Bidjigal and Gadigal peoples of the Eora Nation
NSW
Corunna House by Studio Johnston transforms a modest Federation-bungalow into a sculptural, light-filled courtyard home, where heritage charm meets contemporary design. A new rear addition is seamlessly grafted onto the original structure, its form nestled into the site’s gradient to remain unseen from the street.
The design centres around a series of landscape pockets, extending greenery from the mature front garden through and around the new pavilion. A staircase atrium and internal courtyard bring light and ventilation deep into the plan, enhancing the connection between inside and out.
Materiality defines the project: concrete floors, exposed timber rafters, and white-painted brickwork contrast with the restored heritage fabric. American oak joinery, brass fixtures, and terrazzo details unify the interiors, while a warm palette of deep reds, mustard, and olive green adds richness and texture. Sustainability underpins the design, with cross-ventilation, solar power, rainwater harvesting, and hydronic heating ensuring both comfort and efficiency
We imagined a home that felt intimate and relaxed, with separate spaces and living areas which can be quiet or great for entertaining, with multiple zones that would bring us all together
When the family moved back in 2023, all the frustration just melted away. It was incredible and hard to describe, everyone instantaneously relaxed back into our family space. There was a sense of finally being ‘home’. And we just love it
The pool is a huge hit, with us as well as the kids. It’s small but we’re happy it worked within the footprint
Conrad Johnston, Design Architect
Stefanie Robinson, Graduate of Architecture
Vicki Sfouggaristos, Designer
Emili Fox, Project Architect
Luxsina Thunyaprateep, Graduate of Architecture
Stefania Reynolds, Graduate of Architecture
SDA Structures, Structural Engineer
Tarn, Landscape Consultant
John Oultram, Heritage Consultant
Kirsten Bookallil, Stylist
Anson Smart, Photographer