The extensive renovation of this prestigious heritage estate-style property in Killara, Ku-ring-gai Council, involved several challenges, including collaboration with landscape architects and interior designers to bring the owner’s vision to life.
Playoust Churcher Architects was commissioned to redesign the ground and upper floors of the property to ensure wide, warm spaces that optimised the available natural light. Additionally, the owners wanted to incorporate a new three-car garage and a new 14-meter pool that harmonises with the external outdoor garden restoration.
The result is best summarised by Lisa Davies of Belle Property Lindfield
“Showcasing meticulous craftsmanship, modern classic design, and every possible luxury guaranteed to impress even the most discerning of prestige buyers, this newly remastered family estate is a new residential landmark for Killara’s prized east side. I love the scale and quality of this property. It is finished to the highest of standards with many unique imported design elements thought out.”
Special thanks go to our extended network, Justine Hugh-Jones for interiors, and Peter Fudge Landscapers for landscaped gardens.
Ku-ring-gai is one of Sydney’s most prestigious municipalities. Playoust Churcher Architects provide expert guidance to ensure you realise your property’s and project’s value.
Learn MoreNorth Sydney’s Council regulations for residential renovations can be complex. Playoust Churcher Architects understands the nuances and offers expert and experienced advice.
Learn MoreLane Cove Council prioritises sustainability and bushland preservation, often requiring careful environmental considerations.
Learn MoreHunters Hill, one of Sydney’s oldest municipalities, has strict heritage conservation rules, making renovations in the area particularly intricate.
Learn MoreWhile progressive in its approach to modern development, Willoughby Council enforces stringent height, bulk, and character controls to maintain the area’s aesthetic integrity.
Learn More“We are so happy we used Playoust Churcher Architects for a major renovation of our Lower North Shore home. This complex architectural job combined advanced engineering, design and innovation and a creative approach to modern living. Playoust Churcher supported us from conception to completion – and well beyond.
They understood our lifestyle and desire for a collaborative approach and delivered us a dream home with which it would be hard to be happier. We’re delighted to recommend Playoust Churcher to anyone building or renovating a prestige home in Sydney.”
Justin & Marek“We provided a very detailed brief on the design and the requirements both in terms of how it would support our family as it grew over time in addition to the design features that were important to us. We were thrilled with the concept and design they delivered. It ticked all the boxes.
We felt very confident the team understood our brief in terms of the design and how we hoped to live. They also showed an understanding of the financial requirements and cost issues that are really important whenever you undertake any renovation project.”
Nadia & Jamieson“Playoust Churcher Architects had an inherent understanding of the brief, and the design created a classic Roseville family home with wonderful proportions, depth and detail.
It’s now recognised as a stand-out in the area – people slow down and stare as they drive past.”
Kate & Scott“When Brett and John came they just listened. John is so talented that we just trust him. I told John what I wanted our home to look like and to go for it. John can draw the designs upside down all by hand and you know exactly what he is doing. He is really talented and that was very obvious from the beginning. He is so passionate about what he does.
They were respectful of costs and just listened to what we wanted. There is a lot to say for architects that listen. The house works perfectly with our needs – there is a flow that works beautifully.”
LisaThis home was transformed into a contemporary family sanctuary, with a focus on light, spatial flow and connection to the outdoor environment. The design improved functionality while maintaining the elegance and scale expected in the leafy suburb of Killara.
Many properties in Killara are within conservation areas governed by Ku-ring-gai Council, meaning design work must align with local character and planning overlays. We conduct a full site analysis and manage the development application process for our clients.
We carefully retain architectural charm—such as rooflines or façade symmetry—while reworking internal layouts for better light, movement and family living. Every renovation is a custom response to the client’s needs and the site context.
Yes. Many of our Killara clients are families seeking to enhance existing homes rather than rebuild. This project is a strong example of how sensitive renovation can deliver a highly liveable, long-lasting outcome.
We’d be happy to discuss your project. Whether you’re planning a renovation, extension or full rebuild, we offer a complete service from concept design through to approvals and builder engagement.
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We live and work on the lands of the Gadigal people of the Eora nation. We acknowledge their traditional custodianship of the land and pay respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.