Robin Hill is a testament to the adage, ‘a little can go a long way’. Guided by budgetary constraints and a desire to leave a small footprint, the modifications were mostly made to the existing property, with only a few new additions added: a sunroom, bedroom wing and a workshop.
Inspired by Scandinavian minimalism and rural architecture, we brought corten, galvanised steel and timber together to extend and improve on the panoramic views, access to light and flow of the existing corrugated iron clad house. The existing structural timber framing was removed and reused throughout the project, while the cladding and windows were recycled offsite, ringing true to our desire to make this a sustainable build.
To bring warmth and light to the new sunroom, plywood adorns the walls and ceiling. A new window opening frames breathtaking views of the North West Bay and Bruny Island, almost as if it were a painting come to life. The plywood purposely complements the existing
plasterboard-lined space, linking it to the new bedroom wing, which we added to the rear of the home.
Channelling the existing pitched roof, the new bedroom wing (with ensuite) adds much needed space to this two-bedroom property. Carrying through the plywood treatment – further amplified by a custom-made Tasmanian oak bed – it steps out to capitalise on the stunning vista. Additionally, a skylight in the ensuite draws the skyscape closer, a sight visible when relaxing in the bath, day or night.
Lastly downstairs, the newly glazed garage and workshop field a jaw-dropping panoramic scene – a truly inspiring place to tinker. Visually warm and free from glare, it further reflects how strategically updating an existing property, using the right materials, can completely transform its style, appeal and value.
