There was nothing remarkable about the brief, says MCK Architeture & Interiors, of the family house in Neutral Bay, Sydney that they were tasked to renovate.
More living and work spaces, an extra bedroom, a nicer master bedroom, better connection to the outdoors: such were the key improvements desired by the homeowners, a couple and their three children.
Nonetheless, describes the Sydney-based firm, “the magic happened when the clients embraced their own journey and accepted that in simplicity, they would find their most exceptional outcome.”
With this simplified approach, MCK gave the home the subtlest of facelifts, if you will – improvements in flow and circulation, in the use of materials, and ultimately, in the use of space.
The house, from the get-go, was blessed with good bones, but challenged by what the firm refers to as a ‘clumsy layout.’
Thus the floor plan was redone – simplified – to improve circulation from the front of the house to the back.
No additional floor area was added to the house; instead, its original full-width parameters were maximised.
The living and dining areas were turned into an open-plan space that also seamlessly connects to the lush backyard and pool area. “The project did not add lots of square metres – it just made more sense of the existing ones,” describes the firm in a statement.
A pared-back motif of timber cladding and concrete feature on the inside, along with black-coloured accents – the lighting fixtures, the large sofa, the kitchen island.
Meanwhile, the double-height living room lends a voluminous ambience appropriate for both large gatherings as well as solitary activities for each member of the family.
Energy-saving details have also been incorporated, including the recycling of rainwater for use in the gardens.
Glass walls and smaller window features throughout the house also mean more natural light is harnessed, reducing the need for artificial lighting and energy consumption during the day.
Marked by seemingly subtle changes, it’s a renovation replete with significant enhancements to the family's overall living experience.
See more: A Rudimentary & Relaxed Feel Permeates this Industrial-Inspired Home for a Frequent Traveller
