The existing house was disjointed in plan, proportion and atmosphere. Its connection to the garden was weak, its ceilings were largely flat, and its internal spaces lacked the clarity needed for a large family. The project became an exercise in rationalisation: clarifying the plan, strengthening the relationship to landscape, and giving the exterior a more coherent architectural language.

At the rear, a new living room pavilion extends into the garden, creating a clear link between the interior, outdoor entertaining areas and swimming pool. Its steep pitched roof gives the addition a distinct external form and a vaulted internal ceiling, introducing height and relief to a house previously defined by compressed, horizontal spaces.

Across the altered dwelling, double-height voids, skylight shafts and carefully placed openings draw light and air into the depth of the plan. A continuous fluted concrete band brings order to the exterior, tying together old and new elements from the street frontage to the rear garden. At first floor level, this band becomes a series of bedroom balconies, providing privacy, outlook and glimpses toward the coastal landscape.

The material palette balances the relaxed character of South Cronulla with the durability required in a coastal environment. Concrete, masonry, timber and robust external finishes give the house weight and resilience, while white interiors, generous glazing and timber detailing create warmth and frame views to the surrounding gardens.

What began as a messy and unresolved suburban house is now a layered coastal home with clearer order, stronger connections to garden and light, and a more generous setting for family life.

Location: South Cronulla NSW

Project type: Alterations and additions over 200m2

Completed: 2023

Builder: Build by Design

Engineering: Steve Wheelan and Associates

Photography: Andy Macpherson