East Toowoomba Renovation distils and blends an abundance of ideas to become a highly personalised, intentional home that prioritises shared spaces and a strong connection to the landscape. It’s a design inspired by togetherness, informed by considered practicality, and infused with moments of magic. Central to the project is the retention of the Queenslander cottage’s charm and street presence. Rather than raise the house, we we worked with the identity of the home and the site to create a sensitive addition that wraps itself around the original house in an L shape. Tweaking the cottage’s floorplan allowed us to arrange four kids’ bedrooms, the master suite, an office, and a bathroom within the existing house. Courtyards are created in the spaces where cottage and extension meet, forming surprising journeys and allowing breathing room between old and new. The shared spaces are the heart of the home. Lying behind the original cottage and opening to the garden, they encourage togetherness and create opportunities to host extended family and friends. Sliding glass doors border the shared spaces, bringing northern light and garden views inside in cooler months, and opening to the outdoor barbecue area, lawn and pool in warmer months.