Thirroul, 2023 | Dharawal Country
Thirroul, a delightful coastal village south of Sydney, has seen rapid development in recent years. Population pressure, even prior pandemic, due to its beachfront lifestyle and easy city access has seen traditional building stock unceremoniously bulldozed for denser, arguably less detailed and certainly less handcrafted buildings.
Owners of this lovely Federation home were charmed by the frontage of their home - hardwood detailing, articulated brick pointing, and considered proportions. It speaks of a life well lived.
However, challenges of the home to suit contemporary family life were acutely felt. The rear severely compromised, with a series of unsympathetic alterations that resulted in kitchen and living cut off from rear garden and light generally.
This renovation project set out to subtract anything detracting from the opportunities of living in this place. Only then, after careful renovation of the existing (as an inherently sustainable solution), were additions considered.
The rear walls opened, allowing strong axial connection to the garden. Entry now a journey, through period entry hall, across glazed link, to light filled kitchen and living spaces. Family gatherings happening now in a separate garden pavilion, jacaranda limbs framed, sun though upper branches setting up delightful shadow play, shaded in summer, sunny in winter.
Project team
Katharina Hendel, Brent Dunn, Daniel Rivers
with Hamish Ginn Architect
Builder _ Cove Custom Build & Design
Engineering _ GP Design
Photography _ Paul Jones