Within minutes of the initial conversation with our client, it was clear that this project required minimal intervention and maximum innovation.
The natural ground level outside was higher than the floor level inside, troublesome for a waterproofing and with no budget for excavation or to move the existing bathroom and kitchen, TGA were left with the complex brief of turning the existing laundry disconnecting the house from the rear courtyard, into an open plan living, dining and kitchen with a strong connection to the outdoors.
Through a rigorous creative process, the constraints were embraced as opportunities, the new concrete slab turned up and folded back to create a waterproofing barrier and at the same time a day bed to read amongst the gum trees. The modest new roof mirrors the ground to create a bookshelf and in between surface mounted hardwood timber framed sliding windows tuck away over the outside of the existing bathroom opening the entire wall to rear courtyard and giving the new living spaces the feeling of a sunken living room. Demolition of only two internal walls and a strategically placed north facing kitchen splash back window open up all the spaces to give a light airy feel. A concealed LED strip light under the concrete day bed make this heavy architectural feature float over the bamboo floor in the evening. Simplicity, elegant proportions and natural materials were opted over elaborate architectural detailing.
In depth knowledge of Leichardt Council’s approval process, enabled the project to be approved in 5 days despite non-compliances and TGA worked closely with builders Henarise Pty Ltd during the construction process.
