OUTSIDE IN HOUSE
FAIRFIELD, VIC.
‘We had the pleasure of working with Laura for our home renovation. Her design transformed our space, creating a light-filled open plan that connects seemlessly to outside, fully utilising all of the space under a tricky staircase, and incorporating our own personal touches. Laura was creative, proactive, pragmatic and thorough throughout the whole process including design, builder engagement, build management, and all the way through to final sign-off. We couldn’t be happier with the results and highly recommend her services’.
Paul and Julia, Outside In House
Project Overview
An early project for LWA, this narrow Victorian terrace was in dire need of an overhaul. The original kitchen, bathroom, and laundry consumed valuable space; limiting natural light and blocking connection to the outdoors, making the interior feel cramped and dark. Within a modest budget, the design challenge was to keep within the existing footprint, redesign these key spaces and create a seamless connection between the indoors and the exterior. LWA thrived on the problem-solving puzzle this brief presented!
Design Concept
The driving concept behind this renovation was to bring the "outside in" — transforming the space by opening it up to its outdoor surroundings. By rationalising the interior layout, we worked to enhance the flow of natural light and air and the way the occupants move through the spaces. The renovation improved functionality while creating a brighter, more open living environment.
Strategic Solutions
Due to budget constraints, we had to be particularly astute with every design decision. The kitchen, bathroom, and laundry were reconfigured to optimise the space without expanding the footprint. Thoughtful design elements, such as large windows and doors, open shelving, and minimalist finishes, helped to maximise natural light and visually enlarge the space.
Key Features
Centrally Located Bathroom and Laundry: A new, cleverly designed bathroom and European laundry were placed at the heart of the home to maximise utility and open the rear of the house to the outside.
Generous Kitchen and Dining Area: A spacious new kitchen and dining area were designed with an open-plan concept, flowing seamlessly into the backyard and side courtyard through large, dramatic sliding doors. This created an expansive living space, allowing optimal natural light and views to outside.
Outdoor Connection: To further enhance the connection between interior and exterior, a new pergola and deck were added at the rear, providing a functional outdoor living area.
Timber Staircase: A rickety old spiral staircase was replaced with an elegant winding timber stair, adding warmth and sophistication to the interior while improving access to the first floor.
Client, Builder and Architect Collaboration
The project was a collaborative effort between LWA, the client, and builder. By working within the constraints of the existing structure and budget, and involving the builder early in the process, we delivered an incredibly transformed home on budget that the clients love.
Location
Fairfield, VIC.
Building
LG Building
Structural Engineer
Solid Structural Engineering
Photographer
LG Building
Construction Completed 2020