Redesigned and extended by Madeleine Blanchfield Architects, this inspiring single family home is located in Coogee, Australia.

Description
Attic House involved extensive alterations to an Arts and Crafts house including a new master suite in the roof space. The project brief was to modernise a heritage family home and its 1990s addition. Existing rooms were dark and disconnected. To improve flow and usability a series of new aligned openings create a view straight through the house. Dark plaster reveals, concrete thresholds and pivot doors give clarity to previously loosely defined spaces. A light, curved staircase floats above the existing traditional stair to connect the new level. Dark timber detailing was painted white and new openings visually connect the existing spaces. Original timber panels in heritage rooms were retained but painted white for a softer, brighter feel. The 1990s living area at the rear was rebuilt with sharp black windows, a weatherboard ceiling and white joinery to subtly connect various areas and bring coherence to the house as a whole. A new master suite was carved into the existing roof space and windows added in a sympathetic manner to embrace the water views. Achieving lightness and openness were the aim throughout. Spaces are pared back and honestly detailed with elements such as exposed ceiling collar ties. The stair to the new upper level was made curved and floating to contrast the heavier original stair beneath. The origina...