Nestled in the picturesque suburb of Balgowlah Heights, a charming house from the 60s recently underwent a remarkable transformation that exceeded all expectations.
The project, led by renowned builder Gavin Wilson and his dedicated team at Smith & Sons Manly, turned an outdated property into a stunning contemporary home that captures the essence of open plan living and embraces the breathtaking view across Middle Harbour. Let’s take a closer look at this remarkable renovation that showcases meticulous craftsmanship and an unwavering commitment to delivering a high-end result.
Originally built in the 1960s, the house underwent a previous renovation in the late 1980s. It transformed into a two-story face brick and weatherboard home with exposed rafters, offering a traditional aesthetic that had served its purpose over the years. However, the clients sought a fresh start and a design that would cater to their growing family’s needs.
The clients, a couple in their late 30s with one young child and another on the way, had a clear vision for their dream home. They desired open plan living spaces that capitalised on the stunning view of Middle Harbour. Large windows and spacious decks were crucial elements to allow for seamless indoor-outdoor living, inviting natural light and the beauty of the surrounding landscape into every corner of their home.
The renovation was an extensive undertaking, leaving no room untouched. The project involved adding an extra floor and transforming the original structure into a four-level contemporary residence. At the pool level, a living area with a bathroom and a covered deck were created, providing a perfect spot for relaxation and entertainment. The entry level boasts three bedrooms and a bathroom, while the mid-level houses a modern kitchen, family and dining area, complete with a large covered deck to enjoy the stunning views. The top floor features an office, a fourth bedroom with a separate bathroom, and a luxurious master suite with soaring 3-meter-high ceilings.
Throughout the project, the team faced height and envelope restrictions that required careful consideration during the planning process. However, their expertise and commitment to excellence enabled them to overcome these challenges, ensuring a successful outcome that adhered to the client’s vision while complying with regulations.
A key design consideration was to create a light-filled ambiance throughout the house. The interior and exterior of the home feature a predominant white colour scheme, evoking a sense of freshness and serenity. The extensive use of timber-look battens on the top floor adds warmth and texture to the overall aesthetic. To enhance energy efficiency, the house incorporates solar panels, reverse cycle air conditioning, and a pool heat pump.
The aluminium timber-look ARTWOOD external battens, were custom-made for the project and imported directly from Japan, contributing to the contemporary look and feel of the home. The roof material, Colourbond STANDING SEAM, not only complements the overall design but also ensures durability and longevity.
What sets this renovation project apart from others is the meticulous planning and logistics involved in the external cladding, making it a standout achievement. The north-facing light-filled stairwell serves as a striking architectural feature, accentuating the contemporary style while maximising natural light and spatial flow.
The Balgowlah Heights renovation project stands as a testament to the remarkable skill and craftsmanship of Gavin and his team. By seamlessly blending the client’s vision with their expertise, they delivered a high-end renovation that surpassed all expectations. From the open plan living spaces to the extensive use of timber and the breathtaking views, every element of the design reflects a meticulous attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to excellence. This project deserves recognition for its outstanding result.
Client Testimonial:
“Gavin and his team were amazing to deal with, but most importantly delivered a very high-end renovation that surpassed our expectations. Gavin would ensure the build was progressing quickly, the finishes were always being critiqued and the budget was always kept in mind. Would highly recommend!”
Project Information
Project Location: Balgowlah Heights
Photographer: Helen Ward- Inward Outward
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