The rear extension houses an expansive mezzanine with playful, hammock-like netting
Located on just 177 square metres of land, what this home lacks in size, it more than makes up for in character. Originally a quaint cottage, the home in Melbourne’s Northcote was upgraded and extended recently by C.Kairouz Architects. And the new abode is big on personality, playful details and a sense of space that belies the home’s diminutive block size.
The rear extension features a living, dining and kitchen as well as mezzanine with hammock-like netting
“Smaller footprint living via well-connected zones and playful experiences is at the essence of this house. The home was created to enhance the lifestyle of inhabitants without compromising on natural light, space, and ambiance. This considered proposal promotes the idea that you can still live big in a compact home, reimagining the Australian suburban family house and architectural language,” says Chahid Kairouz, managing director of C.Kairouz Architects.
The light-filled, multifunctional kitchen features a hidden laundry – another way to maximise space
Master bathroom
The home’s original, dark, labyrinth-style layout was reconfigured to an open plan design which meant that it went from a dilapidated two-bedroom cottage dwelling (occupied by squatters) into a three-bedroom home with modern amenities. “The extension and retrofit to the quaint heritage home sought to provide an efficient response to the challenging small lot,” says the firm’s head of interiors, Sammy Kairouz.
The home from the street
The original Edwardian cottage was refreshed with a light palette of white and grey. The restored porch and façade are brimming with characterful features including revamped weatherboards, flooring, windows and original leadlight windows. As you move to the rear of the home, the connection between old and new is highlighted rather than diminished – the floor changes from refinished boards to a burnished concrete slab.
Rear terrace
The entertainment rooms sit at the back where the dwelling unfolds to embrace a double-height volume which takes in northern light and greenery. “The extension contains two levels of living under one key gestural ceiling form. In-between moments unite the upstairs mezzanine level and the downstairs kitchen, living and dining are joined together by a playful, hammock-like netting and spiral staircase,” says Chahid.
Netting detail
By borrowing space from the yard, the extended footprint ensured the size of the kitchen, dining and living areas were maximised. And to make up for the reduced backyard, the extension’s second level has a multipurpose room above as well as an outdoor terrace that is perfect for entertaining and offers views of the treetops and surrounding neighbourhood.
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Currently in its 19th year, this year’s Australian Interior Design Awards were handed out last week at a glittering gala dinner in Sydney. Arguably Australia’s most esteemed industry-based awards program, the awards are delivered through a partnership between the Design Institute of Australia and Architecture Media’s Artichoke Magazine. The awards have several categories including workplace, retail and more but it’s the residential results that we couldn’t wait to check out.
Stable Cart House by Clare Cousins Architects. Photography: Sharyn Cairns
Taking out the Premier Award for Interior Design, Clare Cousins Architects’ ‘Stable and Cart House’ was called “sublime in every way” by the jury. This unique project also took out the esteemed Residential Design Award and the Best of State Residential Design (VIC). “Stable and Cart House is the absolute standout project across all categories by clearly being an exemplary piece of work. What resonates most is the authenticity of the design and the way it has been conceived to be lived in, not just looked at,’ said the jury.
Stable Cart House by Clare Cousins Architects. Photography: Sharyn Cairns
Flack Studio, continued its winning streak by taking out this year’s Residential Decoration Award for its incredible ‘Troye Sivan House.’ “Flack Studio captured a strong sense of the client’s character through a beautiful curation of art, furniture, lighting and objects in a way that doesn’t feel forced or contrived,” said the jury. The home’s design celebrated the original architecture by John Mockridge while elevating it to a whole other level. One juror praised the project for having a “wonderful spirit that is overwhelmingly endearing and uplifting,” and we couldn’t agree more.
The sublime Troye Sivan House by Flack Studio. Photography: Anson Smart
Troye Sivan House by Flack Studio. Photography: Anson Smart
Several notable commendations were handed out too including with Arent and Pyke recognised for its ‘Legato House,’ YSG Studio for its ‘Soft Serve’ project and Alcorn Middleton for ‘Toowong Lighthouse.’
Soft Serve by YSG Studio. Photography: Prue Ruscoe
The full list of winners:
Premier Award for Australian Interior Design Clare Cousins Architects for Stable and Cart House, Victoria
Interior Design Impact Award YSG Studio for Edition Roasters, New South Wales
Emerging Interior Design Practice – Awards Brahman Perera, Victoria – Commendation Pattern Studio, New South Wales
Residential Design – Award Clare Cousins Architects for Stable and Cart House, Victoria – Commendations Kennedy Nolan for Always, Victoria Studio Bright for Autumn House, Victoria Arent and Pyke with Carter Williamson for Layer Cake, New South Wales Bennett Murada Architects for Robinsons Run, New South Wales Fiona Lynch Interior Design for Sorrento House, Victoria Flack Studio for Troye Sivan House, Victoria Brad Swartz Architects and Henry Wilson for Laneway Glass House, New South Wales
Legato House by Arent & Pyke. Photography: Anson Smart
Residential Decoration – Award Flack Studio for Troye Sivan House, Victoria – Commendations Fiona Lynch Interior Design for Burnley House, Victoria Arent and Pyke for Legato House, New South Wales YSG Studio for Soft Serve, New South Wales Fiona Lynch Interior Design for Sorrento House, Victoria
Hospitality Design – Award Studio Gram for Arkhé, South Australia – Commendations Architecture and Interiors Tom Robertson with Furniture, Object and Styling Simone Haag for Bassano, Victoria Hassell for Di Stasio Carlton, Victoria Flack Studio for Square and Compass, Victoria Russell and George for Yakimono, Victoria Richards Stanisich for The Woollahra Hotel, New South Wales
Retail Design – Award Studio Edwards for Finesse Shoe Store, Victoria – Commendations IF Architecture for Baker Bleu, Victoria Esoteriko for Coco & Lola, New South Wales Foolscap Studio for ODE Dermatology, Victoria Design by Golden for Viktoria and Woods Chadstone, Victoria
Rose Park House by Studio Gram. Photography: Timothy Kaye
Workplace Design – Award BVN for Multiplex Head Quarters, New South Wales – Commendations Studio May for Boutique Office Fitout, Victoria BVN for BVN Brisbane Studio, Queensland
Installation Design – Award SJB in collaboration with Rick Leplastrier and Vania Contreras for Eucalyptusdom, New South Wales – Commendations Studio Edwards for Community by Alt. Material, Victoria Youssofzay and Hart for Light and Darkness, New South Wales Decibel Architecture for The Lume Melbourne, Victoria
Public Design – Award Studio Bright for Monash Robotics Lab, Victoria – Commendations Silvester Fuller and Openwork for Froebel Carlton, Victoria BVN for Margaret Bailey Building, Ascham School, New South Wales
Toowong Lighthouse by Alcorn Middleton. Photography: Jad Sylla
International Design D Hage Designs for Den Tex Apartment, Amsterdam
Sustainability Advancement Award – Awards BKK Architects and Clare Cousins Architects for 17 Union Street, Victoria FJMT Studio for Built Head Office, New South Wales – Commendation Studio Edwards for Finesse Shoe Store, Victoria
Best of State Awards for Residential Design Australian Capital Territory – Red Hill Residence by SJS Interior Design New South Wales – Brad Swartz Architects and Henry Wilson for Laneway Glass House Queensland – Alcorn Middleton for Toowong Lighthouse South Australia – Studio Gram for Rose Park House Tasmania – Tanner Architects for Mays Point Victoria – Clare Cousins for Stable and Cart House Western Australia – Iota and Studio Roam for Lewis House
Lewis House by Iota and Studio Roam. Photography: Jack Lovel
Best of State Awards for Commercial Design Australian Capital Territory – Pattern Studio for Adytum New South Wales – Richards Stanisich for The Woollahra Hotel Queensland – BVN for BVN Brisbane Studio South Australia – Studio Gram for Arkhé Victoria – Studio Bright for Monash Robotics Lab Western Australia – Hames Sharley for Hames Sharley Perth Office
Located in Melbourne’s iconic beachside suburb of St Kilda, this double story Victorian terrace was restored to its former grandeur recently by Melanie Beyond Architecture and Design. “We aimed to provide our clients with a functional home that honoured its 19th century bones while also drawing reference from the client’s passion for Parisian décor,” says Melanie Beynon of the stunning abode that features beautiful, luxe materials and detailing but is practical enough for family living.
Living room
Upon passing through the home’s grand Victorian entry, the owners’ love of blue is plain to see. A highlight space, the lavish front sitting room is painted in a gorgeous blue shade – it’s the perfect complement to the room’s original marble fireplace and antique crystal chandelier. The room is beautifully furnished and accessorised with a mix of pieces from Gubi, Coco Republic, Kartell, Mondoluce and House of Orange.
Formal sitting room
Entry
The heart of the home, the rear of the ground floor was reworked to include kitchen, dining and living zones with new expansive steel-framed doors and windows opening to the garden. “This communal space is refined in form, function and materiality to facilitate optimal family living. The kitchen is outfitted with customised tapware and high-end equipment to accent the carte blanche space,” says Melanie.
Kitchen
A feature Volker Haug pendant light hangs over a large porcelain-clad island bench that is offset by soft grey cabinetry – a separate bar area is the perfect spot for entertaining guests. New parquetry oak flooring and an integrated gas fireplace adds warmth and comfort to the shared space.
Dining and bar area
Navy carpet leads from the entry up the remastered original staircase – the master bedroom is a highlight upstairs. “The palatial master suite bathroom is the feature of the first floor, boasting a spacious light-filled volume with high ceilings, restored fireplace, double shower and a double vanity accented with indigo blue joinery,” says Melanie. Custom polished nickel tapware and brass detailing complete the scene.
Bathroom
“This project proved to be a true collaboration between our client’s personal aspirations, our architectural interpretation, and the builder’s realisation. Through this rounded approach we believe this monumental Victorian home has reached its full living potential and can sit proud amongst its heritage neighbours.”
Victorian terrace renovation makes excellent use of laneway
Located in Melbourne’s inner south, this stylish, split-level Victorian terrace house was renovated and extended recently with Subtract Architecture steering…
Originally a two-room 1920s workers’ cottage in the Perth coastal suburb of North Fremantle, this home has been substantially expanded under the expert eye of Philip Stejskal Architecture. Renovated and extended to accommodate a family of four, the unique design had many obstacles to overcome – the block has a steep slope from front to back and the original home had a compromised northern aspect as well as privacy and connection issues.
“The home was designed for its owners, Kristen and Paul and their kids Neve and Evan. The brief was to retain the original cottage but expand it to suit a young family as their forever home,” says Philip Stejskal. The rear extension is split over two levels that provide a sanctuary for the family while also maintaining a connection to the local community. The extension features spaces that are both separate and connected via a central courtyard and visually permeable staircases.
The beautiful internal courtyard
“Overall, due to the site and orientation of the block as well as the retention of the cottage, there are five different levels interacting across the escarpment of the site, with strong visual and spatial connections between them being a focus,” says Philip. The lower levels have a more solid, intimate feel while the upper levels are more light-filled and airy.
Lounge and staircase
Dining
The upper-level master suite was conceived as a ‘treehouse’ as it engages with the canopy of surrounding trees, and is finished in timber inside and out. “Possibly the most quirky design feature of the house is the ‘lookout’ which sits beside the brick chimney of the outdoor fireplace, to the north of the central courtyard,” says Philip. The lookout provides district views to the nearby Fremantle Port while the addition of the fireplace diverts focus from a blank neighbouring wall.
The lookout doubles as a fireplace
Master bedroom
As for the materials palette, the most generously used material is brickwork – it’s both beautiful and provides a historic touchpoint too. “Notable is the traditional beaded pointing technique, which harks back to yesteryear, and merges the individual brick units into a softer, variegated backdrop,” says Philip. The home harnesses natural light and breezes to minimise reliance on artificial cooling and heating.
“Overall, I love the subtle way that the home sits in the street, and the way it surprises you as you enter through the old cottage, and lavishes with layers of space and material,” says Philip.
Laundry
The home has clearly resonated. It took out the top award for Residential Architecture – Houses (Alterations and Additions) at the 2022 WA Architecture Awards. “The central courtyard functions as the fulcrum point of the house. The surrounding internal living spaces extend into the courtyard blurring the interior and exterior, imparting an open spacious, quality throughout the house. Considerable thought has been invested in the making of this beautiful bespoke family home. It is an accomplished design and a joy to be in,” said the judges.
Located on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, this home serves as a coastal getaway for an older couple who harbour future plans for it to become their forever home. With grown up children and grandchildren, the couple engaged Jasmine McClelland Design to design a beautiful home that the whole family could enjoy but that was age-proofed too. “They were keen to make it suitable for when they retire in the future so wanted a lift, walk-in bathroom and allowance for rails down the track,” says Jasmine of the home that sits on a leafy coastal block and has enviable ocean views.
The home’s striking entry
“As a house designed for entertaining, the kitchen was always going to be the beating heart of the home. As such we installed an extra-long island bench where friends and family can sit and chat whilst meals and drinks are made,” says Jasmine who raised the cabinetry off the floor on a steel frame to reduce what would have been a rather heavy feature if executed differently.
Kitchen
“The couple love wood and weren’t afraid to use different colour and textures which adds warmth without upstaging views of the water,” says Jasmine who just received an HIA award for her work on the home’s expansive kitchen. Combining timber veneer with teal coloured Laminex overhead units, slimline Dekton benchtop and pop-up rangehoods, the kitchen is the heart of the home.
Butler’s pantry
“One of the most important aspects of the brief was the preservation of a much-loved tree visible from the former kitchen. It was the backdrop to the preparation and celebration of many family meals in the past,” says Jasmine who installed picture windows in the kitchen area so that the beloved tree can frame future memories too. The home sits on the site of the couple’s old holiday home.
Living room
The ensuite was designed for maximum relaxation and combines mosaic tiles with a freestanding bath and large skylight where the couple can enjoy the ever-changing light above. The laundry is a statement space that features orange cabinetry and the mud room is rather playful too. “Both spaces were designed with fun and colour in mind and, though they are primarily functional inclusions,” says Jasmine
Ensuite
Laundry
“We are most proud of the way the interiors, build, landscaping and architecture came together seamlessly in this beautiful, luxuriously comfortable home. The most rewarding part of the project was to return to the completed space and see how happy the clients were. They were satisfied that the job had met and exceeded their brief.”
House K by Kart Projects. Photographer: Rory Gardiner.
The 2022 Dulux Colour Awards were handed out in Melbourne on 1 June at a live-streamed gala function that saw a handful of winning projects chosen for their exceptional use of colour and creativity in design.
“Our renowned industry awards program recognises the epitome of colour use in design and architecture, and it is especially significant that we acknowledge and celebrate the array of exceptional projects this year, given the challenging circumstances in which they were created,” says Dulux colour and communications manager Andrea Lucena-Orr.
Autumn House by Studio Bright got two commendations. Photographer: Rory Gardiner.
And while the competition spans commercial, workplace and retail spheres it’s the residential winners that we are obviously most interested in. The winner of this year’s ‘Residential Interiors’ category is Lachlan Seegers Architect for its Erskineville House project and judge David Welsh praised the success of the project’s vision which was ‘to bind the home’s atmosphere with the ever-changing presence of nature.’
Erskineville House by Lachlan Seegers Architect. Photographer: Rory Gardiner.
“In an elegant, unforced manner, a soft palette of pale yellow, warm grey and hues of green supports the narrative and moderates the atmosphere of the interiors. The result is a subdued, cocooning moodiness that gently changes and evolves with the movement of natural light. We commend the architect’s commitment to the vision in what appears to be a simple response but is, in fact, a highly considered and finely wrought design,” says David of the home that is centred around a beautiful Spotted Gum.
Erskineville House by Lachlan Seegers Architect. Photographer: Rory Gardiner.
Studio Bright’s Autumn House received commendations in both the ‘Residential Interior’ and ‘Single Residential Exterior’ categories. “Tasked with creating a new extension to a Victorian original with an 80s’ addition, the architects have struck a fine balance between cohesion and distinction, largely orchestrated by their colour selection,” says David.
Autumn House by Studio Bright. Photographer: Rory Gardiner.
“Bathrooms of sea blue and mint green are calming, standalone sanctuaries. Extending the respective palettes to joinery and furniture throughout, the varied tones, textures and touchpoints combine to create an immersive, sensory experience,” says David.
Autumn House by Studio Bright. Photographer: Rory Gardiner.
Kart Projects’ House K was the winner of the ‘Single Residential Exterior’ category and was celebrated for its use of colour to distinguish between the old and new parts of the home. “Rejecting the oft-used strategy of blending old and new in residential additions, this design not only opts for an obvious delineation, but a bold, forthright one, with colour as the primary mechanism,” says judge Cushla McFadden.
The original part of the home was restored with a muted, respectful nod to its heritage while the new extension features dark cladding combined with a statement making orange red.
House K by Kart Projects. Photographer: Rory Gardiner.
“Though largely concealed from the front, the addition’s bold scheme is hinted at in a bright orange-red sweep of fence along the street front. The volumetric demarcation, which is also continued within the home, provides a colour-blocked backdrop to the developing landscape,” says Cushla.
House K by Kart Projects. Photographer: Rory Gardiner.
A steeply sloping block isn’t a typical prerequisite when building a new home, but it has worked an absolute treat for Perth architect Sam Klopper and his family when you look at their gorgeous modernist inspired home. “We wanted a home that had both an elevated balcony and a back yard that was accessed from the living area, so we needed a steeply sloping block,” says Sam Klopper of the home that is located by the beach in leafy Swanbourne and enjoys a seamless transition between the indoors and out.
Front elevation
Running across three levels, the home features a pool and utilitarian spaces on the ground floor, living areas and the children’s bedroom wing on the first floor, and a master suite on the top floor. Arguably the most eye-catching element of the home’s design is the floating concrete canopy that rests atop the residence – it’s home to a rooftop garden and continuous panoramic views across the treetops.
RooftopThe home’s second level features a living area that flows out onto a garden
“The home’s roof garden spills over the edge and cascades into the living room. Adding this meant that over 80 per cent of the site is landscaped which is a very rare feature,” says Sam of the home’s rooftop which is a quiet space where Sam and his wife often enjoy views of the treetops and ocean.
PoolKitchen
Taking design cues from beachside living, the home’s interior has a rich material palette that includes concrete, brass and a unique timber finish in the kitchen. “The kitchen is clad in shou sugi ban timber. This ancient cladding technique burns the cedar before installing it to give it a beautiful natural black finish that is maintenance free,” says Sam whose favourite aesthetic features of the home are its timber windows and natural light.
Living room
The home also boasts impressive sustainability features including the maximisation of natural light, double-glazing, high-performance insulation and more. “The home’s hydronic heating achieves an 8.3 NatHERs rating which is an excellent performance for a coastal home,” says Sam.
BedroomSecond living room
Understandably, with the block falling five metres from front to back, retaining the property was expensive, but it paid off in the end. “It is a complex site with some challenging conditions that I feel we have maximised to create a home with a timeless beauty and craftmanship.”
* This home is an entrant in the 2022 WA Architecture Awards.
I’m sure that many of you would love nothing more than to purchase a duplex block and then design and build a couple of gorgeous homes. Am I right? It’s a dream for many but the cash factor often gets in the way which is why today’s story is particularly interesting. This gorgeous home (and the one beside it), was developed by Melbourne business coach and entrepreneur Emily Osmond, her fiancé Koden and their good friend Jake.
“Creating these two homes with a friend made this project extra rewarding. We could share the challenges and laughs along the way and now we are next door neighbours!” says Emily of the project that is in the Melbourne suburb of Bellfield and was designed to break away from the traditional townhouse mould, instead offering something light-filled, spacious and with architectural appeal.
Lounge room
The subdividable block was purchased in late 2018 and had a tiny, semi-detached, two-bedroom home on it. The trio set about seeking council approval and then going through the design and build process – all of which took several years. That Koden works in property finance and Jake is an electrician certainly wouldn’t have harmed proceedings!
“You hear bad stories and imagine lots of ways that a partnership could go pear-shaped. We think ours worked well because we shared the same vision, intention, and goals for the project,” says Emily who is planning to do it all over again, such was the success of the partnership.
Dining room
Emily in the kitchen
As for the home’s design, it’s lovely and light-filled courtesy of an extra wide entrance hall, double-height void, skylights, and open tread stairs. “From the outset, we wanted to create two contemporary, sophisticated, spacious and light-filled family homes that had a ‘wow’ factor. We also wanted to focus on a monochromatic palette, to feel timeless,” says Emily.
An open staircase contributes to the feeling of light and space
The home’s angular architectural structure is softened through styling where Emily has embraced softness and curves – think circular feature wall lights, pendants and mirrors. “I also included details such as powder blue Nood Co handcrafted concrete basins in the bathroom as I think you have to have some unexpected, statement pieces to create a memorable home,” says Emily.
That powder blue Nood Co basin looks lovely in the powder room
But after a multi-year build process and time spent living in the home, Emily has caught the developing bug. The trio has recently purchased a property in Ivanhoe with the intention of developing another two family homes. “We have absolutely loved designing and building these homes as beautiful, functional, quality and luxury places for others to live – so much so that we all want to do it again!”
Houzz, the world’s leading platform for home renovation and design, has released its 2022 Houzz AU State of the Industry Report. And in news that will surprise nobody (given the current building boom), the report has found that residential construction and design professionals are very optimistic about business prospects over the coming year.
“Following a successful year for the home renovation and design industry, the findings from the Houzz Australia State of the Industry show that professionals are confident that momentum will continue through 2022. The positive outlook is prevalent across industry groups from interior designers to builders, despite global challenges and the increased costs of doing business,” says Tony Been, Houzz Australia managing director.
Of the professionals surveyed, interior designers and decorators are the most optimistic about revenue growth in 2022 (77%), followed by home builders and building designers (76% and 72% respectively).
Nearly three quarters of those surveyed are anticipating revenue grown (73%) while two-thirds are expecting profits to increase (66%). And this is off the back of strong 2021 results where more companies reported revenue growth, as compared to the previous four years.
Photography: Carla Capdevila
And in great news for design industry job seekers, a third of businesses report that they are looking to employ more staff in 2022. This is off the back of a buoyant job market in 2021 where more than a quarter of businesses increased their employee head count to support revenue growth.
The only negative finding was around the rising cost of doing business with nearly seven in 10 businesses reporting an increase in 2021 (69%). Home builders were the most impacted by rising costs (84%), followed by interior designers and building designers (70% and 50%, respectively). One of the most significant contributing factors was price volatility of products and materials which was reported by one in five businesses surveyed. All in all though, it’s a great time to be in the design industry!
Studio, granny flat or pool house. Whatever you call it, it’s certainly a popular option for Australian homes of late, no doubt due to rising property prices and people spending a lot more time at home due to the pandemic. So, when this light-filled, multi-purpose dwelling landed in our inbox we just had to share. The work of Hobbs Jamieson, this stylish studio is part of a family home located in the northern Sydney suburb of Clontarf and quite simply, it’s the bright, white pool house of our dreams.
“The homeowners are a professional couple with two young children, and they wanted to create a multi-purpose pool house building that could function as a studio and secondary dwelling when required. The family often have overseas based family visit and stay for a few months at a time,” says architect Adam Hobbs of the intention behind the project.
With a gabled roof, and v-groove panelling, the studio complements the original period detailing of the main home, and also falls in line with the future renovation aspirations the owners have for the site.
The studio enjoys pretty glorious views across the pool to the river
“The project focussed on taking full advantage of the views toward the harbour and creating a tranquil, private, self-contained space filled with light that can accommodate multiple uses,” says Adam who explains that the owners also use the space for exercise and a general escape from the principal residence.
The studio has a wall bed that can be stored away when not in use.
As for the design, it features a large, vaulted ceiling with exposed trusses and gable end, clear-storey windows. “This creates a fantastic feeling of openness for the space,” says Adam. The studio has a wall bed that can be put away to make room for the space to be used in different ways.
Dark timber anchors the space
An important technical detail is that the studio features fire retardant, non-combustible Australian hardwoods due to the project being located within a BAL-29 bushfire rated area.
“As for the end result, we are happy with the way the building elevates the site as a whole, responds to the requirements of a multi-purpose brief and the architectural proportions of the space internally and externally.”
Bright colours differentiate Terrace House from the landscape
We’ve profiled many Austin Maynard Architects projects before, and they are always strikingly unique. And today’s project tour is no exception. Located in Melbourne’s Brunswick, Terrace House is a multi-residential building that is comprised of 20 beautifully designed, sustainable residences that were designed with the environment and affordable housing in mind. Comprised of two and three bedroom residences, with 55 bike parks and three commercial spaces at ground level, the project represents a startling vision for the future.
Vibrant colours differentiate Terrace House from the inner city landscape
“Terrace House is the reimagining of a former inner-city suburban life, where rows of workers cottages generated and nurtured close community. Street parties, shared childminding, communal gardens, neighbourly lending and borrowing, conversations over the washing line and unlocked front doors – these ideals are the basis of Terrace House. These are not apartments, these are homes – terrace houses stacked six storeys high,” says Andrew Maynard.
Inside one of the terraces
The project is also the first time that Austin Maynard Architects has acted as both architect and developer. The practice had previously been approached by large developers looking to leverage the firm’s brand but the team had other things in mind.
“The developers were disinterested in solving fundamental climate and housing problems. Instead of profits, we focussed on deliberative design, working directly with the residents to form a community and help them author their collective future. With the design of the building we set out to tackle the big issues, climate change and the lack of affordable housing; to be a really good example of urbanism and to be financially sustainable,” says Andrew.
Every terrace looks out to the streetscape
The project was bankrolled, not through major banks, but through ethical investors – many of whom were past clients. “Our clients chipped in, at significant risk, as did many of us at Austin Maynard Architects. After a search, we found an engaged land owner who wanted to do something positive within the neighbourhood they called home.”
Kitchen
Located on Sydney Road, a busy high street in Brunswick, the project sits on a thin, long block (10×57 metres). Typical inner-city apartment buildings cannot be arranged on a block this size without the homes facing inward, towards each other, or compromising on bedrooms. “We believe homes should have an aspect out from the site, into the surroundings, and to the sky, not facing each other at close proximity,” says Andrew. Traditional terrace house plans were referenced in the design – the homes have large external outlooks, a front verandah, study and a shared ‘backyard’ on the roof.
“These are highly sustainable terrace homes in an engaged community, at a relatively affordable price, with super-low running costs, and without the constant demands for maintenance and the poor thermal performance of typical terrace houses,” says Andrew.
The rooftop ‘backyard’The rooftop is a fabulous community space
The community consultation aspect of the design process was an interesting one. Kicking off in 2016, the practice surveyed potential purchasers and found that 55% of respondents were first home buyers and 75% of respondents were under 45.
“The vast majority wanted a shared laundry and a rooftop clothesline, to ensure that they had larger living spaces. A rooftop garden was very important to most respondents. Everyone was concerned about climate change and wanted a highly sustainable and resilient development,” says Andrew. Interestingly, almost no-one requested air-conditioning, with the knowledge that the building would be highly thermally efficient. Also, most respondents wanted a car-free home as almost everyone commutes via public transport, bicycles, walking and Uber.
Photography: Derek Swalwell and Maitreya Chandorkar
Most people would assume this bathroom was part of a heritage home, but you’d be incorrect. Located in Sydney’s Maroubra, it’s actually part of a new build that manages to cleverly dance the line between modern and traditional. No mean feat!
“The owners love modern country, industrial, nautical as well as landscape elements so it was a very mixed brief. One of the design challenges was in paring things back but still giving the owners a home that had a strong sense of self,” says Randwick-based architect Sharon Campbell.
A mix of traditional and modern elements, the standout is the statement green textured subway tile from Amalfi. “You see them in pubs! But instead of doing a plain brick stack we did vertical, then stacked and then a traditional brick pattern to dado height,” says Sharon of the textured tiles that echo the face brick that appears elsewhere in the home. And while that tile design cost more to lay, it’s one of Sharon’s favourite parts of the space. “I love how it feels old world yet contemporary.”
The bathroom features Astra Walker brass tapware
Reclaimed brick lines the nearby hallway. The brass wall sconce is from Creative Lighting Solutions.
Paired with the green tile, an eye-catching Zinnia palm wallpaper from Natty and Polly was chosen to reflect the owner’s love of plants and greenery. “It’s also a bit retro and has a 70s and resort feel. I think it gives the room a nostalgic, luxurious feel and it feels a bit like you’re in a holiday home,” says Sharon. The wallpaper was also a cost-effective way of adding another big feature to the space. “When it comes to bang for buck, the wallpaper has real presence and didn’t cost that much,” says Sharon.
Brass Astra Walker taps and Kethy handles are another highlight. “But while they are brass, luxe and traditional, the clean lines make them modern,” says Sharon. The custom vanity features black shaker joinery and a Corian benchtop while the floor is tiled in hexagonal carrara marble tiles from Terra Nova. An operable skylight bathes the bathroom in light.
Overall, Sharon is very happy with the result and mostly because her client was thrilled. “I’m always most proud of giving the client something they’re happy with and they absolutely love it!”
It was January 2017 when architect James Pilcher and his wife Alice moved into their first family home in the Sydney suburb of Lane Cove. Alice was pregnant with the couple’s first child and they had plans to update the solid yet tired California Bungalow into something much more liveable for their growing family. Over the course of four years, the couple undertook two separate renovations (one cosmetic and one structural) while adding three babies and a Labrador puppy into the mix. What a ride!
Kitchen
Powder room
“We did both renovations while I was pregnant and/or managing a newborn. I must be crazy!” says Alice, who is currently on maternity leave from her marketing role at the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX), but has always had a passion for interior design. It’s an interest that complements her husband’s work as an architect in his business Mileham, which focusses on residential renovations, knockdown/rebuilds and new builds in Sydney.
Dining room
The bungalow was in pretty original condition when Alice and James bought it, save for a little 1990s-era extension at the back. They decided to move into the home and get to know it before making any changes but within six months, had removed myriad internal walls and undertaken a full cosmetic renovation at the front of the home. “We only did the front part of the home as we knew we would eventually knock the back down. For 18 months, we lived in this gorgeous house at the front while stepping out the back was like stepping into a time warp!”
Lounge
The home followed the usual California Bungalow layout, with many large, disconnected spaces. “In the 60s, people started adding things on the back of these bungalows. This original house was a typical rabbit warren style with room after room and people in the past didn’t care so much about indoor/outdoor living,” says James, who has since ensured that the house flows beautifully out onto the back yard.
The renovated home features a two-storey extension at the back and now features three levels. The lower level has a wine and rumpus room while the middle level has a kitchen, outdoor terrace, powder room, three bedrooms, family bathroom, laundry plus both casual and formal lounge and dining areas. The third level features two bedrooms including a master bedroom and ensuite.
Master ensuiteMaster ensuite
The original home featured rough stucco over masonry walls as well as external shingles which have since been replaced with James Hardie Linea weatherboard – a material that features on the back extension too. “This ensured there is a consistency of materials between the old and new,” says James.
Master bedroom
And while the home has a breezy, Hamptons-inspired feel, Alice was sure to include a variety of fun fixtures and fittings to really put her stamp on it. There are Colonial-inspired rattan ceiling fans that you might find at Raffles in Singapore, lemur wallpaper in the powder room, black-framed shower screen doors and mottled gold bathroom fittings. “We got the tapware from Bunnings and sent it away to have it dipped to match the other aged brass finishes in the home which saved us about $5k. I also sourced the master ensuite cabinetry stone and brass knobs from Etsy and they are beautiful quality,” says Alice who ordered curtains and blinds from Blinds Online in another cost-saving move.
Family bathroom
As for renovating as an architect, there were many tense moments – especially with Alice experiencing self-confessed hormonal fluctuations throughout her pregnancies. “Here’s my wife Alice thinking she’s the client and I’m the architect. She kept forgetting that I’m half the client as well!” says James who had to balance creating a home that was reflective of his work whilst working as a functional family home too. “I’m proud of what we’ve created, and Alice is continuing to add to the décor to make it feel more like a home. It’s satisfying that we’ve created a beautiful home for our kids to grow up in.”
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Every year, Houzz.com.au announces its annual people’s choice awards where the Houzz community highlights the renovation and design professionals with the most popular designs and top ratings. From a stylish wine cabinet to a showstopping powder room, this year’s awards recognise just three per cent of the more than 207 million active home professionals on the home renovation and design platform.
“We launched the Best of Houzz awards program over a decade ago to highlight the work of the most talented and customer-focused professionals in our industry. When homeowners come to Houzz to find professionals to complete their projects, the Best of Houzz badges offer a marker of credibility, supporting their decision to move forward,” says Tony Been, managing director.
A spa-style bathroom in Sydney The average spend on the bathroom has risen 15% in the past year, according to the latest Houzz & Home report with some homeowners opting for hotel-worthy luxury features such as a freestanding bath. In fact, searches on Houzz for ‘free-standing bath’ rose by 328% in the past year and this Sydney bathroom, by Renotech Building, is a case in point. One of the most popular spaces on Houzz, it seems that users were drawn to its monochromatic palette and textural details such as porcelain chevron tiles and rose gold fixtures.
Leichhardt contemporary bathroom by Renotech Building
A stylish wine cabinet in Melbourne Wine enthusiasts looking to store beloved collections, are gaining traction among the Houzz community, with ‘wine cabinets’ and ‘wine room’ topping searches year on year (337% and 245% respectively). And if there is one that is deserving of a toast, it’s this glamorous wine cabinet addition to a newly built kitchen. Created by First Avenue Homes, this winning design incorporates black timber veneer, a marble worktop and splashback with brass glass hangers.
Brighton Wine Cellar by First Avenue Homes
A crisp laundry space in Canberra Over recent years, we’ve seen the laundry, once a purely utilitarian space, transformed into another Insta-worthy part of the home like this winning design by Studio Black Interiors. Houzz has reported that searches for ‘marble-look chevron laundry tiles’ surged by 203% in 2021 (compared to the year prior). Not only does this bathroom showcase that trend, but its white joinery pairs well with a concrete benchtop, matte black tapware, and reclaimed timber shelving. Topping it off, the natural light filtering through the glass door makes the space feel bright and open.
Laundry room by Studio Black Interiors. Photography: H Creations
A showstopping powder room in Geelong There is something to be said about a moody wash space, and Houzz has noticed a growing number of ‘dark’ inspired spaces cropping up in homes, with searches growing by 294% more than the previous year. In this popular powder room on Houzz, by Dylan Barber Building Design, some may consider a contrast of materials to be the primary aesthetic, however it’s the VJ panelling, gently veined vanity and grainy timber that really tie the look together.
Powder room by Dylan Barber Building. Photography: Nikole Ramsay
A beachside kitchen in Wollongong When it comes to refreshing the kitchen, changing the layout is a priority for more than half of homeowners according to the latest Houzz & Home report. Searches on Houzz for an ‘open kitchen’ just like this one by Chronis Building Design, have proven to be popular among the Houzz community, with the search term increasing by 254% from last year.
A spacious marble island adjoined with a timber breakfast bench creates a multifunctional space that serves to cook, while providing an entertaining as well as work space. Plus, what’s not to love about a kitchen that takes advantage of its beachside location with endless views to the horizon?
Beachside kitchen by Chronis Building Design
A Victorian verandah in Perth Outdoor projects are heating up across Australia, in particular, with searches for ‘front door’ inspiration experiencing a 666% year-on-year upswing on Houzz. This Victorian verandah, by Suzanne Hunt Architect, sticks to tradition, standing tall with its period trimmings. It also has a garden bed of ‘yuccas’, which is one of the most sought-after plant varieties on Houzz, with searches up by 1651% more than the previous year. It’s a charming scene and easy to see why it’s a Houzz community favourite.
Victorian Verandah by Suzanne Hunt Architect
An indulgent main bedroom in Naremburn This room, by Amanda Smyth Design, features an Australian Hamptons aesthetic which is proving very popular on Houzz. It’s a modern take on traditional style, with a muted combination of serene neutrals, cool whites and lighter blue-based greys. Integration of picture-perfect ‘bay windows’ are also popping up more frequently in homes on Houzz, with 2021 searches up by 296% more than the previous year. They are a feature used to maximise light while also serving as a retreat space.
Contemporary Naremburn bedroom by Amanda Smythe Design
An indoor-outdoor living room on the Gold Coast Searches for ‘beach house’ inspired interiors and exteriors are surging on Houzz (they’re up by 125% compared to last year), and this winning living room, by Donna Guyler Design, evokes the easy, carefree feeling of being by the coast. The vinyl plank flooring seamlessly connects the open-plan living areas internally, while the sliding recess doors allow the room to extend onto the indoor-outdoor deck.
Kingscliff beachside living room by Donna Guyler Design
A poolside cabana in Brisbane Backyards are another area where homeowners are exploring hotel resort-style potential and searches for landscaping ideas (specifically for ‘gazebos’ and ‘pools’) surged on Houzz by 303% and 226% respectively, when compared to last year. The design below, by Beau Corp Aquatics & Construction features a white cabana and sun loungers with pops of green that make this outdoor space feel like an everyday escape.
Brisbane cabana by Beau Corp Aquatics Construction
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Located in the exclusive seaside enclave of Eagle Bay, in Western Australia’s south-west region, this lovely holiday home was built to accommodate a large family including grandparents, their two daughters and four grandchildren. A tranquil abode, the home is three hours drive from Perth and sits on a bush block, with ocean glimpses, affording the family a fabulous escape from the city bustle.
“I designed the house to accommodate the owners and the families of their two children, with space for everyone to retreat or gather. The home has six bedrooms and three bathrooms with the bedrooms arranged in pairs so that each pair has its own bathroom,” says the home’s architect Sandy Anghie, who created three separate wings for each family unit.
Bathroom
Bathroom
And while the home is located on a block with ocean views, given the owners are in their seventies, they didn’t want the typical ‘upside down house’ design solution. Despite the views to Eagle Bay from the upper levels, the kitchen, main living space and master bedroom are all located downstairs, to avoid climbing stairs. “The owners also wanted the house to connect with the ground plane, native garden and bushland beyond,” says Sandie.
Kitchen
Lounge room
The house was nicknamed ‘Paloma,’ after the white bricks by Brickworks BP, that were used to construct it, and for another reason too. “Paloma is a female given name in Spanish, a name that is striking but soft and feminine – which is how an architect friend has described the design of the home,” says Sandy.
The soft palette of pale green and pink, combined with an all-white exterior certainly gives the home a softness. The cabinetry was inspired by the colours of a banksia with Laminex ‘Paper Bark’ (a pale green), Laminex ‘Classic Oak’ and Laminex ‘Peruvian Clay’ (a soft pink), rounding out the materials palette.
BedroomThe view from upstairs
“With many projects, clients come to me with a collection of images, and I work hard to make their dreams a reality. And, with my very first projects, I was influenced by others more than I realised. But with this one I was given free rein in the design, so I guess it’s the most ‘me’ of the projects I have completed, and I’m very happy with the result.”
Unique bunker-style holiday home on NSW south coast
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Always anticipated, Australian House & Garden’s 2021 Top 50 Room Awards have just been unveiled revealing some of Australia’s best residential architecture and interiors of the year. An annual event, the award celebrates the breadth and creativity found in the Australian residential interiors scene today.
The prestigious ‘Room of the Year’ award went to Sydney architect Jeremy Bull of Alexander & Co. for his glorious kitchen design that features a monolithic cast-concrete island in pale pink which can double as a colossal dining table.
Jeremy Bull won ‘Room of the Year’ and ‘Best Kitchen’ for this gorgeous, multi-purpose space
The room features compartmentalised work areas that could be mistaken for shelving units in a living room, but form functional cooking zones. The kitchen features a Calacatta Viola splashback as well as American Oak joinery that conceals an integrated fridge and pantry. Unsurprisingly, the project won the ‘Best Kitchen’ award too.
“I am deeply grateful to be able to receive this award on behalf of our team and of course I am also so proud of the work we have done. We intended for this house and all its spaces to inspire both our team and clientele to think beyond the traditional. More so, after another year of lockdowns perhaps even to challenge the conceptions we may have about how our homes can be used at large,” says Jeremy.
The ‘Best Bedroom’ award went to Greg Natale for this stunner
This year saw more than 200 rooms submitted across eight categories and Interiors Addict favourite Greg Natale took out the ‘Best Bedroom’ award for his beautiful project that features the stunning Gucci Heron print wallpaper in green.
Other celebrated beauties including a clifftop bathroom, a cohesive indoor/outdoor living space, contemporary living room, luxurious outdoor retreat, lovely yet functional laundry and a glowing living room with surprising use of colour.
Australian House & Garden’s Top 50 Rooms Awards winners include:
Room of the Year: Jeremy Bull, Alexander & Co
Best Kitchen: Jeremy Bull, Alexander & Co
Best Bathroom: Rob Mills, Rob Mills Architecture & Interiors
The ‘Best Bathroom’ award went to Rob Mills for this project
‘Best Laundry’ by Lauren Mahoney of Studio Trio
Best Laundry: Lauren Mahoney, Studio Trio
Best Indoor-Outdoor Connection: Petra Pantano, Studio Petra & Ben Robertson, Tecture
This project won the ‘Best Indoor Outdoor Connection’ award
Best Bedroom: Greg Natale, Greg Natale Design
Best Outdoor Room: Darin Bradbury, Mint Pool and Landscape Design & Mike Cannington, MIL construction.
It’s no surprise that this space won the ‘Best Outdoor Room’ award
Best use of soft furnishings: Kate McCluskey, McCluskey Studio & Matt Hainsworth, Cera Stribley
‘Best use of soft furnishings’ award went to Kate McCluskey of McCluskey Studio
Best use of colour: Brooke Aitken, Brooke Aitken Design
The ‘Best use of colour’ award went to this beautiful space by Brook Aitken
You can check out all the rooms and the full list of winners in the January issue of Australian House & Garden, on sale today (Monday 20 December).
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This Brisbane character home was transformed recently under the watchful eye of interior designer Polina Radchenko who worked on the project alongside architects JMH Design. The family home, located in Kedron, was entirely reinvented – it’s now bigger (a second storey was added), much more light-filled, modern and has increased flow between the spaces too. The overall outcome is impressive indeed.
BEFORE front elevationAFTER the home is virtually unrecognisable!
“I used fresh colours and the more traditional joinery features pick up on the character of the home. A clean, sophisticated palette features a light airy base, rich timber accents, soft textured stones and tiles that add rhythm and visual interest to the space,” says Polina.
While the whole home was renovated, particular emphasis was placed on the functional areas of the house including the kitchen, three bathrooms, laundry and the master bedroom’s walk-in robe.
BEFORE kitchenAFTER kitchen
The heart of the home, the new kitchen is markedly different from the home’s previous one which was desperately in need of renovation and light. The space features traditional off-white joinery (that speaks to the home’s heritage) as well as textured kit kat tiles, complementary walnut timber flooring, floating timber shelves and contrast island bench sides.
AFTER kitchen
“Combining beautiful joinery with gunmetal fittings, timber accents, beautiful stone benches, state-of-the-art appliances and a spacious butler’s pantry, the kitchen would be the envy of any chef,” says Polina.
AFTER butler’s pantry
Another key part of the renovation, the bathrooms feature full-height Moroccan tiles, nude stone benches, soft timber cabinetry and contrasting gun metal fittings. The tranquil master ensuite has a luxe double vanity and a freestanding bathtub – the latter featuring in the home’s second bathroom too.
BEFORE bathroom
AFTER bathroom
“Parents will not have to share this bathroom with their children, who have an equally beautiful main bathroom with another freestanding bathtub and a separate toilet,” says Polina.
AFTER ensuite
The home hit the market this month, not long after renovation. It sold for $1.9 million which was well above reserve and broke the sales record for the suburb.
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While we love to celebrate Australian interiors, occasionally an international home comes along that we simply must share. Located in West London, this eclectic Edwardian semi-detached home renovation was designed by the architectural firm Red Deer and draws on Mykonos, Mexico and Copenhagen for inspiration. The result makes for a wonderful rather heady mix indeed.
Lounge room
Owned by Eric Jafari from Birch hotel and hospitality group Edyn and barrister Olivia-Faith Dobbie, the couple purchased the home in January 2021 during the pandemic. Many spaces received a light touch refresh in areas that functioned well, whilst other rooms repurposed reclaimed materials and made the most of timeless existing features.
Living room and kitchen
Kitchen
The home’s bold colour palette is what stands out at first; inspired by the home’s existing leadlight, a trio of teal, coral and mustard lead the charge. Elsewhere, pale white hues and raw kermes oak shelves combine with Aztec geometric prints and Danish cane-woven furniture in moments of neutral pause.
The five-bedroom property consists of a ground-floor open-plan living and kitchen area, rear dining room, and front reception room.
Dining room
Custom teal joinery features in the dining room
A standout space, the front reception room had its original, more traditional, look replaced with dark teal walls and cabinetry. The colour is continued on the floor where teal painted floorboards really give the space a dramatic, immersive feel.
Front reception room
Front reception room
Both powder rooms are brimming with drama courtesy of dark red painted walls offset by brass hardware and marble splashbacks.
Powder room
The first-floor features four bedrooms (one with an ensuite), a family bathroom and separate toilet. The second floor is in the eaves of the house and features a fifth bedroom and a large home gym.
Master bedroom
The bedrooms were overhauled by exposing the floorboards and continuing the paint theme on the walls. The lovely bathroom was upgraded with a unique circular bath and shower, marble sink, brass hardware and pink floor tiles.
Bathroom
“In many ways the house is unrecognisable from January 2021, showing that light-touch interior design can have enormous impact on a home whilst reducing unnecessary waste. The walls of this home were a canvas for the couple to paint their colourful lives on working with the layout that existed,” says Red Deer.
Outside, the lovely garden features cane furniture and a plant wall that was inspired by a Mykonos villa that the home’s owners stayed in
This recently refurbished, warm and welcoming three storey London townhouse has made Jen a little homesick and, with its gorgeous period details, I can totally see why. Located in the…
