Architecture and Interiors

Coolum

Coolum

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Coolum is a residential architecture project that brings a new level of functionality and style to a heritage cottage. The project, designed by Biotope Architecture + Interiors and built by Merlin Constructions, showcases a seamless integration of old and new, creating a forever home for a growing family.

Hidden behind the original heritage cottage, the new extension now links the back garden to the internal spaces, providing a functional open-plan living area while preserving an ample backyard. The design draws inspiration from the existing heritage rooflines, featuring a pitched roof with glazing at either end to create a light-filled central living space that maximises morning and afternoon sunlight.

The open-plan living area was designed to create a seamless connection to the backyard. A small step-down to meet the ground level, accessed through large bespoke sliding wooden doors, provides easy access and clear views of the garden. The new extension features stone blade walls and CORTEN-lined windows, anchoring the building to the landscape. Inside, the open-plan living spaces showcase feature stone walls with reclaimed timber trusses.

Ultimately, this project enhances the occupants' lives by providing a generous space for family and creating a relationship with the outdoor environment that was previously missing.

The project's design was driven by the need to create a forever home, with sizable bedrooms for both extended and immediate family to live comfortably together. The result is a harmonious blend of old and new, where the heritage cottage and modern extension work together in perfect balance.

Coolum is a testament to the power of thoughtful design, demonstrating how a well-planned extension can not only increase the functionality of a home but also enhance the occupants' quality of life. With its focus on natural light, outdoor connection, and family living, Coolum is a true gem in the heart of Hobart.

Fieldnotes

From the existing house to the backyard, the heritage elements of the dwelling had been lost, and the extensions were not sympathetic. Access from the deck to the backyard was not seamless. The carport was visible and could be seen from inside the kitchen and living area. The updated design focused on a better connection to the backyard by bringing the extension closer to the ground and removing all the parts of the house that were not original or sympathetic to the original house.
The existing deck and kitchen living area were not working as well as they should be.
The verandah stopped abruptly at the front and did not wrap around the existing house. The design intent was to reinstate the corner verandah to its original form.
The front verandah had been filled in and was being used as a storage area. The new design reinstated the front verandah to its original fabric by removing the infill walls to the verandah.
The front room was previously the lounge area, disconnected from the kitchen and dining areas, with an unsympathetic sliding door installed. The existing fireplace had been modified. The new design focused on pulling the lounge area to the back with the kitchen and dining room, and reinstating the fireplace to its original intent, transforming this room into a guest room.
The laundry and bathroom at the back of the house were small, dysfunctional and had minimal light flow. The updated design focused on providing functional utilitarian spaces that maximise natural light.
The existing kitchen was not functional or efficient. It was a small space that tried to cram more in than was feasible, making it look cluttered. From this location, backyard surveillance of children was difficult. The new design brought the kitchen through to the living area, extended so that it became a part of the open plan living areas with views to the backyard.