Privacy for a growing family

The main goal of this renovation project was to create more privacy for the members of a growing family. Initially, they wanted to isolate the existing master bedroom from the rest of the house, adding to it a separate living area. This bedroom would then be occupied by the owner’s daughter and her partner.

So the first step was to make room for a second master bedroom, for the parents. Since the family didn’t use the office very often, we opened it to an adjoining bedroom, creating a master suite with a walk-in robe. We then transformed the laundry into an ensuite, taking advantage of the existing plumbing.


The owners wanted a European-style laundry, so we adapted one of the cupboards along the corridor to place the trough. We also made room for a stackable washing machine and dryer, as well as a bigger cupboard beside it. Since we had to bring pipes to the new laundry, we installed a small kitchenette on the other side of the wall. The kitchenette faces the media room, having a frigobar, a microwave, and a sink.

The media room now works as a living area for the owner’s daughter and her partner. It has a private access to the outdoors, allowing for the young couple’s own routine. However, the room is still connected to the rest of the house through an internal door.

Last, but not least, the owners complained about the corridor that leads to the bedrooms being too dark. Aiming to bring more light to this part of the house, we removed an existing wall at the entry hall. We proposed a feature screen instead, made of timber battens from floor to ceiling.

Do you also want more privacy for your growing family? Or maybe adapt your house to new circumstances? Get in touch for a quote!

House extension on a sloped lot

Back in 2001, we were engaged to design a house extension on a sloped lot. With minimal interference on the existing structure, we were able to create three ensuites and plenty of living areas. This was possible by simply knocking out a few walls in order to create doorways and open up the space.

Additionally, we proposed an extension towards the back of the lot. This addition allowed for a new ensuite and a balcony for the master bedroom. The biggest change, though, was building a staircase to connect the main floor with the undercroft. Previously unused, this level now lodges an entertainment room and space for a home office.

At the back of the lot, we proposed a 3-car garage next to the maid’s room. Both are separated from the house by a backyard. To assist with the everyday hop-in and off, a porte cochere sits beside the house, accessed by a side door.

Regarding the facade, we kept the house style, with a high-pitched roof and a gable end over the front door. To reinforce the classic look, we added white mouldings around the windows, contrasting with a darker colour on the walls.

PS. A maid’s room was something common in Brazil until the late 2000s. Not only in upper-class houses but also in middle-class apartments, which is quite curious. Even though a live-in maid was already rare in those days, many families would still have it as a requirement. Nowadays, the idea of having a maid’s room practically disappeared from the project briefing. On the other hand, other spaces have been gaining popularity, such as mudrooms and home offices.

Are you thinking of renovating your house? Get in touch, and we will be more than happy to assist you with plans.