Lanoma Residence by Licht Architecture

Rejuvenated for the first time in over 40 years, Lanoma Residence now receives generous amounts of natural light. Embracing the structure of the Federation-style home, Licht Architecture focuses on small yet impactful cosmetic changes.

Located in East Launceston, Tasmania, Lanoma Residence embodies the charm of Federation-style homes, featuring bay windows, spindle friezes, stained glass and a spacious verandah. The design brief for the renovation involved celebrating the existing architecture while combatting dark interiors that were disconnected from the outdoors. To increase access to natural light and improve internal connections, Licht Architecture removes a tired lean-to before crafting a small kitchen and dining extension, as well as a timber deck. The reimagined home, slightly reconfigured, visually unites rooms through a series of architectural punctures and accommodates amenities within the existing footprint.

Lanoma Residence embodies the charm of Federation-style homes, featuring bay windows, spindle friezes, stained glass and a spacious verandah.

Following the maxim ‘do more with less’, Licht Architecture preserves the sunroom – added to the building in the 1980s – as a second living area for teenagers. Reclad, reroofed and insulated, the space benefits from new sliding doors that open onto the deck. Separate from the sunroom, the contemporary extension echoes the facade of the Federation-style building with lightweight vertical cladding and vertical decorative battens. Curved window shrouds reference the arches of the existing home while providing shade. As the extension and revitalised sunroom draw natural light, intuitive places to relax emerge; the new deck, joining to both additions, offers a bright, sheltered space for daytime barbecues. The minimal increase in footprint – amounting to only 17 square metres – belies the effectiveness of the new works in improving the residential experience. Since the renovation, the interiors of Lanoma Residence now flow towards the tranquil outdoors.

Many seemingly minor alterations have a significant positive impact on Lanoma Residence. Barrel-vaulted ceilings reinforce the archways of the verandah while establishing a sense of spatial order. Subtle curves introduced throughout the interiors enliven the home during the day, catalysing interplays of natural light and shadow. Tasmanian oak floors – the warmth of which is enhanced by crisp, white painted walls – champion the comforting quality of natural material. Double glazing and increased insulation in walls, ceilings and floors establish a stable internal temperature. Garden landscaping, now underway, will gradually soften the appearance of the exterior.

Subtle curves introduced throughout the interiors enliven the home during the day, catalysing interplays of natural light and shadow.

In contrast to its previous iteration, Lanoma Residence is warm, inviting and full of natural light. Celebrating a humble home, Licht Architecture fosters an environment that is uplifted, rather than spoiled, by its historic foundation.

Architecture by Licht Architecture. Build by Pride Building Solutions. Appliances by Fisher & Paykel.