Houses

Fairlight House 01 Fairlight, Sydney

Description

This project required the extensive additions and alterations that beautifully married heritage charm with modern functionality. The renovation of this charming 1920s timber semi included: a new first floor, rear ground floor, decking, and car parking. This has transformed the residence into a stylish and practical home fit for contemporary living.

Maintaining the integrity of the original house facade facing the street was paramount, and we’re proud to have preserved its character while seamlessly integrating new elements. A new entrance was thoughtfully created in the side elevation, enhancing accessibility and adding a touch of modernity to the traditional design.

Internally, the living spaces have been carefully crafted to evoke a sense of brightness, minimalism, and airiness. Large windows and strategic placement of skylights flood the interiors with natural light, creating inviting and uplifting spaces. The transition from the lighter existing timber weatherboard to the darker lightweight metal cladding was a deliberate choice, aimed at preserving the original building character while reducing the overall bulk of the structure. This clever use of colour and materials ensures that the additions blend harmoniously with the existing architecture, creating a cohesive and visually striking aesthetic.

The rear courtyard and raised decking area serve as tranquil retreats, seamlessly extending the living spaces outdoors. Here, residents can relax and entertain amidst lush greenery and enjoy the serenity of their surroundings.

A key design feature of the renovation is the roof, which serves as a linking element, visually connecting the original structure with the new additions while also reducing and masking the bulk of the extension from the street view. This thoughtful approach to design ensures that the residence maintains its street appeal while accommodating the needs of modern living.

Overall, this project was an amalgamation of our passion and commitment to creating homes that seamlessly blend heritage charm with contemporary design principles, resulting in spaces that are both timeless and functional.

Details

Completed 2011.

Featured in AAA Northern Beaches Housing Tour: November 2012.

Photographer: Brian Steele

Construction process