Forest Lodge 2
Alteration & Addition
Architect: Development Design
Year Completed: 2013
Project overview: Built in the 1860s this recently heritage listed property was in desperate need of a makeover. Dark rooms and plaster walls concealed one and half centuries of history and beauty which would be uncovered and celebrated for all to appreciate.
A jungle of overgrown weeds and an array of junk and rubbish lined this 303m2 lot in the inner city suburb of Forest Lodge.
With little room to barely navigate a concrete truck through a very tight street, we began what would be one of the most difficult yet rewarding jobs we have ever taken on.
Plans to rejuvenate this heritage listed property, whilst adding a new contemporary addition to the rear that would be linked by a pond and glass floor was no easy task, taking into consideration the site restrictions.
During construction a major finding would change the dynamics of the build but more importantly uncover a part of the building that was left untouched for over a century.
This discovery was not only a great outcome for the client, but it allowed us to rescue a deteriorating structure and ensure that it stays dry and stable for centuries to come.
Beautiful sandstone floors and V joint lining walls and ceilings finish the space with respect and class.
Veneer book shelves and wine racks stand proudly in this space, creating a sense of warmth and intimacy.
Integrated traditional seating and high tech audio and visual come together in the home theater, to embrace a space that was once dark wet and unusable.
An open riser hardwood staircase reunites the two spaces seamlessly, without overpowering the exposed sandstone walls that were discovered under the hideous plaster which were hidden for over a century.
Now that we had uncovered all this history it was our duty to bring it back to its former glory that once stood proud amongst the workers cottages that lingered around the estate.
Large expanses of glass allow you to appreciate the history that once was, as the light filters and warms the space .Large bi-fold doors lead out onto the rear garden and entertainment area that now displays the sandstone that was excavated from the basement, then crafted into a beautiful pattern that would run the length of the boundary creating a wonderful connection between these two very different structures.
Wide oak floor boards give the two spaces connectivity, whilst luxurious marble lines the bathroom floors.
Opulent Calcutta marble drapes the kitchen bench tops as hand painted shaker doors sensitively take place on all joinery doors.
An open riser hardwood staircase leads you to a grand master suite and a bridge link back to the cottage attic.
A seamless frameless glass balustrade connects the new addition with the cottage attic, creating a sense of adventure as you cross the uncovered bridge link and take in the beauty of the original slate roof that was repaired to its former glory.
Entering the attic you appreciate the level of intricacy in the complicated roof lining and trims that dominate this space. Looking back out of this room you grasp the grandeur of the addition and how beautifully and respectfully it works with the history of the cottage.
This was an amazing project to work on and really tested our skill and knowledge of construction.
Kind Regards
Micrah Projects Team