Open Sesame: 8 Rear Extensions That Bring the Outside in
Step inside these simple city dwellings transformed with the help of some clever rear alterations
The narrow confines of city blocks have led to an enduring trend in Australia’s metropolitan homes – opening up the back. Not only does this kind of redesign increase living space, it also dramatically improves the amount of light that can enter a home and merges the interior beautifully with the outdoors. These homes are great examples of how such a renovation can work – no matter how small their footprint.
The light-filled dining area located in the new extension is an inviting place to be.
2. Lifeline for a narrow terrace
This inner-city Victorian posed a challenge for architects – it’s just three metres wide. The redesign included a new galley kitchen in the centre of the ground floor, and a light and bright extension to make way for a much-needed living room.
This inner-city Victorian posed a challenge for architects – it’s just three metres wide. The redesign included a new galley kitchen in the centre of the ground floor, and a light and bright extension to make way for a much-needed living room.
Timber bi-fold doors extend the new living space out into a compact courtyard. A vertical garden adds greenery, and there’s still room left for the clothesline, albeit one that folds flat against the wall.
The simple detailing in the streamlined kitchen and living area gives the impression of a much larger space – no mean feat on such a tight urban site.
Windows have replaced walls in the living area and kitchen, and a skylight invites even more natural light into the home.
More: Sensational Skylights: Light Up Your Home Life
More: Sensational Skylights: Light Up Your Home Life
5. Smart move for Sydney abode
Opening this home to the outdoors achieves its mission – more light and far more functional living spaces.
Opening this home to the outdoors achieves its mission – more light and far more functional living spaces.
A skylight also serves as a handy place for bike storage – a real bonus in such a small city dwelling.
Discover more ways to store your bike at home
Discover more ways to store your bike at home
6. Bondi terrace sees the light
This historic terrace has not just been extended at the rear, but has also been given a second-storey addition.
This historic terrace has not just been extended at the rear, but has also been given a second-storey addition.
Skylights bring more light into the living room and further inside above the central dining area.
Looking out through the living area across an expanse of green is the garage/laundry – an area that can be opened up to make room for entertaining. Oak cabinetry, window frames and doors bring warmth to a largely white palette – chosen to make the home feel light and spacious.
7. Bright new look for city terrace
This terrace may sit on a small block, but a redesign means its owners can still enjoy an undercover outdoor dining area.
This terrace may sit on a small block, but a redesign means its owners can still enjoy an undercover outdoor dining area.
From inside, splashes of colour come to life with the help of the sun pouring in, and there’s even room for a kitchen island.
8. Semi given a super lift
This ultra-cool dwelling wasn’t always so chic. An extension delivered the extra room the owners were looking for – it accommodates a living/dining/kitchen area that merges with the outdoors.
This ultra-cool dwelling wasn’t always so chic. An extension delivered the extra room the owners were looking for – it accommodates a living/dining/kitchen area that merges with the outdoors.
Pocket-concealed sliding doors extend the living spaces onto a roofed terrace that connects to the small but leafy backyard.
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This extension added space for a new dining room and kitchen onto a Retro home in Brisbane. The roof configuration maximises light and airflow into the home, while a retractable screen shields the internal living area from the hot sun when required.