Longwood - Balancing heritage preservation with contemporary family living

A sensitive renovation and extension of a heritage-listed Federation home, Longwood balances preservation with contemporary family living. The project showcases craftsmanship, innovation, and environmental responsibility, delivering a seamless blend of old and new.

Key Features

• Restoration of the original heritage dwelling, including removal of an unsympathetic 1970s addition.
• New rear extension with extensive glazing to highlight original brickwork and windows.
• Cantilevered bay windows with concealed structural supports for a “floating” effect.
• Integration of solar panels, heat pump hot water, double glazing, and advanced insulation.
• Reuse of original materials including bricks, trims, floorboards, windows, and plasterwork.

Challenges Overcome

• Navigating heritage restrictions and remediating water and movement damage
• Safe asbestos removal across multiple building elements without delaying progress.
• Maintaining access to a rear granny flat throughout major construction works.
• Delivering a watertight, complex roof design with custom flashings and multiple skylights.

Innovations

• Invisible structural reinforcements to stabilise the original home while preserving floor levels.
• Passive ventilation system discreetly integrated within cladding for thermal regulation.
• Skylight placement designed to frame and celebrate the original heritage features from within the new extension.

Environmental Initiatives

• Extensive reuse and remediation of heritage materials to minimise waste.
• Rooftop solar panels.
• Highly efficient double-glazed, low-e windows and doors.
• Airtight building envelope with premium insulation in walls and roof.

Conclusion

The Longwood project was a true collaboration with the homeowners, who were deeply committed to preserving the character and integrity of their heritage-listed home. Their thoughtful input and attention to detail were instrumental in achieving a result that honours the past while embracing the future. The project was recognised as a finalist in the 2025 HIA NSW Housing and Kitchen & Bathroom Awards in the Heritage Renovation category.