The owners of ‘The Anzac’ came to Dalecki wanting to expand their Mt Hawthorn home into a generous and light-filled space for their growing family. Having lived in the house for several years before buying it, they wanted to keep the private spaces of the original house, which were well utilised and required only a light touch, but recognised the constrained and poorly oriented living spaces needed a strategic overhaul.

Open plan living spaces with a connection to the exterior were a must, ensuring the site’s city views could be appreciated from many aspects. The clients wanted a greater connection to light and natural ventilation, along with a logical functional layout with a seamless flow between the public and private zones.

The layout of the original bedrooms was kept intact, which now forms a more secluded, private zone. The two front bedrooms and bathroom were retained, while the original kitchen has been converted into a light-filled music and study room. The generously sized original lounge room has become the master bedroom, where the beautiful original features, including a fireplace, ceiling rose and picture rails, can be appreciated on a daily basis. A private courtyard, ensuite and walk-in robe have transformed this previously dark and poorly ventilated space into a modern yet charming retreat.

From the private frontage, connection to exterior spaces and natural light is gradually introduced as one transitions through the house. Moving through the central walkway, which bridges old and new, a winter courtyard is visible through a passing glimpse into the music room. Captured again along the walkway, the view of the courtyard is partly obscured by a brise soleil ‘hit and miss’ wall; a feature that is both a nod to the character of the neighbourhood and an effective privacy screen. A sense of anticipation is created, emphasised by a slightly lowered ceiling in this threshold which opens dramatically to a 3.5 metre height in the new living zone beyond.

Here, the expansive volume, careful application of glazing and thoughtfully crafted connections to the exterior creates an open, light-filled area for living and entertaining. Operable glazing and highlight clerestory windows draw in northern light and natural breezes, while the floor-to-ceiling glazing and window seat of the angled back wall skilfully frame the city view. Direct northern light is brought into the dining area, where a window seat directs captivating views to the winter courtyard beyond.By pulling apart the living zone from the front house, light and air has been drawn into this home, creating a bright and uplifting house that this couple had been dreaming of.