Insider knowledge the real makeover key

The West Australian, New Homes, 26th September 2009
By Len Findlay

When Steven and Amanda Kemp bought their Mullaloo home three years aog, they could see that under the ugliness there was beauty.

The home was a dark single storey residence with a useable loft, accessed by a sliding ladder.

Now it is a two-storey home, much brighter than it was under the old layout and with extra room to accommodate the Kemps and their two young sons.

Dale Alcock Home Renovations did the work to a design by Mr Kemp, who has worked for the company for 14 years and had a good idea of what was possible.

At the front of the home what had been a sunken study became the entrance, taking in the stairs leading to the new top level.

The ground level was originally all wood and dark bricks which needed lightening.

This was done by painting some parts white and replacing some timber with glass.

The old master bedroom is now a playroom for the children who also have access to a renovated bathroom.

There is another bedroom on this level.  The kitchen and lounge have also been lightened up and renovated.

From here, the new L-shaped alfresco area is easily accessible.

The new upstairs addition has a big master bedroom and parents retreat.

The old loft, a few steps down from the new bedroom, is now a walk-in robe and storeroom.

The upstairs bathroom has two sinks, a shower and a bath.

“We even get ocean glimpses from here” Mr Kemp said.

Then there is “Steve’s Room” a homage to his love of motor sports and where he keeps his collection of motoring memorabilia.

Outside, the new deign incorporates Colorbond into the windows and roof, giving the home a real “seaside” look, fitting since it is only a few hundred metres from the Indian Ocean.

From a 1979 home which was modern in its day, but had become dated, has emerged a modern dwelling of character, extra space and plenty of light.