This was a very small and awkward miners cottage in Lawson in desperate need of updating to fit with the current Australian family lifestyle. As mining diminished in the area, it became a popular weekend destination in the 60s and 70s for Sydneysiders, so haphazard and poorly built extension are common; but not meant for full-time family living.
There was barely enough room for one small two-seater lounge, much less an armchair in the tiny living space. There was no dining space and the kitchen was so small only one person could stand in the space at a time.
Furthermore, it was dominated by an overly large fireplace that was dangerous. The overly small lounge/living/family room was out of proportion with the large fireplace and an overly small sized hearth; with children, access to an open fire with embers flying out was just a bad mix. To add to this was the fire hazard it presented: the flooring merely a feet away from the open fire was cypress pine, which is one of the most combustible timbers.
The space was not practical for a young family, a common demographic these days for the area. The land was sizeable and there was potential for a view over the mountains towards the city. While many potential buyers remained skeptical of the potential, the owners were confident that their builder, Joshua, would be able to envision something with the right feel, fit and form.
Joshua designed and extended the front of the home to include a large kitchen, dining and living area in a light-filled, open plan style.
The facade was updated and painted a modern colour, still in-keeping with the origins and charm. Now it is a family home that is fresh, spacious and inviting.
Inside the new extension, the living room is light and airy, with the addition of multiple windows. It cleverly incorporates the best elements of traditional and modern design.
Josh has installed new double-hung, double-glazed windows in keeping with the style of the exterior of the cottage. The new extension takes advantage of the view of the Blue Mountains.
The vaulted ceiling is intelligently designed to make the space appear larger. The rough-sawn beams add a charm that the owners have reflected in picture frames and mirrors.
