26
GOING UP
After completing the basement, which covers 30 square
metres, the next aspect of the project was a first-floor
addition. Set over 90 square metres, the space was
designed to sit within the original roof space, in order
to meet council requirements, and a lot of carpentry
work was needed to ensure a perfect finish.
"All of the ceilings are raked and we created a series
of dormer windows to fit, which were built with
structural steel," says Jonathan. "Because there was no
vehicle access onto the property, we had to get mini
cranes in to lift another mini crane into the yard so the
steel could be delivered and erected."
The structural engineer was also called back at
this point. "While we were physically trying to get
the steel onto the site, the engineer was checking the
underpinning and structural work," Jonathan explains.
The modern addition includes a master bedroom
with walk-in robes and an ensuite, two more bedrooms
with walk-in robes and a bathroom.
"The whole house has a clean and contemporary feel,
with lots of light pouring in," says Jonathan. "There
is also plenty of space for a busy family to spread out."
OPENING OUT
The final stage was a complete renovation of the
original section of the house, on the ground level. This
area included an open-plan kitchen, lounge and dining
room plus a guest bedroom, bathroom and laundry.
"One of the main features of the ground floor is the
glass splashback in the kitchen, which we crafted from a
single sheet of frameless glass it looks amazing," says
Jonathan. "We also modified some of the cottage's old
features to bring every element of the property into
line, and we were able to use some of the sandstone on
the property for retaining walls."
What started out as a three-bedroom, single-level
cottage with a kitchen and lounge is now a spacious,
tri-level family home.
"We were definitely faced with some challenges
along the way," Jonathan adds. "But the project took
just nine months from start to finish, and was very
rewarding for everyone involved."