Strategic alterations bring light and structure to a traditional Queenslander.  A familiar material palette, deployed in a contemporary manner add a new layer to the rear of the home.

The original house had already been altered with a ‘build under’ lower level and a rear lean-to extension and deck.  We were asked to help to bring more light into the living areas which were dark, especially in winter and to define and connect the different levels.

We designed a new stair in the same location as the existing and two new cabinetry pieces which allowed light and views to be afforded from the rooms deeper in the plan.  In addition, new larger windows and doors to the rear of the house allowed a stronger connection to the back garden.  These surgical changes transformed the internal spaces to bring them together as a connected whole.

The material palette employed white surfaces, broken down into battens and angled surfaces to create shadow and filter light through the plan.  The stair and its battened balustrade anchor the adjacent rooms and provide a clear visual link.  A library and small reading seat is located at the bottom of the stair to direct footfall to the edge of the house and enable tot room behind to be furnished.