Adaptive Re-use and Contemporary Extension

This project reimagines a character home in Mount Lawley through careful adaptive re-use and a contemporary rear extension, balancing explained heritage character with modern family living.

Respecting Character and Streetscape

The design retains and celebrates the distinctive arched façade added during the 1950s, a familiar expression of North Perth and Mount Lawley’s Italian influenced homes. The original street presence is preserved while subtle contemporary insertions provide a refined update.

A new rough render finish and carefully detailed aluminium arched window sit comfortably alongside the existing form, while a breeze block fence references traditional hit-and-miss brickwork, acknowledging the area’s Italian migrant heritage. The result contributes positively to the streetscape while clearly belonging to its time.

Light-Filled Living to the Rear

New living areas extend to the rear of the site, creating generous open spaces connected to outdoor areas. As the primary living spaces face south, skylight strategies were developed to capture winter sunlight and draw natural light deep into the plan, ensuring bright and comfortable interiors throughout the year.

Interior Palette and Materiality

The interior palette draws inspiration from the clients’ existing artwork, allowing personal pieces to shape the tone of the new spaces. Cork flooring introduces warmth and texture underfoot, while deep green joinery connects the interior to earthy tones and garden outlooks.

Terracotta accents and subtle motifs at the front porch reference Mediterranean influences, reinforcing the home’s cultural lineage while delivering a contemporary interpretation suited to modern living.

A House Renewed

The project demonstrates how thoughtful adaptive re-use can preserve neighbourhood character while creating light-filled, functional spaces for contemporary family life, ensuring the home continues to contribute meaningfully to Mount Lawley’s evolving streetscape.