Back to Front House, Hampton - JDA Lammin Architects x Wood Wizards Kitchens

From the outset, it was clear that the home needed more than a cosmetic update. The orientation of the living areas and lack of connection to the garden made the interiors feel closed in. The spaces worked back to front — and that became the inspiration for a complete rethinking of how the house functioned.

Having worked with Wood Wizards Kitchens on many projects over the years, architect Harriet Lammin was the natural choice to help bring Cheryl’s ideas to life. With a strong working relationship already established, the design process was highly collaborative, blending Cheryl’s vision for the interiors with Harriet’s architectural expertise.

Harriet’s experience in managing the design development and council approvals ensured a smooth process from concept to construction. The shared understanding between architect and client made it possible to refine every element, creating a design that was calm, modern, and perfectly suited to the couple’s lifestyle.

The existing floor plan was reconfigured to make the most of the site’s orientation and garden aspect. The former front bedrooms were transformed into a spacious new Master Suite, complete with a luxurious ensuite featuring Italian tiles and fittings.

The old bathroom and master bedroom made way for a generous open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area, connecting seamlessly to the outdoors through large sliding glass doors. A new deck and stairs step down to the landscaped garden and covered alfresco area, allowing the owners to enjoy their outdoor spaces from multiple vantage points.

While the renovation brought the home firmly into the present, elements of its original 1970s character were thoughtfully retained. The terrazzo floor tiles in the entry were restored and echoed in the terrazzo island bench, and the original brickwork was refreshed with a soft bagged and painted finish, bringing warmth and texture to the renewed façade.

Cabinetry by Wood Wizards Kitchens, designed and crafted by Cheryl and Tony’s son Jordan and daughter-in-law Megan, became a defining feature throughout the home — uniting the spaces with finely detailed joinery and a cohesive palette that reflects the couple’s timeless taste.

The completed renovation feels generous, bright, and calm — a reflection of the people who live there. Every detail was considered, from spatial flow to light quality, materials, and finishes. For Cheryl and Tony, who have guided countless renovations over their careers, this project held something special: it was the first time they created a home entirely for themselves.

“It was the easiest and most efficient part of our build,” says Cheryl. “Harriet was an unbelievable asset in the creation of our new home. She immediately understood what we wanted from our downsizer. Harriet is wonderfully collaborative and so helpful. I would not hesitate to recommend her.”

What began as a dated, inward-looking home has been transformed into a contemporary, welcoming haven — a true ‘Back to Front’ success story.