The clients purchased an original cladded 3 level home in Ås, Nora Sweden for them and their two sons.  The house has a very small entrance, one bathroom and two bedrooms.  The brief was to enlarge the entrance, upstairs landing and create three bedrooms – the maximum allowable increase in floor space was 15m².  This is a good example of an e-Design project.  The owner did all the measuring of the house himself, internally and externally, sent hand drawn measurements and via skype, face time and the internet, I was able to ‘build’ the existing and proposed dwelling using Graphisoft ArchiCAD.

Existing:

Proposed:

A new larger front vestibule is proposed, with a new timber front verandah and steps across its entire width.  The kitchen and dining become one large open planned space.  A master bedroom with an ensuite and full length cupboards give the parents the privacy and space they desire.  Two bedrooms mirror each other for the boys with their own compact but functional bathroom.  A wc is also located downstairs. Three optional front entrances were presented.

The clients also wanted some ideas for creating a sense of entry, in particular addressing the surrounds for a functioning traditional radiator.  Two digital concept boards were prepared and sent.

Once the clients chose their desired options, dimensioned drawings with specifications were emailed and they are now project managing the build, whilst having weekly Skype meetings to review progress and any issues that may arise.

Main bathroom, North Ryde

The challenge of this compact 2 x 2.6m main bathroom was to fit in a full length bath and free standing shower, a toilet, basin and storage. The design of the shower was such, that when not in use, its floorspace served as free floorspace in front of the bath and wall mounted basin. The shower screen has a hinged panel which folds back completely on itself when not in use. Ample storage and electrical powerpoints are concealed in the mirrored recessed shaving cabinet, and wall hung joinery. To create the illusion of greater floorspace, the floor tile continued up the wall. A large frosted window lets in ample light bouncing of the slightly rippled white tiles, creating a soft soothing ambiance in the bathroom.

 

Main bathroom, Potts Point

An original small and compact bathroom of an apartment in Potts Point was to be gutted, re-fitted and finished. The client wanted a rich and sumptuous look, without it feeling dark and dingy. Budgetary constraints dictated plumbing to remain where it was.  A frameless corner shower with light bathroom floor tiles flowing all the way through, made the space look larger. A prefabricated Kado Lux wall hung vanity basin and mirrored shaving cabinet provided storage and space. Glistening and reflective surfaces bounce light around.

Construction drawings and a Finishes and Fittings Schedule were provided to the client who project managed the bathroom renovation with her own builder.

 

Accessible toilets – left and right hand transfer

Importantly, circulation to and from the toilet and basin must always be  a priority.  Wanting to give it a less utilitarian appearance, and a more lux and stylish feel, special attention was given to the proposal of elegant and durable finishes and fittings. Laminex wall panelling, textured floor tiles and movement sensor light and tap fittings all contribute to safe and effortless use of the facilities.