Inspired addition A compact Queenslander doubles in size

Creative sisters have expanded their compact Queenslander into a spacious abode, with an enviable backyard studio

WHO LIVES HERE? Imelda, who is a librarian, and her sister

Cecelia, who is a collection systems manager. Together they run the popular Australian homewares label Maker & Merchant.

LOCATION: Tarragindi, QLD.

ORIGINAL PROPERTY: 1930s Queenslander with four small bedrooms and two tiny bathrooms, which had been modified during the 1980s to incorporate a large deck.

TIME FRAME: 16 months from design to completion.

WHY THIS HOUSE? “We bought the house in July 2010 and loved its proximity to the city and the way it sat on the big double block and opened directly onto the backyard,” says Imelda.

WHY THE RENO? “The rooms were all quite poky and dark; we always planned to renovate,” says Cecelia. “We really wanted a more functional, open floorplan and a dedicated studio for our sewing and stock.”

MUST-HAVES? “There was no dining room, so at the top of our wish list was a space to eat and entertain, a fireplace, a dedicated laundry and studio and a bigger bathroom,” says Cecelia. “In the original main bathroom, we had to step into the bathtub to close the door!”

THE WORKS: Both the existing deck and the back of the house were demolished and extended to accommodate a new kitchen, living area and deck. The layout was reconfigured to make better use of the existing space, enlarge the bathrooms and creating a new laundry and dining area. A self-contained pavilion was also added at the back of the property as a studio and office for Maker & Merchant.

BUDGET-BREAKERS: “The enormous doors to the deck were pricey, but they were integral to the design because we wanted the entire space to open up for a seamless indoor-outdoor connection,” says Imelda.

“We also cut a few joinery features from the plan, to rein in the budget.”

FAVOURITE ASPECT? “With the higher ceiling and layout changes, the house has the open-plan, light, spacious feel we were after,” says Imelda. “I also love that we reused the bi-fold doors in the studio and reused all the original windows in the extension,” adds Cecelia.