fearns studio expands folded south durras house in australia

fearns studio expands folded south durras house in australia
images © tom ferguson
all images courtesy of fearns studio

the subtle, irregular geometry of the beach house renovation by sydney-based fearns studio departs and expands on the form of an existing 80’s building. located on the south east coast of australia, the modifications to the interior also comprise of a new studio, which extends into the rear yard.

a single, over-sized sliding door defines the modified living space – opening out the lounge areas and allowing views of surrounding bushland – and accommodating an overflow for extra guests when closed. customized storage units are provided by joinery that is placed in disused, split level sub-floor areas, while the connection to enlarged decks on the front of the house is defined by a galley kitchen and island.

the studio roof folds down to hit the ground

the studio addition has a square plan and incorporates a diagonal ridge beam with irregular post heights at each corner. on one side the roof folds down, hitting the ground at a single point and continuing the angular geometry to frame a double height view of the leafy garden.

the rear corner of the studio

the irregular geometry opens onto the surrounding bush

view from the interior

the kitchen

the upper level opens onto expanded decks

cabinets in the studio

(left) rear void
(right) wing

project info:

architect: fearns studio
location: south durras, nsw, australia
project team: matt fearns
builder: RJ & JA mates, builders
structural engineer: andrew derbidge – partridge partners
site area: 1085.3m2
floor area: 219.8m2
completion: january 2013
photographer: tom ferguson

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