Illawong – Complete Renovation

Location: Illawong, NSW
Project Type: Residential renovation and extension
Completion: 2022
Design Lead: JMH Living Design

This renovation project in Illawong gave an older brick home a complete refresh, bringing light, space, and flow back into the everyday experience. The owners wanted a home that felt more open and connected, with a better layout for family living and a more modern look and feel.

A living area was moved towards the rear of the home and opened up with sliding doors and windows to view the pool area and down to the waterfront. The main home was broken up into shared family living areas and more private areas for the parents including another living area, bedroom and ensuite.

The original home was solid and well-built but felt boxed in and dated. The layout was closed off, with small rooms and narrow hallways. The living areas lacked natural light, and the kitchen was tucked away from the rest of the home.

The owners wanted a brighter, more open home that would suit how they lived now. The house needed better access to the outdoors, more usable space for entertaining, and a clearer connection between rooms. They also wanted to bring in modern finishes and a lighter, more coastal aesthetic.

JMH Living Design reimagined the internal layout to create open-plan living zones that feel relaxed and easy to move through. Walls were removed to connect the kitchen, dining, and living areas into one large space. Generous windows and sliding doors were added to improve light and access to the garden.

The home was re-clad with low-maintenance materials in soft, neutral tones. Inside, a calm palette was used to create a modern but welcoming atmosphere. Custom joinery and thoughtful detailing helped improve storage without adding clutter.

Outdoor areas were upgraded to create a natural extension of the indoor spaces, with a focus on family gatherings, quiet afternoons, and easy entertaining.

The house now feels spacious and full of light. The new layout has made a huge difference to how the home is used and enjoyed each day. Living areas flow naturally into each other, and the outdoor zones feel like part of the home.

The renovation kept the best parts of the original house while transforming the way it functions. It feels calm, practical, and ready for the years ahead. The home is easier to live in, easier to maintain, and a better fit for modern family life.

• Working with an existing home can lead to beautiful, efficient outcomes when the design is focused on how people actually live.
• Small changes to layout and light can completely shift the feel of a home.
• A clear plan and thoughtful finishes can turn a dated home into something timeless, without losing its original heart.