This renovated Edwardian residence has been artfully transformed into a modern family home. The renovations included the addition of a single-storey extension, and a complete renovation of the original cottage to preserve its timeless heritage appeal.
Before work began, Chahid Kairouz, managing director and principal architect of CKA Studio, says the house was in significant disrepair, with limited light and a layout that was outdated and disconnected. “However, the home offered good bones, generous ceiling heights and a reasonable footprint,” he says. “It also had charming period details such as pressed-metal ceilings, timber floors and fireplaces.”
The homeowners, a professional couple with two young children, had an idea of what they wanted to achieve, a functional, warm and welcoming home, one that was flexible and would cater to their future needs. Sammy Kairouz, director of interiors from CKA Studio, says they were looking for a calm, cohesive aesthetic inspired by an earthy Australian palette, and a balance between open-plan living and more private, adaptable spaces. “At its heart, the design aimed to weave together past and present, celebrating the home’s original charm while introducing thoughtful, contemporary touches,” notes Sammy.
As well as three generous bedrooms, there’s a fourth room that offers flexibility as a guest room or study. There are also two bathrooms, a powder room and formal living room. The open-plan kitchen, living and dining area feels spacious and serene. A muted colour palette adds a sense of calm. Sammy explains the joinery was kept soft and neutral to avoid visual clutter. “Natural materials — timber, stone, white brick — were chosen for their texture, durability, and the way they respond to light,” he notes.
One of the challenges of the project was a south-facing rear that limited light penetration into the home. The inspired design, that’s likened to a butterfly unfolding its wings, has helped to overcome this. The butterfly roofline is one of Chahid’s favourite aspects of the design. “It’s a metaphor brought to life through the sculptural L-shaped rear extension and distinctive butterfly roofline,” comments Chahid. “This form not only introduces a sense of lightness and elevation, but also symbolises transformation and connection, guiding the spatial journey from the original heritage home to the new, open living spaces.”
The clever shape of the extension also offered an opportunity for two courtyards; one is internal and one rear-facing. Clerestory windows welcome in light. The large expanses of internal glazing blur internal and external lines, flowing out to a comfortable alfresco space complete with custom fi replace and outdoor kitchen.
For Sammy, one of his favourite aspects is the retention of the original elements. “This includes fireplaces, existing timber flooring and pressed-metal ceilings, it ensures the home’s heritage is not only preserved, but celebrated,” he explains. “These features add richness in texture and detail, sympathetically balanced against the modern additions.”
The success of the project was also due to the close collaboration between parties involved. This included the design team at CKA Studio, project managers Shepherd Development Partners, and builder Agora Homes. “From the very beginning, there was a shared commitment between all parties to quality and detail,” says Chahid.
Sustainable elements have been implemented. They include passive design, high-performance insulation, retaining existing timber floors with added insulation underneath, and salvaging as much of the existing weatherboards as possible. There’s also a rainwater tank, provision for a photovoltaic solar panel system, as well as water-efficient fixtures and energy-efficient appliances. This family home is a delight. It’s a symphony of sculptural planes and light, and of timeless tradition and modern living.
“This form not only introduces a sense of lightness and elevation, but also symbolises
transformation and connection, guiding the spatial journey from the original heritage home to the new, open living spaces” — Chahid Kairouz
