in canberra, the australian capital known for its modernist architecture, austin maynard architects has preserved and extended a suburban bungalow. the firm was approached by a couple who asked for a ?long-term family home that catches the sun?. rather than replace the existing structure, the firm added two new pavilions ? sympathetic to the existing post-war house, but distinctly contemporary in detail. ?as architects we felt an incredible sense of responsibility to protect and preserve the original canberra cottage, rather than follow the trend of demolishing and replacing a with large mcmansions,? says the design team.

all images by derek swalwell
 
 
throughout the project, which is referred to as ?empire?, austin maynard sought to retain and enhance as much of the building?s existing character as possible. however, there were some issues that the architects needed to resolve. ?the internal layout was confused and the orientation made the kitchen dark and cold,? explain the architects. ?the answer was to go in with a scalpel, making some big moves but without damaging too much. site lines were cleared, the living spaces were opened up to the outdoors and a corridor straight through the house was created.?
 
 
connected to the existing house via a corridor, a new pavilion in the south-facing garden contains a kitchen and dining space. a large north facing roof window spans across the pavilion, and is protected by operable louvers. the second pavilion, also connect...