“[Our brief was] to create a modern, calm place with refined detail and occasional surprises. It’s a larger than average inner city site, so spaces should feel as generous as possible,” explains architect Alison Nobbs.
Using the original cottage as a point of entry, and adding the new elements on as a sort of ‘surprise,’ it is only once entering the house and reaching the end of the hallway that the ‘new’ house becomes apparent.
Fresh white planes, light timber and dark charcoal tones create a sense of openness and tranquility that is complementary, while distinctly different, to the identity of the initial elements.
One standout feature is the central timber ‘tardis’, which not only differentiates the old from the new additions, but also quietly contains the laundry, television, air conditioning and offers storage space required by the young family.
The open plan kitchen living room area that ends with a full height picture window leading to the pool and garden is yet another highlight.
“This allows direct surveillance of the pool from the hub of the house, and also a place for the family to be, to ‘hang out’ in the kitchen,” adds Nobbs.
While the Paddington House represents both old and new, existing and extended, it’s peaceful charm lies in the clever meeting of the two.
Nobbs Radford Architects
nobbsradford.com.au