A residential extension project for a young family of six set in the urban coastal environment of Brighton Victoria (Australia). The integrity of the front four principal rooms was to remain whilst accommodating a refurbishment of the master suite to include an extensive walk-in robe and luxurious ensuite. 

The addition to the rear called for a new precinct to house living, dining and kitchen areas on the ground floor and children’s bedrooms and a playroom on the first floor. Maintaining the integrity of the existing grand Victorian dwelling was an important design consideration. It should not look as if it were being devoured by the new addition, nor should we pretend that nothing new has taken place. We chose to separate new from old with a clear 1.2m wide gap giving a clear delineation point. At the end of the existing corridor, we retained the existing period leadlight glass fanlight and door as a physical break between the two buildings: new and old.  

The new addition is a ‘complimentary opposite’, relating to the existing building through height, scale and proportion. It requires a sense of belonging without replicating. Defined precincts for children and adults maintain a uniform style and good vision lines connect the family. Long gestures were created to accentuate a quality of space and create focal points 

We adopted an ‘architectural’ approach to the interiors - a ‘process of discovery’. We don’t want to reveal everything at once, rather offer glimpses as you work through and around a collection of box forms that have been inserted into the space. The boxes conceal, reveal & wrap loadbearing structure and storage. Colour is used with restraint, to define and create interest. 

We have encouraged differing qualities of space from small and intimate to high, pitched volumes. It is fitted with the right amount of custom made and procured joinery and furniture. Everything is considered and designed. It takes a lot of thought to make it look simple. 

Location: Brighton, Victoria, Australia
Photo Credit: Sharyn Cairns - http://www.sharyncairns.com.au