24 ODERN CRESCENT SWANBOURNE

This project encompasses three storeys of additional space including an extension of the existing basement woodworking shop, a future “live-in” assistant residence on the ground floor and an exercise/dance studio to the first floor. Access to the rear of the house for building works would be a considerable obstacle to overcome and this was managed by the generosity of the neighbouring owners allowing access via a side pathway.

Basement works included the removal of an existing fully grown Norfolk Pine from the rear yard, demolition of existing retaining walls, deep excavation of the rear yard, propping the existing home which cantilevered over the new workshop area, and breaking open into the existing basement through load bearing retaining walls. Upon completion of the insitu concrete basement structure, a fully functioning Woodworking shop was fitted out to the clients’ specification.

Demolition work to the existing single level ground floor area followed and required protection of existing internal areas of the home that would soon be exposed to all weather conditions. All services to the existing home traversed through the new building zone and remained in operation throughout the demolition and building phase, requiring careful attention and co-ordination.

The Ground floor “live in” space included a new lounge, kitchenette and bedroom along with a re-furbishment of the existing ensuite.  Re-use of the solid teak floorboards salvaged from the original living area were incorporated and the solid teak cabinetry is a stand out feature.

The first floor Dance studio was fitted out complete with a sprung floor for maximum comfort and a balance bar for those aspiring ballerina’s. This upper level structure was formed with a bondek formwork system and insitu concrete slab, providing unrestricted access within the home below. This also included a Terrace Bridge to link the existing upper storey with the new, securing the home owners future access requirements.

Salvage of split face stone cladding from the original home and sourcing additional stone cladding from the original Italian quarry was necessary to ensure a seamless merging between new and old. The bespoke Spiral teak staircase appears free standing and self-supporting and is perfectly complimented with a custom machined solid brass balustrade fitted with exacting precision. The external Alfresco area, lavishly planted out above the basement woodworking shop provides a space for entertaining.

The build met the client’s brief and despite an incredibly high degree of difficulty, was delivered on time, on budget and encompassed outstanding craftsmanship across the trades.