Altman/Hinkson House

A modest 1920’s cottage required a comprehensive renovation to redress the effects of a 1970s insensitive reworking that masked its original picturesque qualities.

The brief called for the house to be modernised and a new gallery and study added to create a backdrop for their large indigenous art collection. The new gallery was added to the eastern end recapturing the symmetry of the original house. Windows and doors were rearranged to reinforce this gesture and the heavy veranda was replaced with a pergola that allows natural light to stream into the house.

Internal circulation was simplified and arranged along two cross axes to allow for a clear view from the porch to the rear courtyard. The gallery features high raked ceilings and expressive boxed windows. The existing spaces were relocated and rearranged to improve function and spatial relationships. Rooms were enlarged and modernised. The kitchen was relocated to the centre of the house with easy access to the dining room and courtyard. It features boldly coloured joinery and recycled timbers for display cupboards and floors.

The Altman/Hinkson House is the recipient of the 2015 ACT Residential Architecture Award (Alterations and Additions).