Lyneham

Lyneham exemplifies the adaptive possibilities of the iconic ex-government housing stock scattered throughout suburban Canberra.

In a time of perpetual knock-down rebuilds, this project took the alternative approach by retaining the existing home and increasing its liveable area. 

The addition of new spaces, and the renovation of existing areas, completely reworked the home’s internals to provide a nicer living environment. We used passive design principles to elevate thermal performance and overall comfort levels well beyond minimum standards.

Our determination to challenge planning setbacks when necessary has resulted in our small addition occupying an underutilised area of the site. Our commitment to contain newly built areas to the front of the home prioritises the rear of the block; retaining the private north facing garden space for the homeowners to enjoy and leaving space for a future bedroom addition. 

The new extension allowed the existing space to be flooded by good quality northern light. While retaining a clear contrast between new and old, ensuring the story of the existing home is legible to the passers by.
This project was carefully built by our construction team (using local trades and suppliers) whose in-depth knowledge of the existing materials and construction methods were invaluable to the project’s result. From the use of locally recycled bricks, through to the salvaging of hardwood timbers - the outcome of this project is a credit to the team of skilled people involved. 

This project’s investment into the previously tired and poor performing home has not wasted the existing materials, but worked with them to deliver a greatly improved home that is ready to embrace the possibilities awaiting this young family for years to come.