CASE STUDY: Project 126 – A Three‑Level Expansion of a Much‑Loved Heritage Home
Introduction
Project 126 is a standout example of how a beautifully maintained heritage home can be respectfully expanded to meet the needs of modern family living. Rather than correcting age or deterioration, this project focused on unlocking the property’s full potential — extending downward with a new basement level, building upward with a full third storey, and reimagining the landscape to create a cohesive, contemporary family retreat. Through precise engineering, thoughtful design and a deep respect for the home’s original character, the result is a refined, future‑focused transformation that enhances both liveability and long‑term value.
A Collaborative, Enjoyable Process
From the very beginning, this project was shaped by an incredibly positive working relationship with the clients. Their clarity of vision, trust in the process and genuine enthusiasm made every stage of the build not only seamless but genuinely enjoyable. It was a true partnership — one where ideas were shared openly, decisions were made collaboratively and the collective goal was always to create something exceptional.
This spirit of collaboration extended across the entire design team. Working alongside Harris Design on the architectural direction, Bellavie Interiors on the interior palette and detailing, and Joey from ECRU on the landscape design ensured every element of the project was cohesive and considered. Each contributor brought their own expertise and creative lens, resulting in a home where the architecture, interiors and landscaping work together in complete harmony.
Engineering the Basement: Underpinning & Rock Excavation
To unlock additional living and storage capacity, the team undertook significant bulk excavation through solid rock, carving out an entirely new subterranean level while maintaining the integrity of the home above. This required underpinning the existing double‑brick wall, allowing the basement to be safely formed beneath the original structure. This engineering‑driven approach established the groundwork for a complete reconfiguration of the home’s layout and enabled the dramatic expansion that followed.
Building Up: A Full Third Storey for Modern Family Living
The existing roof was carefully removed to transform the original attic into a full third level, designed to integrate seamlessly with the home’s architectural character. This new upper floor accommodates a premium master suite, complete with separate his and her walk‑in robes — with her robe positioned to capture uninterrupted city views — along with a dedicated yoga room and a private parents’ retreat that provides a calm, elevated sanctuary away from the main living zones.
The new third storey includes:
Premium master suite
His walk‑in robe
Her walk‑in robe with full city views
Dedicated yoga room
Private parents’ retreat
Expanded living and retreat spaces
Improved natural light and ventilation
Enhanced views and connection to the landscape
The new roof structure was rebuilt to modern engineering standards while respecting the home’s heritage proportions and detailing, ensuring the extension feels both contemporary and contextually grounded.
Re‑Shaping the Outdoors: Retaining & Full Landscape Re‑Design
Externally, the transformation continued with major landscape works. The previously sloping backyard was retained and levelled, creating usable outdoor space that the original site could never have offered. This enabled a complete landscape re‑design by ECRU, introducing structured planting, new lawn areas, improved circulation and a stronger connection between indoor and outdoor living zones. The result is a garden that feels intentional, private and perfectly aligned with the home’s new scale
The Result
Project 126 stands as a testament to what can be achieved when engineering precision, architectural vision and genuine collaboration come together. The home now spans three beautifully resolved levels, offering expanded living, improved functionality and elevated spaces — all while honouring the heritage character that made the property special from the start.
Client Testimonial
“We used Allen Brothers to substantially renovate our near 100 year old house. The renovation included both building up and digging down and also a fair bit in the middle. The guys were excellent to deal with. There was a lot going on most of the time and they managed it all superbly and took an interest in little tweaks and in making suggestions along the way. There are lots of horror stories about builders but you won’t hear any of those from us. We couldn’t recommend them highly enough.” - Frank.
Credits:
Building Desing: Harris Designs
Landscape Design: ECRU
Interior Design Bellavie interiors
Photography: Jack Gibson Photos