This project by Leuschke Kahn Architects is a replica villa with additions. The existing villa was deemed to be in such bad repair that it could be demolished with the condition that its street facade be faithfully duplicated.
The site is in a character zone where Council demands the street frontage is villa while the back of the house can be modern.
The original villa was built above street level, so we were able to dig out the hill to create a basement level in the new house. We retained the western side boundary to allow western glazing and light into the basement.
The client’s brief was for a modern house but with all the positive features of a villa: the character, the detailing, high ceilings, generous room proportions, and a simple layout. The clients lived in a villa and didn’t want a modern glass box.
However, they did want garaging, insulation, light, and outlook which are lacking in traditional villas and of course a modern layout to suit today’s family lifestyle.
Apart from garaging, the basement houses a large media room with a discrete bar, a warming fireplace, and a large, west-facing glass wall. There is also a home office which is away from the family noise upstairs. The pool area, a level above, can be accessed by an exterior stair.
The main level has generous children’s bedrooms and main living area which opens out onto a covered terrace and swimming pool via huge, north-facing double-glazed sliding doors. The terrace louvres open to allow sun onto the terrace and light into the house. An outdoor fire enhances the outdoor experience.
The detailing is modern but gives a nod to the past. Panelled doors and stepped skirting boards.
Tucked under the roof on the third level is the parent’s zone, main bedroom, ensuite, and walk-in dressing area.
A timber-clad stair with metal balustrade and overhead glazing unites the levels and brings light down into the house.
The detailing is modern but gives a nod to the past. Panelled doors and stepped skirting boards. High ceilings, timber flooring for warmth, carrara ceramic tiled bathrooms, and marble bench tops all acknowledge the villa’s material history.
Lawns have gone in favour of a swimming pool, gardens and boundary hedging for privacy.
