By Hamish Cameron Architecture
Project Type: Renovation
Built in the early 90’s, this dated 2 storey terrace-style townhouse in a prime waterfront location required complete refurbishment. Body Corporate rules dictated that only the interior could be altered. Our main design objective was to open up the living spaces at the upper level to the full width of the apartment taking advantage of the spectacular harbour views to the north. The existing main bedroom on the south side has been converted to a cosy den, partly enclosed with a steel and glass screen to borrow outlook through the main room to the sea.
Serene, loft-like spaces, enhanced by natural light and a soft, modern materiality have been created by lifting the ceilings and bringing natural light into the centre of the floor plan. A key decision was to modify the roof trusses so the original flat ceiling could be raised to the underside of the existing steeply gabled roof, with the addition of skylights over the central landing and adjacent spaces, providing bonus volume for a spacious loft area above the den in the previously unutilised ceiling space.
The calm atmosphere of a sophisticated urban loft has been achieved in the main living/dining/kitchen space, enhanced by wide floorboards and cedar faced ceiling beams across the full width of the room which mirror the horizon line directly out to sea. With 2 north facing bedroom suites at ground level opening into a courtyard garden and an internal lift incorporated to futureproof accessibility, the overall design has successfully delivered a series of interconnected and flexible, light-filled spaces supporting a range of activities.
As featured in Here magazine issue 02.
Photographs by David Straight
Hamish Cameron Architecture is a multiple award winning practice established in 2017. Hamish has over 35 years’ experience working in architecture completing residential, hospitality, winery, commercial and interior projects. During his 29 years at Archimedia, and its predecessor DEM, Hamish’s projects received awards at both local and national level.
HCA has a particular passion for residential design. Working in both new build and renovation, we craft buildings and spaces with quiet atmosphere and soul that reflect the unique character of their owners and bring calm and a sense of well-being to their lives.
Our design approach is not style or fashion driven. Design often evolves from the inside out resulting in simple forms defining thoughtful, well-proportioned spaces enhancing everyday human activities and characterised by natural light, warm tactile materials and the subtle use of colour.
Sensitive to culture, context and heritage, and respecting our relationship with the natural world, we aim to instil our buildings with timeless character and beauty.
If you have a project in mind, please contact us. We welcome new clients.