Croydon Federation Rejuvenation

Three years ago our clients Jane and Chris bought a derelict federation bungalow located in the Conservation area of Croydon. The house was originally built in 1920 and has since suffered from years of neglect. Despite the poor maintenance, some of the original interior features were quite prominent. So much so that the interiors were used as a set in Bruce Beresford’s 2018 film ‘Ladies in Black’.

Jane and Chris were attracted to the character of the old house, but needed a modern extension for their young family. They came to PWA for our expertise in modern extensions with a sympathetic approach to heritage conservation. The program involves a two-storey rear addition with a modern style open plan kitchen-living-dining room, bedrooms and bathrooms. A rear verandah provides essential indoor-outdoor living with a new swimming pool.

The main challenge was connecting the original house with the new extension. An eyelid dormer was inserted into the existing slat-pitch roof with a low-flat roof bridged over to the new modern addition. Under the dormer a new staircase was carefully inserted to connect the split-levels and the attic. Natural light and air have been introduced to the centre of the house through the stair void. The timber balustrade winding up adds visual interest.

Respect was given to the older part of the house as many original features were retained and carefully restored. In the rear garden next to the swimming pool, a raised grass area provides a safe play zone for the children as well as a space for a marquee to accommodate a large family gathering on Christmas and other special occasions. We are excited to see this project come together as construction finishes in early 2020.