PL Building Project 4

A SUBURBAN DELIGHT

Designed by Simone Schenkel, this build by PL Building in collaboration with Virginia Polendakis from Colour Colour transformed a family home into a sophisticated, energy-efficient space that blends elegance with sustainability. The homeowners sought to expand their living area for a growing family without compromising the home’s original charm and contemporary feel.

PL Building retained the front room footprints, relocating the internal bathroom to create three spacious bedrooms, a generous family bathroom with powder room, and an improved flow from front to back. A modest rear extension squared off the house, significantly enlarging the kitchen and living area. Retaining the internal courtyard – an inspired last-minute decision – adds natural light and openness.

Warm chestnut flooring, spotted gum beams and posts and James Hardie weatherboard cladding reconnected the home to its roots, making it strong and harmonious. Sustainability was also at the front of the project’s mind, with double glazing, upgraded insulation, water tanks, heat pumps, and an advanced heating and cooling system all integrated. The result is a beautiful, functional and future-ready home that honours its past.