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P r o j e c t s

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BNH

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2-Storey Side Extension - Contemporary Addition to

Existing Home - Northshore

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This contemporary two-storey side extension seamlessly integrates with the existing home, adding a spacious master bedroom with ensuite on the upper level and a double garage below. The architectural form respects the original character of the house while introducing modern elements. Vertical timber batten cladding and screens with strategic lighting bring warmth and texture to the design, while landscaping enhances the connection to the surroundings. The result is a cohesive and inviting addition that blends functionality with aesthetic appeal.

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Concept Design - Street Presence

Concept Design - Rear View

Concept Design - Ensuite

Concept Design - Master Suite

Concept Design - Connection Between Old & New

Modern 2-Storey Rear Addition - InnerWest

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Concept Design - Laneway Presence

Concept Design - Rear view

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Concept Design - View From Rear Yard

The design of this two-storey rear addition strikes a harmonious balance between preserving the austere character of the worker’s cottage at the street front and introducing a modern, functional extension. The original single-storey structure, with its simple, unembellished form, provided the foundation for a design that both honors the past and enhances the living experience.

The standout feature of the addition is the 'floating roof' created by high-level clerestory windows. This element not only gives the roof a sense of lightness and separation but also maximizes natural light and ventilation, infusing the interior with warmth and an airy atmosphere. The floating roof effect, paired with the raked ceiling that continues seamlessly from the inside living area to the exterior balcony, creates a striking visual connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces. The raked ceiling enhances the sense of openness, drawing the eye upward and amplifying the spatial volume, enriching the overall experience of the home.

A flat-roofed section further complements the design, subtly distinguishing the old and new forms. On the inside, the flat roof creates a seamless connection between the original cottage and the new addition, while on the exterior, it visually differentiates the two, reinforcing a sense of modernity while respecting the cottage's historical charm.

The upper level accommodates an open plan living, kitchen and dining area, with a new bathroom and laundry in the transition zone. The lower level primarily accommodates a gym, a functional space that opens out directly to the rear garden. This seamless connection to the outdoors creates a natural flow between the interior and exterior, enhancing the gym's usability and fostering an inviting atmosphere for both exercise and relaxation.

Sustainability was a central focus, with solar panels integrated into the roof to power the entire home. High-performance windows improve thermal efficiency, while sustainably sourced materials and finishes throughout the design reduce environmental impact. The result is a dynamic, energy-efficient home that blends modern functionality with the timeless charm of the original cottage.​​

New River-front House - Modern 2-Storey Residence

New Build - Huntleys Point

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River-front Photomontage

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Artist's Impression

Set against the backdrop of the stunning Parramatta River, with sweeping views and direct access to the river's recreational offerings, the client's vision was to capitalise on the narrow portion of undeveloped land on their property, under existing separate title. The result is a carefully considered, well-balanced, contemporary two-storey residence that responds thoughtfully to the unique, steeply sloping topography of the site.

​The home elegantly terraces across the landscape, creating dynamic mezzanine levels that define distinct, airy spaces while maintaining a strong visual connection to the natural surroundings. The entry experience is one of serene discovery—guests are welcomed through a lush winter garden, where the gentle sound of a cascading fountain leads the way to the Entry Lobby. The fountain culminates in a tranquil pond, which invites views and reflections from within the Lobby.

Descending further into the heart of the home, a second pond comes into view at the kitchen and dining level, reinforcing the soothing, water-bound theme throughout. This thoughtful integration of water features not only connects the home’s interior to the riverfront but also enhances passive cooling, bringing a touch of nature’s serenity to the spaces.

Sitting gracefully within its riverfront setting, the design is a harmonious blend of modern architecture and the rich heritage of the surrounding environment. Every element is carefully considered to ensure the home feels at once contemporary, rooted in place, and in perfect balance with the natural landscape and its history.
 

New Modern Townhouse Development - New Build

Inner West

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Nestled in a carefully crafted laneway development, this project emerged from the subdivision of an existing site, creating a new lot behind two established properties. The result is a collection of three modern, minimalist townhouses, each thoughtfully designed to make the most of the space while maintaining a strong connection to its urban context.

The townhouses are accessed through a private walkway off the main street, offering residents a sense of exclusivity and privacy. Attached carports, positioned discreetly along the laneway, ensure convenient parking without compromising the design's aesthetic.

Despite the compact nature of the site, where orientation and the building footprint are dictated by the existing site conditions, the design maximizes every square metre. The standout feature is the double-height volume in the open-plan living, kitchen, and dining area. This thoughtful design choice floods the space with natural light, creating an airy, expansive atmosphere that belies the townhouse’s small footprint. The result is a seamless balance of functionality and comfort, where light, space, and form come together to create a home that feels open and inviting.

First Floor Addition - Rear Extension - InnerWest

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The transformation of this humble single-storey worker’s cottage into a contemporary two-storey residence strikes a perfect balance between preserving the charm of its past and infusing it with the comfort and convenience of modern living. The home retains its character and old-world appeal, yet is thoughtfully reimagined to meet the needs of today’s lifestyle.

The design approach pays careful attention to the location, size, proportion, and intricate details of the original gable roofs. These elements are key to seamlessly integrating the new first-floor addition and rear ground-floor extension. The result is a harmonious built form that not only blends beautifully with the existing structure but also enhances the home's strong street presence.

The addition of a new covered rear deck elevates the outdoor living experience, providing shelter and shade for year-round entertaining. Large bifold doors open wide to merge the indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a seamless flow between the living areas. The new outdoor kitchen, complete with a built-in BBQ, rangehood, and sink, is designed as a natural extension of the indoor kitchen. When the bifold doors are fully opened, the two spaces become one continuous area, perfect for entertaining and enjoying the outdoors.​​

First Floor Addition to Existing Semi-detached House - Redfern East

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Luxury Contemporary Renovation - Main Bathroom

Lower Northshore

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existing bathroom

The renovation of this existing main bathroom began with a complete overhaul, retaining only the ceiling and skylight. The suspended concrete floor, with its accessible underside, presented an exciting opportunity to reimagine the space with a fresh layout that enhances both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

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The final design achieves a sleek, modern upgrade infused with minimalist elegance. The bathroom is anchored by luxurious large-format natural marble tiles that grace both the floor and walls, creating a sophisticated, timeless backdrop. 

A custom 'floating' vanity in warm timber tones offers a contrast of natural textures, while its stone top and rose gold-finished brass tapware introduce refined accents that feel both contemporary and enduring.

To soften the design, the feature organic, asymmetrically shaped countertop basin, along with the graceful goose-neck curve of the shower rail, injects a sense of fluidity and calm into the space. Round tapware and accessories continue the theme of organic, gentle lines, ensuring a cohesive, harmonious balance between form and function. The result is a bathroom that feels both beautiful and comfortably practical, seamlessly merging beauty with everyday usability.

Natural light plays a pivotal role in the atmosphere of the space. As daylight filters through the existing skylight, it highlights the stunning veins in the marble tiles, shifting the bathroom's ambiance throughout the day. In the evening, the addition of warm LED strip lighting beneath the mirror cabinet and vanity creates a soft, inviting glow, adding depth and dimension to the space while enhancing the overall sensory experience.

Bathroom/Laundry Renovation - Lower Northshore

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existing bath-ldry

The existing bathroom/laundry was initially a makeshift space, with a laundry area leading to a rear garden, and a cramped, poorly integrated shower and toilet. Prioritizing functionality, practicality, and privacy, the first critical design move was relocating the garden access to the adjacent sunroom, effectively separating the spaces and giving the bathroom/laundry its own identity as a destination.

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The renovation transforms the space with large-format natural limestone tiles on the floors and walls, creating a seamless, elegant backdrop. A cylindrical wall-hung basin, paired with brass tapware in a 'statue bronze' finish, complements the earthy tones of the tiles, enhancing the minimalist aesthetic.

Despite the tight layout, the careful design maximizes every inch, achieving a contemporary, streamlined bathroom. The laundry is cleverly concealed behind bifold doors that integrate smoothly into the space, with handles doubling as towel rails. This design choice creates a cohesive and functional environment where each area retains its distinct identity while maintaining a sense of openness and flow.

We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the lands where we live, learn, design and build.

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We pay our respects to Elders past and present. We value their continuing culture and contribution to the life of our nation, regions and cities.

Nominated Architect Binh Hua NSW ARB No. 8090

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Contact

​E: bnh@studiobnh.net

M: 0411 727 804

 

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