This is a refurbishment and extension of a 1950s weatherboard house. The modest interior was reconfigured to let in natural light into the previously partitioned living spaces and create a flexible expanding open plan. The rear extension wraps around a central courtyard which forms the heart of the project, creating a dialogue between the house and garden.
On the exterior, the extension is clad in light grey panels with white timber trims – the minimalist detail reminiscent of traditional Japanese paneling. This simple aesthetic is contrasted with the textured lines of the existing weatherboard home and expressed outriggers under the eaves line.
The colour palette of the existing house is kept muted and in a warm neutral paired with the crisp white of the new extension. The warmth of timber provides a consistent element throughout.
Unnoticed interventions in the existing dwelling make the home comfortable and safe- foam insulation was pumped into the existing stud framing, glass wool insulation added above the ceiling, windows fitted with weather seals, existing plumbing and electrical wiring were upgraded to current building regulations.
Here, the traditional Japanese tatami room is reinterpreted within an Australian open-plan setting. Its function and character shift with the movement of sliding panels and the activities that take place within. To one side, a shallow alcove — a tokonoma — offers a quiet moment for display and reflection. The raised floor conceals integrated storage, while overhead shelving lines two sides of the room. Along the window, a continuous timber bench forms a low desk, complemented by handcrafted movable pedestals that provide flexibility and adaptability.
It’s function and character varies with the movement of the sliding panels and activity within. Off to one side sits a shallow alcove – a ‘tokonoma’. The raised floor conceals storage. Two sides of the room are lined with overhead display shelving. A long timber bench runs under the windows along one side of the room to form a low desk. Handcrafted movable pedestals provide flexibility.
Wee Mukai Architects 