A Sydney-based couple commissioned to give their long-term family home a new lease on life.
A sophisticated, contemporary home by the sea – Bronte House II measures up to this description now, but it didn’t always. The home has belonged to the same couple since the early 80s; it’s where they raised their family and intend to spend the rest of their lives.
were engaged to extend the home’s lifespan, removing outdated elements and fine-tuning it for the decades to come. Flexibility, light and flow were essential to creating a modern home suitable to the needs of an empty-nester couple, as well as the accommodation of large family gatherings.
The kitchen combines honed terrazzo, light grey marble and Ashwood veneer. Artwork by Katie Daniels; vase by Paola Paronetto;
Reconfiguration of Spaces
Design intervention began with a reconfiguration of spaces; removing a central staircase and introducing a formal entryway that opened into all living areas. The original design overlooked several opportunities for natural light, ventilation, and . The solution was replacing walls with glass sliding doors – both internally and externally.
The Palette
From a cool, muted palette consisting of light-wash timbers, soft textiles and a broad selection of natural stone – among them, honed , Calacatta Verde and – emerges a collection of soothing spaces to rest and entertain. The consistent thread of blue-green tones in the form of natural stones strengthens the home’s connection to Sydney’s Bronte Beach.
The transitional spaces feature American oak parquetry, while the communal spaces feature American oak boards.
; .
Formakami table lamp; sculpture by ; artwork by Marisa Purcell; Superellipse dining table and Grand Prix dining chairs; .
Space Spotlight: The Kitchen
The terrazzo kitchen island is a centrepiece within the home; a strong visual anchor around which the rest of the spaces convene. “When selecting the terrazzo for the island, we wanted something that felt calm and grounding, and that also averted the clinical feel some stone can have,” Madeleine says.
Internal glass sliding doors lead from the kitchen to the dining room, creating a subtle separation between the two spaces and connecting the kitchen to the ocean. In the owner’s words, “I remember Madeleine telling me if I am working in the kitchen I should always be able to see the ocean. And now I can – it brings joy daily.”
The living space features two statement artworks by Rick Carlino (blue) and Marisa Purcell (silver) as well as a diverse selection of contemporary furniture: the , , , and a custom coffee table by Madeleine Blanchfield.
The new design takes full advantage of the ocean views.
Artwork by Claudia Bagnall; armchair; Shuffle MH1 side table and Betty TK5 bench.
The primary bedroom features a and custom bedside table by Madeleine Blanchfield.
The ensuite is clad in Calacatta Verde marble. Stool: Supersolid l oak.
The powder room is clad in Esmerelda quartzite. Wall sconce: .
Principal chair; .
Wireframe sculpture by Giorgia McRae; lion sculpture by Georgia Harvey; artwork by Justin Maurice Scivetti.
The post appeared first on .
