The clients wanted to retain the heritage charm of the listed Victorian Italianate house built in the 1890s, and also completely refurbish the existing rear addition as a modern living space with additional bedroom and service spaces on the first floor. The largely southern orientation and site opportunities, coupled with the complex layout of underused and dark rooms provided challenges to maintaining the period charm of the house whilst creating a contemporary family home with a feeling of light and space. Source URL: http://www.bijlarchitecture.com.au/neutral-bay-house/#.WR6HEriaxqE