“A key challenge was to incorporate restrained and refined modernist principles into a compact site” while appropriately responding to its context, the studio’s founder and director Paul Conrad says. A curved design enabled the boundary to extend over the previous driveway, adding a primary suite, second living space and garage. In the new building, a double-height void with linear skylight and hand-crafted brickwork conveys a sense of permanence. Focusing on texture and tone, “using various brick widths and patterns,” gives the addition its distinctive character.

Considerate to the scale of existing houses in the neighbourhood, glazing on the northern and western aspects filters glimpses of the tree-lined streetscape. Led by the concept of outdoor rooms characteristic of the era, a courtyard garden by Eckersley Garden Architecture and framed views of surrounding greenery extends the home’s spatial experience and connection to place.

Distilling the qualities of the original home in a contemporary manner, light timber flooring contributes to “a warm, considerate, European-informed interior.” Historic 1930s details and traditional architectural elements such as the period cornices, wall openings and timber sash windows have been preserved, Conrad describes, while an updated minimalist kitchen improves functionality, amenity and connection. Dark timber and natural stone in the primary suite, kitchen and living areas provides material continuity, while linen sheers add tactility while softening direct light throughout.

“The integration of interiors and architecture is definitely a favourite aspect to the house,” Conrad reflects. “Ensuring a strong architectural relationship between old and new”, the interiors cohesively link the two volumes—balancing period features with minimal forms to establish the contemporary additions within the home.