PROJECT OVERVIEW
Flood-affected Leonay home extension overlooking the Nepean River, adding an upper level, expanded family living, alfresco and pool.
Location: Leonay, Penrith NSW
Project Type: Extension & Renovation
Site Area: Approx. 645m²
Existing Home: Single-storey residence
New Works: Upper-storey addition, ground-floor extension, alfresco, verandahs & swimming pool
Approval: Development Application (DA)
Council: Penrith City Council
Site Constraint: Flood-Affected Land
Design Services: Building Design & Architectural Drafting
Design Focus: Flood-Responsive Planning, Family Living, Passive Solar Design & River Views
THE BRIEF
The owners wanted to substantially enlarge and modernise the existing home while retaining its established position near the Nepean River. The brief included additional bedrooms, bathrooms and living areas, together with a rumpus room, walk-in pantry, outdoor entertaining areas and swimming pool. The design also needed to make better use of the property's river outlook and improve the functionality of the existing home.
THE DESIGN RESPONSE
Flood planning controls significantly influenced how the extension could be designed. The existing floor level was below the nominated flood planning level, restricting additional enclosed ground-floor development to approximately 35m². Rather than trying to maximise the ground-floor footprint, much of the additional accommodation was placed within a new upper level containing three bedrooms, bathrooms and a sitting room. At ground level, the design added a rumpus room, walk-in pantry and bay window together with alfresco and verandah areas connecting the home to the new swimming pool and rear garden. The main rear living area was positioned to receive north-western winter sun, while covered outdoor areas provide protection from summer heat. Living spaces toward the front of the home also take advantage of views towards the Nepean River.
PROJECT OUTCOME
River Road Villa House demonstrates how an existing home can be substantially expanded despite significant flood planning constraints. By concentrating most of the additional accommodation upstairs, the design delivered considerably more family living space while working within restrictions on ground-floor development.
The completed home combines improved internal planning, outdoor entertaining, passive solar design and river views while retaining and adapting the original residence rather than replacing it.
PROJECT GALLERY
