Supa Group was not the Clients first choice!

They initially approached an architect as they thought it was the best way of realising their dream home. However, after several months of backward and forwards over the Concept design, frustration set in as they realised it wasn’t meeting their expectations.

[tip_box]“We actually got to a point where we looked at the design and realized that it wasn’t what we were really after, not to mention the exorbitant architectural/ project management fees which added another 25% to our build cost” M. Teo[/tip_box]

The ‘Brief’ or more importantly the ability to define and outline exactly the client’s aspirations was vital in achieving the desired design.

Balance was the key. The successful design had to be intelligent and thoughtful in the use of space. Clients wanted an innovative solution to achieve clean, simple light filled and relaxed entertaining spaces, whilst working within budget. The Design also had to be distinct and contemporary yet blend sympathetically. The clients were not looking for a loud and contrasting extension.

Works started with a partial demolition to the back of this 1940’s austerity style weatherboard house. The garage, an existing bedroom, dining, laundry, powder room and ground floor deck all went, making way for the new improved addition. The front porch and roof over was also removed in readiness for the new timber deck and Verandah.

Before photos of the facade and rear before the demolition and new ground floor extension.

The ground floor addition required alterations to the existing kitchen to create a new bedroom with BIR flanked by the new bathroom and laundry. An expansive ‘open plan’ kitchen, dining and living area with study nook was added, complimented by the new North facing alfresco.

After photos facade with new verandah and the living area leading to undercover decked area.

As a Design and Build company, the goal to achieving design excellence in the field came through strong in house and on site management and teamwork. It was imperative that the transition from the drawing board to construction ran smoothly ensuing that the project met and exceeded client’s expectations without build delays or increased costs.

Extensive research and sourcing the right products, materials and colours during the Conceptual stage provided clarity and transparency on achieving the right balance between the client’s quality expectations and final completed results.

Externally, the new addition had to match the existing dwelling, and internally offer a clean unadulterated flow through design and layout. Being able to see and experience the design in 3D during Concept stage provided the clients with immeasurable reassurance and confidence on how the design was going to look and work.

3D Concept Design and final finished area.

No project is without its obstacles. In this instance, the location of the new boundary trap was unable to be located near the original position. After conferring with Yarra Valley Water, a new sewer line had to be run requiring additional excavation and pipework. Electrical mains also had to be upgraded to meet current regulation standards. Despite these issues the build was finished well within the contract time-frame.

The final outcome was a beautiful home integrating traditional with a ‘twist’ of modern. The new floorplan had a flow that was conducive of relaxed, yet comfortable lifestyle and had great connection to the outdoor. The Design was not only functional, but also maximised the homes full potential.

Externally, pre-primed treated pine round edge weatherboards and terracotta tiled roof ensured a seamless blend from old to new. Weatherboards to the front and round the side were also replaced. Timber fascia, Colorbond gutters and downpipes matched the existing, bringing cohesion to all elements.

The construction required a complete re-orientation of the house to capture the morning sun into the living areas of the home. Featuring multiple large windows, a sunlit connection from living to alfresco was created. The cooler days of Melbourne was not overlooked, and Hydronic heating was installed throughout.

Internally, quality was not compromised. Polished Tasmanian Oak floorboards to match existing was used adding seamless continuity. Showing the delineation between original and new, semi-fancy cornices were replaced with 55mm scotia cornice in the extension.

The Bathroom was a true reflection of modernism and quality of product was on show. From the precision of square set cornices and white polished porcelain wall tiles in stack pattern to the contrasting textured 600 x 600 charcoal floor tiles and floating vanity, excellence was had.

Small but luxurious finishes including a niche to the shower, a heated towel ladder from Hydrotherm and chrome tapware from Reece Bathrooms fulfilled the client’s requirements within budget.

The kitchen was a study in functionality and simple minimalism. Scandinavian inspired, the beautiful two toned design featured strength of stone offset with the abstraction of the black ‘Honeycomb’ tiled splash back and matching LED strip pendant over island bench. The style was repeated in the streamlined study nook and retro cabinetry.