A beloved project from when Chelsea worked at TKD Architects. This family home had been passed through the generations and the design was undertaken with the intention for it to be reinvigorated for the current family. The original house was extended on the Ground and First Floor, and excavated on the Basement level so that family life could be more intertwined in open plan living, connecting the ground floor more to the rear garden, and creating a family home that felt at ease for every day living but also functioned perfectly for those long Christmas lunches and milestone celebrations.

The clients were not afraid to be different and celebrate their original Queen Anne Federation local heritage listed home. We looked at referencing the red brick through a custom red render that melded the line between interior and exterior, extending the dining terrace into the garden. We played with angles and soft curves to gently encourage different views and outlooks, so that the house and occupants felt further away from their neighbours and more nestled into the surrounding greenery of Mosman Harbour. Walls of glass open up and bring the backdrop of greenery into everyday living.

The house perfectly mixes heritage, modern living and soft playfulness in a way that feels sophisticated without the pretentiousness (and not to mention beautifully family friendly) - an uncanny reflection of the clients. This project was such a joy.