Folded Roof in Charred Cypress Creates a Stunning Modern Extension Down Under!

The idea of extending the old and dark house with a modern rear extension is one that you can find all across the globe. And as a rule, it is often a giant glass box along with wood and steel that comes to the rescue. But the Pleated House in Highett, Australia is a bit different from the rest both in terms of form and execution. Providing a gorgeous, light-filled extension to a single storey weatherboard residence in the suburbs of Melbourne, this modern extension designed by Megowan Architectural uses a folded roof form that gives the space an identity of its own.

Striking-folded-plate-roof-forms-of-the-Pleated-House — Striking folded plate roof forms of the Pleated House

Cerestory-windows-bring-light-deep-into-the-old-house-structure-as-well-217x155

All-white-living-area-of-the-new-extension-with-a-gray-couch-217x155

White-and-dark-wooden-elements-are-intertwined-beautifully-inside-the-house-217x155

Two-new-contemporary-bathrooms-added-to-the-house-with-white-and-gray-taking-over-217x155

Beyond the obvious form of the roof, another striking feature that instantly grabs your attention is the use of charred Cypress exterior that has been crafted by the homeowner personally! This not only shapes the exterior of the new extension, but also becomes a part of the kitchen indoors. Creating a visual connectivity between both the worlds, this dark and dashing element anchors an otherwise completely white interior where wood and glass usher in a sense of breezy modernity coupled with a relaxing beachy vibe.

Pleated-structure-of-the-roof-moves-away-from-the-more-boring-box-like-extensions — Pleated structure of the roof moves away from the more boring box-like extensions

View-of-the-gorgeous-extension-to-the-Pleated-House-from-the-garden — View of the gorgeous extension to the Pleated House from the garden

Contemporary-rear-extension-of-old-weatherboard-home-in-the-suburbs-of-Melbourne — Contemporary rear extension of old weatherboard home in the suburbs of Melbourne

Connected-with-the-garden-outside-at-all-times-is-the-new-living-area-and-dining-space — Connected with the garden outside at all times is the new living area and dining space

CHarred-and-oiled-cypress-can-be-found-in-the-modern-white-kitchen-of-the-house-as-well — Charred and oiled cypress can be found in the modern white kitchen of the house as well

Another cool feature is the use of six different clerestory windows throughout the extension that flood even the old, existing house with natural light and ensure that it feels elegant and modern. Two new bathrooms, contemporary master suite and additional bedrooms complete a transformation that feels organic and exceptional. [Photography: Tom Blachford]