This project involved the sensitive transformation of a beautiful corner house in the inner city. With its elegant period character and generous verandah fronting two streets, the home held significant charm. However, its unusual siting—with no traditional backyard and most open space positioned along the side and front—posed unique design challenges.
Our approach was grounded in a commitment to retain and respect the existing building fabric. Except for the removal of an outdated lean-to kitchen at the rear, the original structure was preserved, refurbished, and revitalised.
At ground level, the new addition accommodates a contemporary kitchen, laundry, and bathroom. Above, a new master bedroom with ensuite completes the expanded living areas. To the rear, car parking, storage, and essential services have been discreetly maintained. Within the original footprint, careful interventions such as painting, custom joinery, and updated lighting brought new life to the spaces while remaining true to their architectural character. A single new opening connects the old with the new, allowing for a seamless transition between the kitchen, dining, and living areas.
Responding to Site and Context
Designed to meet the demands of a compact and constrained site, the new addition is both functional and thoughtfully integrated. Positioned between the existing brick dwelling and the rear laneway, the new form makes full use of its corner location while remaining respectful to neighbouring properties.
An asymmetrical gable roof was chosen to reduce the visual impact to the laneway and protect neighbouring solar access. This distinctive roofline references the forms of the original house, ensuring continuity between old and new. By stepping the new volume towards the street, we created both direct access to the exterior and a private garden courtyard extending from the kitchen—an unexpected oasis in an urban setting.
Materiality and Craft
Material selection played a vital role in tying the contemporary addition to its heritage counterpart. The upper addition is clad in natural zinc, with both roof and wall planes unified in a single material. This choice enabled finely detailed junctions at windows, fascias, and gutters—offering a modern interpretation of the craftsmanship found in the original home. Over time, the zinc will develop a soft patina, further enhancing the richness of the facade.
At ground level, recycled bricks from the original structure were repurposed for paving and external walls. Inside, a palette of polished concrete, tile, and laminate was selected for durability and visual harmony. These materials were chosen not to dominate, but to support a calm and cohesive interior.
The result is a thoughtful and timeless integration of old and new—one that celebrates the home’s history while providing its owners with practical, light-filled spaces for modern living.
