Transforming a Victorian Cottage into a modern wonder

Playoust Churcher Architects undertook a challenging yet highly rewarding renovation project of a Victorian-era cottage in McMahons Point, Sydney. The project presented a unique opportunity to marry the home’s heritage character with the modern demands of a family living space.

The original house, known as “Kinma,” was built in 1867 by Henry Mohrman. It has undergone several transformations over the years, including converting semi-detached homes into freestanding residences. Situated in the McMahons Point South Conservation Area, an area with deep historical significance, the renovation needed to respect the site’s heritage while addressing modern architectural challenges.

The project involved significant alterations and additions to the Victorian cottage to create a functional yet stylish home for a family with adult children. The brief outlined a need for relatively large bedrooms with en suites, multiple living areas, and a dedicated parents’ wing to provide a private retreat.

With the family’s shared passion for cooking, the kitchen and dining areas were essential hubs in the home and required special attention in the design process.

Balancing historical preservation with modern living needs was at the heart of this transformation. The site, bordered by apartment complexes, presented privacy issues for the occupants. The goal was to maximise natural light and stunning harbour views while ensuring the residents’ privacy and maintaining the views for the neighbouring homes.

The home’s heritage value, located in one of Sydney’s oldest districts, was key in shaping the renovation approach. The property sits in a highly sought-after area, with land originally granted to William Blue in 1817. Over the years, McMahons Point developed into a bustling suburb, and by the 1870s, the southern and middle sections were fully subdivided. Blues Point Road and the historical foreshores used for boatbuilding all contribute to the site’s rich history.

For the renovation, privacy and light were two key challenges. To address these, we designed a double-height space in the kitchen, meals, and family area. Extensive glazing was strategically placed to the east and north to flood the living spaces with natural light while maintaining a sense of seclusion from neighbouring apartments. This thoughtful use of glass brought a contemporary element into the design without compromising the historical feel of the home.

An additional design feature included the original well, which had served the property for over a century. Instead of covering or removing it, we incorporated it into the new design, transforming it into a unique feature within the meal room. We created a conversation piece that beautifully merges past and present by enclosing the well with a glass lid and extending the surrounding brickwork upwards to form a feature wall.

Given the house’s origins as two semi-detached homes, we used the layout to enhance the openness and connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The kitchen, meals, and family rooms were oriented to create vistas in three different directions, linking the internal spaces with the external courtyards. These dual courtyards were extensively remodeled to accommodate use at different times of the day and throughout the year, providing flexibility and enhancing the home’s overall functionality.

Another critical consideration was the inclusion of the client’s personal aesthetic. The homeowner’s passion for colour played a central role in the design process, carefully collaborating with the client to ensure that the finishes and detailing aligned with their vision. By retaining and enhancing some of the original architectural details, the new work was seamlessly united with the old, honouring the home’s historical significance while introducing a fresh, contemporary feel.

The renovation’s outcome far exceeded expectations. Not only does the house now serve the practical needs of a modern family, but it also respects the historical importance of the McMahons Point South Conservation Area.

This project exemplifies the delicate balance between preserving the past and embracing the future. It shows how careful design can overcome challenges and create a living space that celebrates history and modernity. The home now stands as a testament to McMahons Point’s rich architectural heritage while offering the comfort and style of contemporary family living.

Playoust Churcher Architects has been the go-to architectural firm for the local community for well over three decades.

We specialise in residential heritage and contemporary renovations and new building developments. An integral part of your journey with us is our comprehensive process approach, tailored to meet the demands of our clients and council regulatory frameworks. Our team is well-positioned to maximise livability and financial return and is committed to delivering value that minimises risk and ensures projects stay on schedule and within budget.

We invite you to view our case studies and to contact our team for a comprehensive consultation on your project.