About:
This Mid-Victorian home was built between 1881-1920. The original dwelling was severely lacking in natural light and was poorly configured, with an ad-hoc existing extension to the rear.

Brief:
Our client wanted an additional bedroom that would serve as a master suite without sacrificing the existing (and limited) private open space at the rear. In the end, we designed the extension as part one in a two-part extension.

Solution:
Part 1 being a new kitchen/ dining/ living area attached to the house (to allow for a future 1st floor) as well as a reconfiguration of the existing bathroom to make the space more generous and light-filled. We have designed a space near the bathroom which will, in future, become a staircase and the structure has been designed to accommodate a new first floor when the time is right.

Challenges and outcomes:
The client’s relatively low budget underpinned our design, selection of materials and fixtures. The improvements are subtle, but hugely impacting on the feel of the space. For example, we increased the ceiling height of the rear extension to 3 metres, which completely transformed the space.
There were a few necessary variations to cover the cost of repairs to crumbling brickwork due to the age and poor long term maintenance of the house.

Highlights:
The rear extension faces north, so we wanted to give the family flexibility with their access to the yard, as well as screening off the area. We developed a design for 3 timber screens with different thicknesses that slide along a track, so that the family could adjust their light and shade within the living space.