waratah

This semi-detached dwelling in the Northern Beaches had its spatial potential maximised street appeal improved and thermal comfort significantly improved via this considered renovation.

The second storey alterations have improved the street appeal by adding bolder roof lines and a palette of external materials that provides increased visual interest and alignment to existing building elements. Whilst the second-storey envelope is simple in shape, the facade is now dynamic, and the decisions in the window types and opening proportions enhance how the home addresses the street. Internally, these opening and proportions capture neighbouring views and provide excellent ventilation.

Improving the comfort levels of the original dwelling was the key driver to the clients' brief for this home in Balgowlah. The existing property contained lots of single glazed, aluminium windows with poor orientation and ventilation strategies. The clients now live comfortably, and even the builder noted the difference the day after the window suites were installed!

Downstairs the back portion of the home has been completely opened up to provide the open plan living and connection to the backyard space. Whilst the site is relatively small, the location and size of the ground floor openings connect the interior spaces to the landscaping. This is especially important given the south-facing orientation of the home.

Warm oaks and textured stones illuminate the interiors of the living spaces, and eye-catching feature tiles and materials create significant uplift to the bathroom and laundry. All spaces in the home are enjoyable to visit.

This seaboard home has been another honour to design, develop and modify as architects in the Balgowlah, and architects in the Northern beaches as a whole. If you are looking to engage any architects in Sydney, or would like to discover more about any current or past projects, please feel free to get in contact today.