Size MATTERS

A HERITAGE WORKER'S COTTAGE IN QUEENSLAND WAS RAISED, MOVED AND EXTENDED TO CREATE AN IDYLLIC HOME FOR A COUPLE AND THEIR DOGS

- KYLIE JACKES

The big block with a stretch of lawn suitable for backyard cricket and plenty of space for their Groodles, Hugo and Summer, sealed the deal for Brisbane couple Ebony and Eric when buying their home three years ago. The small 1920s Queensland worker’s cottage also had plenty of charm and was perfectly positioned, close to the city and within walking distance to parks and the Brisbane River.

“We loved the existing house but bought it with the plan to do a big renovation and enlarge it to be a forever family home, with kids in mind down the track,” reflects Ebony. Engaging JMH Design, the ambitious plan was to lift and shift the heritage house towards the front of the block and build out and under the rear of the cottage. “It involved a lot of planning, expense and backwards and forwards with the designer, engineer and council, but it was crucial as it meant we could more than triple the internal floor area and still have a big backyard,” explains Ebony.

Relocating to the existing pool house, fitted out with the essentials, enabled the couple to stay onsite for the eightmonth transformation and watch in awe as their pint-sized home gained a lower level and expanded top and bottom to encompass four additional bedrooms, several bathrooms and a new open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, which seamlessly flows outdoors.

Rather than adhere to a certain theme or style, Ebony, who’s an interior designer, focused on gentle curves, natural materials and a sense of comfort. “For us it was important to create a home that makes us happy and relaxed,” she says.