Lines of harmony

Adding a level to a single storey home is rarely a simple task. But with a heritage home there are not just the building challenges to conquer. The finished home still needs to be aesthetically pleasing and in proportion.

When Cape Cod Australia was asked to design and build a second storey for a small 1930's bungalow, a key requirement was that the addition be in harmony with the proportions of the original house. However, the owners also wanted the finished result to have a sharp new look. The success of this approach was recognised when the home was judged a finalist in the 2003 NRMA Insurance HIA Housing Awards.

Externally, Cape Cod Australia created the new look by rendering the exterior walls and replacing the old tiled roof with Colorbond. To maintain the correct proportions, the design team matched windows and gable treatments on the new level with existing windows. They also set back the existing roof line to reduce the bulk and scale of the addition.

The new second level contains the master bedroom, an ensuite, walk-in wardrobe and a second bedroom, also with its own walk-in wardrobe. The downstairs bathroom was renovated to meet the standard set by the new ensuite.

Internally, raked ceilings and large rooms ensure the new second storey feels spacious and airy. Vaulted ceilings above the stairwell create an impressive entrance to the two bedrooms.

Cape Cod Australia has been designing and building second-storey additions such as this for more than 40 years, renovating houses in a variety of styles from traditional to contemporary and working with a broad range of materials. As well as having its own team of designers, architects and subcontractors, the company also has access to a wide selection of suppliers.

For further information, contact Cape Cod Australia, Suite 41, 410 Church St, North Parramatta, NSW 2151, phone (02) 9683 1999. Website: www.capecod.com.au.

Story by: Trendsideas