Florey Extension

A thoughtful renovation creating light-filled living spaces and a private family retreat

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Located in Florey, Canberra, this carefully considered home renovation reimagines the layout of an existing family home to improve natural light, functionality and the connection between indoor and outdoor living. Rather than increasing the home's footprint unnecessarily, the design works creatively with the existing structure to unlock its full potential.

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A key part of the renovation was converting the original lounge room into a generous and private master suite, complete with a walk-in robe and ensuite. Positioned to capture beautiful northern views over the garden, this new parents' retreat provides separation from the family living spaces while making better use of one of the home's sunniest rooms.

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The heart of the home has been completely reconfigured by relocating and reorienting the kitchen to strengthen its connection with the existing elevated deck. This creates a more functional and sociable kitchen and dining space, encouraging everyday living to extend outdoors.

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Beyond the kitchen, a new sunken lounge has been carefully inserted beneath the existing roofline and extensive covered pergola. The lowered floor level and raked ceiling create a dramatic sense of space, while high-level glazing draws northern sunlight deep into the interior throughout winter. During the day, the lounge is a warm and light-filled living space, while in the evening it transforms into an intimate home theatre and family retreat.

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Working with existing homes often presents unique challenges, particularly when incorporating established structures such as decks and pergolas. Rather than removing these features, the design embraces them, allowing the existing outdoor spaces to shape the architecture and create a home that feels cohesive, character-filled and connected to its landscape.

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This Florey renovation demonstrates how thoughtful planning and creative design can transform an existing Canberra home—improving functionality, thermal comfort and natural light while creating distinctive spaces that could never be achieved in a new build alone.