An Illawarra studio is a contender for multiple architectural accolades, following the renovation of a 1950's brick bungalow in Thirroul into a new family home.
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'Exoskeleton House' has been shortlisted in this year's NSW Architecture Awards, a program run by the NSW Chapter of the Australian Institute of Architects.
Designed by architects at Thirroul-based TAKT Studio, the home takes its name from the steel exoskeleton that encloses the original brick structure.
The owners, Tarni and James Flinn, said TAKT's design of the extension and re-imagining of their existing home has gifted them a bright, refreshing multi-functional family space.
"Work, play, study and entertaining intertwine seamlessly through the open plan flow of the house and we're all constantly aware of each other's activities as a family," Mrs Flinn said.
"From the breezy interior you can watch your kids play and your garden grow.
"When you need to be inside but wish you were out, the house allows enough nature in that you can embrace both worlds.
"Our little bungalow has been revitalised into a joyous, thriving, multi-tasking family haven."
It's been shortlisted in the 'Residential Architecture - Houses (Alterations and Additions)' and 'Award for Steel Architecture' categories of the Architecture Awards.
TAKT co-founder Brent Dunn said they had worked on the project for about two years. It was completed about a year-and-a-half ago.
Mr Dunn said this renovation is about creating new connections to its "wonderful location below the escarpment".
"The original brick home, repurposed for sleeping and bathing, creates a calm retreat," he said.
"A steel exoskeleton encloses a new living pavilion, facing north, for family life enjoying sun, views and layered shelter.
"Sustainability underpins the project. The re-use of buildings is inherently more resource-sensitive than their demolition."
The builder for the project was Jason Miles.
The winners will be announced online on July 3.
Shaun Carter, jury chair for the 'Residential Architecture - Houses (Alterations and Additions)' category in the 2020 NSW Architecture Awards praised the project.
"These clever regional architects are doing so much with so little, and this project is a prime example.
"They have corrected an old project home in a way that brings so much more joy to this family home.
"TAKT Studio has turned this house inside out to create something beautiful, expressive and completely responsive to how this family wants to live.
"It really shows the talent of regional architects in our state."
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