Striking geometry for modern take on old miners cottage

Striking geometrical lines have been used to dramatic effect for the modern extension of this old home on the Ballast Point Peninsula in Sydney. A "lean-to" at the rear originally accomodated the kitchen, living area, dining room and bathroom. The brief for Fox Johnston Architects was to create more room for a family of four, with separate living and sleeping quarters so the adults could entertain while the young children were sleeping. Also, a challenge amply met was the desire to let in more sun. In the words of the architects, "The final design was a total shift in thought, a single storey wing housing the living spaces is inserted into the rear, embracing a central courtyard and glimpsing the city beyond. A permeable bridge floats over an elongated pond and connects old and new. This new 'living' wing provides separation from sleeping spaces in the old shell – its roof manipulated to allow northern light to penetrate the space."