S W A N B O U R N E

 

Perched high on a corner block on the ocean-side of Swanbourne sits a humble 1920s character cottage. You just can’t see it. A century after it was built, the original beach bungalow has found a new life, nestled inside a modern, minimalist extension.

 

Swanbourne is dotted with bold, courageous architecture and this dramatic extension, designed and built by Bacic Group, has transformed one of its original old homes into a private coastal resort.

 

The owners purchased the home with the view to knocking it down but slowly grew to appreciate its history and character. They opted instead for a juxtaposition of old beach-shack and new.

 

“It had all the usual quirks of a 1920s home like an outdoor toilet and a very sad kitchen but we could see the potential in the solid jarrah floors, the high ceilings, original fireplaces and beautifully proportioned rooms.” said owner, Abi Boyle.

 

The modern extension was designed to wrap around the bungalow on three sides. Building forward on the elevated block maximised stunning views of the peppermint trees and beyond to the Cottesloe pines.

 

While the existing house has retained its ornate detailing, the extension is decidedly modern and bold.

 

“I love the lightly polished, brutalist grey concrete flooring against the finer finishes like the timber paneling and cabinetry. The Bacic team also gave us the courage to make some bolder design decisions like the extensive use of matte black cabinetry in the kitchen.” Boyle said.

 

The owners also opted for modern building materials in favour of traditional brick construction. Most of the extension, including the undercroft garage and even the swimming pool, was built using Bacic Group's bWall insulated concrete walling system.

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PHOTOGRAPHY: DION ROBESON

STYLING: ANNA FLANDERS