A two storey rear extension emerges from the original heritage house, articulated by a central court and lightwell where old meets new. A protective roof drapes over an upper level master bedroom creating a cathedral-like volume and two storey void. A lightfilled living space below creates a place for a family of six to come together. Generous sliding doors allow everyday life to spill out into the garden, drawing inspiration from the family’s time living in the tropics of Southeast Asia. The deck is bookended by a BBQ, shed and a Ghost Gum.

The second storey form gradually rises up towards the north and shields the occupants from the gaze of its many neighbours to the east and west. The central courtyard provides a pause in the the linear flow of the site. It also serves as an entry point when returning from the beach, to wash off and enter the home, preserving the calm of the original front bedrooms. A double-height curtain glass wall and stair draws light deep into the floor plate. A laundry and mud-room is tucked beneath with a home-office and ensuite above enjoying a private leafy outlook into the court. Windows strategically placed on the south elevation allow distant sightlines to the street and beyond, creating a sense of space and belying the lot size.

Within the original roof form an attic functions as a kids hangout and its stair as a book shelf. Externally the tapered forms and grey timber cladding are recessive and preserve the heritage charm while creating a vibrant home for an active young family to thrive.