A beautiful sandstone cottage built in the 1860s deserves an equally beautiful and long-lasting addition. Benn & Penna Architects has delivered a dramatic addition, Balmain Rock House, built out of brick and concrete which will stand the test of time...
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The architects started by removing the more recent lean-to additions, revealing the original sandstone cottage. The sandstone cottage has become the new main living room, with a new concrete and brick pavilion to the rear housing kitchen and dining spaces as well as bedrooms and a bathroom upstairs.
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The new pavilion is separated from the original cottage by a courtyard. This allows both the living area and the new dining kitchen to spill outdoors and lets natural light and breezes into the middle of the home.
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Matching the roof pitch of the cottage, the new pavilion is conceived as a shadow original. Concrete was chosen to complement the weight and solidity of the stone yet contrast it to define what's old and what's new.
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Careful detailing between old and new also helps to elegantly mark the transition.
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A skylight and void over the dining room bring light in from above. Surrounded by concrete, stone and brick this dramatic shaft of light is an almost religious statement, creating a strong focus at this important family space.
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Similarly, the new ceiling in the living area follows the pitch of the roof and with a skylight in its hipped gable, light is brought into this space too, to dramatic effect.
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Upstairs two bedrooms are nestled either side of the pavilion where they can take advantage of natural light. They're separated by a bathroom and void to the dining area below.
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A small set of stairs from the dining room leads to the rear garden. The backyard is like a hidden oasis, concealed from the living spaces, but unfolding as you explore. Looking back at the concrete facade, the home looks like a ruin surrounded by a lush garden. Over time the concrete will develop a natural patina and slowly soften into the landscape.
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Playing with light against the solidity of concrete, brick and stone, Balmain Rock House creates a unique and dramatic home which enhances the beauty and history of the original sandstone cottage creating a home which will be around for many more years to come.
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