0921 Sandstone House
...A strong inverted frame inspired by limestone caves along the coast captures northern light and shelters the existing house from harsh winter wind & storms while providing a dramatic modern re-invention of the street facade
Sandstone House is a residential renovation and alteration project in Perth, Western Australia, transforming a 1990s character-style cottage into a contemporary coastal retreat designed for relaxed living and entertaining.
The project centres on a bold architectural addition, defined by an inverted frame inspired by the limestone caves along the Western Australian coastline. This sculptural structure captures northern light while shielding the existing home from prevailing winter winds and coastal storms, creating a refined and highly functional new street presence.
Designed as a modern weekender, the brief called for a low-maintenance home with a relaxed beach house atmosphere, elevated by a series of considered, hotel-style inclusions. These include a private plunge pool, onsen, expansive outdoor entertaining areas, integrated surround sound, and a well-appointed kitchen with dedicated beer and wine storage.
The renovation and extension rework the existing floor plan into a courtyard house arrangement, improving natural light, cross ventilation and spatial flow. The central courtyard becomes the focal point of the home, connecting living spaces and enhancing the relationship between indoors and outdoors.
Careful alterations to the existing structure allowed for increased openness and flexibility without significantly expanding the building footprint. Internal walls were reconfigured to maximise usable floor area, while large stacking sliding doors open directly onto a paved deck and pool zone, creating seamless indoor-outdoor living suited to the Perth climate.
This Perth home renovation demonstrates how thoughtful architectural design can transform an existing house through strategic alterations and additions, resulting in a contemporary coastal home that balances performance, comfort and lifestyle.