Bergen Residence
Renovation & Extension in the Toowoomba Region
Project Type: Extension and Renovation
Project Phase: Pending Construction
The Starting Point
A circa 1980’s brick veneer home, with an early 1990’s poorly performing sunroom extension, were in need of upgrades to support the new owner’s way of living. There was mould in the existing kitchen, and spatially, the kitchen and study in particular did not suit their needs.
The intention was to maximise the views of the rolling hills and cattle fields to the north, with a new extension offering an open plan living, kitchen and dining extension. A larger functional study was offered, along with 4 full-sized bedrooms, a new ensuite, and a Liveable Housing compliant main bathroom all were to occupy the existing footprint.
The plans
Sam drew up all the interior design documentation and specifications required to convert the existing residence into a larger family-friendly home. Sam also created the original sketch plans for the extension, proposing the size, scale and configuration, to ensure it worked beautifully for the clients.
By making use of existing structures, we were able to maximise value for the clients, while proposing some adjustments for adaptability and the Liveable Housing Standard.
First, let’s take a look at the cost-saving architectural design decisions.
EXISTING FLOOR PLAN
NEW WORKS FLOOR PLAN
Cost-efficient architectural choices
To reduce construction costs, we retained as much of the existing plumbing as we could, and designed the new ensuite and main bathroom around that. Walls were also retained where possible to reduce the impact on the budget.
The large 70m2 extension was the priority for the clients, so the size of that needed to feel generous, yet homely. Despite the large kitchen and new walk-in-pantry, we opted for healthier finishes that also offered a cost effective approach, in comparison to higher end finishes like polyurethane and vinyl wrapped cabinetry. The design was in the detail, rather than luxurious and toxic finishes, to offer a healthy sanctuary in line with the client’s way of living.
Sustainable Interior Design
Like most of our projects, we don’t ‘over design’ when it comes to materiality. Everything is well considered from the beginning, through to the final design stages. A minimalist approach to the interiors was actually the client’s personal style, but through thoughtful decisions every step of the way, we still provided that warm, homely approach.
The new open plan living area was purposely positioned to face north and optimise the orientation and solar passive aspects. We reduced glazing to the western side, and offered shading to the eastern outdoor living zone. The typical ducted heating and cooling system was substituted for ceiling fans and split system units, along with quality insulation and cladding materials.
Northerly view, where the house extension will be located and orientated to
Health and efficiency by design
The consideration of solar passive design to the extension allows fresh air and ventilation when needed. This is in addition to our selections of materials and finishes that are interrogated to ensure they are the best option for the client’s wellbeing, as well as their budget.
And materials aside, how an interior space functions is also something that greatly influences the health and wellbeing of the occupants, and is often overlooked in interior design (with finishes dangerously taking precedence). We ensured that the proposed design suited the client’s way of living, from the open plan living area, to the outdoor living zone, or even the study. Nothing was to feel cramped or compressed. We needed light and air flow, with multiple living spaces to adapt to the client’s day to day activities and visiting guests.
Architectural Solutions
We worked alongside a Registered Architect to create the conceptual design of the extension. This included the roof design and also the outdoor living area to the eastern side of the house. We utilised our BOM software (Revit) to formulate conceptual 3D views to share with the client, which are often easier to visualise than architectural plans.
The outdoor living area was to consider how we could incorporate an existing yet redundant concrete slab, which became a gathering and firepit zone. The pergola then connected directly to the open plan living area inside of the extension, offering more social and gathering opportunities, as well as a place for a morning coffee or afternoon beverage overlooking the rolling hills behind.
Hands-on interior design
While this project is still in progress and awaiting construction to commence, we have remained as hands-on as possible throughout this project. We conducted multiple in-person meetings and site visits throughout the design phase, but also pride ourselves on communication and transparency. So regular project updates and phone calls continue to occur, as we highly anticipate the future completion of this exciting project.