Family Matters – Family House by Karen Abernethy

In need of considered modifications due to its ramshackle nature, Family House saw Karen Abernethy add new extensions along with contemporary renovations. The home is restored with an enduring character through its respect for the structure’s history yet excitement for the future.

Home to a busy household, the Victorian-era house had gone years without any significant change. Needing more space for their growing family, the clients sought the help of the architect to strip the residence back to its original form before adding new additions. Through this process, the architect was able to realise the home’s potential and introduce a contemporary design that would help the family grow whilst having their own private retreat spaces.

The house unfolds into a space that encourages connection, including communal living spaces that are saturated with natural light.

To begin, the architect turned the four front rooms – which were originally the bedrooms – into the parents’ wing and formal living and dining areas. From here, the house unfolds into a space that encourages connection, including communal living spaces that are saturated with natural light. Additionally, the rear bi-fold glass doors, arched ceilings and cool tones throughout encourage a sense of indoor-outdoor living, with the communal spaces ¬– including the kitchen and family dining room – opening directly onto the backyard. Leading from this space are staggered outdoor areas that are complete with views of a nearby gum tree.

At the opposite end of the central space are the four additional children’s bedrooms. Enhanced with mezzanine sleeping spaces, each bedroom is finished with study desks and a bathroom, allowing each child to have their own sanctuary. Through the new additions, and renovating the existing house, Karen Abernethy’s design helps the family to continue growing in place without stepping on each other’s toes. The enriching essence that is infused into the new additions matches the integrity of the home’s history whilst welcoming it into a modern era.