Ballarat Barn is a barn-like addition to a beautiful heritage home. With three children growing up fast, the clients were ready to extend their home, and open it up to their generous north facing backyard. Accordingly, the design acts like two pavilions linked to the original home, with a light filled open plan space that opening out onto the garden.
At Ballarat Barn, the design centres around an existing mature silver birch tree. Two barns are arranged around this tree, one containing the new kitchen, dining and living area, and the other containing the garage , shed and carport. With the benefit of a wide north facing block, the addition has a full width wall of glazing to capture the views of the garden and that special tree. The shingles and timber cladding combine to add texture and layers, distinguishing the addition from the original weatherboard home.
The roof of the addition has a steep, barn-like pitch which is revealed inside and lined with locally sourced silvertop ash to create a grand volume for this special living area.
Even in the coldest Ballarat winters this home will stay warm, with a heated concrete slab and double glazing to keep the chill out and the inside toasty. In warmer months, the doors slide open to help family life spill outdoors.
In the original part of the home, the lounge room became a generous new master suite, whilst the kids lounge has been replaced with a smaller cosy TV room located off the new extension.
Throughout, a neutral palette of concrete, timber, stone and black cabinetry will draw the eye to the greenery outdoors and create a durable and timeless backdrop as the family grows.
This home will transform the way the owners live, helping them celebrate that special tree and the simple joys of family life.
Completed: 2021, Architect: Eliza Blair, Photography: Shannon McGrath.
