A Sinuous Journey – Cascade Terrace by Sam Crawford Architects

Merging an original Victorian terrace with a 1980s-style addition, Sam Crawford Architects creates an inviting home that welcomes light, space and a sense of retreat. A tangible sense of warmth – felt from the sun cascading in through the large windows and the timber that dominates throughout the home – immediately cocoons you as you enter Cascade Terrace.

The transformation retains the classic terrace facade typical of the many houses that line Paddington’s streets yet considered internal changes maximise the original qualities of the home and inject a more contemporary way of living. A previously cramped kitchen, living space and main bedroom were opened up and a greater connection to the nearby park and garden was established. Sam Crawford, director of Sam Crawford Architects notes, “rather than reinvention, alterations and additions to Cascade Terrace create a contemporary retreat for a couple to age in.” He continues, “the contemporary design resolved the competing requirements of privacy, sun and views, all within a heritage zone.”

The transformation retains the classic terrace facade typical of the many houses that line Paddington’s streets yet considered internal changes maximise the original qualities of the home and inject a more contemporary way of living.

Central to the rejuvenation was maximising the home’s existing footprint. “Firstly, we pushed the interior spaces out to include the vista-blocking wraparound verandahs on both levels, creating extra space and bringing in light and views,” says Sam. “Secondly, we raised the main bedroom floor, which allowed us to then raise the living space ceiling, which, together with new floor-to-ceiling windows, brings in more light and views and a sense of space.”

Also key to the renewed sense of space in the house is the introduction of a sinuous sculptural staircase that cascades through the three levels with a vaulted skylight above, linking the living and sleeping areas and drawing light deep into the home. Almost a work of art in itself, the staircase is made of white-painted steel and timber with wide and shallow treads for better access.

A strong connection between the outdoors and the indoors defines the home in every aspect of its design.

A strong connection between the outdoors and the indoors defines the home in every aspect of its design. Large floor-to-ceiling glass sliding doors replace walls to create a connection between a lower-level pool room and garden. The main bedroom was reconfigured through wraparound pivoting timber shutters – balancing privacy and over-exposure to the northern sun and enhancing views of nearby parklands due to new windows and a park outlook from the ensuite.

Meanwhile, interior design choices also contribute to this sense of cohesion. A wall separating the dining and living rooms is replaced with a spotted gum room divider, a work of art displaying ornaments and books, that improves the connection between the rooms yet retains separation. Sandstone paving inside and outside links the two spaces, while the natural, raw quality of the timber throughout the home acts as another link.

Simultaneously light and warm, Cascade Terrace typifies the aesthetic of the Paddington locale while feeling cosy and distinctive.

The materiality of Cascade Terrace is sympathetic to the heritage locale. Timber features heavily throughout – spotted gum window frames and door frames, European oak joinery and timber floors unify the internal spaces. Externally painted common brick walls complement the finely crafted openings of steel and hardwood, while marble and terrazzo with brass handles and tapware in the kitchen and bathrooms add contrast. Art and furnishings are abundant – books, ceramics and glassware are scattered against a backdrop of different textures of the rugs and upholstery – making the space feel warm and lived in.

Simultaneously light and warm, Cascade Terrace typifies the aesthetic of the Paddington locale while feeling cosy and distinctive. Sam Crawford Architects leverages the strengths of a rare, wide terrace with a remarkable outlook and creates a contemporary dwelling without compromising on the design. The result is a home that feels connected, harmonious and light, enriching the lives of the inhabitants on a daily basis.