The goal with this project in Mittagong was to create a harmonious marriage between an existing heritage building and two contemporary additions. Working alongside Sydney Architect Jon Jacka, we completed a full alteration to the existing hundred-year-old cottage and created two contemporary pavilion style additions.

Key structural elements were designed to be exposed, including roof trusses and bespoke windows and doors – this required meticulous attention to detail.

We love the external sliding western red cedar doors on this build and the solid timber portal frame detail that houses them.  One of the most beautiful architectural details are the way these same door jambs line up individually with their corresponding roof rafter inside, creating the seamless construction lines.  The result is an aesthetically beautiful transition from a heritage residence to a contemporary addition that feels like one single space throughout.

From a building perspective this project was complex due to the age and structure of the existing cottage and required a great deal of planning and team collaboration.

Prior to commencing, the cottage had to be underpinned, as most buildings from this period are constructed on single brick footings laid directly onto the ground (no foundations at all!).  This work upfront was imperative to the build, not only for safety and adherence to building codes, but also to create a seamless flow between the buildings.