The original heritage facade with its traditional Paddington gable was carefully retained, preserving the home’s historic charm while transforming the interior for modern living.

Cascade House is a celebration of classic and contemporary, rich, luxurious materials combined in a timeless palette, and spaces that balance beauty and function.

Every design decision, from layout to detailing, was made to enhance the way the family lives day to day. A true example of Modify's integrated design and build approach; the result is a warm, welcoming, and beautifully resolved home.

Architecture & Design: Can you describe the initial vision for this project and how it evolved over time?

Modify Homes: The initial vision for Cascade House was to create a home that better supported the family’s lifestyle, particularly by improving functionality and flow on the ground floor.

After living in the house for several years, the clients were ready to address issues such as a cramped kitchen, disconnected living spaces, and limited access to the courtyard.

While a full renovation was undertaken, the focus remained on reimagining the ground floor — opening up the rear of the home to create a generous kitchen and dining area connected to the newly landscaped courtyard. Key design elements like oversized sliding doors, bold materials, and carefully integrated joinery helped bring clarity and purpose to the space.

As the design evolved, opportunities emerged to enhance other areas of the home while staying within the existing footprint. The front two rooms were combined into a larger, more usable living area, with a brass-framed arched doorway linking a serene study nook.

Upstairs, finishes were refreshed and the master suite reconfigured to include more storage and a reworked ensuite with a micro-cement finish and marble vanity. The overall transformation stayed true to the clients’ desire for a layered, timeless home that balanced heritage character with modern comfort.

What were the biggest challenges you faced during the design and construction phases, and how did you overcome them?

One of the advantages of working on Cascade House was that it didn’t require major structural changes — we were able to reconfigure the internal layout without moving any foundation walls.

This allowed us to focus on the detailing and finish, which was a real pleasure. The biggest challenge we faced was managing weather delays when working on the roof. During the installation of the large floor-to-ceiling sliding doors, we craned them in over the courtyard wall via a side laneway, which was swift and easy for this type of delicate work.

Fortunately, the site’s location just around the corner from our office made it easy to respond quickly to challenges and refine details on the go.

How did you ensure that the project met the client’s needs and expectations?

From the outset, we worked closely with the clients to deeply understand how they lived and what they wanted from their home. They were seeking a more functional layout, improved connection to the outdoors, and a design that reflected their personality.

Through regular meetings, detailed design presentations, and material reviews, we ensured every decision aligned with their vision. The clients were open to bold ideas — including rich colour choices, layered textures, and custom detailing — which allowed us to create a home that was both highly personal and practical.

By maintaining clear communication throughout the design and build process, we were able to respond to feedback, resolve challenges collaboratively, and deliver a final result that not only met but exceeded their expectations. Cascade House now functions beautifully for their growing family while expressing their unique style.

Were there any unique or innovative techniques or materials used in this project?

Cascade House features a number of unique and carefully considered design elements that elevate the home’s character and function. In the kitchen, bold natural stone selections take centre stage — with honed Calacatta Borghini Gold marble used across all surfaces, detailed with elegant brass inlays.

Oversized floor tiles are laid on the diagonal, adding movement and drama to the space. A generously sized range hood is integrated into the marble backdrop, offering both practicality and a sculptural presence. Decorative lighting, personally selected by the client, is featured throughout the home, adding individuality and a soft layer of detail to each room.

Other standout elements include the use of micro-cement in the master ensuite bathroom — and the Parisian Blue custom joinery in the formal living room, complemented by an Australian-made brass archway that divides the space with elegance. Parquet timber flooring, gold hand-loomed carpet, and ambient wall lighting create a layered atmosphere.

The large double-glazed sliding doors in the kitchen not only enhance energy efficiency but also allow the interior to open fully to the courtyard, reinforcing the seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living.

How does this project fit into your broader portfolio and design philosophy?

Cascade House is a strong reflection of our broader portfolio and design philosophy — creating high-quality, well-considered homes that are deeply functional and beautifully individual. We approach each project as a unique response to the site, the existing architecture, and, most importantly, the client’s lifestyle and aspirations.

This project captures that intent by blending classic architectural detailing with bold contemporary interventions. It demonstrates how modern design can sit comfortably within a heritage context — enhancing, not competing with, the original fabric of the home.

Cascade This project sits proudly within our portfolio as an example of how Modify’s commitment to delivering timeless, tailored homes that celebrate both form and function.

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