The brief was ambitious: restore the home’s heritage charm, create a three-bedroom layout with open-plan living and ensure privacy while embracing light. With its narrow site flanked by imposing neighbouring properties, the design cleverly introduces tall fences, internal courtyards and expansive skylights to maximise privacy and natural light. Period details –including ornate cornices, fireplaces and tall skirting boards – were reintroduced in the restored front rooms, creating spaces that feel warm and characterful.

The transition from heritage to modernity is marked by a custom steel shroud in the hallway, framing the shift to the contemporary rear extension. Clean lines and textured finishes define this space, where light and shadow interplay across the knocked-back render walls throughout the day. The smoky grey flooring runs seamlessly through the home, tying old and new together.

Central to the design is the bold reimagining of the kitchen. Instead of a traditional island layout, the 5.2-metre-long stone-clad island runs the length of the room, serving as both a kitchen workspace and dining table. This considered design creates a sense of flow and integration with the adjacent courtyard, while skylights above flood the area with natural light. Custom timber joinery ensures the focus remains on the island’s sculptural presence.