Malvern East house

We collaborated with Picnic architects on this Californian Bungalow renovation. The home was full of charm however a previous extension to the back of house both lacked function as well as flow and connectivity with the large west-facing garden. Due to low ceilings and lack of light, the decision was made to start again rather than work within the existing extension.

The bungalow section of the home needed reworking to house 4 bedrooms (including master bedroom with ensuite), a central bathroom and a second TV/rumpus room. Both the master bedroom and the TV room were relocated to the eastern facing front rooms and a darker south side bedroom became the ensuite and main bathroom so that the kids bedrooms accessed the north. Skylights and generous mirrors were used in the bathroom and ensuite to funnel in light while also offering privacy from overlooking neighbours. Careful attention was given to maintaining and enhancing the bungalow features and a bridge/linkway was introduced to keep the divide between the new and old clean and obvious. The bridge framed with large timber windows also directed abundant natural light into the dark, south side of the bungalow zone with beautiful garden views.

The extension was orientated to gain northern light through a raked kitchen/dining ceiling with highlight windows expanding the full length of the northern aspect and over the lowered lounge ceiling, flooding light into the new heart of the home. This prevented the west-facing backyard from being the main light source and meant eaves to the west and over selective windows would protect the home from the harsh heat without stealing too much light. A large window seat in the lounge has an outdoor seating connection with sliding windows providing an option to sit alongside three established crepe myrtle trees. The backyard also borrows established canopies of green from every neighbour, making it feel both lush and private. 

We kept the interiors warm and simple with natural timber used for the floors, joinery and window frames. The warm white walls complement the warmth of the timbers and allow the abundant natural light from all the different angles and orientations to create interest and play on the simple palette of finishes. The spaces make you aware of the changing light, shadows and weather conditions outside while feeling protected with the central bagged brick fireplace to the lounge adding to this sense of cosiness.

The kitchen and dining zone feels generous and streamlined with the pantry, laundry and powder room all tucked behind to the south. A private home office is also located in the south western corner behind the dining area, enjoying an outlook to the pool. The spaces feel generous but are no bigger than necessary as a decent sized backyard with a pool was paramount to this young family who have lived in the community for a long time and spending time in neighbourhood backyards is very much a part of their entertaining lifestyle.

Kasper Raglus painting, Margaret Voterakis print, and Mali Taylor, Kirsten Perry and Ella Bendrups ceramics all supplied by Modern Times.

Landscaping by Andrew Plant and planting by Luscious Green Landscapes.

Photography by Martina Gemmola.

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