The intent for Cornerstone was to uncover the hidden gem within. Over time, the original character home had been obscured by layers of unsympathetic renovations, leaving little of its identity visible. Designed by Sam Butler in collaboration with Sarah Neale, the project responds to a two-part brief that balances expansion with restoration.
The first objective was to increase the living space for a growing family of four while establishing a meaningful connection to the surrounding landscape, rethinking how internal and external spaces interact so the home could open outward and engage with light, air, and garden. The second focused on reinstating the integrity of the original cottage, carefully reworking it to provide three bedrooms and a home office while respecting its character.
A defining feature is the playful perforated aluminium screen at the rear. Acting like a soft curtain, it wraps around a double-height void to form a sheltered outdoor room that offers enclosure without sacrificing openness, filtering light and views to create a layered visual experience. Connecting old and new, the sculptural perforated metal stair, affectionately known as the “cloud,” spans both the restored cottage and the contemporary addition, floating lightly between levels and reinforcing the dialogue between the two.
The landscape responds to orientation and context, with native plantings to the street softening the streetscape and supporting local ecology, while a tropical scheme to the rear creates a lush backdrop that deepens the connection to the Queensland climate. Natural materials throughout, including timber and stone are chosen for longevity and warmth, ensuring the home reads as a coherent whole despite its layered history.
Tour Information
Wheelchair access
No