Elevating Heritage Homes with Precision & Vision | KENURO Architects

A Masterclass in Heritage-Sensitive Design: DA-Approved Upper Floor Addition in Randwick

At KENURO Architects, we pride ourselves on transforming existing structures into harmonious, functional, and aesthetically elevated homes—especially in heritage-sensitive areas. Our recently DA-approved (16/12/2022) project at 10 Clovelly Road, Randwick, is a testament to our expertise in seamlessly integrating contemporary living spaces within heritage fabric.

Now in the final construction drawing phase, this project exemplifies our ability to navigate complex planning frameworks while delivering innovative, compliant, and beautiful architecture.

Project Overview: A Delicate Balance of Old & New

1. The Existing Structure & Site Context

• Location: 10 Clovelly Road, Randwick (within the North Randwick Heritage Conservation Area)

• Zoning: R2 Low Density Residential (permitting residential alterations/additions)

• Site Area: 275.6m² (narrow Victorian allotment with rear lane access)

• Existing Dwelling: Single-storey semi-detached Federation-era home with slate roof, brick façade, and rear swimming pool.

2. The Approved DA Proposal (16/12/2022)

Our initial design focused on minimal disruption to heritage streetscapes while maximizing livability:
✅ Upper Floor Addition:

• 4 new bedrooms + 2 bathrooms (including master suite with walk-in robe & ensuite)

• New internal staircase for vertical circulation

• Metal roof extension (set back from the original roofline to preserve streetscape character)

✅ Ground Floor Modifications:

• Minor internal reconfigurations for improved flow

• Retention of original façade to maintain heritage integrity

✅ Compliance Highlights:

• Height: 7.879m (well below the 9.5m LEP limit)

• FSR: 0.67:1 (compliant, as the site is <300m² and exempt from strict FSR controls)

• Heritage Impact: Carefully assessed via Heritage Impact Statement (HIS), confirming no adverse effects on the conservation area.

Why a DA Modification? Refining Excellence

Modifying a Development Application (DA) is a common and often necessary step in NSW’s planning process. It allows for design refinements that enhance functionality, compliance, or constructability without altering the project’s core intent.

Key Modifications in Our Section 4.55(1A) Submission

1. First Floor Rear Extension (1m additional length)

   • Improved spatial efficiency for bedrooms

   • Reduced roof height (624mm lower) to minimize overshadowing

2. Simplified Roof Design

   • Less complex construction while maintaining heritage compatibility

3. Internal Layout Optimizations

   • Relocated laundry chute

   • Updated staircase configuration

   • New skylights for enhanced natural light

4. Material & Finishing Refinements

   • Weatherboard cladding retained for heritage cohesion

   • Aluminium louvred screens for privacy & solar control

Why This Modification Was Necessary

• Enhanced livability without increasing bulk/scale

• Improved buildability (simpler roof structure)

• Shadow & privacy optimization (ensuring no impact on neighboring properties)

Navigating the DA Process in NSW: How We Ensure Success

1. Statutory Compliance (LEP, DCP, SEPP)

Our team meticulously addresses:
✔ Randwick LEP 2012 – Zoning, height limits (9.5m), FSR controls
✔ Randwick DCP 2013 – Site coverage (60% max), setbacks, landscaping (20% deep soil)
✔ SEPP (Resilience & Hazards, Sustainable Buildings) – BASIX compliance, contamination checks

2. Heritage Considerations

• North Randwick HCA requires façade retention, material sensitivity, and scale compatibility

• Our HIS demonstrated:

  • No adverse impact on heritage significance

  • Weatherboard cladding & recessive upper floor maintain streetscape harmony

3. Shadow, Privacy & Solar Studies

• Winter solstice shadow diagrams confirmed negligible overshadowing

• Louvred screens & strategic window placement minimize overlooking

Why Choose KENURO for Your Upper Floor Addition?

We Specialize In:

🔹 Heritage Additions – Respecting character while modernizing interiors
🔹 DA Approvals & Modifications – Expert navigation of council requirements
🔹 Space Optimization – Maximizing livability on constrained lots
🔹 Sustainable Design – Energy-efficient, BASIX-compliant solutions

Past Success Stories

• Bondi Semi-Detached Upgrade – Added a full second storey within heritage controls

• Coogee Cottage Expansion – DA-approved rear addition + loft conversion

• Maroubra Duplex Modernization – Seamless upper-floor integration

Let’s Elevate Your Home Together

Whether you’re planning an upper-floor addition, DA modification, or heritage-sensitive redesign, KENURO Architects combines technical precision with creative vision to deliver exceptional results.