The Keeping it Simple House worked within the existing area of the house to gain enhanced functionality and living space through small, considered design changes. 

The existing cottage located in inner Sydney had four bedrooms and only one bathroom. And, while the size of the house was good, functionally it wasn’t suited to a growing family. The only bathroom was immediately visible upon entering the house, and a fourth bedroom was a narrow awkward shape accessed via the dining area. AKIMBO worked with the owners to make some small changes which greatly enhanced the functionality of the house and aimed to future proof the house by planning for additional expansion.

Upon entry into the cottage, the original view through the house was directly into the family bathroom.  The first key change was to reconfigure the bathroom and laundry to allow for a generous entry hallway with views through to the garden spaces.  The planning of the entry hallway allows for a stairway to be accommodated to access a second level in the future. 

The rear of the house featured an U-shaped cutout protruding into the main living area, which was straightened to the wall line, and new timber sliding doors were installed.  This allowed for the dining area to be adjacent to the living space and kitchen in a large open area.  The previous dining area was then be converted into a comfortably proportioned fourth bedroom. 

The final reconfiguration was the former fourth bedroom – a narrow room previously accessed from the dining room.  This was connected through to the master bedroom, and became a walk-in robe, and luxurious master ensuite. 

The transformation of the Keeping it Simple House was a carefully considered collection of small changes, which gave an economical solution within the existing fabric of the house.