Classic Renovation

Situated one block back from the river’s edge, what started out as your average family home is now twice the size and twice as inviting. “It has a certain warmth to it,” says Emporio Homes director Patricia Edinger. And the judges of the HIA-ANZ Perth Housing Awards echoed her thoughts, naming the project as the best renovation over $500,001 in 2007. Patricia says the home’s position also provided some inspiration for the design. “We wanted to capture the stunning views over the Swan River but also protect the home from the harsh winds that can come with being so close to the water.” This consideration led Patricia to transform the original poolside patio and lawn area into a magnificent glass living room on the side of the house.

Floor-to-ceiling glazing opens up the living room and a transparent pool fence means there’s no visual obstruction between this room and the views of the river. A gas fire was also installed in the room to encourage the owners to use the space in all weather, while a terrace was added to the rear to provide an extra spot for gatherings. Due to weather conditions, the placement of the doors and windows was critical for the alfresco design. The renovation also incorporated an outdoor poolhouse kitchen, glass fencing, spacious home theatre, dining, extended living areas and new timber-and-wrought-iron balustrade, kitchen upgrade, another balcony, tiling and internal and external balustrading as well as an all-over paint job. The entry to the house was also renovated and new double doors were installed. As expected, such a major renovation included extensive demolition works.

“Some of the new work actually comes quite close to the pool’s edge, so we had to work around that, plus there was a lot of work to be done in stages to accommodate the fact that the owners were still living in the home while construction was taking place,” Patricia says. Removing walls and extending benchtops opened up the existing main kitchen, new cabinetry with a high-gloss finish was introduced and a light colour scheme was chosen to enhance the clean, crisp lines. Lighting inserts in the breakfast bar and glass backing give a new depth and brighten the space. A large appliance cupboard provides plenty of storage so the benchtops stay uncluttered. No matter what angle you look at it from, it will always appear stylish. The main kitchen now has river views and is an integral part of the home. Double doors open from the main kitchen into the new glass living room and outdoor poolhouse kitchen area. A curved island bench with granite benchtops is a central feature, along with a rangehood barbecue, glass splashback and plenty of storage, which is perfect for entertaining by the pool. The room opens up to reveal a small garden, which allows fresh breezes to flow through on hot days and provides more space if required. Another garden deck can be accessed from the new formal dining room, which also leads into the impressive home theatre. The home theatre was at the top of the design brief. “The owners wanted a large home theatre that can also be a simple entertaining room when not in use,” Patricia says.

With enough room for 80 people, the simplistic design means whatever the mood or occasion, the owners can decorate the room as they desire. The three-metre dropdown screen can also be hidden away behind a strategically placed piece of artwork at the touch of a button. Upstairs, Patricia has extended the living space, the master walk-in-robe and added another balcony with glass balustrading to appreciate and enhance the views. The owners’ home of 25 years now oozes a classic appeal that blends harmoniously with the original residence.

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