Whether a new build, addition or renovation, Kensington Design offers the complete package, including brilliant design solutions and quality workmanship.
FREMANTLE
The undoubtable success of this challenging project lies in the innovative architectural design solution that enabled maximum retention of the original structure to minimise cost.
The desired outcome has been achieved on time and within budget, thanks to the introduction of a new structural steel framework to support the original lightweight timber construction.
The existing rooms have been re-purposed and the ground floor area thoughtfully
remodelled, while the second-storey addition has added the extra space required to accommodate a growing family.
At the same time the property has been given a remarkable facelift, to transform a mundane single-storey house into an elegant and functional family home with a charming street presence.
This Hamptons-inspired frontage was established through the use of white weatherboard cladding, which was also chosen for its softening effect to the building's increased elevation.
The upper-floor balcony takes advantage of the new height, affording interesting views, and an alternative living space to which the parents can retreat.
On the ground level, a deep rear verandah provides a generous outdoor living space, and protects the kitchen and other living areas from the afternoon sun.
These open-plan living spaces continue the creamy colour palette, featuring white panelled cabinetwork, Avonite/Boardwalk acrylic benchtops and white ceramic tiles, making a sophisticated statement in the flowing kitchen.
Recycled jarrah flooring contrasts with the white furnishings, and adds warmth.
The laundry is set adjacent to the kitchen, to accommodate the parents' busy lifestyle and provide convenient access to the external clothes-drying area.
The stairwell is strategically located off the existing hall, and cleverly fitted within the original bathroom, as if it had always been there.
Kensington Design also employed sustainable principles in the home, including rainwater collection and storage, greywater recycling and solar panels.
MOUNT HAWTHORN
This enchanting two-storey weatherboard cottage fits in perfectly with the streetscape without mimicking the typical house style of the neighborhood. The new home has an individual style, and a fresh yet established presence with a high-pitched roof and dormer windows.
The layout features two covered entries - the main entry located off the front verandah and featuring a traditional staircase, and the family entry, a mudroom/lobby space located adjacent to the kitchen and laundry. A kitchen office and kids' dump space is conveniently positioned in the family entry lobby to work in with the lifestyle of the clients.
Downstairs is split into three levels, following the gentle upward slope of the original topography. This enables strong connections with the outdoor living and garden spaces surrounding the home.
The interiors have a contemporary feel, with a modern, uncluttered kitchen fusing gloss white cabinetwork with honed kabuki black granite benchtops and Carrara marble splashbacks.
The open-plan kitchen overlooks the living and dining space, which contains a recycled-brick wood-burning fireplace to provide warmth in the winter months.
A playroom is discreetly located beyond the main living room, and is separated by a subtle change in the floor level to connect directly to the back garden.
Jarrah parquetry, herringbone-patterned flooring provides a seamless connection between these spaces, while contributing to the home's contemporary edge.
Upstairs, two well-appointed bedrooms feature raking ceilings, with windows offering an outlook to a nearby park.
The downstairs master suite is complete with a generous ensuite, equipped with an oversized shower and freestanding bath.
CONTACT
Kensington Design
24 May Street, East Fremantle
Phone (08) 9438 3288
Email kd@kensingtondesign.com.au
Web www.kensingtondesign.com.au