ISLES GREEN HOUSE
Borogegal and Cammeraigal Land
After purchasing a Mosman property in Mosman, our clients realised early on that this Federation house was in need of some serious work. The home needed to be reorganised and extended to reflect contemporary life, with the creation of generous living and family spaces that directly connect to external terraces and verandah spaces.
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Challenges
Two key challenges in the project were the proximity of large apartment buildings on the southern and eastern boundaries, and the heritage value of the streetscape in Mosman.
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Approach
In response to these challenges, the front of the existing house was retained with no indication from the street that the house has been altered. The eaves of the new roofline are kept deliberately low, to lower the focus of the eye to the garden and protect the privacy of the internal spaces from the adjacent apartment buildings. Carefully placed screens and planting intend to protect the home from these surrounding buildings.
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Process / Materials
Internally and externally, the materials and finishes tie the old and new together with subtle changes in detailing differentiating and contrasting the two. A simple low slung roof captures the new spaces supported on a robust timber framed structure. Finishes of brick and lined timber have been carefully selected to create a layering palette in tones of cream, white and timber—further allowing the client’s decorative style to shine.
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Design Impact
From the outset, the client recognised that landscape would be integral to the success of the project. Designed by Volker Klemm, the lush, tropical garden merges seamlessly with the terrace and pool areas, creating a verdant backdrop that enhances the experience of the home. This house now exemplifies how a Federation-era dwelling can be thoughtfully adapted to meet the needs of a contemporary 21st-century family.
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