Bridge House by Lot 1

A once dark and cramped family home has been reworked from top-to-toe by Sydney-based interior designers Lot 1 and architect Peter Valencic, without expanding on its existing footprint. The homeowners were adamant to remain within the confines of the existing house and not impede on the garden, allowing plenty of space for their three growing children to run and play.

By retaining original brickwork and the facade of the home, Lot 1 and Peter Valencic have highlighted the character of the original 1920s semi-detached home, resulting in a contemporary modern Australian family home that celebrates its heritage foundations.

Lot 1 principal Tammy Miconi says the original bricks uncovered during the renovation formed the genesis of the design. “Remnants of the bricks from the existing chimney in the internal courtyard were our starting point,” Tammy says. “Specially sourced recycled bricks sit alongside the old, continuing into the internal space.” The rich red bricks make their way into the new addition along the kitchen back wall, connecting both builds as one.

A double-height void adjacent to the central internal courtyard marks the elegant transition from old to new. Lot 1 and Peter Valencic designed the rear extension to flexibly switch from family time to a place to gather with friends. In the kitchen, the tactile brick led to a restrained colour palette featuring Mont Blanc stone from CDK Stone and streamlined integrated white cabinetry. An outdoor servery allows for constant supervision of the children when they’re outside, doubling as an opportune spot for summer barbecues on the deck.

Practical materials robust enough to withstand family life continue into the upstairs private areas, contained within the new double-storey extension. Oak joinery, looped Bremworth carpet and the Mate tile from Di Lorenzo instil a sense of calm in the master bedroom, complete with design classics from &Tradition and Cassina.