When architecture studio Bryant Alsop Architects came across this project, the Edwardian house was worse for wear, to say the least. The cabinetry was falling apart, the roofs were leaking, and a deceased possum was found in the skylight! In giving the Golden Ash House a complete renovation, the architects were able to bring natural light deep into the footprint of the house, as well as introduce subtle, unexpected curves with a modern extension that brings this home into the new century (what we at Design Milk like to call a house mullet: traditional in the front, modern in the back).

The new home features an extension that contains the family living space and rests on a concrete plinth to give it a lightness effect, as if hovering above ground. Because the home has a narrow floor plan that didn?t originally allow for natural light to come through, a north-facing central courtyard was created on the side to give light to the kitchen and dining areas all year round. The new architecture of the home uses light-colored materials and soft folding shapes to trick the eyes in seeing the perceived narrow lot and restricted spaces.

This optical illusion is continued inside the home as well with custom, integrated cabinetry and a minimal palette of materials to create a seamless transition.

The original part of the Edwardian house contains a formal living room, main bedroom, and study. Three kids bedrooms, a bathroom, and a kids living space are all located on the f...