This project re-interprets the familiar scenario of the built-in Queenslander.  The original house had undergone numerous infill alterations resulting in a rambling and incoherent plan. A decision was made to 'edit' and 'reformat' the existing house via two key elements. The original central spine was reinforced through realigning the vertical and horizontal circulation. The spine also acts as a device for delineating the public and private realms of the house.
A void connecting downstairs living areas to the upper family room and study provides physical and visual connections to the previously introverted core of the house. It also alleviates the characteristic oppressiveness of refurbished undercroft spaces by providing light penetration and spatial variation to the lower level. This double-height space becomes the new 'heart' of the home in which the full extent of the site is embraced as part of the scheme.