The Brief

My Clients approached me with a vision to transform their home; into a modern, functional layout that catered to the needs of a growing family. The property is a heritage-listed with the NSW Heritage Council, the home required careful planning to ensure any modifications complied with strict guidelines. The current interior featured Victorian architectural details, such as ceiling roses and fireplaces, which the client requested to preserve. The Client budget allowed for a complete re-design of both floors. Here’s a detailed overview of this project, including the unique aspects of the home and the thoughtful redesign that brought the client’s vision to life.

Key Objectives:

1. Open and Inclusive Kitchen
   My client loves to cook, but felt isolated in her current kitchen setup. With a preference for informal gatherings with family and friends, she wanted the space to support warm, welcoming occasions where she could interact with family and guests while preparing meals.

2. Childrens Bedrooms
   As the children grow, they need their own separate bedrooms. This was a priority in the design.

3. Improved Natural Light and Airflow
   The house had small windows on the north and south walls, which limited natural light and airflow.

4. Additional Bathrooms
   The existing home had one bathroom located in the ground floor rear lean-to. The client desired a bathroom on each level, to accommodate the needs of a growing family.

   Structural Considerations:

   A builder was engaged to demolish the existing lean to and construct a new single story extension at the rear of the home. The extension features double brick walls to match the original structure of the home and high ceilings for a seamless integration. A structural engineer assessed the home and advised that the perimeter walls were load-bearing, limiting the possibility of creating new openings.

   Design Features

   1. Family Centered Open Plan Living
      The new layout includes a combined kitchen, dining, and living area to foster a connected family environment. Bi Fold doors were incorporated to allow for indoor/outdoor entertaining when the extended family comes to visit!

   2. Additional Bedrooms and Bathroom
      The design accommodates a luxurious Master bedroom, en-suite and built in robes. The downstairs bathroom has carefully been designed with two entrances, so it can be used for guests. Two kids bedrooms include built in robes, with the rumpus room as an optional third bedroom. Upstairs bathroom and linen cupboard has been included to provide additional storage for the family.

   3. Enhanced Light and Airflow
      Skylights were incorporated over the stair case; creating a stunning feature that transformed the previously dark and confined space into bright, airy hallway. Skylights maximize natural light and improve airflow throughout the whole home.
      

Conclusion:

The completed project successfully modernized the home while addressing all the client’s needs. The kitchen is now an open, inviting space that encourages family interaction. The redesigned layout accommodates the children’s new bedrooms and incorporates additional bathrooms to enhance convenience. The new layout not only enhances the client’s living experience but also preserves the charm and character of this heritage terrace.

Overall, this project demonstrates how thoughtful design and careful planning can revitalize a home to better fit the lifestyle of a modern family. The new space not only meets functional requirements but also creates a welcoming environment for family gatherings and daily living.