Proctor Building Solutions were contracted by our client to undertake a sympathetic extension to their historic federation style home, one of the oldest and most significant homes in the Newcastle area. Construction was undertaken whilst the large family lived at the residence. Every effort was made by Proctor Building Solutions to cause as little disruption or disturbance to the young family whilst maintaining a safe, clean and tidy site throughout the build, ensuring the family could lead their normal lives with minimal disruption to their daily activities. One of the difficulties associated with this was the limited site area available to undertake works and the fact that several children were of such a young age, and existing in such close proximity to the work area.

The property is a fine example of Federation era. The extension was planned and every effort made to replicate and maintain authenticity, leaving as little evidence as possible that an extension had been added to this iconic home. The extension was of carefully sourced cavity brick construction on bearers and joists, and a combination of metal colorbond and welsh slate roofing to match the existing structure.

Internally the extension replicated the architectural era with stunning 12 foot ceilings, decorative cornices, ceiling panels, and ceiling roses synonymous with the charming federation homes of the time, blending seamlessly with the existing home. White setting was used on internal walls to match existing internal finish in the home. Heritage style electrical light switches, power points and picture rails were installed to complete the look and add to the authenticity of the extension. Part of the project included demolition works and modifications to the existing kitchen, enlarging the kitchen and opening the room up to the new family room, creating an open plan feel to a what was previously a relatively closed in area. The heritage feel of the area has been unaffected by opening up the original kitchen due to the installation of a timber 'sunrise' style arch above the opening between the two rooms.

Display cabinetry installed to the family room, matching the design of the kitchen fittings has been installed complimenting the living areas superbly creating a sense of flow throughout the area, and a gas fireplace has been installed to family room providing a cosy place to settle.

The roof structure and framing was complex, and required careful consideration to ensure adequate drainage of water from different sections of the roof. The external verandah is flanked by timber bay windows with coloured glass to match existing. Glass was sought with difficulty due to rarity of its kind, and being the last remaining of its kind. Purpose made fly screens were sourced and installed to match the design of windows ensuring functionality whilst still remaining discreet and in keeping with the external appearance of the existing external area of the home. Large sliding stacker timber doors were installed to the extension allowing generous amounts of light and an open flowing functionality and modern day convenience to the extension area, opening up to the back verandah.

Decorative timber joinery and handrails were installed on the verandah to match existing home and T&G hardwood flooring was installed to external verandahs to match the existing residence. Stunning timber lined eaves completed the verandah area to match the existing residence.

This home featured in the 2015 HIA-CSR Hunter Housing and Kitchen & Bathroom Awards and featured as FINALIST in the category of Renovation/Addition Project $250,001 – $500,000

and the

2015 MBA Excellence in Building Awards as FINALIST in the category of Alterations, Additions, Renovations & Restorations under $400 00