The alterations and additions to Kew House were designed to celebrate the best parts of the existing 60’s brick building, whilst re-imagining the rear as a courtyard house.

New internal living spaces flow between the courtyard and rear yard, where the existing pool has been reduced to increase the sun-drenched garden space.

The extension to the rear houses living and dining areas and has been designed to capture natural light and enjoyment of the northern orientation.

Although not immediately obvious from the street, much of the existing dwelling has been retained – just given a textural new wardrobe, by way of a stucco render.

This new skin is a nod to the granular stucco cladding of neighbouring heritage properties where this material is used for wall treatments, gable ends and period detailing.

The flat roof forms of the 60’s home have been raised and celebrated, with new roof forms respectfully following the flat appearance behind parapet walls.

What we love about this project are the little moments of joy that are found throughout the house, with framed views opening to the courtyard, rear yard, pool and sky, without being obviously constrained by overlooking regulations.

The use of steel window reveals helps direct and frame these views as you move through the house. Screening to the north has been designed to read as a sculptural landscape element, rather than a window treatment, to help the home retain a sense of open-ness.

The design is intended to be a grown-up version of its 60’s roots, imbuing a sense of calm within an eclectic streetscape, and maximising garden views.