A stately home with traditional French provincial vibes still plays host to mod-cons and creature comforts, thanks to thoughtful design.
Photo: Silvertone Photography
“From the moment you walk in, you can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of calm,” building designer Daniel Lomma says.
The owners wanted the home to be traditional and easily accommodate their family of six.
They wanted separation of the generations but also a huge communal space where everyone could come together and a big backyard where the kids could play soccer.
“Due to the orientation of the block, a lot of thought was given to providing as much natural light and ventilation into the main living areas,” Daniel says.
“I absolutely love the entry. The staircase location, the width of the hallway, the parquetry flooring, the openings looking out to the central courtyard, the wainscoting, everything just works perfectly together.”
And it is those elements that give the home that sense of sanctuary from the moment you set foot inside.
Photo: Silvertone Photography
“Having a void over the living room allowed for full-height glazed walls which facilitated an abundance of light to flood through not only to the living space but to the walkway above which leads to the children’s wing,” Daniel says.
The central courtyard provides a great opportunity to create an outlook and point of difference to the entry foyer and staircase.
Interior designer Bryan Wallace was engaged during the building process to help the clients with the materials, finishes and lighting selections.
Photo: Silvertone Photography
“The feeling you get when you are inside the house is part of its success,” Bryan says.
“It is in keeping with the French provincial theme but with a fresh light touch so that it works for the young family who call it home.”
Even though the materials and finishes used needed to be robust enough to accommodate children, it was still possible to make a timeless and elegant design statement.
“The bright, relaxed, elegant interiors and the mixture of casual and luxe fittings – casual rug, modern coffee table, light linen sheers, custom sofas in a very cleanable fabric and beautiful light fittings – all make this a space to be enjoyed for years to come,” Bryan says.
He says the owners love to entertain family and friends so the alfresco kitchen was an important part of the home.
“The tiled benchtops and splashback transport you to relaxed European summer holidays,” he says.
“We decided that the bar could be a dramatic dark contrast to the airy lightness in the rest of the house with a curved black cabinet and opulent fun foil wallpaper. It looks stunning particularly at night.”
A beautiful, textured wallpaper used at the back of the living room cabinets brings a softness to the cabinetry and make the items on display come to life.
Photo: Silvertone Photography
Daniel says that even though the exterior of the home is so traditional, its design is a reflection of modern considerations.
“It is an exciting time in design,” he says. “There is much more appreciation and awareness of design principles such as the environment a home is located in.
“There is a shift towards designing for longevity and sustainability, as well as taking chances and going for traditional as well as new building materials.”
