East Fremantle House open-air living room

The Conversation Pit Makes a Big Comeback in These Fabulous Sunken Living Spaces

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Architect Nic Brunsdon renovated this original heritage cottage for a young family in the suburbs of Perth, Australia. The 3,229-square-foot home includes a sunken "garden room" with concrete floors and large sliding doors that connect the interiors to a sunny green courtyard.