A carefully calibrated addition replaces a 1990s south‑facing annex to an F.C.T Wakefield Gardens heritage cottage. The new work resolves site and heritage constraints and brings north light deep into a south‑facing plan. Moreover, it clearly distinguishes old from new while remaining quietly at home in the streetscape.

Modern extension to a brick home with timber deck in Canberra

Concept & Form

A sectional analysis of the original cottage informed a new form that echoes the heritage roof silhouette while being carved internally to create a distinct contemporary volume. Projects involving heritage alterations and additions Canberra require careful design to maintain character when introducing modern features. A clerestory roof introduces high‑level north‑facing glazing—concealed from the street by the cottage roof—to deliver winter sun to the addition without altering the street presentation. Canberra Red bricks and a battened parapet reference the existing textured fabric. A galvanised steel box gutter provides a precise line of contrast that legibly separates new from old.

Heritage, Streetscape & Context

From the street, only a modest portion of the addition is visible beyond the original building line. This layered reading places streetscape and landscape first, existing dwelling second, and new work third—reinforcing the precinct as a living, evolving context rather than a static museum piece.

Plan & Program

The original spatial logic is retained: front entry, sitting room and three bedrooms remain intact, with the former laundry wing becoming a new bathroom. A link space mediates between heritage and new, acting as both physical connection and visual threshold for a seamless yet legible transition.

Light‑filled living room with exposed brick walls, large windows and vaulted ceiling

Craft & Collaboration

Given the heritage setting, window design was critical. In collaboration with LogikHaus, a triple‑glazed system replicates historic muntin proportions so frame, sash and glazing bars read as compatible with the original openings while delivering contemporary performance.

Sustainability & Performance

  • Reverse brick veneer using recycled Canberra Reds on the south wall for thermal mass and texture
  • Clerestory and high‑level windows designed for winter solar gain and summer control
  • Polished concrete slab and other mass elements to stabilise internal temperatures and reduce reliance on mechanical systems

Access & Aging in Place

The home is future‑ready. A secondary bedroom and bathroom support age‑in‑place living and caregiver access. In consultation with the ACT Heritage Council, the north‑facing front porch was enlarged for wheelchair use. This preserves a cherished outdoor space and enhancing street engagement.

Outcome

The project delivers enhanced amenity, passive comfort and accessibility while honouring the character of the original cottage and the Wakefield Gardens streetscape.

Modern backyard extension with cream cladding, timber deck and flowering crepe myrtle tree

Cream‑coloured cladding with black‑framed window and metal awning surrounded by greenery

Narrow timber deck beside modern cladding, lined with potted plants and garden foliage

Close‑up of timber deck steps with potted plants beside sliding glass doors

Contemporary kitchen with timber-lined pitched ceiling, white cabinetry and exposed brick accents

Timber bench and pale timber joinery beside white sliding door in modern interior

White kitchen with exposed brick feature wall, timber cabinetry and garden view

Detail of red brick wall with round exterior light fixture

Bright hallway with timber floors, display cabinetry and piano leading to kitchen beyond

Hallway corner with white cabinetry, timber flooring and built-in display niche

White-framed bedroom window overlooking leafy garden with soft natural light

Freestanding bathtub with stone tile walls and potted plant on wooden stool

Textured stone surface illuminated by angled beam of sunlight

Modern rear deck with sliding glass doors, flowering crepe myrtle and potted plants

Modern gabled roof with cream vertical cladding and large geometric window

Red brick wall with weathered textures and a brick stamped ‘Canberra

Renovated brick home with solar panels, black-framed doors and landscaped garden path

Typology: 
Single Housing.

Service:
Design and Documentation.

Stage:
Complete, 2025.

Builder:
Code Building Developments.

Location:
Ainslie, ACT, Ngunnawal Country.

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