The brief from the clients—a family of five—was to create a functional, welcoming home that could also serve as a minimal and elegant backdrop for their growing collection of Australian and international contemporary art. Working within a modest budget, the project focused on maximising spatial and material efficiency while achieving a significant visual and performance upgrade.

Approximately 90% of the original ground floor structure was retained, with new planning seamlessly integrated into the existing fabric. A new upper level was added to accommodate additional living space, with access to a private terrace offering long views across the district toward the Sydney CBD.

The existing window openings were preserved but upgraded with high-performance double glazing, bronze-toned aluminium surrounds, and external motorised venetian blinds. These elements significantly improve the building’s thermal and acoustic performance, while enhancing privacy and solar control. Cross ventilation is achieved through strategic additions of wall and roof openings, ceiling fans, and operable glazing—eliminating the need for air conditioning.

Internally, custom joinery is fully integrated and expressed with refined detailing, using concealed finger pulls to blend storage seamlessly into the surrounding spaces. The material palette is deliberately restrained, allowing artwork and natural light to animate the interiors.

Externally, the building now presents a crisp, clean facade with newly rendered walls. A restrained landscaping scheme enhances privacy, provides usable outdoor space, and casts dynamic shadows across the white surfaces—creating a subtle interplay between architecture and garden.