Petersham I

A Thoughtful Family Home in the Heart of the City‌

This inner-city project, nearing completion with a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) approved, is a testament to how design challenges can be turned into unique opportunities. Nestled on a narrow, sloping site in a busy urban neighborhood, the original house was in dilapidated condition and lacked connection to natural light or a green outlook. With tall, imposing walls on either side and a blank, uninviting rear facade, the site posed several challenges, but the potential was there.

My clients, a young couple, initially came to me with a vision of creating a bright, open home that would feel like an oasis in the city. However, the constraints of the site—limited space, a southerly aspect, and an overwhelming view of neighboring properties—meant that only careful design could bring their dream to life.

The solution? A carefully planned, two-storey home that fits within the allowable CDC building envelope, while making the most of every square meter. The ground floor is split-level, following the natural slope of the site, with a raised living room that flows into an open-plan kitchen and dining area. This layout not only maximizes the available space but also creates a dynamic connection between the rooms.

One of the standout features of the design is the external courtyard and internal double-height void. These elements, initially met with some hesitation by my clients, have completely transformed the house. The courtyard introduces much-needed greenery and fills the house with natural light, even though the site faces south. This infusion of north-facing daylight into the rear of the house makes the space feel brighter and more open compared to the dark, cramped conditions of the original building. The void above the kitchen and dining area further enhances this effect, creating a sense of vertical space and connection throughout the home.

Externally, the home features a blend of recycled brick and dark timber-style cladding, giving it a contemporary, yet warm and welcoming feel. The design is modern, not minimalist, with a clear respect for the older architecture of the street and the surrounding area. Thoughtful landscaping, including indigenous species planting and a rainwater tank, reflects my commitment to environmentally conscious design. I believe that homes should be more than just aesthetically pleasing—they should also be sustainable and in harmony with the environment.

As construction nears its end, my clients are excited to move in. The design elements they were initially unsure about—such as the courtyard and the void—have now proven to be the standout features of the home. They can’t wait to enjoy the bright, airy space and their much-needed connection to nature, all within the heart of the city. It’s a perfect example of how a thoughtful, carefully crafted design can make the most of even the most challenging sites.