Bathed in natural light, this addition to ‘Allen Key House’ a 1930’s Californian bungalow, is practical yet playful, allowing the key features of the structure and its surrounds to speak volumes. As often happens, the creative approach was driven by design constraints – in this case, keeping to a tight budget.

Working to this brief, the team at Architect Prineas have delivered a simple construction that enhances the home’s proportions and brings a fresh new dynamic to the existing structure.

WORDS Jody O’Halloran | DESIGN Architect Prineas | PHOTOGRAPHY Chris Warnes

In bringing the brief to life Architect Prineas first masterfully engineered the roof line, creating exterior interest and a playful atmosphere within the wall parameters. Junctions of the ceiling invite both shade and light into the dwelling, while the lush green outlook from the leafy North shore surrounds is gently encouraged indoors at all vantage points. A connector link from the original structure brings the old and new together, accommodating a study and ensuite bathroom while two internal courtyards fill the room with light and atmosphere.

Materials have been kept equally simple yet dynamic, with black outlined panoramic windows to frame the garden views and crisp white walls offset with black detailing. Polished concrete floors ground the structure and help the thermal efficiency of the new indoor spaces, while an extensive outdoor timber decking area provides plenty of space for entertaining. Softening the monochrome aesthetic, timber furniture offers warmth to the large space and neutral accents compliment the palette. A subtle sprinkling of mint and green reference the lush surrounding landscape, without overpowering the minimal design.

Lead by the key design brief value to rework the bungalow’s original footprint without losing the character of the original home, the addition draws on an open plan layout, giving the owners the opportunity to create the accommodation required as well as emphasising the kitchen and entertaining areas in the rear of the structure.

Consciously practical, seamless in appearance and undoubtedly original in design, this addition makes structural change look effortlessly simple.