The Eastwell House was once only known to its local village of Flinders, Mornington Peninsula for its age. One of the oldest on the block, it was no secret to the cottage struggled to accomodate a growing family and fulfil their functional needs. Unafraid to make a bold move, Techne have reinvigorated the coastal cottage and its reputation, setting a local precedence for how best to sympathetically enter the new era.
DESIGN | PHOTOGRAPHY
It was a challenging start to reinventing the 19th century abode, located on a cantilevered site. Noting their previous success at , the clients knew Techne Architecture and Interior Design were ready to put their best architectural foot forward for the home’s future. The unusual shape allowed only limited options for adding on, so Techne developed a concept of several linked pavilions. Darting out from both the front and rear aspects of the home, the pavilions demonstrate an unusual marriage between the modern and heritage, in both the interior and exterior.
These angular forms aren’t a total deviation from the heritage mould, as Techne took inspiration from the cottage, its history, and the locale to design the double-story extension. Hinting to the home’s its coastal surrounds, the contemporary additions are wrapped in weatherboard and clad with standing-seam metal. The sculptured ‘saddleback’ roof unfolds into the backyard, leaving ample opportunity for outdoor-indoor dining and maximising ceiling height. Creating an enviable vista underneath, we’re drawn to the sunlit comfort of a window seat; one of many inviting corners for parents to kick back and enjoy some quiet time.
The Eastwell House carries a consistent materiality throughout. Spot the concrete fireplace, light timber veneer and white stone – all interspersed with robust joinery. Well-versed in the art of, Techne have preferred these materials for their hardwearing and long-lasting quality; music to the ears of a busy family. Moving from room to room, nautical references ahoy, courtesy of a palette of warm whites and mid-greys. At the introduction of high ceilings, sliding doors and light-filled spaces, these finer details of the interior cement the junction between old and new.
They say change is as good as a holiday – and the clients of this beachside abode can now enjoy a feeling of both, each and everyday. Techne Architecture and Interior Design have nailed the difficult art of contrast in striking sculptural design, without butchering the quaint charm of this seaside cottage.
‘The existing building vernacular has been considered both in the form and materiality of the extension. We envisioned a home that carefully responded to the junction of old and new.’
— Techne Project Director Justin Northrop
The post appeared first on .
