Tree House
Lilyfield /
Heritage
Location
Lilyfield
Project type
Heritage
Timeline
Early 2021 to mid 2022
Architect / Designer
Retallack Thompson
The project
Scope
A major renovation and extension to a heritage timber cottage on a sloped lot in Lilyfield. The site had restricted access from the front only and the project ran through a period of heavy rain and the 2021 Sydney lockdown.
The brief called for substantial additional space for a growing family. The build extended out from the rear of the home, excavating to create a sunken lounge and kitchen with proper head height beneath the existing roofline. The main floor was extended and a new upper office space was created as an attic conversion. The project was architecturally managed, with Canstruct working closely with Retallack Thompson throughout.
Approach
The project required careful handling on multiple fronts. The site was difficult, the existing building was heritage, the design intent was specific, and the build window coincided with both significant weather and a citywide lockdown. The approach was to plan thoroughly at the front of the project, stay in close communication with the architect through the build, and adapt without compromising the result when the program had to flex.
The excavation under the existing structure was particularly demanding. Restricted access meant materials and waste had to be moved with care, and the sequence had to be planned to keep the rest of the house functional.
Outcomes
We contracted Jason to carry out a major renovation to our family home in 2020-2021. Jason came recommended to us by word of mouth who he had previously done projects for. He was across the detail, what we were hoping to achieve and very approachable. The renovation was not straightforward involving excavations and restricted access. The 2021 Sydney COVID-19 lockdown also hit during the middle of the build. Jason and his team worked through all of this and got it finished within the time planned. The finished product truly exceeded our hopes. We highly recommend Jason.
Tree House, Lilyfield
Featured in
Houses Magazine, December 2024
The Design Files, April 2025
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