The original house contained a dark and almost foreboding kitchen and dining area to the rear, looking out to a miserable garden. Among an obvious increase in spatial requirements, there was the need for a change in living conditions in the brief. The owners wanted to lose the clutter and hotch-potch nature of the existing rooms, thus a much needed expanse of space was created to open out the living areas of the property.

By extending seamlessly into the rear garden for indoor/outdoor integration, the main living areas are brought alive, and also uplift the expanse into a light and airy abode.

With these considerations a factory-like sawtooth profile was created for the roof, breaking down the depth of the space and forming a visual interest to the otherwise flat ceiling space. This sawtooth profile was envisaged like a void that is cut out from the universe, the interiors are white washed and penetrated by natural light at all times of day.

One lengthways boundary wall becomes an expansive joinery system to the entire extension, wrapping around with open shelving to a hidden laundry and bathroom area featuring a naturally lit shower alcove and bath. This joinery is otherwise only punctuated by the central kitchen area with dark stone island bench and black glazed splashback for warmth.

The open end of the living area has large glazed concertina doors, allowing the room size to easily double when the weather allows, maximising the back garden.

Where the extension is connected to the original section of the house is found the sole use of colour - a simple olive-green full height curtain that encloses a compact study or home office area and courtyard. The curtain emphasizes a shift from new to old, and brings a solid dash of colour to the home, amidst the white walls.

Texture is added to the space by the owners’ own collected paraphernalia, scattered about the various shelving configurations.

Victorian Ash timber floors are used throughout the home, differing from Japanese Black stained timber in the original areas of the house, to a pale lime-washed finish at the rear.

Lighting is simple yet effective, with dark pendants adding an extra touch of intimacy to the dining area.

Combined with the compact, yet tidy rear garden, the renovation has a luxurious feel, giving the owners a modern, yet entirely functional home for their family.