HELEN VAUGHAN ARCHITECT
NORWOOD
This once cute-as-a-button bluestone cottage had been completely transformed into a ‘bungalow’ during the 1930s by over-painting stonework and incorporating ‘modern’ elements. Even the front façade windows had been bricked in, with sliding aluminium replacing sash wood frames, to change the proportions of the original street elevation.
The existing structure was completely renovated. This included reinstating the original front sill lines (and wooden sash windows), paint stripping and re-pointing the original bluestone, and replacing the squared-off aluminium veranda with a timber-framed bullnose more in-keeping with the property’s heritage. A new painted brick fence with steel railings gives the property modern security, with a traditional look.
The original front six rooms and cellar now provide a study, a bathroom and four bedrooms (one with an ensuite). A contemporary extension has also been added to the north-facing rear. This incorporates the laundry, a WC/shower, and an open-plan kitchen, dining and living space with a freestone-clad open fire surround between the latter two areas. This space has expansive north facing windows with views to the alfresco seating with retractable sun shade, herb garden, swimming pool, chicken run and gum trees beyond. This compact house has everything, even a double garage incorporating a plumbed-in BBQ behind a large sliding door!