New South Wales
Turramurra Threads sees the revitalisation of an existing Victorian cottage into a contemporary, yet considerate family home. A recessive shadow of the existing, the new dark-clad living pavilions hide behind the existing cottage on the sloping site.
A ‘journey’ was envisaged through the site; akin to meandering through a garden. A new archway links old and new, adjacent to a pocket garden, and creates a picture frame for immediate, distant views of the garden. Basking in a calm atmosphere and natural amenity, the ‘clearing’ of the living area unfolds from the stairwell, creating a central catchment for the young family.
Bench seating offers a place to pause next to the courtyard, whereby this garden-like sequence can be further enjoyed. Angled stone steps guide the occupants around the existing jacaranda tree, completing the sequence of spaces from front to back.
Our brief to retain as much of our original heritage cottage as possible, highlighting original features such as the archway and existing lead light windows, whilst simultaneously improving the amenity of the home for our young family, was met and exceeded in Turramurra Threads. Originally a 1000m2 block with a relatively modest home, the expansive, sloping garden was full of untapped potential waiting to be used. The alternations enable us to have a direct visual and circulatory link to a beautiful new outdoor space which can be enjoyed by the whole family, whilst maintaining connection to the living areas.
The Australian Institute of Architects acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.
