The rear façade of the new living space is also framed in insitu concrete, with the side and top beams extending outwards to create and overhang that protects the doors from light rain and sun.
The outside edge of these beams reduces to a fine chamfer, with the top horizontal beam also changing dimension and angle along its length. Looking from across the yard, it looks like a slightly skewed picture frame.
The use of double-glazing and the inherent mass of the double-skinned concrete walls help moderate internal temperatures in the new living spaces, in line with those in the original part of the house.
Directly outside the living area is an in-ground pool. Behind the pool, the original double-brick garage has been opened up and re-envisioned as a cabana.
Insitu-concrete paving, extending from the rear living area, around the pool and into the cabana, ties all the elements together. The polished concrete flooring in the cabana is complemented by a polished concrete sink/bench.
Everyone involved in the project, including the owners are delighted with the final outcome - proof that the past and present can successfully co-exist in Sydney's suburban landscape.