PROJECT SHOWCASE
Cairns North Extension
Designed for a single, middle-aged homeowner in Cairns North, this project transformed an underused upper-level deck into a private office and relaxed retreat, while adding new bedrooms and a living area downstairs for future rental income.
Client Brief
The client wanted a quiet place to work from home, a generous deck to unwind on, and additional self-contained space downstairs that could be used for guests or rented out in the future. The existing bedroom deck wasn’t performing, and the home needed more usable floor area without losing its connection to the outdoors or the tropical ambience of Cairns.
CHALLENGES & SOLUTIONS
-
Heat & Glare
The elevated position and western exposure risked overheating. Careful roof glazing selection, shading strategies and window placement were used to control heat gain while still capturing natural light and breezes. -
Connecting Old and New
The extension needed to feel like a natural continuation of the existing home. Floor levels, rooflines and circulation paths were aligned so both levels read as one integrated design rather than a bolt-on addition. -
Future Flexibility & Income
The downstairs extension was planned with separate living potential in mind — with logical bedroom placement, a dedicated living zone and provision for future amenity upgrades — giving the owner options for rental income or multi-generational living.
Outcome
The Cairns North Extension has turned an underused outdoor space into a functional home office and relaxing upper-level deck, while unlocking new income-producing potential downstairs. The home now suits the client’s current lifestyle, provides flexibility for the future and responds intelligently to the tropical climate.
What began as a simple idea for “a deck and office” has become a well-resolved, dual-purpose extension that adds both daily comfort and long-term value.