A Family Turns the Town “Castle” Into Their Kingdom With a Striking Expansion

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Project Details:

Location: Glebe, New South Wales, Australia

Architect: KLK Architecture

Builder: Newmark Constructions

Engineer: Partridge

Cabinetry: Interex Custom Joinery

Stone Mason: Bespoke Masonry

Photographer: Tom Ferguson / @tfadtomferguson

From the Architect: "The Glebe Castle is a famous landmark amongst the locals in Glebe. Originally built as a hobby project by a stone masonry enthusiast many decades ago, it has now been given a colorful new lease on life by its new owners. Whilst the outside may look like a traditional castle, the inside is nothing of the sort with striking pinks and blues throughout.

"When the clients approached us to assist in the construction stage, the build had been on hold for more than two years, all but abandoned and unloved. The existing development application approval meant we were constrained with the exterior but took the liberty to redesign the interior to suit the client’s unique tastes and personality.

"The castle at the rear was reconstructed as a modern interpretation of the original structure, which had been previously demolished. The site is steep, and despite the height and scale, the footprint is narrow. Spaces were kept simple and restrained, with the budget spent on execution and finishes.

"Drawing on pink hues and a stark ‘blaze blue,’ the colors were used sparingly throughout the house. The vertical stairs connect the levels while also adding a sculptural element that anchors the house. The spiral stairs work within a narrow footprint and serve as a homage to traditional castle staircases.

"The original sandstone building was restored using traditional methods including internal lime render and repair of tuck pointing. Permanent formwork was used on the new construction due to the limited access and quick execution.

"Celebrating collaboration and colors, the result is a dynamic heritage restoration with contemporary addition."