Shadow House by Grotto Studio

Shadow House, designed by Grotto Studio, harmoniously blends old and new whilst celebrating the beauty of nature and natural light. Set in Bayswater, the original circa 1900 cottage has been artfully restored, complementing and contrasting the contemporary extension to the rear. Each element of the alteration and addition, from the charred Jarrah exterior to the use of reclaimed materials throughout the house, tells a story of intentional and conscious construction.

In its very essence, Shadow House transcends mere architectural description, symbolising a profound commitment to mitigating the environmental footprint that every built form inevitably casts. Through a design ethos rooted in sustainability, it forges a potent alliance between aesthetic refinement and ecological mindfulness. The home underscores the transformative potential of conscientious design, showcasing how it can elevate both well-being and sustainability within our living spaces.

The story of Shadow House highlights the pride and craftsmanship behind the build, with local craftspeople used wherever possible and the owner/builders meticulous approach to executing the vision.

From the street, the original cottage stands out prominently, while the jarrah-clad addition gracefully blends into the background like a subtle shadow. Encircled by established and self-sustaining native gardens, the landscaping perfectly complements its sustainable design principles. The addition’s layout was carefully planned, taking into consideration the presence of two mature jacaranda trees, creating a meaningful connection to nature.

The contrasting integration of old and new structures creates a multitude of atmospheric spaces, each characterised by dynamic lighting and raw materials throughout the day.

Inside the home, the expansive living area extends southwest to northeast, boasting a raking roofline that captures the sun and brings the life of the jacaranda trees into the space. Grounded by its concrete floor and lined with bespoke plywood cabinetry, the materials throughout are warm and tactile. Featuring bi-fold timber-framed doors and sliding windows in the lounge, this space offers the opportunity for seamless integration with the outdoors when fully opened.

The kitchen provides a modern, functional space equipped with Bosch appliances and an integrated Westinghouse fridge. An inviting window seat and a convenient under-bench nook offers flexible seating options, perfect for creating casual moments.

An airy atrium buffers the living area and studio, showcasing a warm raw jarrah-lined courtyard that invites a moment of pause. Adjacent to the rear sunken garden, these spaces offer complete privacy and sanctuary from the day-to-day.

Tucked away in the southern corner, a separate studio with a private courtyard features a dark timber-lined interior, with multiple uses from a guest suite, to home office or creative space. Self-managed and utilised as short stay accommodation at the owner’s discretion, the studio provides a lucrative income source. Adding wonderful flexibility, the studio also provides multi-generational appeal.

Within the cottage, you’ll discover two bathrooms, each boasting its own unique and harmonious style. The red bathroom features a Japanese-style bath, adorned with floor-to-ceiling tiles and jarrah cabinetry, while the ensuite bathroom takes on a more understated allure, featuring blue tiles and a refined jarrah vanity.

Located in Bayswater, Shadow House enjoys a strategic location just 6 kilometers from the city center. This leafy suburb offers urban conveniences, with its proximity to public transport, including the upcoming Bayswater station. Connecting to exciting neighbouring areas like Maylands, Inglewood, and Guildford, Bayswater’s dynamic demographic mix, encompassing families, couples, singles, artists, and retirees, creates a vibrant community. With its pet-friendly atmosphere, proximity to parks and cycling paths leading to the CBD, and a forthcoming revitalization centered around the train station and junction, Bayswater is poised to become a thriving hub that bridges the gap between city life and suburban tranquility.

Rare and unique, Shadow House possesses an innate, soulful quality that makes it a true one-of-a-kind residence. Every area within the home is marked by elements of surprise and intrigue, exemplifying a meticulously planned design and a keen focus on details. A labour of love, Shadow House is testament to how good design can make all the difference.

AS FEATURED IN

/ Habitus Living magazine
/ Dwell magazine
/ Yellowtrace
/ The Design Files
/ Fabric Quarterly (coming out soon)

SPOTLIGHT

/ Alteration & Addition designed by Grotto Studio
/ Landscape design by mkticks
/ Green Title block of 519 sqm
/ 3 bedrooms to cottage and 4th bedroom to Studio/Guest House
/ 2 bathrooms to cottage and 3rd bathroom to Studio/Guest House
/ Multi-generational house with flexible accommodation options with separate Studio/Guest House
/ The Studio/Guest House is currently rented out as short-stay accommodation, providing a valuable income source
/ The alteration was handcrafted by local tradespeople where possible with meticulous attention to detail
/ Air-conditioning to main bedroom and living room
/ Ceiling fans to main bedroom and bedroom 2
/ Velux skylights throughout
/ 3kw solar panels
/ Water tank supporting the house for many months of the year
/ Reticulation to front garden and rear lawn
/ Kitchen appliances include Bosch induction cooktop, Bosch electric oven, Bosch dishwasher, integrated Westinghouse fridge, Schweigen rangehood
/ Brodware and Astra Walker tapware
/ Designer, vintage and handmade lighting throughout

RATES

Council $2,298.23 pa
Water $1,374.07 pa