Perth-based firm Philip Stejskal Architecture recently completed an extension of a 19th-century cottage in western Australia, and instead of cloaking the structure in glass, as is the case with many modern additions to old buildings, the designers developed a white timber outfit that's covered in operable shutters.
Since the purpose of the addition was to bridge a three-foot height difference between the rear of the original building and the garden, the entire design focused on introducing various levels of interaction with the outdoor environment. The shutters, which when closed become the façade, lets the owners of the home control how "open-air" the new living area should be. The new outdoor dining area and wooden-clad bathroom are found at the top of a series of descending platforms, flowing from eucalyptus-timber decking to brick stepped terrace to finally concrete—perfect opportunities for the owners to "loiter along the way," according to the designers. Take a look.
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