New South Wales
Wisteria is a dramatic timber expression of minimalism, simplicity, and purity. A contemporary addition to a fully restored Federation bungalow in Sydney’s inner west, its bright new volume soaks up the sunshine and fosters a deep connection with the outdoors.
A light, airy pavilion is rhythmically expressed in Victorian ash. Within, a double-height void opens up the living space to sunlight and air, deepening the links between each level. A fireplace divides the open-plan living, kitchen, and dining spaces, which flow serenely onto the east-facing deck covered by a wisteria-clad pergola that frames the garden view. This carefully organised plan maintains a bright, lofty spatial quality that offers endless potential for informal interaction within defined spaces.
Rhythmic brickwork, polished concrete, timber framing, and eye-catching moments expressed in steel and marble represent a palette of material and visual simplicity; a clean, sophisticated interior that feels warm, bright, and calm.
The design of the addition has completely changed the way we live in our home. From a cramped, unusable old rear addition, it now caters for all of us, including our adult children, with internal spaces that allow us to open up or close down different parts of the house to be together or apart as needed. The addition has really achieved the goal of creating useable, flexible spaces and reconnecting us with the garden all around the house. The house now has such a beautiful calm feel to it and is simply a joyful place to live!
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.
