Shadow House by Grotto Studio
Shadow House by Grotto Studio is a 1900s cottage in Bayswater, Perth – the new design has restored and reconfigured the original house, cleverly weaving together the old with the new.
Words: Hande Renshaw I Photography: Jack Lovel
‘The expansive living area, cloaked in the warmth of raw plywood, basks in the glow of the changing day,’ says Craig Nener. Artwork by Tracey Ramsay. Photo: Jack Lovel
The sunlit kitchen leads out the atrium. Photo: Jack Lovel
Raw acacia birch plywood lines the kitchen and living room walls, joinery and ceiling. Photo: Jack Lovel
A window seat frames the backyard view. Photo: Jack Lovel
The living space includes a sunlit corner seating nook. Photo: Jack Lovel
Raw acacia birch plywood lines the kitchen and living room walls, joinery and ceiling. Photo: Jack Lovel
Shadow House by Grotto Studio represents a metaphorical exploration into the unseen dimensions of architecture – ‘the 'shadows' of resources, labour, economic, and environmental footprints, that every built form inevitably casts,’ says Craig Nener, director of Grotto Studio.
Grotto Studio restored the charming original 1900s cottage and designed an extension, which includes a new living area, atrium, and a separate studio. ‘Each element, from the charred Jarrah exterior to the reclaimed materials and furniture incorporated throughout the house, tells a story of intentional and conscious construction,’ shares Craig.
The design initially focused on the original four-room house, preserving its entire 62 square meter framework, and reconfiguring rooms to accommodate an en suite and walk-in wardrobe.
‘Drawing inspiration from the interplay of light and darkness, the design treats the shadow as a dynamic element, using it to breathe life and drama into the spaces. The expansive living area, cloaked in the warmth of raw plywood, basks in the glow of the changing day. Here, shadows become co-creators of ambiance, painting ever-changing patterns on the floor and walls, fostering a constant dialogue between the built form and the passing of time,’ Craig says.
Shadow House features an abundant use of timber to visually distinguish each area. The exterior incorporates shou sugi ban crafted from reclaimed jarrah cladding, while the atrium showcases raw jarrah. Inside, the studio exhibits walnut stained plywood, and the living area displays raw acacia birch plywood.
The new spaces are perfectly woven with the old, creating a multitude of spaces, each characterised by dynamic lighting and raw materials throughout the day – these thoughtfully designed spaces encourage fluid and unimpeded daily living.
During the construction process, local community members were captivated by the project, frequently stopping during their walks to admire its grand and cathedral-like scale and design.
‘Their intrigue and appreciation spoke volumes about the capacity of well-designed architecture to intrigue, inspire, and elevate our communities. This power to stir curiosity and wonder affirms the intrinsic value of good architecture and its vital role in shaping our living spaces and the built environment,’ says Craig.
Shadow House is a wonderful example of building preservation – the 120-year-old cottage has been reimagined, ensuring its longevity for yet another century.
Walnut stained plywood covers the walls in the studio. Photo: Jack Lovel
Walnut stained plywood is also applied to the studio bathroom. Photo: Jack Lovel
“Drawing inspiration from the interplay of light and darkness, the design treats the shadow as a dynamic element, using it to breathe life and drama into the spaces.”
