This modern rear home extension by Ben Callery Architects transformed how a family engages with their site, their surroundings, and each other. Designed for avid campers, the addition responds directly to the home’s position backing onto a park in Northcote, Australia.
Biophilic design guides every move, strengthening visual connection to nature while improving comfort through light, airflow, and material choice. In addition to creating more space for the family, it also reorients daily life toward spending time outdoors.
The new living, dining and kitchen spaces form the heart of the extension. Warmth comes from locally sourced Vic Ash lining boards and Tas Oak flooring, washed in shifting natural light. A hand-crafted pendant light made from salvaged roof rafters brings history into the new space, while in the kitchen black and wood cabinets line the walls and an in-situ concrete benchtop introduces a grounded, tactile counterpoint.
Outside there’s an bbq area with casual alfresco dining. The extension opens the home toward the backyard and park beyond, creating a clear visual and spatial connection to the landscape. Large openings, a wrap-around wood screen, and shutters allow air and light to move freely, supporting natural comfort throughout the day.
A transparent rear fence maintains uninterrupted views into the parkland. Rather than closing off the boundary, the extension embraces its exposure. Layers of planting and built form soften this relationship, creating depth and subtle privacy without fully obscuring the landscape.
Additional outdoor space exists in the form of an outdoor living room that includes wrap-around bench seating.
Inside, the living room layers warm wood walls and ceiling with a deep charcoal fireplace surround, creating a cozy, modern backdrop for soft neutral seating. Sunlight pours through tall black-framed glass, softened by sheer curtains that keep the view bright but gentle.
A ground-floor study nook is partially enclosed by a bookshelf, offering a balance between focus and connection. Positioned within the openable void, it allows work from home to remain visually linked to the living spaces and the view beyond, while the divider provides separation without isolation.
Honey-toned timber wraps the walls, ceiling, and stairs, creating continuity and depth. Slim black balusters introduce a quiet rhythm, while trailing plants soften the edges and add life. At the landing, a white wall reflects light back into the space.
Upstairs there’s a small seating area at the end of the hallway that overlooks the living room below and opens to a balcony.
Also on the same level, the bedroom balances lightness with a grounded calm. Warm timber furniture and soft olive bedding sit against white walls that allow the greenery outside to take focus. Black-framed windows and the vaulted ceiling bring quiet structure, while sheer curtains and slatted screens filter sunlight and maintain privacy.
Moody charcoal tiles give the bathroom a quiet depth, softened by a pale stone vessel sink and a matte black wall-mounted tap. A long mirrored cabinet keeps the space visually clean while concealing everyday storage. Timber drawers introduce warmth and a natural counterpoint. Light from the shower reflects off the white paneled ceiling, gently lifting the room and setting an unhurried tone for daily routines.
Through biophilic design, honest materials, and careful control of openness, this modern addition reshapes the home’s relationship with the park.