Aru House by Curious Practice

Aru House by Curious Practice has transformed into a rejuvenated cottage on Awabakal Country, evolving into a responsive, contemporary home that celebrates its heritage and environment.

Weatherboard cottages built in the first half of the 20th century were often generous at the front and restricted at the rear, with little regard for prevailing breezes, appropriate orientation and gardens. Aru House, named after the Awabakal word for ‘insect’, comprises a series of carefully balanced sensory amplifiers and connectors, allowing a sense of place to re-emerge.

A side addition accommodates a study, bedroom and bathroom, while the western rear extension forms a flexible living threshold, boosting the home’s functionality and spaciousness.

The transformation focuses on the previously neglected rear of the house, turning it into a versatile living space that directly responds to its environment. These sympathetic augmentations allow the building to become responsive to seasonal living patterns, with a newfound sense of contextual sensitivity. Adjustable apertures and sliding, spotted gum screens create a connection between the interior and exterior, providing both shelter and openness, with only a minor increase to the floor area for greater use of space.

A side addition accommodates a study, bedroom and bathroom, while the western rear extension forms a flexible living threshold, boosting the home’s functionality and spaciousness. The side deck further enhances the living experience, expanding the interior areas during summer to create an ideal outdoor space for entertaining and enjoying warm weather, while contracting in winter to offer a cosy retreat that retains warmth and comfort.

Curious Practice, an award-winning, design-oriented firm, brings its foundational philosophy of curiosity to the project.

A high level of craftsmanship is evident throughout Aru House, with bespoke elements adding character and functionality. Articulated brickwork forms, such as steps, a porch, a letterbox and a public seat, enhance the street presence. Replacing the front lawn with a native garden introduces colour and biodiversity, enriching the public realm. Innovative material use and light choreography blur the lines between inside and outside, creating spaces that feel both intimate and expansive. Natural light and ventilation also enhance the living experience and reduce energy consumption.

Curious Practice, an award-winning, design-oriented firm, brings its foundational philosophy of curiosity to the project. Their belief that curiosity is essential to architecture is evident in Aru House’s intriguing and functional spaces. By revitalising existing housing with sensitivity and innovation, the home exemplifies thoughtful design, balancing respect for its roots with a connection to its environment.

By revitalising existing housing with sensitivity and innovation, the home exemplifies thoughtful design, balancing respect for its roots with a connection to its environment.

Aru House is a reimagining of a traditional weatherboard cottage, grounded in a respect for its history and a profound connection to its surroundings. The thoughtful augmentations not only enhance the home’s functionality but also ensure it remains a cherished space for years to come.

Architecture by Curious Practice. Build by Built by Eli. Landscape Design by Wattlebird Garden Designs and Newcastle Wildflower Nursery.