Site & Design:

Backing on to a wildlife reserve, this coastal suburban property is in a relaxed street approximately 500m from the beach. An existing single-story rendered dwelling occupies the flat lot, with surrounding redevelopments suggesting it's a suitable time to invest in a major update to the home and to provide more space for the family.

The project is to be constructed by an owner-builder, so to avoid rebuilding a whole new raised floor system 700mm above the current slab to meet recent flood regulation updates, the existing dwelling's footprint is to be renovated with the major portion of the budget invested into a second storey addition. 

Weatherboard residences are a timeless style, popular in the area and seen by the owner as a desirable design cue to integrate. A mix of coastal and Hamptons styling was requested, which combined with the large addition plus a new carport gatehouse and fence enable a complete transformation, essentially appearing as a brand new home for maximum resale value and enjoyment. 

Layout/Floor Plan

The proposed layout was based on initial hand sketches from the owner which were then developed to realize their maximum while keeping the essence of the owner's design strongly intact. Prior to developing the design, BYO Floor Plan conducted a full internal measure of the house to identify: room sizes, door, window and visible service locations which enable us to start with the most accurate information possible. With this detailed data captured, we can prevent unknowingly designing elements that would require shifting expensive items where possible. 

The resolved design includes open plan living spaces on the ground floor, which face the wildlife reserve to the rear including a lake. The existing pool becomes a showpiece, with new covered entertaining spaces to each of its sides and being clearly seen from the kitchen through new large windows. With plenty of extra floor space made available in the second-floor addition, a relocated large kitchen and dining area with a double high ceiling create a sense of luxury to what was previously a modest 60s home. Towards the front of the residence, a new bedroom, bathroom, rumpus with its own courtyard, and new carport provide so much extra space for the kids to enjoy when not in the main open-plan spaces. 

Upstairs, a large central void space overlooks the dining room and can lead one towards the master suite, complete with its own balcony, vaulted ceilings, study, ensuite and walk-in robe. Towards the front of the new level, 3 additional kids bedrooms share a communal bathroom, private lounge room, and balcony with views over the quiet street.

Project Status:

With the Concept Design now finalised, the project is ready to engage a structural engineer for technical discussions regarding the second story addition. Following this, the design can be formatted into a working drawing package suitable for construction following approvals from council and a building certifier. 

Working alongside consulting professionals and the preparation of plans for various applications is part of the design service offered by BYO Floor Plan.

See our downloadable Design Concept Package PDF below, which includes the floor plans.