#CDHawthornEast was initially designed by an architectural firm, but the costings came in well over budget, and the client was unable to continue. She came to us and asked us to redesign to the original budget of 1 million while keeping the design intent of the original architect's drawings.
This is a challenging way for us to work as it's hard to work in with someone else's vision while still applying the Cranberry stamp to the finished home. Using our Design and Construction service, the client engaged Cranberry to design and document the new extension to the house. The front 4 rooms of a double-fronted Victorian home were to be retained, and everything else knocked off to allow for the addition of a 2 storey extension.
The extension was to house a laundry, study, kitchen, living, dining and courtyard area on the ground floor and 2 bedrooms and a kid's bathroom upstairs. We also redesigned the front left-hand side rooms to create a master with a walk-in wardrobe and large ensuite.
New flooring was laid throughout, the home was painted, and a contemporary brick extension was constructed. The client used Cranberry Design contractors throughout the entire process, and we were there to support and help design management all the way through.
Challenges Keeping within the budget was probably the biggest challenge. We selected finishes that would have the biggest impact at the lowest price point. Most of the joinery outside the kitchen and pantry had a thermolaminated finish. The steel door that separated old and new was re-imagined out of timber to reduce costs while still creating a feature piece.
Tying the old and new together was also a bit tricky, so we decided to remove a small amount of the original detailing in the hallway so that it was less of a contrast. The original ceiling roses and cornice details remain, and we added contemporary lighting to the hallway.
Heating and cooling are always challenging, as most clients want large windows and lots of light. We are very aware of the heat load these add and the environmental cost, so we try to reduce as much as possible. We do this with the use of external blinds, internal blinds, and curtains to double insulate and doorways to section.
Interior Design Team: Cranberry Design
Photography: Kate Hansen Photography