New South Wales, Australia
MHN Design Union along with their design team were appointed to fully renovate an 1880’s cottage in New South Wales, Australia.
The project was short-listed for a 2021 International Architecture Award from The Chicago Athenaeum and The European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies.
The site is located on a relatively flat rectangular corner block in Double Bay, Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs.
Originally, a two-story cottage, first known as Customs House, was constructed in the 1880s, since then, a number of additions and renovations have taken place.
The most recent include the design of a separate two-story cottage built towards the northern part of the site linked by a single-story structure.
The architects retained the existing Customs House on the corner, which, although not Heritage Listed, made a positive contribution to the existing streetscape.
The new addition was to be clearly defined, distinct, and separate from the original structure.
A glazed atrium housing the circulation zones was created between the new and old structures.
A concrete block is then inserted and attached around the north and eastern part of the site, which frees up much-needed outdoor space for the yard and pool area.
Living areas have been inverted to the top floor, maximizing views towards Double Bay Beach.
Operable screens provide visual privacy and solar protection to these areas.
Project: Double Bay Residence
Architects: MHN Design Union
Client: Private
General Contractor: Ivison Constructions
Photographers: Felix Forest and Tom Ferguson
