An Extension of Craft – Magnolia House by Robson Rak
Expanding the generous volumes of the original heritage home, Magnolia House is extended outward and downward to create connections to the surrounding lush landscape setting and increase amenity. Robson Rak takes heeded influence from the ornate and crafted nature of the existing, proposing a home of continued evolution, elevated through detail.
Striking the balance between old and new and ensuring a connective story binds the two is integral to extending a heritage home with respect of its origins. Named after the two heritage-listed magnolia trees positioned upon entry, Magnolia House is given a new sense of purpose and relevance through careful intervention of the existing and an expansion of its previous volumes. By continuing the lofted internal ceiling heights into the new, the same sense of grandeur carries forward into its next chapter, with a sharp and considered layering of detailed elements defining the space. Enviably sited on a plentiful allotment, the residence is home to a large side garden, pool, tennis court and entertaining space, and ensuring the additions open to each of these was integral to the brief. In response, Robson Rak has transformed the heritage home into one of elevated luxury.
Built by Sinjen, the additions see the existing envelope pushed outward to create a shared living space and extend downward to carve an entirely new basement under the home. Maintaining the presence of the home in place and amongst the streetscape was key. By adding amenity underneath the existing, the overall footprint expands while retaining the essence and its memory of the home. As a reflection of modern occupation, the newly formed living, dining and kitchen space sits together within an open expanse. The ability for functions to cross-over into one another and then spill out beyond the façade into the outdoor areas and the garden reinforces a sense of connection, both internally and out toward the garden.
Acknowledging the history of the home and its connection to the origins of the area, Magnolia House is conceived as an evolution of what had come before. Layered with colour, texture and a unique boldness as a clear directive from the client, the resulting home has its own charm, yet also feels like an embedded and appropriate alignment with both the contemporary and the heritage elements. As a reflection of its owners and their want to bring people together, the newly formed openness allows for large groups to fill the space when entertaining, and through the curated settings and warmth added through texture to feel intimate at other times also.
Magnolia House combines the character of its origins with a heightening of the contemporary home through the engagement of local craftspeople and artisans. Continuing the legacy of its past, Robson Rak ensure their interventions add in value and significance.
