Wanniassa Reconfigure

An internal reconfiguration enhancing light, flow and solar passive living

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Located in Wanniassa, Canberra, this internal renovation reimagines the home’s layout to create a brighter, more connected living environment. The original kitchen, dining and lounge areas were separate and inward-looking, limiting both natural light and the flow between spaces.

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Through a considered internal reconfiguration, these rooms have been opened up to form a single sun-filled kitchen, dining and living area. A key move was replacing the existing northern window with a large sliding door, strengthening the connection to the garden and allowing winter sunlight to reach deeper into the home.

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The living area now extends onto a new outdoor deck, designed as a natural continuation of the interior rather than a separate addition. An open pergola with deciduous vines provides seasonal shade, admitting winter sun while offering protection during the warmer months and supporting the home’s solar passive performance.

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A defining feature of the renovation is a custom-built open shelving unit designed to showcase the client’s collection of brightly coloured glassworks. Acting as a subtle room divider, the shelving introduces personality and visual interest while maintaining openness between the kitchen and living areas. The collection also inspired a playful use of colour throughout the home, bringing warmth and individuality to the calm, light-filled interior.

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This Wanniassa renovation demonstrates how targeted internal changes can significantly improve natural light, spatial flow and energy efficiency—transforming the way a home is lived in without increasing its footprint.