The original house was a quaint cottage, charming enough at the front but hindered by an unsympathetic 90s extension at the rear. The aim of the project was to preserve the cottage's street presence while introducing a new addition at the rear more conducive to comfortable living.

The renovation focused on replacing the rear half of the house with a modern extension, thoughtfully separated from the original structure by a garden courtyard. This design move not only provided a fresh, leafy outlook to the core of the house but cleverly reoriented the home to embrace a Northerly aspect whilst delineating a sensible transition from old to new. The result is a bright, inviting space, flooded with natural light, enabling passive heating in winter and minimal reliance on active heating or cooling systems.

As one moves from the cottage's front to the rear extension, there's a transition from the old to the new, marked by a series of spaces that gradually reveal themselves. This journey culminates in a backyard designed for entertainment, complete with a plunge pool and a cabana that can double as a guest studio.

The design integrates landscaping to complement the architecture. Key features like north-facing trellises for native climbers create living, evolving shades that soften the summer sun's impact.

Approaching renovation with a blend of whimsy and thoughtfulness, this project reimagines an existing tired house into a modern, environmentally conscious home. It celebrates the strengths of the original house's character, preserved and woven into the contemporary additions. The outcome is a space that emphasizes liveability, doing so with an inviting charm and a lively spirit, showcasing the delightful possibilities of adaptive and sustainable design.

Location:
Cronulla, Sydney, Australia

Completed:
2023

Builder:
Buildup Constructions

Landscape Design:
Exterior Architecture

Landscape Construction:
Hemsworth Pools & Landscapes

Photography:
Luke Butterly