Scale Play – Twinset by Welsh + Major

Twin Set is the expansion of a previously semi-detached home into a singular residence that openly engages with new landscaping. Welsh + Major open the internal envelope, inserting bold new additions to the rear, directing views outward, encouraging increased natural light and articulating the rear façade.

Located in Glebe, the original façades of the home remain almost untouched in place, with little hint of what has transpired and evolved behind. In a plan to open the houses into an enlarged residence, futureproofing allows for the newly connected home to be returned to its original pair if needed. Preserving the frontage was key to ensuring the legacy of the original structure remained. However, the new works to the rear ensure the residence reflects a more modern occupation for its owners. Once inside, long vistas connect the newly opened forms and a centrally located courtyard offers a reprieve that brings light and ventilation deep into the home. Welsh + Major carefully tailors the stitched home into a generous and connected series of spaces that lead to an equally open gathering space to the rear.

Welsh + Major carefully tailors the stitched home into a generous and connected series of spaces that lead to an equally open gathering space to the rear.

Movement and connections to the outdoors throughout the home create moments of compression and release. Incorporating the natural environment formed an integral part of the brief, where new and existing glazing plays a key role in elongating the overall volume. Paying homage to that which existed prior by retaining the original order and formality, the new additions are contained within a linear formation with extensive glazing to connect to the landscape.

In expressing the joined junction to the rear, concrete cassette forms are inserted to funnel long shards of light into the home whilst also framing views out. The harder masonry elements are softened by a curated garden setting – a series of outdoor destinations combine organic curves and a loose formality to offer moments of calm and disconnect. The immersion within such a densely planted landscape further creates a feeling of retreat, suited well to the expanding family life unfolding within.

The harder masonry elements are softened by a curated garden setting – a series of outdoor destinations combine organic curves and a loose formality to offer moments of calm and disconnect.

Stretching deeper into the existing site and opening from within, Twin Set allows its owners to fully anchor themselves in place and utilise the site in full. Through a cleverly executed approach, Welsh + Major has created a generous home that is versatile for the years to come.