Brief: To create a new, day-lit, open plan living space to the rear of a semi-detached house, providing for the spatial and lifestyle needs of a growing young family. The new works include a bathroom, laundry, kitchen including butler’s kitchen (walk in pantry), light filled lounge area opening onto a rear deck and outdoor entertaining area.

Challenges: Drawing daylight into the new living space which is on the south side of the site, while not over-shadowing the backyard. Working with a modest budget, re-using existing foundations and bricks.

Solutions: A new skillion roof raises up to the north, scooping sunlight into the open plan living space, reaching above the shadow of the existing hipped roof to reflect light deep into the interiors, dipping down to the south to minimise shadow to the rear garden. This also helps focus the occupant’s gaze down to garden level while providing visual privacy from neighbouring houses to the rear. The roof “folds” in an origami like way to provide privacy from neighbour’s windows to the side, giving the house a protective and robust character.

Highlights: Working with a difficult site orientation and overlooking neighbours, to create a light, airy and beautiful sanctuary of a home for the family to enjoy.