Bright and Breezy – The Third by Dalecki Design

The Third by Dalecki Design is a bright and beaconing addition to a character-rich home driven by purpose, integrity and connection.

Dalecki Design’s interest in the adaptive reuse of existing homes is evident in the skilful integration of old and new – and this addition to a Federation home in Perth’s inner-north is no exception. Beyond the home’s traditional frontage, Dalecki Design has confidently introduced a contemporary articulation of space that connects with the outdoors, drawing in natural light and ventilation and supporting the daily rituals of family life.

Frustrated by the constrained and poorly-lit qualities of the original house, the clients and their growing family sought light-filled spaces for living and entertaining. Dalecki Design corrected the impractical planning by establishing the front portion of the house as a private zone, creating a new entertaining and living zone at the rear, and introducing a multi-purpose activity room and two external living spaces at the centre of the house – an intermediary area that becomes a vehicle for light entry and engagement across the site.

“The clients had lived in the house for some time,” reveals designer Janik Dalecki, “so they knew the quirks of the site, including the sun and breeze paths and wanted to make the most of these opportunities.” Connections between indoor and outdoor spaces gradually increase as one moves deeper into the home. A passage of window seats between old and new directly addresses the winter courtyard and creates different frames as you pass by. This culminates in a dramatic expansion of space as one reaches the lofty proportions of the living spaces, offering clear sightlines across the rear deck and garden beyond.

The addition unfurls as a series of interconnected and purposeful spaces for living. A dramatic curved ceiling intersects a linear skylight channel spanning the length of the room – flooding the main living spaces with northern light while creating a chimney effect by drawing in fresh air from ground level openings and allowing warm air to escape. “The sculpted ceiling brings a refined and elegant sensibility to the space, while offering great amenity,” reflects Janik.

Further bolstering connections between inside and out, The Third follows a seamless material logic. “Face brickwork continues across both the dining and living areas, with light materials enhancing the bright and airy feel of the home,” Janik explains. Consistent details, such as the similarly styled fireplaces in the living area and external winter courtyard, give a sense of cohesion, while warm and tactile finishes, including polished concrete floors, sage-toned cabinetry and timber accents, elevate the experience of home with a sense of timelessness and approachability.

Employing a restrained approach to detailing, materiality and form whilst elegantly referencing the character of the original home, The Third is a sophisticated response to the clients’ brief with a distinctly Australian feel. “Overall, I feel the home provides separation and contrast and speaks directly to the needs of the clients” muses Janik. With reason and purpose in every decision, the overall impact is pared-back and relaxed – an inviting family home that supports the joy of suburban living.