Inside Out (Australia)

“Extend out the front”

the Panel’s advice

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Andrew Benn

Architect and director, Benn + Penna Architectu­re, bennandpen­na.com

Deirdre needs an extra bedroom, bathroom and more living space so Drew can have his friends over without everyone being in such close proximity. The budget will set the pace: the house is small but she needs to use what’s already here to get more bang for her buck. Deirdre doesn’t want to lose the lovely back garden, so it makes sense to build into the huge front yard. I’d add an L-shaped extension to house the extra bedroom and bathroom and give Drew a verandah for entertaini­ng. The verandah could even wrap around most of the house for extra space. The rest of the house could be remodeled slightly to solve the cramped feeling and incorporat­e the oversized laundry into the kitchen.

Wayd Munro

Builder, Focusbuild, focusbuild.com.au This row of houses was built in the 1960s as accommodat­ion for corrective service officers. They’ve been constructe­d with brick veneer, so moving internal walls isn’t going to be a problem. I think Deirdre’s right to keep the home on one level – it’s generally cheaper than building up, planning approval will be easier to obtain and she’ll get a better connection to the home’s best feature, the ample outdoor space. The home office would be landlocked by the extension but a skylight would solve light issues and make it feel large and airy. The wraparound verandah is an easy addition and creates three zones: one to the side for Drew, one at the back of the living space, and one at the front to make the most of the north-western aspect.

Lisa Koehler

ISCD educator, stylist and interior decorator It’s easy to feel overwhelme­d by renovation planning, so break the process up into small steps. First, look at homes in your area and make notes on what you like, such as colours, fences and front doors. Then consider interior finishes: how do you want to feel in the space? This can help a stylist build a colour and texture palette. In the kitchen and bathroom, think about how, when and who you want to use these spaces. Once you have the brief and layout, move onto the style research. Create a brief for each room, listing the function and what you want to achieve, then find your furniture. You may well be exhausted by the time you get to the styling so always refer back to the brief: how do you want to feel in the space?

 ??  ?? Seaside homes are more at risk from corrosion due to the salt in the air. A thick coated metal roof can prevent damage. the panel
Seaside homes are more at risk from corrosion due to the salt in the air. A thick coated metal roof can prevent damage. the panel

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