Project Overview

A full-scale transformation of an existing dwelling in Wheeler Heights, this project reimagines the home through carefully planned alterations and additions. The design retains key elements of the original structure while significantly expanding and upgrading the layout to suit modern family living.

Snapshot

Project Type: Alterations & Additions
Build Area: 147m² (new works)
Total GFA: 257m²
Site Area: 565.9m²
House Dimensions: 14.3m (W) × 17.0m (L)
Levels: Split-level (Ground + Lower Floor)

The Brief

The original home presented a typical dated layout — compartmentalised spaces, limited connection to outdoor areas, and underutilised lower-level zones.

The client’s vision was to:

Expand the home to accommodate a growing family
Improve flow between living, kitchen, and outdoor areas
Introduce modern open-plan living
Better utilise the existing pool and backyard
Create flexible spaces for entertaining and relaxation

Existing Condition

The original property featured:

A compact kitchen, dining, and family area
Three bedrooms on the ground level
A disconnected patio and outdoor space
Underutilised lower floor with basic living, storage, and garage

While functional, the home lacked openness, natural light, and spatial efficiency.

Demolition & Reconfiguration

Strategic demolition played a key role in unlocking the site’s potential:

Removal of internal walls to open up living zones
Reworking of circulation and entry points
Clearing areas to allow for a larger kitchen and alfresco connection
Reconfiguration of the lower level to support additional living spaces

This phase laid the groundwork for a cohesive, future-focused layout.

Design Strategy

The design centres on connection, expansion, and flexibility:

Open-plan living core integrating kitchen, dining, and family spaces
Strong indoor–outdoor flow to a covered alfresco and pool area
Vertical integration between ground and lower levels
Clear zoning between private (bedrooms) and shared living areas

The result is a home that feels significantly larger, brighter, and more connected.

Transformation (Before → After)

Ground Floor Evolution

Before:

3 bedrooms
Small, enclosed kitchen and living spaces
Limited outdoor integration

After:

Expanded to 4 bedrooms including a master with ensuite
Large open-plan kitchen (6.7m x 3.8m), dining, and family area
Seamless connection to a covered alfresco (5.6m x 5.1m)
Improved entry and circulation

Lower Floor Evolution

Before:

Basic living area, storage, garage
Underutilised and disconnected

After:

Additional 2 bedrooms (Beds 5 & 6)
Large rumpus room (4.5m x 4.2m)
Integrated bar area for entertaining
Enhanced storage and functionality

Site & Outdoor Response

The design strengthens the relationship between the home and its outdoor environment:

Existing pool retained and integrated into the design
New alfresco positioned as a central entertaining hub
Clear visual and physical connection between indoor living and backyard

Material & Architectural Expression

A refined palette creates a clean, contemporary finish:

Colorbond Surfmist roofing and elements
Natural White and Vivid White finishes for a crisp exterior
Sandstone cladding + feature stone for texture
Travertine tiles enhancing outdoor spaces
Stained timber accents (grey wash) adding warmth

Large aluminium-framed windows, sliding doors, and skylights maximise natural light and ventilation.

Key Features

Open-plan kitchen, dining & living zone
Covered alfresco connected to pool
6 total bedrooms across two levels
Rumpus + bar for entertaining
Enhanced natural light through skylights
Strong indoor–outdoor integration
Modernised façade and material palette

Outcome

What began as a dated, segmented home has been transformed into a spacious, modern family residence designed for both everyday living and entertaining.

The project demonstrates how thoughtful alterations and additions can: