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Sofia & Otto’s Playground

The house, known as ‘Blink Bonney’, is set on what remains of 50 acres allocated to ex-convict John Hall in around 1808. A cottage is recorded on Halls Farm as far back as 1823. However, the current heritage-listed house exhibits elements of homes built around the 1850s. During the course of its 160-year life, the house has undergone numerous modifications yet its core has survived. This project involved the complete upgrade of the existing house, undertaking all necessary remedial work yet preserving the character of its imperfections. The brief also called for a light-filled room with a strong connection to the garden. The pavilion addition is sited to minimise obtrusion into the established garden, which is Sofia and Otto’s Playground. The ‘lean-to’ roof and dark stained local timber of the pavilion evoke the spirit of the Tassie shack whilst highlighting contrast to the existing house. Externally, natural timber has been used for windows and welcoming recesses within the primary dark timber volume and to identify new elements to the existing house. Internally, extensive use of natural timber creates a cosy atmosphere. The surprising yet balanced contrast of new to old is most apparent looking back to the pavilion from the garden.

Architect

Gaetano Palmese Architects

Contractors

Thylacine Constructions

Consultants

Structural engineer – Aldanmark Consulting Engineers

Quantity surveyor – Stehel Consultants

Photographer

Brett Boardman

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