Shearer’s quarters becomes modern, functional home

Doubling the living, dining and outdoor areas have made this a haven for a hardworking young couple on the land.

What: Renovation

Where: Hermidale

The project

Over 30 years, this shearers quarters has seen many renovations - some more useful than others. The young couple who lived here were looking for more usable spaces - and more space in general.

We used the existing structure to plan a home with much more living space, and an open, modern design. We swapped out dead space from the existing laundry - while keeping it light and functional - and expanded the small bathroom. 

We also ensured that it would make the most of the direction and aspect. The outdoor entertaining area enjoys morning, northerly sun, but is sheltered from harsh western sun.

The result

After this most recent renovation, the interior is almost unrecognisable thanks to a much more efficient layout and functional design. 

The living, dining and outdoor areas have doubled in size and an ensuite and walk in robe have been added to the master bedroom.

A snug entrance on the eastern side of the home has been replaced with large sliding doors to the new outdoor area and deck. The southern exterior wall of the house was removed, extended, and now provides for a much more spacious entrance to the open plan living and dining area.

The bathroom, which was previously only accessible from the laundry, has been expanded - and is now accessible from the hallways.

Overall, everything is much more functional and sizeable - basically the shearers hut is now a home!