Glenayr House

A red brick semi in Bondi, once run down, and in need of some love, was transformed into a modern family home that embraces the relaxed lifestyle of the area.

Photography by Simon Whitbread

Renovated semi looking from the garden to the rear of the house over the pool

The renovation introduced open, light-filled spaces with strong connections to the outdoors, complemented by the addition of a pool, blending contemporary design elements with functionality for a growing family. Designers specified a robust material palette to withstand beachside living, featuring durable concrete floors and warm timber veneers. The result is a home that captures the essence of Bondi’s laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere, perfect for busy family living.

Modify cleverly carving out pockets on the ground floor to introduce glimpses of landscaping that are visible from all living spaces. The large openings to the gardens allowed natural light to penetrate deep into the home’s layout.

Joinery was used creatively to conceal stairs and provide discrete entry to a little study nook, laundry and powder room, whilst at the same time providing a growing family with lots of opportunity for storage.

Curved elements were used throughout the design to soften the space, and integrated timber batten screens provided shading to the first-floor windows.

The project embraced key passive measures, including maximizing natural light and promoting cross-ventilation for energy efficiency. The design reduced the need for artificial lighting and mechanical cooling, while recycled bricks were used on the façade.

Front view of the house from the street, garage gate opening and closing
Curved louvred facade
View of conical skylight with sky and clouds
Front view of the house and light green front door with plants
View across kitchen to living room, concrete floors, cedar window frames and pool
View across living room to the garden, Mud lamp, concrete floors, Western red cedar window frames
Conical skylight in the hallway, above stairs, white walls
Woman walking down stairs to kitchen and living room
Kitchen dinning room, staircase, laminate benchtop
Seamless door frame with Draperly curtain
Bedroom window seat, louvred window, Draperly curtain, bedroom cupboards
Bathroom with shower over the bath, louvred window
Powder room and laundry, Wester Red Cedar wood
Bedroom cupboards, laminate, opening to bathroom
Desk and chair
Corridor with doors, concrete floor
Laminate cupboards, louvred window

Ready to start your renovation journey?