DO IT.

With the family renting a nearby apartment for 10 months for the duration of the works, construction got underway at the site.

“The house is on a slope, so the floor level of the addition was dropped, creating lofty ceilings and a bright open-plan space. It’s oversized in scale and form compared to the traditional format of the original home, which enhances the differentiation as you move through the old into the new,” says Tanya.

The sleek, practical kitchen – with walls of crisp-white cabinetry stretching to the ceiling and a marble-topped island – is an entertainer’s dream. “There’s so much storage,” says Louise.

Full-height retractable glazed doors allow natural light to stream into the expansive living area, with the lush, updated garden playing a leading role both inside and out. “It makes you feel as though you’re at one with nature,” says Louise. “It’s such a private and peaceful garden. We love having people over and it’s wonderful having this space. We extended the concrete flooring externally to give a lovely outdoor entertaining area.

“I’m not a morning person, but I now make sure I get up early, make myself a coffee and look outside for 20 minutes or so before the day starts. It’s a highlight I look forward to.”

The true beauty of the house lies in the fact it’s easy for every member of the family to live in and enjoy. “We’re so thrilled with the way it has turned out,” says Louise. To find out more about Tanya’s work, visit hancockarchitects.com.au. The builder on this project was Ciolino Constructions at ciolinoconstructions.com.au.