woollahra 1
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project team / andrew stanic, hugo harpley, binghi lamerton, joe murray, peter christensen
builder / yuncken construction group
structural engineer / partridge partners
joiner / civardi furniture
landscape architect / spirit level designs
photography / steve back

The house is one of a row of detached Federation houses built in 1901 and sits on a ridge overlooking Cooper Park. The frontages are mostly intact however the rear of the properties facing north are diverse in both character and quality. Our house was badly renovated in the 1970's and as such only the front street facing room and street facade was retained. The project involved the complete removal of all other structures and the excavation of a new complete floor level under the existing street entry level including a pool. The street frontage had to be restored so we endeavored to create a contrasting contemporary rear facade that addressed the northern aspect and the Park. The edge treatment of the new rear balcony literally frames these views. The small scale of the footprint resulted in the need for careful spatial connections both horizontally and vertically to extend the available space. A new slatted light court replaces the existing front terrace. Floor level changes, joinery elements and ceiling treatments create and conceal spaces. The property has been in the family for many years and our client lived in this house overlooking Cooper Park as a child. It was therefore pleasing to carefully remodel the house for her young family in turn.