Slated Timber Screen and a Light-Filled Interior Transform 1960s Sydney Home

Giving a 1960’s home in the bustling neighborhood of Belrose, Sydney a smart modern makeover, Bijl Architecture turned to innovative design and sweeping alfresco spaces to create a stylish, contemporary family home. The original brick façade of the house was considerably altered by turning the old veranda at the front into a fabulous timber screen that offers complete privacy to those inside. The slated timber addition not only helps create a sense of privacy, but it also filters in sunlight and manages to deliver that fine balance between a cool living environment and a light-filled, cheerful interior.

Carefully concealed street facade of Escu House in Sydney

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The revamped floor plan of the house focuses on an open living area, with the new kitchen and the family room acting as the social zone. Both these spaces open up towards the large rear garden and the outdoor living and dining spaces, even as the living room and dining area sit next to one another. Sculptural lighting additions like the iconic David Trubridge pendant provide visual contrast, along with the chic tiled backsplash in the kitchen. A relaxing color scheme coupled with curated pops of color complete the Escu House – a cozy dwelling that acts as a perfect suburban oasis. [Photography: Katherine Lu]

Vertical slatted timber elements give the street facade ample privacy

Family room with bight and cheerful blue accent wall

Kitchen and open family area of the Escu House in Sydney

Shaded outdoor dining and living space with a pergola

View of the outdoor hangout from the family room

White and wood kitchen with a backsplash that brings pops of color

Skylight above the kitchen brings in additional natural light into the living area

Colorful tiled backsplash with geo style for the kitchen

A considered approach to the allocation of space focused on the reality of the family dynamic, in addition to a balanced application of joinery and materials, has created a highly functional home that provides an oasis from the outside world for a family of four within a small, intelligent package…