Llewellyn House

A once-derelict cottage in the Sydney suburb of Marrickville has been given new life as an inviting retreat for two musicians through a highly commended renovation and extension by studioplusthree. The starting point was to create a juxtaposition between old and new through contrasting tones of light and dark. The original Federation interiors of Llewellyn House have been restored in a crisp white palette, while the new elements have been introduced in a restrained palette of dark timber, steel, and porcelain. This language of contrasts is found throughout the scheme, from the way patinated recycled bricks are juxtaposed against glossy metallic surfaces, to the thin steel edges that protrude from the robust architectural volumes. The new timber floors throughout are informed by this fit-out, with Tongue & Groove engineered solid European oak floorboards in the dark Raba colour. The rich black and dark brown tones of the boards echo the dark palette of the other new elements, and the Classic Grade textured finish adds a patinated texture that responds to the original features. The considered renovation project received a Commendation in the Residential Alterations and Additions category at the Australian Institute of Architects NSW Architecture Awards. The judges praised the modest home’s clear spatial diagram and the dialogue of texture and colour that enriches and unifies the old and new elements of the house.