New South Wales
Courtyard House is an Alteration & Addition to the Heritage Listed Rinaultrie.
The brief was for a contemporary modification that created a better connection to the garden, improving privacy from the neighbours, whilst sculpting pockets of sunlight with the addition of new contemporary spaces.
The extension is a checkerboard of rooms and courtyards creating varied spaces. The morning courtyard capturing the eastern sun for a cup of tea, the larger afternoon courtyard which basks in the northern sunlight for family feasts that continue well past sunset, and the triangular double height space over the sunroom with its custom designed couch with seats facing the garden and courtyard.
The rear addition makes reference to the original fabric in the use of its matching sandstone, face brick and rendered walls, under its timber lined slate roof. It has done so with equal delight in the detailing.
The multiple, large glass doors in different orientations in the new extension allow abundant natural light. We can capture a cool breeze from virtually any direction or enjoy the warmth of the sun and we are surrounded by garden. Tall, timber clad ceilings add to the open feeling of the space and the multiple angles enhance the aesthetic appeal.
The old part of the house was not forgotten. It will now last another century. The added ensuite looks like an original part of the house and significantly improves the space for us.
Miriam listens to her clients.
The Australian Institute of Architects acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.
