We’re proud to announce that Charlton House has received recognition at the 2025 MBA Newcastle Excellence in Building Awards, as well as the HIA Hunter Housing and Kitchen & Bathroom Awards, taking out the Renovation/Addition category at each award ceremony. To be recognised by two of the industry’s leading bodies is an achievement we’re truly proud of.
This project was designed as a retirement space for our clients – something personal, considered, and distinct from the existing home. The brief called for a completely separate dwelling that felt like their own retreat, while maintaining a strong connection to the established garden, which had been growing for many years before the build began.
Working With, Not Against, the Site
The addition includes a self-contained 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom dwelling at the front of the existing dual-occupancy, two-storey house. While the renovation included some updates to the original structure, the focus was on creating a seamless relationship between the new space and the garden. Care was taken throughout the construction process to protect and preserve the planting already in place, and the end result reflects that effort – the new home feels like it’s always been part of the landscape. It’s this harmony between structure and setting that makes Charlton House so special.
Design and Detailing
Externally, Western Red Cedar cladding from Modinex was used across both the facade and interior ceilings, including a handmade pivot front door in the same material. The design makes use of clerestory windows and raked glazing to allow natural light and heat in during the cooler months, while reducing heat gain in summer – an example of the passive design principles that shaped the project.
Cantilevered, powder-coated awnings offer both visual impact and protection from the elements, and the exposed steel structure provides a clean, modern finish without compromising functionality.
Internally, the new living space features custom joinery built to accommodate a high-performance entertainment system – something important to the clients, who started and own McLeans Hi-Fi, one of Australia’s first home entertainment stores.
A Collaborative Project
Charlton House was delivered in close collaboration with Luke Farrugia Architect, with whom we’ve worked on several successful projects. This shared understanding of the brief helped streamline the design and construction process from early planning through to completion.
Of course, this award wouldn’t be possible without the incredible trades who brought their craftsmanship and dedication to site every day – particularly Copper Electrical, Valiant Painting Co, Totally Drained Plumbing, and Dan Lamond Metal Roofing.
Industry Recognition
This was the first year we entered a project outside our usual energy efficiency and environmental sustainability category. Being recognised among a broader field of competitors is a welcome acknowledgment of the thought and care that went into every aspect of this build – from the technical challenges to the client-focused details. We’re proud to see the project recognised and grateful to our clients for the trust they placed in us to create something meaningful.
