# Strathmore Courtyard House by Studio Ceravolo Three-level courtyard garden extension to an Art Deco brick home in Australia - **Source:** [ArchDaily Global](https://brifing.si/source/b856ce4a-b51b-4705-954b-40620e034caa) - **Published:** 2026-08-20 - **Topic:** [Design & UX](https://brifing.si/c/design) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/7f496e57-49d9-4269-a92d-dacaa4f6d7d5 ## Modern Extension to Art Deco Home Designed by Studio Ceravolo, Strathmore Courtyard House is a three-level addition to an existing brick Art Deco residence. The project centers around a courtyard garden that organizes spatial flow. Completed in 2025 in Strathmore, Australia, the design makes circulation a fundamental element while enabling seamless transitions between living areas. ISK Construction executed the build with material choices respecting the original character. ## Architectural Role of the Courtyard The courtyard serves as both physical and visual core of the composition. This design decision balances privacy with openness while ensuring even natural light distribution. Spatial organization follows circulation axes radiating from the courtyard to guide user experience. Material contrasts between brick and glass mediate between traditional and contemporary expressions, with Studio Ceravolo maintaining this language in interior design. ## Spatial Hierarchy and Function Positioning different living zones around the courtyard establishes clear spatial hierarchy. Vertical transitions are enhanced by visual connections through the central void. The interplay of primary materials—brick and glass—creates dialogue between heritage and intervention. Studio Ceravolo's integrated approach extends to custom interior elements that complement the architectural vision. ## Structural Details and Materials Original Art Deco brick walls are juxtaposed with new steel-framed glazing, highlighting the conversation between historical fabric and contemporary addition. Extensive glazing around the courtyard strengthens indoor-outdoor relations. Photographs by Sean Fennessy document how material textures contribute to spatial perception. The project demonstrates sensitive material reuse in residential retrofits. ## Climate-Responsive Strategies The courtyard design responds to Strathmore's temperate climate through passive solutions. Strategic openings facilitate natural ventilation, with winter solar gain and summer cooling benefits. The garden's microclimate effect enhances energy efficiency. Studio Ceravolo balances sustainability targets with aesthetic considerations, proving environmental performance need not compromise design quality. ## User Experience Focus Visual axes framed by courtyard views enrich spatial perception throughout the house. Each living area engages with the central void, creating depth. Circulation routes choreograph a controlled exploration of the home. This approach reinterprets traditional Australian housing typology through contemporary spatial sequencing and prospect-refuge principles. ## Dialogue with Local Context The design respects Strathmore's suburban fabric with considerate massing. While preserving Art Deco heritage, it harmonizes with neighborhood character through facade articulation. Studio Ceravolo carefully planned setbacks and floor heights per local codes. The project demonstrates how contextual sensitivity can yield distinctive architecture within regulatory frameworks. ## Significance of the Approach Strathmore Courtyard House showcases the potential of thoughtful interventions in existing building stock. The courtyard typology offers private living quality in dense suburban conditions. As a case study in layering history with contemporary needs, it provides replicable lessons for residential retrofits. This model could inspire housing adaptations in similar climates globally. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.archdaily.com/1183587/strathmore-courtyard-house-studio-ceravolo — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._