Displaying posts from July, 2018

Another fine example from the portfolio of Melbourne-based Zen Architects. The modern extension to the rear of this terrace house uses a striking materials palette of slate, timber and concrete block.A thoroughly modern look, striking, light filled with just a touch of retro.

Photographer: Derek Swalwell

Respect, knowledge and a consideration for people and the natural environment define Zen Architects‘ work and design philosophy. This Edwardian weatherboard house has renovated and an extension to the rear brings in light and views to the garden. The reuse of external bricks especially on the floor and fireplace hearth adds interesting texture and warmth.

Photographer: Derek Swalwell

A little bit of glam, bling, and colour for your Thursday afternoon care of China-based designer Baptiste Bohu. Located in one of the most luxurious residential tower of Shanghai, this apartment occupies the entire floor. The owners, a young and well traveled Chinese couple, share their life between Shanghai and Vancouver. They wanted a modern yet comfortable and elegant interior for their Shanghai apartment. Baptiste used premium materials which gave a very chic look and worked with a mix of French style and contemporary furniture.

Take a modern home with sleek, modern, minimalist design and add in some heirloom antiques and pieces collected over many years and you have this wonderful California home shared with us by Sarah Barnard. When a government executive from the east coast decided to retire, she knew it was time to finally make her home in Santa Monica into the perfect restorative retreat. From a lifetime of travel, she collected an eclectic and beautiful array of art and antique furniture that each needed to be properly placed in the home she bought in the 1990s with her now late husband. She enlisted the help of Sarah Barnard Design to redesign the home, entrusting her with the task of blending the unique and personal pieces of the collection with a healthy, natural and minimalist style.

 Sarah chose pale grey flat panel cabinetry to help the small space feel lighter and brighter. Matte white glass tiles were selected to add a quiet elegance to the minimal space.

The natural French oak flooring seamlessly connects the kitchen to the dining area, enlarging the sense of space in booth rooms. Open shelving just outside the kitchen keeps cookbooks close and adds a sophisticated pop of color while stainless steel appliances were selected to subtly pair with polished chrome cabinet hardware.

 Sarah knew that repurposing the owner’s treasured pieces would be essential in the home’s re-design, so the owner’s antique chairs and matching rosewood table from Thailand are placed prominently, bringing warmth and history to the contemporary dining space. The Italian chandelier above it contrasts the classic style and is made of laser cut metal and glass.

In the living room, the original design included a large diagonal bench that connected to the fireplace. The redesign eliminated cumbersome architectural elements such as that to create more floor space and a modern aesthetic. Sarah conceived a simpler fireplace in order to feature art and items her client painstakingly collected. A serene white plaster fireplace with a Qortstone marble hearth now anchors the living room in a place where a traditional wood and stone mantle once sat.

 Upstairs, the owner requested an expansive shower, so the master bathroom was designed as a “wet room.” Sarah planned ahead or for every eventuality in the owner’s future, including her long term health and well-being, using universal design principles. The result was a space free of any barriers like steps or glass shower walls.

 A second fireplace in a corner was made over in sterling silver-toned ceramic tiles, adding visual warmth. The marigold club chair beside it was made more personal with the addition of a handmade honey bee pillow embroidered by the homeowner.

Photos: Steven Dewall

Timeless restraint and refinement are at the heart of Templeton Architecture‘s work. Little Parndon was built 1862 but many renovations through the years and a heritage listing necessitated a careful, considered hand to include the needs of modern day living while protecting the buildings rich history. The result is elegant and sophisticated, light filled and simply beautiful.

Photography by Sharyn Cairns