'alts + adds' exhibition and publication, curated by Kylie Legge of m:arch communications as an official event of the Year of the Built Environment 2004.

"SEA CHANGE"

This derelict Californian Bungalow was converted from a dark and disconnected series of rooms into a family home that provides living spaces that safely link t the back garden. The entry is on the upper level, which has been lovingly restored to become bedrooms and bathrooms. It opens to a dramatic two-storey living room and kitchen that extend outside to an informal living deck complete with day bed, built-in seating and barbeque.

Designing his own home, and taking an active role in its construction, meant that Patrick Nicholas could approach the documentation a little less formally. Sketches were drawn on site, approved by his wife on the spot and put into action by the builders. The result is a house that caters for the family's needs today as well as predicting the flexibility required for the future.