Corunna House is a modern home renovation done right—mixing old-school charm with fresh, smart design. Light-filled rooms, cool materials, and a surprise courtyard make this one worth a look.
Let’s talk about Corunna House—a Federation-era bungalow turned light-filled modern sanctuary in Sydney, courtesy of Studio Johnston. This isn’t your typical “modern update” where a heritage shell is swallowed by a boxy extension. This is how you do a modern home renovation right. With restraint, guts, and just enough brass to make it sing.
What Makes This Modern Home Renovation Stand Out
Most renovations start strong at the front and get lazy in the back. Not here. Studio Johnston masterfully carves out two distinct zones: the original house becomes the kids’ domain with bedrooms and a media den (yes, please!), while the new rear addition brings in that glorious open-plan living that Australians love so much.
What’s especially clever? The vertical stacking of the master suite above the communal space. It gives the parents a true retreat—with a study, a bathroom with treetop views, and even a roof terrace. It’s rare to see such a refined approach to privacy and family zoning without losing the connection across the home.
Let’s Talk Materials—and That Internal Courtyard
Alright, here’s where I got genuinely excited: the courtyard. A glass-walled, internal courtyard dead center in the house. It floods the interiors with natural light and breathes ventilation through the floorplan. So smart. So sexy. And the fig tree framed through the shower skylight? That’s spa-at-home level genius.
Material-wise, they nailed the contrast. The concrete floors downstairs and exposed timber rafters upstairs don’t try to mimic the old—they confidently coexist. And the finish palette? Terrazzo, marble, natural oak joinery, with just the right touch of brass. This isn’t trend-chasing—it’s timeless, grounded, and gutsy.
Lessons from This Australian Home Renovation
- Don’t shy away from bold spatial moves. That internal courtyard is a game-changer.
- Marry old and new with materials, not mimicry. Harmony doesn’t mean sameness.
- Prioritize how the home feels. This one feels calm, connected, and alive.
This project is a masterclass in how to blend heritage with contemporary design—and still feel like home. It proves that with the right vision, a renovation can be both respectful of the past and boldly future-focused.
Looking to renovate with confidence? Start with good bones, stay fearless with your materials, and never underestimate the power of a well-placed courtyard.
Want more modern renovation inspiration? Check Modern Family Home
