Episode Recap - Renovate or Rebuild

Renovate or Rebuild House 4: From 1920’s Cottage to Modern Home

Admin — Sat, 13 Apr 2024 06:20:00 +0000

Season 2

House 4: From 1920’s Cottage to Modern Home

A Charming 1920’s Cottage but it’s time for an update

In this episode the team has got the call out to Earlwood in Sydney’s inner west, to have a look at this character filled home built in the 1920’s.

The owners are currently overseas and have enlisted a trusted team in Architect Jodie Dang and Project Manager Joseph Wallhouse to look after this property, getting it ready for their return.

This house was purchased in 2010 for around the $800,000 dollar mark and since then the median house price in Earlwood has risen to a whopping $1.8 million dollars.

Whist the home has plenty of charm it also has plenty of issues not suited for modern living.

Joseph and Jodie have been charged with getting the home ready for this young family when they return from living in the UK.

Whilst the home has plenty of charm the owners are ready to bring the home into the 21st century.

They want a passive house that can retain 24 degrees temperature inside, all year round, without air conditioning.

The home needs better natural lighting, and better flow from inside to outside.

They also want to use sustainable materials, have little to no energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint.

Finally, they are also interested in exploring prefab building solutions.

The Team

Norm and Jess

Norm and Jess are perfect for this project.

Legendary Blockheads from 2018 and tv and radio superstars, they have lived in Sydney for a number of years now, they know this city and what works.

Jess likens the existing house to Norm, “born in the 1920’s and desperately needing to degas”.

Norm is all for knocking the old home down and starting with clean slate.

DESIGN OPTIONS

Team Renovate

The renovate design will keep the facade as is with cosmetic touches only. This 1920’s home has plenty of character and great street presence that would be a shame to lose. A new car port will help round out the look and bring better functionality.

Also, with its new placement, allow more natural light to come into the house.

The addition at the rear of the home is where the real magic is taking place. Using a prefabricated construction method the key elements will be built off site and craned into place with the new kitchen and dining well positioned to lead out into the backyard area. A bathroom, laundry and multi use room also bring great functionality to this single story home.

The light weight construction materials used, with great insulation and orientation of the windows, like the north facing windows above the kitchen, all contribute to a comfortable and healthy home.

With a few improvements to the old part of the home the design achieves an energy rating of 7.5 stars which is right on brief.

The overall estimated cost is around the $700,000 mark.

DESIGN OPTIONS

Team Rebuild

Starting from the facade, the rebuild design is a knockout. This modern style home with square features, really takes advantage of the available land and still allows for great side access.

The rebuild design goes up to accommodate more space for this family.

The second level will also enjoy the breezes and better outlook from this elevated position.

With two bedrooms on the first level, and the kitchen and living situated in prime position to access the outdoor area, the rebuild can start anew and place everything where it is supposed to be in regards to orientation and lifestyle.

Upstairs sees the master suite well placed for a parents retreat and again, the elevation helps connect the second floor to the sloping backyard.

The home ticks the energy efficiency box as it has been designed to the internationally recognised ‘Passive House’ standard, that means the home will be very quiet, comfortable, have very clean air and use 80-90% less power for heating and cooling all year around.

The house achieves a whopping 8.2 star energy rating.

This rebuild design is absolutely stunning to look at, and with its passive house design will be comfortable to live in all year round and it will be extremely energy efficient. A potential winning combination for team Rebuild.

The estimated cost of the rebuild is $1.1 million.

The Big Decision

The Verdict

Both designs hit the brief perfectly and Joseph had a difficult choice to make.

In the end the expert advice from Real Estate expert Dean Owsnett helped Joseph to make a recommendation to the clients and they decided to go with the safer renovate option.

Keeping the 1920’s charm of the existing home kept it in keeping with the suburb and the new modern living space at the rear created the right balance between nostalgia and modern living.

THE RESULT

A Change of Plans

In an unexpected twist, rising interest rates led the home owners to make a difficult decision to sell their home in Earlwood and instead renovate an investment property they had in Ashfield.

The winning renovation design was adapted to this 1800’s terrace in Ashfield.

Just like the Earlwood project, this design will keep the facade as is with cosmetic touches only. The interior of the old terrace will get some cosmetic touches, new paint, resealed floors and the removal of a non-structural wall downstairs.

The addition at the rear of the home is where the real magic is taking place.

A new modern kitchen and living area which is filled with natural light brings this home into the 21st century. The addition of a study, bathroom and laundry round out this home – perfect for the young family who will be returning from overseas.

The build was also delayed after the home owners changed the kichen benchtop to porcelian.

Whilst not quite finished in time to make the broadcast time for the show the finished home is only a month or so away and we have included some photos below from only a few days ago.

Quick note from the Producers

Rule no 1 when renovating is to expect the unexpected.

This was the case for the Sydney build. We started in Earlwood with a 1920’s cottage in need of an update and then at the 11th hour with rising interest rates and cost of living pressures the owners decided to sell and renovate a different home.

A new design, approvals, and appointing a builder and the build got underway… but then as the health issues with engineered stone was becoming better understood the owners put the build on hold whilst an alternative to the kitchen benchtops was found.

In the end the final build couldn’t be completed in time for our broadcast dates – we held off as long as we could and this episode was only filmed a few weeks ago.

Renovate or Rebuild is an independent production and an unscripted show with real projects and real people – sometimes like in real life these projects don’t go to plan.

This season of the show will be rerun later this year and we will check in with this project and update the episode so make sure you tune in then.

We have included a few photos of the progress from just a few days ago.

Thanks for watching and we hope that the show has given you some ideas for your own Renovation or Rebuild and we have shown that you can have a beautiful and practical home that is also energy efficient and good for the planet.

See you in season 3.

Shop the look

Explore the brands featured in the show

Fanco is Australian owned, creating quality ceiling fans and ventilation products, perfect for Australian homes and commercial projects.

Each Fanco product is designed, built and packaged with a brand-wide commitment to innovation and sustainability.

Bondor® is Australia’s leader in complete thermal building solutions and lightweight architectural panels.

Energy Matters is an award-winning company dedicated to all things energy, with a passion for sustainability & clean energy. Get quotes for your solar and battery storage needs.

Prestige Plus are Sydney’s market leading manufacturer of high-quality, Australian made uPVC Windows & Doors for residential & commercial premises

Dean Owsnett has been a Director at Professionals Padstow in Sydney’s South West for over 20 years, Dean has an in-depth local knowledge of the area and experience of the industry that is second to none.

Get the ultimate designer touch with customised lighting plans and expert insights at a personal in-studio session with a Beacon lighting designer.

The post Renovate or Rebuild House 4: From 1920’s Cottage to Modern Home appeared first on Renovate or Rebuild.

Renovate or Rebuild House 3: Dream Block of Land in need of a Dream Home

Admin — Sat, 30 Mar 2024 05:36:35 +0000

Season 2

House 3: Dream Block of Land in need of a Dream Home

A Dream Block of Land but a Home in need of a Makeover

Angela and Julian live in Underwood, about 15 km south of Brisbane.

The median house price in Underwood is around $820,000. Along with the rest of the country, prices here have seen a huge jump in the last few years. They bought the house 5 years ago for $510,000.

Angela and Julien, looking to be close to the city but without the price tag, found this huge 800 square meter block and mid 1970’s house with great potential, too good to be true.

They moved in 4 years ago and although they love the location and the block, the house is ready for change and they need some help.

Angela and Julian love their easy going lifestyle. They love nothing more than a summer arvo entertaining with friends on their back deck. Julian loves fishing and Angela is a keen gardener and they both adore their 2 dogs, Lucy and Beverly.

Whilst they love the location and the potential of their huge block of land the existing home is not working for them.

They need more space for starters. They want a designated master with an ensuite and plenty of storage.

The love their elevated entertaining area, not only for its convenient location, but they love the cooling breezes and shade it provides.

Finally, to tae advantage of the beautiful weather in QLD a pool in the design is a must have.

To run it, and for the rest of their energy needs, they want to invest in solar.

The Team

Andy and Deb

With Julian and Angela not sure which way to go, the comedy king Andy and styling queen Deb are on the case.

Deb sees the potential in the existing home whilst Andy thinks a rebuild is the way to go “because anything new is better!”.

Whilst they bring a wealth of experience and plenty of fun, Andy and Deb have enlisted the help of Tim from Kai Konstruct. Tim brings a heap of building experience and a dedicated team who have been delivering incredible new homes and renovations, tailor made for the families who will live in them.

DESIGN OPTIONS

Team Renovate

The renovate design keeps the facade as is, but gives it a facelift with new paint and a lot of tidying up.

Coming through the front door and up the internal stairs – the lounge room, dining room and kitchen also remain, as is.

It is from the back yard looking onto Angela and Julian’s beloved back deck where the real change is taking place.

A new extension coming out into the backyard will contain the master suite these guys were dreaming of.

And not forgetting the hero of this backyard – a new pool. Perfectly connected with the back deck and within sight from the kitchen and master. Along with fresh landscaping, this is the stuff of backyard dreams.

The rest of the house will be freshened up with light touches – new paint, new ceiling fans and new lighting throughout.

An energy rating getting close to 7 stars means that the renovate design should also be energy efficient and economical to live in.

The overall estimated cost has come in at $500,000

DESIGN OPTIONS

Team Rebuild

From the facade, the rebuild design is a knockout, but very different in almost every way.

This single story house is designed and presented in the very on trend style of mid century modern, this facade is a total head turner.

The orientation of the house is flipped, with the pool, outdoor dining, kitchen and living, now at the front of the house. There is still an outdoor deck at the back for Angela and Jullian to look out onto their huge backyard.

The rebuild also contains 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, just as the renovate does, but there is even space for a media room, and the open plan design is more inline with modern living.

Using new materials, windows, roof and insulation, the rebuild design presents Angela and Julian with a stunning home with an impressive 7.5 star energy rating.

The estimated cost of the renovation is $1.1 million

The Big Decision

The Verdict

Angela was renovate all the way by Julian wasn’t so sure.

A tight budget, and keeping the elevation of the 2 story home were major factors on their final decision.

In weighing up the options, budget and investment benefits the renovate design ultimately won them over.

THE RESULT

The Rejuvenated Queenslander

The renovate design kept the original facade but gave it a facelift with new paint and a lot of tidying up. Plus a new carport which really helps with the street appeal of the home.

Coming through the front door and up the internal stairs – the lounge room, dining room and kitchen mostly remain as is besides new paint, light fixtures and a refinished hardwood floor. All this has really made the main living area sing.

A new servery window through the already renovated kitchen, out to Julian and Angela’s beloved deck, is an excellent way to connect the spaces.

Out on the deck, a cosmetic change has seen this already great space, elevated. And with views to the brand new pool, this is definitely THE spot to be.

The new extension features a dreamy master bedroom and ensuite, also with views to the pool.

The hero of this backyard – the new pool – is perfectly placed, inviting you down for a refreshing dip, or simply sit back and enjoy the view from the back deck – this is the stuff of backyard dreams.

Shop the look

Explore the brands featured in this episode

Nothing feels as good as swimming in freshwater. The Naked Freshwater Pool system is swimming as nature intended™.

Bondor® is Australia’s leader in complete thermal building solutions and lightweight architectural panels.

Energy Matters is an award-winning company dedicated to all things energy, with a passion for sustainability & clean energy. Get quotes for your solar and battery storage needs.

Prestige Plus are Sydney’s market leading manufacturer of high-quality, Australian made uPVC Windows & Doors for residential & commercial premises

Get the ultimate designer touch with customised lighting plans and expert insights at a personal in-studio session with a Beacon lighting designer.

Making home automation easier than ever. Simply smart. ABB-free@home® transforms your house into an intelligent home.

Fanco is Australian owned, creating quality ceiling fans and ventilation products, perfect for Australian homes and commercial projects.

Each Fanco product is designed, built and packaged with a brand-wide commitment to innovation and sustainability.

Alex Jordan is QLD’s #1 agent for McGrath QLD, awarded #1 Top Residential Agent QLD – REA (realestate.com.au) Excellence Awards 2020 and named brisbanehomeprices.com ‘Agent of the Year’ for four consecutive years, Alex Jordan achieves such accolades with his distinctive ability to maximise the perceived value of a property.

Soundproof Swimming Pool Pump & Filter Enclosures.

The post Renovate or Rebuild House 3: Dream Block of Land in need of a Dream Home appeared first on Renovate or Rebuild.

Renovate or Rebuild House 2: From Beach Shack to Modern Home

Admin — Sat, 16 Mar 2024 05:30:00 +0000

Season 2

House 2: From Beach Shack to Modern Home

A Dream Location and the Rundown Beach Shack

Greg and Suzanne purchased a home nestled amongst the trees in the picturesque area of Flinders Victoria

The median house price in Flinders is an astonishing $3 million dollars. However this is an area that boomed over lockdowns but has been slowly declining, so smart choices are a must.

Greg and Suzanne fell in love with the property which contains an old fisherman’s shack that is extremely small, but holds a lot of local history.

Its an ideal location, a close walk to the beach for their beloved Border collies and a very short drive to a stunning golf course, of which they are both avid players.

The question is all about whether they can revamp the old shack and keep the history of it. Or is it going to be more efficient, environmentally and monetarily, to knock it down and start again.

Greg and Suzanne love traveling around Australia in their Caravan and seeing everything this great country has to offer.

Greg is a retired fireman and loves doing everything he can with the local community.

They are both golf fanatics and enjoy this amazing coastal lifestyle.

They both love the history of the shack and would love to keep as much as possible, but it is way too small, lots of building issues due to the age and proximity to the ocean, it needs a complete revamp and extension, but are the bones of the home able to be saved?

The Team

Jesse and Mel

With the assistance of the expert team, Greg and Suzzanne delved into two compelling options: Renovating the old shack and saving the history or knocking the shack down and starting a new chapter with a Rebuild. Jesse thought that the shack held a lot of memories and that a renovation could retain the history and deliver the lifestyle Greg and Suzanne were after. Mel wasn’t convinced and thought it was time to “get rid of that shabby shack” and build something new that suited the location. With the help of Ashley Beaumont from Ecoliv both teams explored the Renovate or Rebuild options.

DESIGN OPTIONS

Team Renovate

The renovate design has opted to use more of the large block they are on and also go down the modular route by renovating the original Shack and adding two new modules.

There is a large driveway leading up to the home, however nowhere to park the caravan undercover.

The initial module is a large open plan living / kitchen / dining area with large windows leading on to an entertaining deck, this is everything Greg and Suzanne wanted from their living space with enough room to entertain friends and family.

Once you head down the hallway you reach a secondary living / rumpus room that gives an added space for guests to use – with 2 large bedrooms and a central bathroom between.

As you leave the modules you enter the renovated shack, Jesse has saved this wow factor for last, as the entire shack has been converted into a huge Master suite so Greg and Suzanne can live in luxury, with a massive ensuite and walk in robe.

They’ve also managed to restore the deck that they love, which is joined onto the now master ensuite.

A slightly lower energy rating of 6.9 stars means that the Renovate design may cost a little more to heat and cool but a slightly larger solar system helps keep the energy costs low.

The overall estimated cost has come in at $1.05 million.

DESIGN OPTIONS

Team Rebuild

Starting from the facade, the rebuild design is ticking all the boxes. It has that coastal feel and is nestled on the back end of the block giving much more room at the front of the home, very importantly it has undercover parking for their caravan.

The modular design comes with two separate wings that are joined by a third component, this design has an internal courtyard which will give amazing cross ventilation and air flow.

Essentially being split into a sleeping wing and a living wing, the sleeping quarters have 2 separate bathrooms, including the large and spacious master which Greg and Suzanne have been needing after living in the caravan for so long.

There is also a study.

All of these areas can be zoned off, meaning heating and cooling can be kept to a minimum when not in use.

The entire home is connected and you can enter the living wing from the master bedroom by following the external deck which is in a similar position to the existing deck so they can still have a cup of tea and watch the Rosellas in the morning.

The living wing is a large open plan Kitchen/ living / dining area which is exactly what Suzanne was after, and hidden behind a secret door in the kitchen is a tucked away laundry.

There is still plenty of lawn in front of the home, giving lots of space for the dogs to run around.

The rebuild design presents Greg and Suzanne with a stunning home. – that combined with clever zoning, a well insulated and airtight building envelope, and a 7 star energy rating, will mean that it will be both comfortable and economical to live in all year round.

The estimated cost of the Rebuild is $850,000.

The Big Decision

The Verdict

Greg had a dream about renovating the shack and keeping the history but after a nudge from Suzanne the Rebuild option won out. The parking space for the caravan plus the certainy of the cost and timeline for the prefab modular build of the rebuild option were deciding factors.

THE RESULT

A Modern Coastal Retreat

The rebuild design opted to utilize the block and work with the sloping site.

The sleek, dark colour toned palette complements the tree lined area making it one with the environment.

Standing back, it’s hard to believe this home was all created off site, on time and on budget while Greg and Suzanne were able to enjoy the time off.

The entrance is a stark difference from the shack that initially sat on site, complete with the coastal palette that Suzanne wished for.

The beautiful timber floorboards lead you up to a light and bright living space to a large kitchen area, perfect for entertaining.

The kitchen has been finished meticulously.

Another exciting aspect is the secret door that leads to the laundry, meaning it’s out of the way and doesn’t inhibit any of the other spaces.

The flow from inside to outside is achieved brilliantly with the wrap around deck that leads directly to the master suite.

The sleeping wing is filled with light due to the central courtyard area.

Their guests will be thankful too, as they will now have their own bedrooms to stay in.

Fair to say, their dogs will also love the added room!

Shop the look

Explore the brands featured in this episode

Ultimate Windows is Melbourne’s leading supplier of uPVC double glazed windows & doors.

Bondor® is Australia’s leader in complete thermal building solutions and lightweight architectural panels.

Energy Matters is an award-winning company dedicated to all things energy, with a passion for sustainability & clean energy. Get quotes for your solar and battery storage needs.

Fanco is Australian owned, creating quality ceiling fans and ventilation products, perfect for Australian homes and commercial projects.

Ecoliv have been building and designing award-winning prefab modular homes for Australian families for more than 13 years. They can create a custom modular home just for you.

The post Renovate or Rebuild House 2: From Beach Shack to Modern Home appeared first on Renovate or Rebuild.

Renovate or Rebuild House 1: A Mid Century Modern Dilemma

Admin — Sat, 02 Mar 2024 07:27:10 +0000

Season 2

House 1: A Mid Century Modern Dilemma

The Allure of Mid Century Modern

In the picturesque suburb of Stafford Heights, Brisbane, lies a home with a history as vibrant as its mid century modern architecture.

Lisa, the proud owner, has faced the timeless homeowner dilemma: to renovate or rebuild. With the assistance of a talented team comprising interior designer James Treble, dynamic duo Jimmy and Tam, renowned architect Paul Butterworth, Lisa embarked on a journey to revitalize her beloved abode.

Lisa’s home is not just a structure; it’s a sanctuary brimming with character and nostalgia. With its mid century modern design, reminiscent of Palm Springs chic, Lisa was smitten from the moment she laid eyes on it.

James Treble, captivated by the home’s charm, eloquently described it as a “match made in pink flamingo heaven.” Lisa’s affection for the home was evident as she reminisced about its original features, from the iconic pink bathroom to the shagpile carpet, all enveloped in an ambiance of natural light and breezy openness.

Despite her love for the home, Lisa found herself at a crossroads. Years of wear and tear had taken their toll, presenting a laundry list of maintenance issues – peeling paint, faulty electricals, and inadequate indoor-outdoor flow among the challenges facing the home.

However, amidst these shortcomings, Lisa’s attachment to the house remained unwavering, fueled by fond memories and a deep appreciation for its unique aesthetics.

The Team

Jimmy and Tam

With the assistance of the expert team, Lisa delved into two compelling options: renovation and rebuilding. Jimmy thought the place was about to fall down and was all for a rebuild, emphasizing the potential for innovation and modernization. Conversely, Tam advocated for preservation, envisioning a revitalized home that retained its original charm. Paul Butterworth, with his passion for sustainability, offered insights into maximizing the home’s potential while respecting its heritage.

DESIGN OPTIONS

Team Rebuild

Starting from the facade, the rebuild design is a knockout. Not only does it nail the brief of the mid century modern style, it is conscious of what was there before, helping it fit into the suburb and surrounding houses.

Taking advantage of the elevated height and sea breezes, the rebuild will push the house up on the block, activating the perfect space for a pool that connects beautifully with the house.

Under the house and through the internal courtyard the entry is cleverly shaded and invites you up.

Upstairs, the house is separated into sleeping and bathrooms at the back, an open kitchen, dining, living and deck at the front. Those high ceilings and the open plan layout of the living areas optimize airflow to create a comfortable and naturally ventilated space, perfect for this Queensland location.

The rebuild design presents Lisa with a stunning home that will be extremely comfortable to live in with plenty of natural light and natural air flow and with a whopping 7.4 star energy rating she won’t need to worry about her energy bills.

Depending on the construction method the estimated cost of the rebuild is in $700,000-$900,000 range.

DESIGN OPTIONS

Team Renovate

The renovate design has opted to enhance the original features Lisa loves, and build on them with a new front balcony and facade, extending the living area upstairs and creating a visually striking and functional entrance.

This is topped off with an awesome new plunge pool, with brick cladding to tie into the original house. Not only will this be a hit in summer, it adds to the feel of the mid century modern design.

Through the front door, the original staircase is refurbished and leads up to the new dining room, and into the kitchen.

The kitchen’s original features will remain but will get a cosmetic injection with a new bold colour dear to Lisa and the mid century modern aesthetic.

Looking out from the kitchen the new balcony opens up the space and connects with the greater suburb. This also invites the cooling breezes this elevated home enjoys.

The rest of the house will be freshened up with light touches – new paint, new fans, upgraded insulation and new lighting throughout.

A slightly lower energy rating of 6.9 stars means that the renovate design may use a little more energy to keep the home comfortable and cool but renovating also avoids creating waste from demolishing the old home – plus saving that original bathroom she loves may well be a deciding factor.

The overall estimated cost has come in at $450,000

The Big Decision

The Verdict

After much deliberation, Lisa made her choice: to renovate. With a nod to practicality and a desire to preserve cherished memories, she opted for a design that honored the home’s history while addressing its needs for modern living. Real Estate Agent Alex Jordan’s insights into the financial implications provided valuable perspective, guiding Lisa towards a decision that balanced her lifestyle aspirations with budgetary considerations.

THE RESULT

A Mid-Century Modern Revival

The renovate design opted to enhance the original features Lisa loves, and build on them with a new front balcony and facade

With an amazing mural by Drapl, Paul’s signature Y column and a mix of mid-century modern design and materials, the whole house pops with colour and style.

The entrance is amazing, treating the home owner and visitors to a sequence of classic design features, guiding them through the refurbished original stairway up into the new extended living room with a beautiful feature light.

The kitchen is a sight to behold. Retaining the quirky features Lisa loved, the surfaces have gotten a bold colour injection.

The flow from inside to outside is achieved brilliantly with the sliding door open, or closed, the balcony and the extended views connect the suburb and beyond and catch all the breezes you need in this hot environment. With the airflow helped and maintained with these super stylish Fanco Fans, the whole space just sings.

Elsewhere in the home, the lightest of touches has seen rooms go from drab, to fab. This whole transformation is incredible.

Shop the look

Explore the brands featured in this episode

Ultimate Windows is Melbourne’s leading supplier of uPVC double glazed windows & doors.

Bondor® is Australia’s leader in complete thermal building solutions and lightweight architectural panels.

Energy Matters is an award-winning company dedicated to all things energy, with a passion for sustainability & clean energy. Get quotes for your solar and battery storage needs.

Fanco is Australian owned, creating quality ceiling fans and ventilation products, perfect for Australian homes and commercial projects.

Nothing feels as good as swimming in freshwater. The Naked Freshwater Pool system is swimming as nature intended™.

The post Renovate or Rebuild House 1: A Mid Century Modern Dilemma appeared first on Renovate or Rebuild.

Renovate or Rebuild Episode 3 Recap

Admin — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 10:13:27 +0000

Renovate or Rebuild Episode 3 Recap

In this episode we head to the south-eastern Sydney suburb of Malabar, 15kms from the CBD. Here we meet Carl, Kerensa, and their two active kids.

It’s Team NSW’s turn to show us what they’ve got in episode 3 of Renovate or Rebuild.

Going head-to-head are Team Renovate, Andy and Deb and Team Rebuild, Norm and Jess.

Andy and Deb make a formidable duo. The comedy king and styling queen have a wealth of experience and plenty of flair. They will go to any lengths to reinvent the past and renovate all the way.

Norm and Jess are legendary Blockheads from 2018 and now radio superstars. With a soft spot for heavy machinery, they will jump at any chance to knock down and rebuild.

A modest 60s home nestled among mansions

In this episode we head to the south-eastern Sydney suburb of Malabar, 15kms from the CBD. Here we meet Carl, Kerensa, and their two active kids.

The young family moved to Malabar just under 5 years ago. Previously living on a busy main road in Randwick, they were not only looking for a new house but a new lifestyle offering peace and tranquillity.

Malabar delivers this in spades, with a picturesque 200 metre sandy beach framed with sandstone rocks and cliffs, calm swimming conditions, rock pools, and relatively few visitors. One of Sydney’s best kept secrets, Malabar is a top choice for young children and families.

“Driving around the corner you feel like you’re coming into a peaceful coastal town”, said Kerensa.

Like most suburbs in Sydney, the price of a great lifestyle doesn’t come cheap – the median house price range is $2.5M.

While the young family adore their coastal lifestyle, their home, on the other hand, isn’t really working for them.

Footsteps from the beach and nestled among stately mansions you’ll find Carl and Kerensa’s modest single-storey property. The home was built in the mid-1960s when the area was transitioning from rural to residential. Although the family have performed a number of small cosmetic upgrades and added a new kitchen, the walls are closing in on them.

The house is remarkably cramped, with Kerensa saying they have to walk in sideways when they go into the bathroom. Adding to the claustrophobic feeling is the lack of natural sunlight towards the front of the house, especially in the small living room. On the back end of the house, they have the opposite problem, with so much sunlight streaming in that it’s unbearably hot during summer unless they close the blinds and crank the air conditioner.

The inefficiency of the home doesn’t end there. In winter, the house is cold. Gaps in the floorboards and bricks, coupled with poor insulation and thin windows means that the family spend a small fortune on heating.

Carl and Kerensa’s design brief

The family is at a crossroads – they need more space and they know the house really doesn’t take advantage of its incredible beachfront location. They question is, should they renovate or rebuild?

The block itself is long and narrow. They are restricted on the sides with neighbours, so would have to build up to achieve a larger footprint and see the full horizon of the ocean instead of just a snapshot.

In terms of design, they want a mid-century modern beach house, infused with colour and textures of wood, stone, and brass. If there was any feature from the existing property they would like to retain, it would be the classic breeze blocks at the front of the property.
As much as they like the existing property, Carl and Kerensa don’t feel there is much worth retaining and are leaning towards a rebuild.

Brief Summary:

More interior space
Take better advantage of views
Able to use all spaces, all year around
Efficient, comfortable, and healthy home
Budget $1-1.2M

Team Renovate: Andy and Deb

As our Team Renovate duo, Andy and Deb approached Carl and Kerensa’s home they were immediately drawn to the breeze block design. While they liked the ‘cute’ exterior, they couldn’t ignore how small and dark the entrance and lounge room is. They also decided the wall running through the front of the house needs to go.

Moving to the back of the house, they were wowed by the money-shot ocean views, and knew they needed to plan the renovation to maximise them. It wasn’t long, however, before they felt the impact of the sun through the windows. “You’d absolutely fry in summer”, exclaimed Andy.

Knowing they’d have a tough job on their hands, Andy and Deb still agreed that the house showed great potential for a renovation.

Team Rebuild: Norm and Jess

“Is this it?”

It was clear from the get-go that Norm and Jess weren’t fans of Carl and Kerena’s beachfront abode. Not even the breeze blocks could impress, with Norm commenting that they looked a bit dated.

Heading inside, their impression of the house only worsened. They joked that the lounge room was so small and dark that you could develop photos in there. Like Team Renovate, they could tell that the back of the house would get uncomfortably hot during summer.

The house reminded Jess of her old teeth – the dentist said they had no hope, so she got new ones! To them, the solution is obvious – knock it down and build a beautiful sustainable home. “You could make a fortune having a flash house in this area”, Jess added.

Design Consultations

Assisting both teams with their designs is Todd Small, a talented architect at award-winning Architectural Designer Arkhaus.

Team Renovate were left flabbergasted after their consultation with Todd, who told them in no uncertain terms that, from a practicality and cost perspective, the house should be knocked down.

“It isn’t cheaper to renovate”, said Todd. He explained that, given the logistics of a major renovation, particularly getting things in and out of the site, it would be cheaper to rebuild. Not only that, but a rebuild would leave the owners with a healthier, more practical product designed for 21st century living.

Although the news was both ‘brutal’ and ‘soul-crushing’ for Andy and Deb, they reassured us that they aren’t ‘Team Give Up’ and they don’t mind a challenge.

Norm and Jess were clearly thrilled to have Todd in their corner for a rebuild. When discussing the issue of climate control, Todd shared that one of the advantages of a rebuild is that you can implement a ‘passive design‘ which employs sensible measures and philosophies that allows a building to cool itself.

Designs: Ideas and Inspirations

While the teams left Todd to work on their designs, they visited some incredible properties for inspiration and ideas.

Norm and Jess took Carl and Kerensa to visit a luxurious Penthouse in Bellevue Hill, Sydney. The gorgeous property was a hit with the couple. They loved the feeling of space that was achieved through lofty ceilings and big, open Deceuninck uPVC double-glazed windows manufactured by Integra Windows. The innovative windows not only looked great but provided excellent thermal insulation.

Meanwhile, Andy and Deb visited a stunning family home in Wollongong for some ideas on how to insulate and scale Carl and Kerensa’s existing home on a budget. The property owners had recently used Panelups prefabrication system together with prefabricated Bondor panels that not only provide insulation year around but also helped builder Unique Style Homes get from slab to lockup in only 7 days.

Next, Roshan Ramnarain from Energy Matters took Andy and Deb to visit a property in Elizabeth Hills, Sydney. Here, Chris Johnston from All Star Energy Solutions demonstrated how the property owners have dramatically reduced their quarterly energy bills from $1050 to only $100. How? By installing a 10kW solar PV system and retrofitting LED lighting. Not only does the solar system save them money but it also adds resale value to their home.

Back in Malabar, Norm and Jess were shocked after seeing Carl and Kerensa’s outrageously high energy bills. Knowing that reducing these bills could help offset the cost of the rebuild, they used Energy Matter’s solar and battery storage calculator to determine not only the size of a solar and battery storage system for Carl and Kerensa, but also their estimated weekly and annual savings.

Finally, Andy and Deb checked out an innovative house by Tempo Living for some useful tips on building on a narrow site.

The Final Designs

Due to COVID restrictions, this episodes design reveals and judging were held via video conference.

Team Renovate

Team Rebuild design highlights:

Three storey design, adding square metres to the floorplan while maximising the views and coastal breezes
Reconfigured existing rear workshop and storage area at back of home to allow for new laundry and storeroom
Existing side walls retained, minimising the amount of materials leaving the site
New internal walls added to create impressive 4brm home that utilises every bit of available space
New double lockup garage utilising the front yard
Large rooftop garden on top of double garage, doubling usable outdoor space
New top floor addition with open plan living, dining and kitchen
Using a prefabricated construction method utilising bondor panels for insulated but economical build
Two large sets of sliding glass doors allow air to flow through the home, creating stunning light filled living area that accommodates every season
Modern facade with textural mix of recycled bricks, timber cladding, natural timber battens and Deceuninck uPVC energy efficient windows
Breeze blocks on rooftop garden reimagine one of family favourite features on existing home
Clean interior aesthetic with blonde timber flooring, natural grey stone bathrooms, and white painted brick walls
7 star energy rating
Total estimated cost: $801,000

Team Rebuild

Team Rebuild design highlights:

Excavated the site, carving out space for a large, brand-new 3 storey design
Generous double-garage with plenty of storage and practical internal access to house above
Self-contained lower level with laundry, powder room with shower, and value-adding kitchen
Internal stairs leading to light-filled entry foyer with street access
Sliding cavity door providing separation to the middle ‘sleeping zone’ floor of the home
Light filled ‘solar chimney’ stairwell uses rising warm air to drive cool breezes through the home
Open plan top floor with large kitchen, walk-in pantry, rumpus room, living rooms, and built-in study desk
Top floor deck with outdoor dining, relaxation and a built-in BBQ area
Striking front façade with curved timber screen contrasting the straight lines of external finishes in a sculptural way
Blonde timber tones repeated in garage and front door adding natural timber continuity to streetscape
Interior juxtaposing the exterior with timber-lined ceilings and polished concrete floors
NatHERS Energy rating of 7.2 stars
Total estimated cost $1,216,000

The Verdict

The two different solutions were judged by an expert panel on style, sustainability, and cost. The judges are real estate expert, Nick Papas, building and property expert, Natalee Bowen and interior designer, James Treble. Each judge will give a final score out of 10.

Ultimately the decision will come down to Carl and Kerensa — will they renovate or rebuild? Their decision will add an additional two points to the final tally.

If you want to watch this episode before seeing the scores you can watch on catch up TV on 9Now.

Team Renovate Scores

Nick: Likes the space it offers and how they captured the natural light. Recommends moving the rumpus room. Thinks the unique design could achieve a mid to high $4M price point. Score: 8.5/10

Natalee: Loved use of recycled bricks and breeze blocks for the facade and how it pays homage to the original house. Score: 8.5/10

James: Thought upstairs area was fantastic, with the airflow from front to back, massive deck and rooftop garden with the breeze blocks. Thought the cost was amazing. Score: 9/10

Total Score: 26/30

Team Rebuild Scores

Nick: Thinks the incredible design will be more attractive to a buyer looking to invest in the Malabar area. Estimates resale value of early to mid $5M. Score: 10/10

Natalee: Thinks they hit the ball out of the park – absolutely loved the facade and the cleverly designed, beautiful curved screen. Score: 9.5/10

James: said while they achieved 270 square metres, it came at a high price of $1.2M. Scored lower based purely on price. Score: 8/10

Total Score: 27.5/30

Final decision: Renovate or Rebuild?

With Team Rebuild leading by 1.5 marks, only Carl and Kerensa’s final decision can keep them from victory.

Carl and Kerensa start by saying that both are really good designs, ticking a lot of the boxes in their brief. They’ve really had to weigh up the different factors including the budget, the floor space and how they’re going to use the house when they live in it.

Kerensa noted the extra 70 square metres of the rebuild, and how the self-contained downstairs area might come in handy when family visit.

Is that worth the extra $400,000 over the renovation?

Apparently yes! Carl and Kerensa have chosen Team Rebuild’s design, much to Norm and Jess’ delight.

Again another great result and another family with an answer to that age-old question – renovate or rebuild?

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