When the building firm, Sydney Beach Homes, was engaged in this monumental task, the team collaborated with the architect, designer and homeowners to marry historic preservation with modern expectations.

For Sydney Beach Homes’ co-owner John Oxley, he had always envisioned building big, beautiful homes. So, he and his business partner Jono Beavon were just the men for the job, despite its challenges. John explains, 'These big projects are wonderful, and we're proud of the team and their achievements. But it came with its fair share of ups and downs. It was a convoluted, protracted project due to the architectural detailing and particularly the heritage nature of that building'.

The renovation and addition to the home were enormous tasks. They involved excavation and demolition of the garage, pool and carport. Adding to this was the considerable remedial work required on the existing home, which was not originally specified. The condition of the property required a measured and meticulous approach to preserve its historical integrity while addressing structural issues. This required a high level of craftsmanship and a deep understanding of the historical architectural language.

However, this was only the beginning of the hurdles the team would have to jump. The project commenced in September 2020 during the global pandemic, so managing the project timeline became difficult. Contractors became unavailable in locked-down LGAs, the two-week construction prohibition began, and the increasing material costs were coupled with supply chain delays. Staffing issues also impacted the project, particularly the loss of the site manager, which caused further setbacks.

'Our site manager moved interstate for family reasons, so the only option we could come up with was that I go and complete the job. So, I just put my boots back on and went back on the tools – honestly, I really enjoyed it.’ But when things seemed to be getting back on track, Sydney experienced its wettest year on record, further delaying completion.

But despite these challenges, the home is a triumph. The careful balance between preservation and innovation ensures it has been returned to its former glory while offering all the comforts of modern urban living.

Beyond the restoration, a contemporary addition was made to the southwest corner, including an internal reconfiguration of the existing dwelling. This expansion features a new three-storey separate dwelling comprising a pool room, triple garage, and a self-contained studio apartment. 

'It is bespoke and ultra-modern, but it ties in beautifully with the old place, and the clients love it. They said that in summer, it feels like living in a resort. It's beautiful.'

Landscaping works to the front and rear gardens, including an outdoor entertaining area with an external fireplace, completed the remarkable transformation. 'One of the DA requirements imposed by the City of Sydney Council was the need to salvage the five large cabbage tree palms, the only protected palms in Sydney. We safely removed the trees during construction, nurtured them for two years, brought them back, put them in the right location, and they look incredible.'

The renovation is more than just a restoration; it begins a new chapter in its history. The homeowners now enjoy a home that honours its past while embracing the future. It’s a reminder of the importance of preserving our architectural heritage while adapting to meet today's needs.

The home took out the 2023 HIA NSW Renovation/Addition Project award title, and the Sydney Beach Homes team couldn't be prouder. 'It's a huge accolade. We are so delighted to deliver the job to such a high calibre and in a home of that significance. We met the clients' needs at every level and impressed the architect with the level of dedication and detail - all while facing every adversity thrown at us. It’s a very special project.'

Materials

• Roofing & gatehouse: Welsh Penrhyn slate from Slate Roofing Australia
• Roof sheeting on walkway: Colorbond ‘Kliplock 700 Classic’ from ARC Metal Roofing
• Gutter: Ace Quad gutter in Colorbond ‘Monument’ from ARC Metal Roofing
• Windows: Aluminium windows from Architectural Aluminium
• Bricks: Commons range for PGH Bricks & Pavers from Hardware & General
• Pebbles: 40mm river gravel from EJ Shaw & Sons
• PV Panels: Trina Solar Vertex from Pulse Systems
• External fireplace: Patio Horizon outdoor burner from Jetmaster
• Bathroom tiles: Skheme ‘Core’ in Cool Silver Matt from Skheme
• Carpet: Cavalier Bremworth ‘Samurai’ wool loop pile in Kage from Ken Sparks Carpets.

First published in 10 September 2024.