After buying a dated period home on what is arguably one of Kew’s finest tree-lined streets, our clients knew exactly what they wanted when they commissioned us to design a new home to take its place. Having previously lived in a dark dwelling that felt small and enclosed, a home that was flooded with natural light, had a layout that flowed and drew you into the space as well as having a strong connection with the outdoors was key.
Other things on their wish list was that the home would be just the right size for their family of three – they didn’t want extra rooms they wouldn’t use – and a contemporary piece of architecture that would complement – rather than compete with – the existing homes on the well-established street.
The resulting design positions the house squarely on the street with views of the pool and lush backyard visible as soon as you open the front door.
The kitchen – with butler’s pantry, laundry and powder room hidden behind – flows on to the dining space forming the heart of the ground floor which also contains a separate living room orientated to the north, master suite, two study areas and an internal courtyard.
Upstairs, there are two further bedrooms, a bathroom and a second living area which opens up to a large decked terrace positioned to take in the city views. The third bedroom is cantilevered which, as well as adding a striking design element at the rear of the house, creates a practical covered patio area downstairs.
Design wise, it’s a fairly simple building which suits the family perfectly. They tell us they love the clean forms and strong lines which we’ve softened by throwing in a few curves. They love the generous windows which frame the views and the natural light that washes through the house, changing at different times of the day.
Our clients also influenced the choice of external materials, namely the cream brickwork and timber battens that line the first floor structure. We’ve replicated that inside where more vertical blackbutt timber battening quietly curves around the master suite and reflects the striking open staircase which provides a physical and auditory link between the floors.
The staircase also creates a place to pause on the journey from the front to the back of the house and also enjoys north/south views out to the greenery on either side.
The calming feeling of space and light inside is further accentuated with a soothing palette of creams, greens and greys complementing the timber accents and polished concrete floors.
The final word goes to our happy clients who told us they loved the patterns quietly replicated from outdoors to indoors creating a flow that they feel relaxed and at ease in.