Architect Tony Trobe was inspired by his amazing clients who were after a home to feed their soul
Once in a while a client comes along who truly feeds the inspiration of a talented architect. With high hopes and realistic expectations of cost, the owners of this magnificent home asked for an impressive new space. Their design brief was that their existing 60s brick-veneer bungalow be transformed into a property oriented for both view and sun.
Having won a swag of awards for a range of designs from the HIA and MBA, TT Architecture was a logical choice.
“We made it clear to Tony that we didn’t just want a suburban box,” says the owner. “We really needed to create something modern with flair and character. Basically, we just wanted it all.”
“This extension represents a bold statement on a street of modest homes that blend into each other,” explains Trobe. “The use of strong vertical elements, modern cladding and roofing materials, crisp glazing and the flipping of plan form created a completely new and dynamic façade.”
The list of renovations expanded over time, starting off with a kitchen and bathroom upgrade. Pretty soon the owners were into the swing of things, so the master bedroom and living areas were extended too. Now with two small children welcomed into the family, it seems the enthusiasm has paid off as there’s plenty of room for all.
Previously the northeast corner of the home had only a bedroom but Trobe took this space and created well-disposed rooms that seek a more intimate relationship with the private garden at the front of the property. The key functional areas such as the kitchen and living zones were moved to the front of the layout and the opportunity arose for Trobe to create an architectural delight.
“The additional living area has given us a light filled space where we tend to congregate during the day,” says the owner, “with the smaller original living room being the area we settle in for the evening.”
By expanding the main zones of the design there is now more opportunity for relaxed entertaining.
Created for the true culinary connoisseur, the kitchen is highly functional and stunning in its simplicity. Warm tones from the timber cabinetry complement top-of-the-line appliances that include an impressive stainless steel canopy.
Upstairs a luxurious master bedroom has been created, fit for a king and queen — or at the very least a prince and princess. The walk-in robe even has enough space for two people to comfortably share. High-quality fittings have been used in the generously sized ensuite that serves as a revitalising retreat.
Completely reversed, the solar aspect of the home is commendable. Trobe has ensured that magnificent solar gain is achieved in the key living areas. Good orientation and high levels of insulation contribute to the successful transformation of a gloomy box into a sun-drenched solar-efficient welcoming family home.
PROJECT PARTICULARS
The project was designed by Tony Trobe of TT Architecture, 35 Kennedy Street Kingston, ACT
Phone: 02 6232 6311;
Email: mail@ttarchitecture.com.au or
Go to www.ttarchitecture.com
“This extension represents a bold statement on a street of modest homes that blend into each other. The use of strong vertical elements, modern cladding and roofing materials, crisp glazing and the flipping of plan form created a completely new and dynamic façade” — architect Tony Trobe.
