THAMARCHITECTS

When our client approached us, their 2-bedroom cottage on a 100sqm block lacked a dining space, had a courtyard cut off from the house, and a spiral staircase that made midnight trips to the bathroom from the main bedroom a real challenge. The brief was clear: make it more spacious and truly livable.

Through thoughtful design, we reimagined the home with an open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area—filled with natural light and seamlessly connected to a generous courtyard for entertaining. Inspired by Japanese simplicity, the interiors pair clean lines and light finishes with warm timber accents.

What was once a single half-height attic bedroom upstairs became two full-height queen-sized bedrooms, each with built-in wardrobes and ensuites.

Several years later, with the family expanding, the client re-engaged us to explore the possibility of incorporating an additional bedroom. Through careful planning, the home was further transformed to accommodate not only another bedroom but also a dedicated study—maximizing functionality within the compact site, proving that even the most compact cottages can evolve into spacious, functional family homes.

This project exemplifies how thoughtful and considered design can elevate a modest dwelling into a refined, highly functional family home—demonstrating the enduring value of architecture in improving the way we live.