The Ember • Extend & Enhance

Set within a bushfire-prone bushland setting in the Blue Mountains, The Ember Extend & Enhance reimagines an existing cottage through a carefully considered, highly resilient addition designed for long-term family living, comfort and safety. The project is currently at CC stage, with construction anticipated later this year.

Given the constraints of the existing cottage, upgrading the original structure was not feasible. Instead, a new single-storey extension forms a robust, high-performance living environment while remaining connected to the original home.

A single junction links the two structures, with a dedicated fire-rated wall providing separation between new and existing, allowing the extension to sit alongside the original cottage with minimal intervention. This approach enhances bushfire resilience of the new while respecting the existing fabric.

The extension accommodates a kitchen, living and dining space, master suite and study, supporting flexible family living and a strong connection to the surrounding bushland.

Site works and vegetation management have been carefully minimised and guided by ecological input, preserving the character of the landscape while meeting bushfire requirements.

Grounded in high-performance design principles aligned with Passivhaus thinking, the project incorporates high insulation levels, airtight detailing and high-performance glazing, with careful orientation to optimise solar gain, daylight and year-round comfort.

The result is a calm, resilient home where a new layer of living is inserted alongside the original cottage, strengthening its future while respecting its past.