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This feature originally appeared in est magazine
Originally built in 1922, the property needed an overhaul to suit the growing family of five. Behind the handsome fac?ade capped with a terracotta shingle roof and softened by cascading bougainvillea, it ultimately lacked modern functionality. “The brief was to transform it into a family home,” David says, adding, “they had a strong desire to keep what we could of the original architecture and interior detailing, but at the same time understood what was possible with this property.” It was a match made in heaven from the start. “We bonded over a love of historical homes and detailing, as well as a love of contemporary design and fine art,” the designer recalls.
A completely new floor plan was conceived to meet the owners’ requirements, while the removal of a secondary staircase enabled the kitchen, master bedroom and ensuite to be enlarged. Fireplaces were retained throughout, and the repainted exterior remains intact, however, all internal walls were demolished in the process. “The only area original to the home is the main staircase and the railing, every other interior wall was moved,” David says, who worked closely with architects Plus Design Studio to make the substantial changes. The reimagined kitchen provides a place for the family to entertain. “We designed a built-in banquette and an over-scaled island with traditional marble detailing that connects the history of the home,” David explains.
Textural finishes were chosen to complement the historic home, including chequerboard limestone tiles that line the floors of the grand entry and parquetry floors layered with antique rugs. The walls throughout are hand plastered in a myriad of shades and rounded shapes prevail, in line with the organic finishes. “For the ensuite, we pulled influences from contemporary design and looked to cocktail bars in Paris to capture a freshness and softness,” the designer says. The dressing room continues the theme, as do the curved furniture pieces such as the custom bedhead and vintage loveseat in the master bedroom.
The timeless and seemingly effortless spaces reflect a successful collaboration, where the owners’ and designers’ sensibilities align. Both parties couldn’t be happier with the result and the friendship that has evolved over the process is a testament to this. “This project captures our love of cosy and comfortable homes that provide spaces for our clients to relax and to entertain,” David says, adding, “we love quietly dramatic spaces, that are striking, yet familiar.”
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