JJ House by Bokey Grant Architects is a remarkable work that challenges the correlation of interior and landscape, creating a home of life, energy and vitality. An alteration and addition to an existing 1920s worker’s cottage, its sensitive design merges thoughtful preservation with timeless contemporary minimalism, for an environment sitting within natural surrounds.

A winner at the 2020 Australian Institute of Architects NSW Awards, it was simply the experience of design and quality that resonated deeply with the current owners’ personal tastes.

Home to Jakki, Michael and their young family, it was previously the own residence of the architect/designer, a fact that compelled the couple to venture through the doors. Both woking in creative fields, Michael says they could “feel the time, dedication, and craft poured into its conception and construction.”

“The quality and attention to detail are really remarkable,” he says. “It’s this kind of magical blend of high-end design and humble warmth – we’d never come across anything like it before. Aesthetically speaking, we liked that it was minimal without being stark or clinical, and its modern sensibilities weren’t at the expense of the homes’ original character.”

“We also appreciated that every detail had been deeply thought out. From large-scale choices including a unique floor plan that maximises the homes’ usable space, right through to the tiniest details in the internal colour of the pantry. It’s not everyday you come across a house this considered.”

Keeping within a single-level floor plan also appealed to a couple with young kids.

The built environment clearly embraces a garden-first approach, with the outdoor space acting as the dominating sight line on multiple angles. Every room takes in a glimpse of this greenery, while the extension opens itself on two sides towards the lush surrounds, promoting a flow between interior and exterior spaces that goes beyond the linear expectations of inner-city house designs.

With its clean form and stainless steel surface, the kitchen sliders face the north aspect, adding to the natural light, while the rear comprises a more traditional set of stacking doors to the larger courtyard scene. This allows the cooking area to act as a central pod with its own garden connection, tucked away from the communal room, while also close enough to feel connected.

A three-bedroom design with a single bathroom housed behind kitchen joinery, it offers a user-friendly footprint of around 110sqm, along with a lock-up garage and terrace above street level. Despite its conciseness, it’s in the detail that the home excels, with Jakki saying it remains playful and fun to explore, even after many visits.

“One of my favourite things about the house is how unassuming the frontage is, which means as soon as people peer through the front door there’s an element of surprise,” she says. “It really feels as though you’re about to step into a beautiful hidden sanctuary.”

“The hallway is generously wide and long and leads to the back garden. Along with the spotted gum flooring, this is what people compliment the most. There’s some magic in the choice of wood and the craftsmanship that’s gone into laying it.”

The transitions between the old and new spaces are well resolved, ensuring it feels incredibly natural moving from one space to the other. In the original rooms, the ceilings are an ornate highlight, while in the new additions the approach is flipped with the walls supplying the textural element, an incredibly subtle and beautiful juxtaposition.

A stained glass window that was preserved at the front also creates a theme, echoed in unique internal glazing that creates a warm glow to the living space.

“These touches really celebrate the history of the building,” Jakki says. “They co-exist so cohesively that there is no clear delineation between new and old as you move through the space.”

“It’s also perfectly reflected in the master bedroom, where a ceiling pull cord light switch has been preserved and a built-in wardrobe has been constructed around it. The little spherical cutout that allows the cord to sit in its original location brings me joy every time I see it.”

Aesthetics aside, the home also presents as a functional space of great adaptability. While the architecture certainly brings a sense of calm and clarity, the warm minimalism also provides a canvas for personal expression, and its next owners.

“The energy of the house is subtle but omnipresent,” Jakki says. “From the interesting colour pairings to the unexpected textures and surprising design details, everything adds levity to the space, making it a more joyful and fun place to spend time.”

Michael adds: “I don’t think you can live in this space and not be affected. It makes you slow down and appreciate things, as well as consider ways to bring more thoughtfulness into your own life.”

View the listing: 350 Catherine Street, Lilyfield