barley twist house

42 Wallace St, Kingsford, NSW 2032

Built in the American Bungalow style, 
Barley Twist House possesses outstanding architectural features 
of the Late Modern period

 

  • Distinctive Barley Twist columns: These exquisitely spiraled columns are the house's signature feature, creating a unique artistic beauty. 

 

  • Beautiful arches: The archways are delicately designed, serving as focal points at the main verandah entrance and harmoniously repeated in the interior spaces, creating a connection between outside and inside. 

 

  • High ceilings and brick walls: The house is built with brick and high ceilings, providing a sense of spaciousness and elegance.
  • Historical heritage: Barley Twist House has its own historical listing, testament to its architectural and cultural value over many decades. 

renovation journey

 

  • Preserve the Late Modern Style spirit: All design decisions aimed to respect and highlight the original architectural style.
  • Restore the Barley Twist columns: One of the distinctive Barley Twist columns had deteriorated over time. Instead of replacing it, the homeowner meticulously restored this detail, preserving the authenticity and historical value of the house.
  • Honor the architectural elements: The arches, high ceilings, and brick details were all preserved and highlighted during the renovation process.

 

The most important part of the project was adding a story to the rear of the house - a major breakthrough upgrade: 

  • Space solution: The addition creates additional living space needed for the young family, including bedrooms, work areas, and relaxation spaces.
  • Harmonious design: Although a modern extension, the addition is designed to blend with the original architecture, respecting the proportions, materials, and spirit of the old house.
  • Indoor-outdoor connection: The new floor creates new connections with the garden and outdoor spaces, expanding the family's living possibilities.

This is truly a historically significant upgrade for this heritage-listed house - proof that heritage can be both preserved and developed simultaneously. 

 

Barley Twist House today is a perfect combination of past and present. The house not only fully meets the living needs of a modern young family, but also continues to honor and preserve the unique Late Modern Style architectural beauty. 

This project is a valuable lesson in how to develop and renovate architectural heritage responsibly - not by freezing it in the past, but by allowing it to continue living and serving the current generation, while still respecting and highlighting its historical and artistic values.