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The design strategy was to assign more of the budget to creating a well insulated, protective container than building a complicated design – as a result the interior spaces are simple, calm and thermally comfortable. Extra attention was given to composite-framed double glazed windows and intentionally placed openable windows to accomodate the extreme winters and summers of central Victoria.

Our design was inspired by the client’s beautifully maintained garden and we made two striking trees at either end of the extension into focal points for the bedroom and study. The controlled natural light, strong visual connection to the garden and acoustic dampening all enhance the sense of “calm retreat”. A small deck attached to the bedroom provides a private place to sit and read. Our client’s commented “We’ve often said thank god COVID hit after we did the extension”.

Corten steel was the perfect choice for the cladding as its robust properties would withstand the Castlemaine weather over time while the rusted patina would reflect the earthy palette of the local landscape. From the street, the extension sits discreetly behind the Japanese maple while distinctly contemporary.

Our clients also said “Katrina should be proud of her design work - we got exactly what we wanted and needed”.