KILLARA HOUSE

With Studio [R] Architecture & Design

Designed with Sam Rigoli and Studio [R] Architecture & Design, with landscape by Amber Road Design and construction by Ferrocon, the project involved the restoration and extension of an existing character-filled functionalist-style home in Killara, with the addition of an unassuming low-slung living pavilion at the rear.

Rather than demolishing the existing house to create more of a showpiece new facade (as suggested by other architects interviewed by the client), our approach was to retain the existing dwelling to create a conversation between the old and the new, adding to the sense of drama and discovery throughout the home. A series of existing rooms and new joinery items leads visitors through the existing spaces, and down a new stair into an expressive open-plan space with expansive views to the surrounding landscape. The centre of the new space remains column-free thanks to a large custom-made steel truss which supports the stacking sliding doors and the new master bedroom above.

The new living pavilion is split into a quadrangle of spaces (lounge, alfresco, dining and kitchen/scullery), each with a different outlook and quality of natural light. A central sculptural skylight traces the time of day through a strip of sunlight which illuminates the pavilion at different angles throughout the year.

While creating an open and welcoming house, the design takes advantage of the superb double block with visual and physical links to the new landscape and adjacent pocket park.

Construction by Ferrocon
Photography by Tom Ferguson
Landscape Design Svalbe and Co
Article in Home Magazine