Enmore House

The striking light and the soaring ceilings are the first things you notice when you enter the extension to this seemingly modest federation semi-detached cottage in the inner west suburb of Enmore. Inspired by New York lofts and industrial warehouses, the centerpiece is a six-meter void with a huge north-facing window to capture the best of the light and give the house a real wow factor, with a sense of space rarely achieved in inner west properties.

Although south-facing, the house feels light and airy and has a sense of openness at all times of the day. There are glimpses of green and the neighborhood skyscape through the strategic placement of windows. The addition purposefully juxtaposes the original federation dwelling, to create a clear divide between old and new, keeping with the guidelines of the heritage council and Burra charter principles. A small external garden, a wide entryway, and complementary range of colors, themes, and materials tie the two areas together.

Previously, the rear of this dwelling consisted of a series of poorly planned small spaces including a kitchen, dining, and laundry, which restricted access to the rear garden. Being south-facing, the spaces lacked natural light, resulting in artificial lighting used for most of the day. The brief for the renovation included a light and airy space including a loft parents' retreat, a well-planned kitchen, and a family area that flows to the outdoor space. The extension also needed to link with the original house but not imitate it.