Recycled bricks add rugged contrast to this contemporary Sydney home

A once-derelict cottage has been given new life as a living and rehearsal space for two musicians in Sydney. Design practice studioplusthree renovated the old Federation-style home into the Llewellyn House, a contemporary retreat that retains traces of its historic past.

Juxtaposition is at the core of the Llewellyn House design. “The conceptual starting point was contrasting tones of light and dark, knitting together old and new,” write the architects. “This is expressed through the specific combination of elements, forming an interior which is both rustic and slick, thin yet massive, dark and bright.” A beautiful example of this contrast can be seen in the extension built with aged recycled bricks set against a very thin and glossy black steel awning.

The new extension is set within the rear garden and comprises an open-plan kitchen and living area. To balance out the dark color palette of timber, steel, and porcelain, the Llewellyn House extension features bright white walls that reflect the natural light that streams in through glazing on both sides. The renovated home also includes restored Federation-style interiors painted white.