Among the oldest dwellings in West Hobart, the heritage-listed property has an under-stated, though significant presence in its neighbourhood. Built as a farm-house at the margins of the early town on a large hillside lot, it has been part of the process of subdivision and infilling that now underpins the density of this characteristic inner Hobart suburb.
The challenge, beyond the client brief to update services and amenities, was to strengthen and further reveal the property’s heritage values, acknowledging the form and pattern of the built, including the garden.
To allow an aged wisteria to realise its potential a pergola frame was needed, however it was also considered as a structure to provide support and pattern to the building additions, especially a much needed sun-room. The pergola was appreciated as a ‘room’ to extend and enlarge the diminished context of the dwelling – connecting interior and exterior spaces.
Client perspective:
“When we purchased our property we had to reconcile the functionality of many eras of building. The bathroom, toilet and laundry were perfunctory…only accessed through a narrow passageway through the kitchen.
With the new-build we have brought the house into the modern-day with access to the garden with flat usable space we can enjoy into the future.
The build has addressed the multiple-levels inside the house and will allow us to stay in the house into the future.
We are delighted with the extra space afforded by the sunroom and the way the Wisteria has became the focal point”
leigh woolley architect
Michael Shadwick, Technical support
Michael Renshaw, CAD documentation
Paragon Constructions Tas Pty Ltd, Builder
Aldanmark pty ltd, Engineer
Susan Small, Landscape Consultant
Optimus Consulting, Building Surveyor
Steve Watson, ESD Consultant
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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.
