Semi Bold – Bondi, Australia

A dynamic redesign and well considered extension brings light and space to this Bondi property, with Abodo’s Vulcan timber cladding in Protector - Nero chosen to elevate the drama of the existing rendered walls while also providing a degree of complementary contrast to the home’s exterior.

Letting light into internal spaces is a common problem for semi detached homes - as is providing enough space for modern families.

This Bondi semi suffered from both, prompting its owners to engage architects LiteraTrotta Architecture, who redesigned the interior to bring a suite of new rooms in the form of an extension upstairs, with downstairs transformed by some cleverly positioned openings.

Particular attention was paid to bringing light into the entry foyer, a feat achieved through the ingenious insertion of a double height window and skylight above, which fundamentally splits the home along this axis, creating a lightwell.

Previously dark and uninviting, the entry foyer is now a bright conduit to modern life, flowing upstairs via a curvaceous new staircase and connecting smoothly with the reconfigured lower level rooms.

Upstairs, the family is amply housed in a series of spacious and high ceilinged bedrooms, with adjoining bathrooms, wardrobes, and a balcony overlooking the garden and pool. While the interior spaces are kept minimal, with a palette of white walls, carpeted bedrooms and timber floorboards below, the exterior of the home required a considered touch to ensure cohesion between old and new.