The owners of this art deco inspired house considered buying something with more land but ended up putting the money into making their current home somewhere they loved spending time. They wanted a light and airy house with great flow through and lots of concealed storage – everything needed to have its place. The existing house had minimal access to natural light, a small entry down the side and a laundry and closed-in kitchen blocking access to the backyard. To make the most of the block, the house was widened and extended after a heritage setback to allow a more prominent entry, a generous master bedroom and ensuite and a large entertaining area opening up to the outdoors with an adjoining kitchen opening up to a separate bbq area. A second bathroom and separate laundry replaced an internal dining area that had a minimal exterior outlook. Ceilings were lifted, openings were made generous with large sliding doors and ample skylights were added to give the feeling of generous proportions and abundant natural light – the client says the bathroom skylight now lets them watch the moon rise while in the bath. And the double height ‘A’ frame of the main living space with elevated triangular highlight windows reinforces a connection to the garden and skyline, adding architectural shape and form to the interiors.
Finishes were kept clean, classic and simple creating a canvas for the client's own artwork, furniture and interchangeable styling. The rear kitchen benchtop and splashback in Carrara marble allow the island bench to be its own unit in a complementary grey blended with matching paint colour. The island is anchored by a streamline pendant task light giving purpose but not cluttering the space. The open plan spaces are warmed with European Oak engineered floorboards that feature throughout the house.