Provide living areas that connected the home to the outdoor areas
Ensure that outdoor space was available for future children, pets and entertaining
Respect the heritage of the existing home

Designing a contemporary home in the ‘Cooks Hill Heritage Conservation Area’ of Newcastle, provides fantastic opportunities for an honest design that adds a new historical layer to the home. By stripping off the earlier modifications to the dwelling, and providing a contemporary addition, the heritage of the original dwelling is clearly articulated. This articulation is further emphasised by a generous glazed link that forms a distinct break between old and new, whilst allowing natural light to bathe the deep plan of the home.

Internal re-organisation allowed a generous bathroom and kitchen to be formed in the heart of the home, complete with a modern and space efficient laundry. The new addition is modest in scale and houses a first-floor master suite with screening to ensure privacy to/from neighbours is maintained. A ground floor living room with full width bifold doors, opens onto the multifunction outdoor space where a polycarbonate clad car port and screen doubles as pergola for entertaining. The pergola opens up to the rear allowing parties to spill out onto the lane to maximise space.

The resultant home provides exceptional amenity and a calming place for relaxation for a growing inner city family.