Whadjuk Nyoongar people, who are part of the larger Nyoongar Nation
Western Australia
Located on one of West Leederville’s most desirable and leafy streets, we were to create a home for our client and his quick little cat, Catty Freeman. The character cottage facing the street was to be retained and improved, and we were to build an addition to the rear facing the laneway. With much consideration it was decided we would only provide for two dedicated bedrooms in the home, creating a small bar and library in what could have been the typical third bedroom. The addition comprised a new living zone on the ground floor and master bedroom on the first floor.
The design lets me live with a quiet sense of reverence for the cottage’s history while confidently challenging renovation norms. Preserving the 1910 façade and rhythm of the streetscape feels like giving back to the neighbourhood, the new addition is giving back to the earth—cross-ventilated, bathed in controlled north light, and powered by solar batteries. It holds a calm, moody masculinity, yet expands effortlessly for vibrant evenings with friends and family. It balances the heritage I’ve protected with the contemporary life I lead. My favourite moments are Saturday mornings at the island, with coffee, morning light streaming in, bifolds open..