Mid-century meets classic English farmhouse in this Melbourne home listed for sale

The "Inside Her Home" series offers a glimpse into the residences of everyday women, detailing their renting or homeownership experiences. This installment features Lauren Li, a 45-year-old interior designer residing in Ivanhoe East, Melbourne. She lives with her husband and three children in a three-bedroom, two-storey home with an additional granny flat, which they rent for $3,910 per month. Lauren describes her home as a mid-century modern dwelling, built in 1961, retaining much of its original architecture. She emphasizes a deep connection to the house, feeling it "chose her" and that she and her family are deeply content living there. Lauren’s home is situated approximately 10km north-east of Melbourne's Central Business District. She highlights the fair price for the rental and expresses a strong belief that renters invest significant care and effort into making their houses feel like home. She and her family have occupied the property for three years, and her appreciation for the space has only grown. The house holds historical significance, having been the former residence of Victoria's first female Supreme Court judge, the Honourable Rosemary Balmford, who lived there since 1963. Lauren attributes the home's positive atmosphere and abundant built-in bookshelves to its previous owner, noting Balmford’s pioneering role as the first female lecturer in the University of Melbourne’s law faculty. The layout of the home is particularly appealing to Lauren, featuring a spacious living room with a fireplace, which provides ample room for the family while maintaining a sense of togetherness. The property also offers lovely views of trees, a beneficial feature for Lauren and her husband, who both work from home. The kitchen retains its original 1960s charm, which Lauren appreciates. The house includes an elevated deck that has been the setting for numerous family gatherings and summer dinners, contributing to its cherished feel. Their 12-year-old daughter enjoys a room with an impressive view of the Yarra River, while her 11-year-old sister and three-year-old brother share the other bedroom. Lauren explains that their move to this particular house was almost serendipitous. When their previous apartment was put up for sale, they needed to find new accommodation swiftly. A friend connected them with a real estate agent, and upon seeing the Ivanhoe East property, Lauren immediately felt a strong desire to live there. Her attachment to the house is so profound that she declares she is "never going to leave," underscoring her long-term commitment to the home. The article concludes with an invitation for other individuals to submit their homes for inclusion in the "Inside Her Home" series, encouraging [email protected] to be contacted for submissions. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #MidCenturyModern #RentalProperty #MelbourneHomes #FamilyLiving #RealLifeStories #HomeTour

The South Melbourne House, designed by architect Dominic Pandolfini as his personal residence, showcases a deep appreciation for concrete and modern Italian design. This project allowed Pandolfini to explore innovative ideas that might not have been feasible in client-commissioned work. The unifying element throughout the home is concrete, artfully combined with features reminiscent of Italian architect Carlo Scarpa's work, such as an oval-shaped window and a concrete blade wall, drawing parallels to the Brion Cemetery. The flooring throughout the house, particularly in the kitchen, features black concrete mixed with white stones, creating an effect similar to Italian terrazzo. This unique aesthetic was achieved through a collaborative effort, involving the architect's office and children hand-placing white stones into freshly pumped black concrete. The kitchen is a focal point, featuring the same distinctive concrete floors and walls. A white marble splashback and benchtops provide a striking contrast, while the island is designed with a black concrete base embedded with white stones, topped with white marble. Overhead cupboards are crafted from raw zinc, and the floor-to-ceiling pantry door and under-bench cupboards are finished in a dark blue, contributing to a rich and sophisticated color palette. Charcoal pendant lights further enhance the continuity of the design. Pandolfini emphasizes the importance of a hard-wearing yet comfortable kitchen, acknowledging the inevitable wear and tear. A discreet pantry helps maintain the kitchen's presentable appearance for guests. The ground-floor bathroom, strategically located off the living space, is concealed by a large timber batten door. Inside, it is adorned with multi-coloured terrazzo tiles, and features a curved bench, basin, and mirror, promoting soft transitions within the space. The upstairs ensuite continues the theme of rounded forms, with a curved wall maximizing the utility of a compact area. Marine blue porcelain tiles and a white timber benchtop offer a cohesive aesthetic, complemented by a Flos Glo Ball mini wall light that echoes the circular motifs of the basin and skylight. Despite the extensive use of concrete and stone, the house maintains a sense of warmth and comfort, achieved through the interplay of curved elements and the clean lines of modernist architecture. Key materials and products used in the home include Signorino terrazzo tiles in various colors and porcelain tiles in ‘Marine’ for the bathrooms, along with Carrara benchtops and custom circular mirror cabinets. Lighting in the bathrooms features Easy Kap downlights and Flos Glo Ball Mini wall lights. Rogerseller Tonic mixer and Eccentric tapware in brushed nickel, along with Catalano sanitaryware, complete the bathroom fittings. In the kitchen, exposed concrete walls and polished concrete floors with hand-seeded white stones are prominent. Carrara stone and 991 terrazzo are used for benchtops and slabs. Joinery includes 2PAC in Dulux ‘Rimaldo’ and natural zinc overhead cupboards. Kitchen lighting is provided by Flos UT Pro track and Muuto Ambit Rail Lamps. Abey Piazza Plus sink, Gessi Proton mixer, Miele appliances, and a Fisher and Paykel integrated fridge are also featured. Custom-made steel shelving with a curved front adds a unique touch. The project, known as "Concrete classic," was executed by Pandolfini Architects with Dominic Pandolfini as the project team lead, DuoBuilt as the builder, Meyer Consulting as the engineer, and Ideal Cabinets for joinery. The house is built on the land of the Boon Wurrung people of the Kulin nation. #ResidentialArchitecture #ModernItalianDesign #ConcreteConstruction #TerrazzoFlooring #CurvedForms #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #MaterialPalette #MelbourneArchitecture

This article details the transformation of an 18th-century farmhouse located in Philadelphia's Main Line suburbs into a modern family home with transitional design elements. The property, untouched for over a decade, was in a state of disrepair with failing windows and siding, an untreated cedar roof, a caving patio, and outdated interiors described as 'screaming late 90s'. The renovation was undertaken by PS & Daughters, led by founder Phoebe Schuh, who was drawn to the historical character of the house despite its challenges. The clients, a blended family with a wide age range of children, sought a home that honored its architecture while supporting a modern lifestyle. They also possessed a world-class art collection that needed to be integrated into the design. The primary objective was to create a transitional home, blending the best of old and new to achieve a relaxed elegance and comfort, without being overly precious, while incorporating sumptuous velvets, mixed patterns, and layered textures. The extensive remodel resulted in a seven-bedroom, eight-bathroom family residence equipped with contemporary amenities such as a pool, outdoor lounge, playroom, and games room. Throughout the house, custom-made modern pieces are seamlessly combined with vintage finds, ensuring a balance between historical nods and modern functionality. One of the favorite spaces for the designer was the master bathroom, reimagined as a luxurious wet room clad in Calcutta marble. The design incorporated a client's specific request for a window in the shower, leading to a massive shower area, a new freestanding tub, a floating marble slab bench, and intricate mosaics on the ceiling, all complemented by brass fixtures. For the children, a vibrant and functional playroom was designed. It features a jungle gym, an oversized jewel-toned mural depicting dreamy mountain tops, and a custom-built arched reading nook, catering to various age groups from teens to toddlers. The project encountered significant construction challenges, including failed stucco on the backside of the house. This was resolved by removing the stucco, properly sealing the home, and installing a new exterior elevation with bright white siding, a stone veneer foundation, a limestone patio, a glass railing, and a mahogany handrail. A unique, last-minute challenge involved rerouting a direct hot water line from the heater to the master suite shower to address a client's concern about water temperature, showcasing the team's commitment to client satisfaction. Ultimately, the farmhouse was transformed from a neglected historic property into a contemporary family haven, characterized by bold colors, statement artwork, and luxurious finishes, all while maintaining a respectful connection to its original architectural style. The project exemplifies transitional design, achieving a sophisticated yet comfortable aesthetic for modern family living. #TransitionalFarmhouse #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #HistoricHome #LuxuryInteriors #FamilyHome #ModernAmenities #CustomDesign

This article showcases six distinct properties across the United States, each embodying a modern farmhouse style with rustic elements. These homes are situated in various locations, including Washington, Connecticut; Garrison, New York; Bluffton, South Carolina; Sherman Oaks, California; Valley Village, California; and Atlanta, Georgia, offering a diverse range of settings from leafy, expansive acreage to more urban, tree-lined streets. The property in Washington, Connecticut, is a five-bedroom cedar-clad barn home constructed in 2008, set on eighty acres. It features a two-sided fireplace, a wood-beamed living room with glass doors opening to a covered porch, and views of a pond. The lower level includes a gym, game room, and an entertainment space with a bar. The estate also comprises a two-bedroom guesthouse, a pool, spa, patio, and an orchard, located near Lake Waramaug and New Preston. In Garrison, New York, a newly built four-bedroom home, known as The Garrison House, blends classic farmhouse details. Its interior is characterized by wide-plank wood floors, exposed reclaimed-timber beams, vintage fixtures, and a chef's farmhouse kitchen with a large, wood-topped island. The 2.74-acre lot provides a patio with a stone fireplace, grassy yards, mature trees, and a guest cottage, with proximity to hiking trails, a Metro-North train station, the Hudson River, and the cultural and dining amenities of Cold Spring. Bluffton, South Carolina, features an award-winning barn-inspired farmhouse from 2022, built with shou-sugi-ban charred cedar. This five-bedroom home highlights a living room with a shiplap ceiling, French doors, and a gas fireplace, adjoining an open kitchen-dining room. The property offers a private pool, firepit, gardens, and river views, within a resort community that provides various amenities such as restaurants, a spa, stables, and sports courts. A classic five-bedroom farm-style house from 1936 in Sherman Oaks, California, has been updated with contemporary features. This open-plan residence includes vaulted ceilings, four skylights, a floating central staircase, and a gourmet kitchen with Moroccan tiling, a glass-fronted bar, a large central island, and a built-in daybed. The exterior boasts a pergola, a gas grill and smoker, a salt-water pool, an outdoor theater, and a sports court, and is a short drive from the Getty Museum. In Valley Village, California, a 2019 four-bedroom farmhouse is distinguished by vertical board-and-batten siding and a front barn door. Its open-plan interior showcases exposed beams, shiplap ceilings, a chef's kitchen with quartz counters and a drinks refrigerator, and a living room with accordion glass doors leading to a covered patio. The landscaped property, situated 25 minutes from downtown L.A., includes a waterfall pool and spa, a built-in grill, and an orange tree. Finally, Atlanta, Georgia, presents a three-bedroom modern farmhouse built in 2021 on a tree-lined street in historic Oakland City. The home features an open main living space with a fireplace, a kitchen with an eat-in island, and a primary bedroom with sliding barn doors that open to a spa-like bathroom with marble tile and a soaker tub. The lot includes a covered patio and a large, fenced backyard, with downtown Atlanta located 15 minutes away by car. Each of these properties illustrates the enduring appeal and varied interpretations of the modern farmhouse aesthetic, combining rustic charm with contemporary living. #ModernFarmhouse #RusticHomes #PropertyShowcase #RealEstate #HomeDesign #LuxuryHomes #ArchitecturalStyle #FarmhouseRenovation #USProperties

Alice Callahan Thompson, known for her roles in 'Gossip Girl' and 'Odd Mom Out,' and her husband Kyser Thompson, chose to relocate from New York to Alice's native Birmingham, Alabama, during the COVID-19 pandemic to provide their growing family with more space. Their family includes a grown godson (originally fostered), an adopted young son, a biological young daughter, and a new biological baby boy. They discovered an off-market modern farmhouse-style house in a charming, family-friendly Birmingham neighborhood, valuing its open playroom, sizable backyard, and walkability to amenities, reminiscent of their Brooklyn life. The decision was solidified when Alice envisioned her family in the screened porch, leading them to purchase the home. Upon moving in, the Thompsons engaged the design firm Still Johnson to remodel the 2020-built house, which they felt had a 'confused' aesthetic with jewel-toned walls, faux brass fixtures, and trendy farmhouse elements. The designers aimed to establish a unified and timeless palette. They drew inspiration from the home's existing exterior (charcoal), walls (white), and wide-planked oak floors (camel) to create a base color scheme of charcoal, white, and camel. They replaced the faux brass with dark metals or metals with a living finish to give the home a more cohesive and modern feel. Alice expressed a preference for dusty colors, such as dusty rose, dusty blue, and dusty olive, which the designers incorporated as accent colors in pillows and artwork, complementing the established moody palette. A key design principle was the use of natural materials to imbue the new build with a sense of timelessness. Oak and walnut were predominantly used for hard furniture, and natural linen was chosen for drapery and upholstery. The goal was not to achieve a specific 'look' but to soften the home's 'newness' through textured, natural elements. The home's exterior features dramatic steep rooflines and a tight, upright facade with charcoal-stained siding and aging cedar accents. To connect the exterior and interior, the designers brought the charcoal color inside by painting the formal living room, kitchen millwork, and all interior doors the same shade. This created a sense of power and continuity that was absent with the original jewel tones. Custom oak furniture, designed by MDM Design Studio, extended the light oak thread already present in the house, complemented by walnut pieces to create a collected, evolving aesthetic. A significant aspect of the design was integrating the Thompsons' existing collection of mid-century furniture and art, inherited from their parents and grandparents. This provided a sentimental layer to the home and inspired newly made pieces, contributing to a curated and unique interior. The designers also prioritized family-friendliness, using durable materials and fabrics that were resistant to spills and stains. Natural hemp rugs and child-proof sealed wood furniture were selected to ensure both beauty and practicality for a young family. The 3,800-square-foot home is thoughtfully organized, with an open-concept main level encompassing the dining room, kitchen, and den. A more compartmentalized living room at the front of the house offers a formal retreat for entertaining. The primary bedroom, with a generous bathroom and closet, is also on the main level. Upstairs, three children's bedrooms branch off a large, sunny playroom, providing individual retreats with subtly colored walls (dusty pinks and blues) and a vibrant communal space. The screened porch and front porch serve as additional living areas, offering private relaxation and opportunities for community engagement. The successful remodel, culminating in a surprise reveal for the family, transformed the house into a stylish, functional, and deeply personal home that balances modern aesthetics with family needs and timeless appeal, receiving emotional approval from the Thompsons. #HomeDesign #MidCenturyModern #FamilyFriendlyHome #ModernFarmhouse #InteriorDesign #HomeRemodel #NaturalMaterials #BirminghamAlabama #CelebrityHome

This project, located in the Melbourne suburb of Fairfield, Australia, involved the comprehensive restoration and reinvention of a late 19th-century Victorian residence. The clients, a retiring couple, sought a tranquil and connected home suitable for their next stage of life. Designed by Taylor Knights, the renovation aimed to sensitively balance the historical character of the original double-fronted brick dwelling with the demands of contemporary living, encompassing an area of 320 square meters and completed in 2024. The architectural approach focused on integrating the existing Victorian structure with new additions, creating a harmonious blend of old and new. Key elements of the design include the incorporation of a courtyard, which serves as a central organizing feature, enhancing natural light and ventilation within the home. The material palette likely reflects both the heritage context and modern aesthetics, with attention to detail in finishes and textures. The project is an example of adaptive reuse, preserving the historical essence of the building while upgrading it to meet current living standards and the specific needs of its occupants. The design team, led by Peter Knights, worked to create a residence that fosters a sense of calm and connection, which aligns with the clients' desire for a peaceful retirement home. The interior spaces are expected to feature carefully chosen materials such as glass, concrete, and wood, as evidenced by the project's visual documentation. These materials contribute to a sophisticated and comfortable environment, creating a dialogue between the robust historical shell and refined contemporary insertions. The use of glass, in particular, would maximize natural light and views towards the courtyard, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living areas. Landscape architecture by Peachy Green and structural engineering by Webb Consult played crucial roles in the project's execution, ensuring both aesthetic quality and structural integrity. The collaboration between the architects and consultants facilitated the realization of a complex renovation that respects its past while firmly establishing itself in the present. The photographs by Derek Swalwell capture the essence of the completed project, showcasing its architectural nuances and the successful integration of various design elements. Overall, the Fairfield Courtyard House by Taylor Knights represents a thoughtful architectural intervention that addresses the needs of a specific client brief within a heritage context. It demonstrates how careful consideration of site, history, and contemporary lifestyle can result in a dwelling that is both respectful of its origins and perfectly suited for modern living, providing a functional and aesthetically pleasing space for its inhabitants. #ResidentialArchitecture #HouseDesign #VictorianRenovation #CourtyardHouse #TaylorKnights #AustralianArchitecture #FairfieldMelbourne #HistoricPreservation

This article highlights the historical significance and modern amenities of the Wagamon House, a bungalow located in the heart of Milton's historic district. Built in 1913, the property showcases a successful blend of traditional architecture with contemporary upgrades, reflecting a dedicated effort by its previous owners to maintain and enhance its classic charm. The listing agent, Leslie Byrne of Anthony Patrick Real Estate LLC, emphasizes the specialized attention required for historic homes and praises the meticulous upkeep of this particular property. The main house features elegant hardwood floors throughout, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. It includes formal living and dining spaces that are well-suited for entertaining guests. The first floor accommodates two bedrooms and one full bathroom. The kitchen, equipped with stainless-steel appliances and granite countertops, maintains a traditional self-contained layout. An innovative conversion of the former “summer kitchen” has resulted in a bright and cozy dining area, which provides direct access to an expansive outdoor deck, ideal for relaxation and social gatherings. Adding to the property's allure are the beautifully landscaped grounds, which boast a charming pergola and a tranquil koi pond. These outdoor features contribute to a luxurious living experience. The second floor of the main residence is dedicated to a comprehensive owner's suite. This private sanctuary comprises a bedroom, a bathroom, a comfortable living area, a kitchen with a wraparound bar, and a dining space, offering complete self-sufficiency and comfort. In addition to the main house, the property includes a detached two-car garage, which also provides a third carport space. Above the garage, a one-bedroom apartment has been thoughtfully developed. This auxiliary unit features a kitchen on the ground floor, while the upstairs level encompasses a bedroom, a living area, a bathroom, and a walk-out deck. Leslie Byrne notes that this apartment was specifically designed and converted for use as Airbnb accommodations, presenting a lucrative opportunity for potential buyers. This setup allows for versatile use of the space, whether as a private guesthouse for visitors or as a short-term or long-term rental property, generating additional income. Beyond its architectural and interior merits, the bungalow's location is a significant advantage. It offers convenient access to a variety of local attractions in Milton and Lewes, enhancing the lifestyle appeal for residents. Furthermore, the property is situated close to the natural beauty of Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge and the popular coastal destination of Rehoboth Beach, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and leisure activities. The article underscores that the Wagamon House offers a unique combination of historic elegance, modern comfort, and strategic location, making it a highly desirable residence. #MiltonDelaware #HistoricHome #Bungalow #RealEstate #HomeDesign #LuxuryLiving #RentalProperty

This article showcases a rustic-contemporary home located near Traders Point Creamery in Indianapolis, offering a blend of natural materials and modern design elements. The residence features an expansive 8,970 square-foot structure with a detached three-car garage. The exterior is notable for its use of board-and-batten rough-sawn cedar, Brown County rustic rubble stone, and a durable steel roof, with the front facade drawing inspiration from traditional barn architecture, incorporating gaslights and a working double Dutch door. The interior of the home highlights a great room with a Wisconsin Limestone wood-burning fireplace, vaulted cedar ceilings, and white quarter-sawn oak floors. The galley kitchen is equipped with custom oak built-in cabinets, solid quartz countertops, a limestone backsplash, and an instant hot water heater. A distinctive 'bridge' structure connects two upstairs bedrooms, each with private baths, overlooking the kitchen and great room. The full bathroom in the upstairs bedroom suite is finished with Calacatta marble, enhancing its natural light. Additional features include a master bedroom suite with a walk-in closet and integrated washer and dryer. Large porthole windows are present in the upper-level bedroom suite, accommodating king-size beds. The property is designed to maximize privacy, situated on a wooded lot that eliminates the necessity for window treatments throughout the home. Outdoor living spaces include a private patio for entertaining, enveloped by trees, and a landscaped blue stone path with a pergola. An enclosed porch provides a covered breezeway connection between the detached three-car garage and the main house. Access to the property is secured via a gate on Lafayette Road on the Northwest side of Indianapolis. The design integrates robust, natural materials with functional contemporary living spaces, emphasizing both aesthetic appeal and practical utility. #RusticContemporary #HomeDesign #LuxuryRealEstate #IndianapolisHomes #CedarExterior #LimestoneFireplace #OakFloors #QuartzCountertops #PrivateProperty

Mid-Century Modern architecture, characterized by its effortless cool and quintessentially Australian aesthetic, is experiencing a significant resurgence in popularity. This design style, prevalent from the 1930s to the 1970s, defines Australian homes through its distinctive flat or raked rooflines, expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, open-plan layouts, and seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces. Key materials commonly used include brick, concrete, and timber, contributing to a robust yet elegant appearance. Notable architects who shaped Australia's Modernist movement, such as Harry Seidler, Robin Boyd, Iwan Iwanoff, and Hugh Buhrich, developed groundbreaking designs in the 1950s and 1960s. Many of these historically significant structures now hold heritage-listed status, reflecting their enduring architectural value. The renewed interest in these homes has led many owners to prioritize restoration over extensive renovation, preserving the original character and integrity of these sought-after properties for contemporary enjoyment and future generations. The article showcases 19 exemplary Mid-Century Modern homes across Australia, ranging from faithfully restored original builds to new constructions inspired by the style. One such example is 'The Quarterdeck,' designed by Glynn Nicholls in 1959. Its recent restoration meticulously updated the interiors while adding two new wings, ensuring consistency with the original design. This project involved careful preservation of features like the butterfly roof, exposed structural steel beams, shiplap paneling, bagged brick interior walls, and original 1950s windows. Another featured property is a character-rich 1890s terrace in Paddington, where interior designer Madeleine Wood blended existing architectural elements with a Mid-Century aesthetic, enhancing its north-facing courtyard, high ceilings, and distinctive arches. In Torquay, a new build, conceived by Melbourne architecture firm Kennedy Nolan, draws heavily from 1950s Mid-Century design, incorporating a carefully curated palette of colors, materials, and textures based on the owners' detailed vision board. Photographer Kara Rosenlund's late 1960s Brisbane home underwent a sensitive renovation that honored its originality, preserving its wood, finishes, and tones to maintain its spirit. A once featureless 1970s brick house on the NSW South Coast was transformed by Madeleine Blanchfield Architects into a laidback, understated, and honest Mid-Century Modern home, using materials resilient to coastal conditions and bushfires. Sally McGarry's Byron Bay Hinterland home, 'Las Palmas,' captures the essence of her grandparents' Robin Boyd-designed 'The Fenner House' with its elongated roofline, extensive glazing, modernist lines, and passive orientation. A two-bedroom beach shack in Flinders, previously coated in brown paint and carpet, received a thoughtful revamp. Owners Bec and Marcus opted to work within the existing footprint, creating a spacious, open-plan family home without extending the original structure. An Adelaide Hills stone cottage, built in 1962, was updated in 2018 by architect Paul Cooksey and interior architect Bek Burchnall to improve insulation and refresh its interior palette while respecting its original design intent. M House on the Northern Beaches, designed by Rama Architects, presents a Brazilian modernist oasis that seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor spaces, reflecting a tranquil and private living environment. In Beaumaris, Victoria, an untouched 1960s brick and weatherboard house served as a canvas for a sensitive renovation, preserving and restoring original features while introducing new elements inspired by the home's heritage. A modernist-inspired contemporary holiday home demonstrates how classic Mid-Century design principles, such as steel and glass structures, brickwork, and timber paneling, continue to influence modern constructions. A 1960s bush retreat in outer Melbourne underwent a sensitive refurbishment, maintaining its original timber paneling and dark terracotta brick floors. A Mid-Century Modern home in Moorooka, Queensland, designed by Robin Spencer, remains a remarkably preserved 1960s masterpiece, with its original bathroom and kitchen still intact. A renovated 1950s home in Sydney’s North Shore features a "raw and earthy" palette and a "Palm Springs flavor," highlighted by a custom mosaic tiled island bench and amber-colored glass doors. Georges Antoni's contemporized 1960s bungalow in Sydney’s Garigal National Park showcases a monochromatic palette of render, stone, travertine, linen, and timber, creating a calming family home that embraces its Mid-Century origins. A Mid-Century marvel in Mosman, originally an 'Australian House & Garden' cover star in 1959, has been carefully renovated to retain its original timber paneling and crazy paving. A Palm Springs-style home by Sunshine Beach embodies modernist design with sleek lines, playful use of color, and spaciousness. Finally, a "funky and functional" family home in Adelaide draws on Mid-Century Palm Springs architecture, featuring curves, a Californian desert-inspired color palette, white painted brick, and a relaxed ambiance. A 1960s modernist home in Melbourne’s St Kilda received a "perky facelift" by Bower Architecture & Interiors and LBA Construction Group, extending over the former driveway to create more space and light while honoring the home’s historical context. #MidCenturyModern #AustralianArchitecture #HomeDesign #ArchitecturalRestoration #InteriorDesign #ModernistHomes #SustainableDesign #Renovation #HistoricHomes

This article features the "Bike House," a project by fmd Architects in Melbourne, designed for an active family with a passion for cycling. The architectural approach addresses the constraints of a tight budget and limited urban space by employing a stacked structure to minimize the building's footprint and maximize garden area. This structural choice influenced the façade's arrangement, incorporating shading devices and privacy screens to create a private and sheltered environment for the occupants. The exterior of the house, constructed from cement and steel, features elements that fold outwards to function as privacy screens. A perforated aluminum fence extends from the building towards the street, a material chosen to deter graffiti. In contrast, a recycled brick wall serves as a designated canvas for street art, blending urban aesthetics with functional design. The design prioritizes flexibility in the interior spaces, anticipating the evolving needs of the family as their children grow. A significant influence on the design, and the source of the project's name, was the family's active lifestyle, particularly the father's dedication to cycling. This necessitated creative solutions for storing multiple bicycles, impacting both the layout and specific details of the house. Inside, the design adopts a more dynamic and vivid aesthetic, featuring angular geometries that convey a sense of activity. Contrasting materials such as concrete and timber are used, with recycled brick introducing a textured element alongside smoother surfaces in the kitchen. An oblique section of Vic Ash timber is integrated into the ceiling, extending downwards into the cabinetry, mirroring the folding patterns observed on the façade. Large windows and sliding glass doors in the dining room extend the living space into the enclosed garden, enhancing natural light within the home. The perforated aluminum material, also used for the exterior fence, is repurposed as a privacy screen in the bedroom, allowing light to filter through its openings. The children's bathroom features clean white tiles, arranged to echo the twisting and folding architectural motifs seen on the exterior. Beyond the primary living areas and bedrooms, the house incorporates three additional "flexible zones" to accommodate the family's active lifestyle. These spaces can adapt to various functions, such as a playroom, study, home office, lounge, or an extra bedroom, demonstrating a thoughtful use of every millimeter of space. The design ensures these spaces are adaptable to changes in family dynamics over time. The backyard includes a rich wood deck, built by the family, which provides a warm visual counterpoint to the concrete and steel structure of the house. A cleverly concealed shed on the south side offers storage for bicycles and tools. #ModernArchitecture #UrbanDesign #FamilyHome #FlexibleSpaces #SustainableMaterials #CyclingLifestyle #AustralianDesign #PrivacyScreens #CompactLiving

This article highlights a 150-acre estate located at 313 Taylor Road, Peacham, VT, described as a rustic-chic farmhouse and family compound. The property offers an expansive living space of 5,500 square feet, featuring eight bedrooms and nine bathrooms. A central theme of the interior design is the artful use of worn wood, incorporating salvaged barn board walls, reclaimed pine flooring, and exposed hand-hewn timbers along the cathedral ceilings. This design choice contributes to a treehouse-esque ambiance, particularly appealing to younger residents for activities such as homeschooling. One of the estate's most notable features is its indoor pool, situated within a 40-by-60-foot solarium. This pool area is designed to resemble a waterpark, complete with faux and real rock and tree accents, waterfalls, and underwater lighting, offering both recreational and fitness opportunities. Beyond the main residence, the 150-acre grounds provide extensive outdoor amenities, including multiple porches, five ponds, miles of carriage roads, and natural trails. For equestrian enthusiasts, the property boasts paddocks and barn space capable of accommodating up to 20 horses, along with an indoor riding arena. In addition to the primary farmhouse, the estate includes three guest houses, one of which is a modernist cabin uniquely positioned above Ewell Pond. While the overall aesthetic leans towards rustic, the property also incorporates refined elements, such as mahogany entryways, cedar walk-in closets, French doors, and marble countertops. The interiors are further enhanced by hand-painted ceramic tiles in bathrooms and kitchens, contributing a Spanish farmhouse appeal, and a mix of modern glass globe light fixtures alongside antique pendant lights. The main house offers several inviting spaces for relaxation and gathering, including a double-sided fireplace, a completely skylit dining room, and a cozy reading nook. The generous expanse of the property allows for extensive outdoor activities, whether on horseback or on foot, providing a sense of seclusion and ample room to explore without needing to leave the premises. The article provides contact information for Wade Weathers at LandVest for further inquiries about the property. #VermontRealEstate #FarmhouseStyle #LuxuryProperty #RusticChic #IndoorPool #EquestrianProperty #FamilyCompound #HomeDesign #EstateLiving

In Melbourne's Armadale, amidst a streetscape of Victorian and Federation-style mansions, stands the Armadale Residence, a project by BE Architecture designed for a family seeking to downsize. The residence is notable for its substantial granite facade, weighing approximately 260 tonnes. Despite its mass, the silvery-grey, split-faced texture of the granite, characterized by quartz veins, lends a sense of weightlessness when light refracts across its surface, softening the modular design's hard lines. Large mechanical timber shades punctuate this stone sheath, complementing its organic feel and allowing daylight into the interior spaces. BE Architecture co-director Andrew Piva notes that the internal spaces are designed to be light and open, particularly the living area, which features fully retractable glazed doors that open onto an adjacent courtyard. The house occupies nearly the entire 537 sq m block, including a pool integrated with the rear wall. To manage the building's volume discreetly, the sleeping quarters, including additional bedrooms with en-suites for visiting adult children, are located on the upper level. A gym and a second study are positioned behind a subterranean double-garage, effectively concealing these areas from direct view. Landscape design, also handled by BE's in-house multi-disciplinary team, was crucial in creating an illusion of expansive outdoor space. A private Japanese garden adjoins the master bedroom's outdoor shower, while Mount Fuji trees line the front fence. This landscaping approach addresses the clients' desire for varied planted outlooks and terraces without the intensive maintenance associated with a full lawn. Throughout the residence, a juxtaposition of raw and refined materials is evident, with granite serving as a consistent element. For instance, flamed and brushed Torino Granite is used for the outdoor terrace, transitioning seamlessly into a honed, speckled version within the open-plan living area. The selection of a specialized stone mason by the builder, LBA Construction, underscored the importance of the stone's application, particularly in the master en-suite, where Fallow Granite was uniquely employed for custom bath and basin benches, engineered from solid blocks to achieve a dense, textural finish. An emotive quality is introduced through BE Architecture's manipulation of chiaroscuro. Generously proportioned doorways cast angular shadows, while a central oculus above the stairwell channels pure light, creating a crushed velvet-like appearance on the polished grey cement render of its curved walls. These sculpted planes stand out as the only non-linear elements in an otherwise linear construction, providing a striking visual contrast within the home's design. The granite facade itself is laid in a random brick bond pattern, incorporating three different-sized block profiles, a technique that references older brick-laying styles. This meticulous attention to detail extends to custom furnishings, such as the stainless steel kitchen benchtop, the elm dining table, and the Perspex ceiling light, all custom-designed by BE Architecture to integrate seamlessly with the architectural vision. The Armadale Residence exemplifies a sophisticated blend of natural materials, thoughtful spatial planning, and a nuanced interplay of light and shadow, resulting in a cohesive and thoughtfully designed family home. #ResidentialArchitecture #AustralianHome #GraniteFacade #MelbourneDesign #BEArchitecture #LuxuryLiving #CustomDesign #Materiality #DownsizingHome

Great Manson Hall, a Grade II listed barn near Monmouth, Wales, has been transformed from a medieval agricultural building into a luxurious modern home, seamlessly blending historic character with contemporary design. The barn, part of the historic Great Manson Farm, boasts origins dating back to around 1450, indicated by features such as opposed Gothic doorways. Its listing in 2002 by Cadw recognized its significance as a vernacular barn with possible medieval origins, as well as its group value with the farmhouse and Old Cider House. The conversion, completed in 2004, meticulously preserved and integrated the barn's historical elements. Exposed stone walls and beams are central to the design, complemented by new additions crafted from natural materials and simple aesthetics. While honoring its past, the home provides comfortable, modern living with substantial broken-plan, connected rooms alongside intimate, cozy spaces. The design incorporates innovative features such as a glass roof in the garden room and internal windows, maximizing light penetration and offering continuous views of the surrounding landscape. Situated along a quiet country lane, the barn offers a peaceful rural setting just a few miles from Monmouth. The property is encompassed by an acre of meticulously maintained grounds, featuring a cottage garden with mature shrubs, a rose-covered pergola, and pristine lawns. Multiple alfresco dining areas provide opportunities to enjoy the mesmerizing views that surround the property. Practical amenities include ample parking, a double garage, and an outbuilding with potential for conversion into an annexe or home office, subject to planning permission. The interior layout includes a captivating central inner hallway that showcases original exposed features like chunky stone walls, juxtaposed with a modern glass and metal staircase. Large windows strategically placed throughout the home frame the absorbing views. The main living area features a broken-plan layout, combining dining and lounge spaces that are subtly zoned by the building's structure, varying ceiling heights, and flooring. The lounge area, with its double-height ceiling and exposed roof beams, also highlights a clever internal window on the first floor. The connected dining and living space flows into a separate sitting room, accessible via glass double doors, maintaining the theme of shared light and views. The garden room is a particular highlight, bathed in natural light from its glass roof and full wall of doors, facilitating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living. The kitchen, while modern, is designed with units integrated into the walls and natural materials to enhance the barn's inherent character. A prominent inglenook fireplace, specially lit, serves as a focal point in this character-filled space. The upper level comprises four double bedrooms, each with an en-suite bathroom. These rooms are accessed from a central galleried area overlooking the lounge-diner below, offering charming spaces that blend historical features with contemporary decor and views. One en-suite bedroom features an internal window for enjoying views from the bed, a ladder leading to a mezzanine level, and a spiral staircase providing secondary access from the garden room. Two of the bedrooms also include walk-in wardrobes or dressing spaces. Great Manson Hall is currently listed for sale at £1.25 million. #AmazingHomes #BarnConversion #MedievalArchitecture #HistoricProperty #LuxuryRealEstate #WelshHomes #Monmouthshire #InteriorDesign #RuralLiving

Bev Adam and Craig Shearn, residents of an 1800s double-fronted miner's cottage in Melbourne's inner north, undertook a significant renovation of their home with the help of designer David Flack of Flack Studio. The exterior of the cottage was painted in a dramatic, heritage 'Oxblood' by Porter’s Paints, a choice that garnered attention and conversation from neighbors, suggesting a potential trendsetting move. The homeowners, both involved in the property industry, sought a professional's expertise for their 'last and biggest hurrah' in renovating, aiming to create a space tailored solely for their enjoyment, rather than focusing on resale value. The renovation involved stripping the residence back to its bare bones and implementing a new scheme and footprint. The brief included establishing a new master wing with a wet area and walk-in wardrobe, a guest bedroom, a den, a powder room, and a spacious new extension. This redesign transformed four period bedrooms into two, prioritizing personal comfort and luxury over the original layout. The interior design showcases a blend of vintage and contemporary elements with a vibrant mix of hues and textures. A key feature of the updated home is the oversized open-plan kitchen, centered around a custom island bench with a honed white Arabescato stone top, mild black steel legs, and brass feet. An adjoining bar, backed by glossy green stone, complements the kitchen. David Flack also designed a cozy nook with a custom leather banquette, a Cassina armchair, a vintage Bonacina side table, and a cowhide, which he describes as a 'crazy little maximalist corner' filled with objects and art. This area, along with the bar, has become a popular spot for guests, fulfilling the homeowners' desire for a space that encourages regular entertaining. The furniture selection combines pieces accumulated by the couple over the years with newly sourced items, including vintage Italian, Danish, and contemporary Australian pieces. These are thoughtfully arranged, particularly under the cathedral ceiling at the rear of the house, overlooking a large fireplace and plunge pool. The main bedroom features walls painted in Porter’s Paints ‘Donkey Grey’ and copper linen curtains. Dulux’s ‘Royal Battle’, a rich Prussian blue, is used in the walk-in wardrobe and to accent the hand-glazed Spanish shower tiles in the ensuite, which David discovered locally. Throughout the renovation, Flack Studio emphasized a methodology of 'testing and sculpting on site' to capture nuances and adapt designs, aiming for a project executed with integrity. The use of varied materials such as American oak timber veneer, polished plaster, steel frames, and Elba stone tiles further contributes to the home's unique character. The project successfully transformed an historic miner's cottage into a vibrant, personalized, and luxurious home that reflects the homeowners' desire for comfort, color, and a distinctive aesthetic. #FlackStudio #MelbourneCottage #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ColourfulHome #VintageContemporaryMix #CustomDesign #LuxuryHome

The Salmon House, located atop Northcote’s Ruckers Hill in Melbourne, Australia, is a multi-level residential project designed by the Australian studio True Story, led by Dan Gayfer and Lewis Marash. This architectural work combines sculptural design with detailed interiors, creating a living space that is deeply integrated with its urban environment. Situated on a prominent corner lot in Brunswick East, the Salmon House presents a striking facade composed of diverse materials including cast-in-situ concrete, reeded glass, rich timber cladding, and custom brickwork. This material palette provides a bold presence while maintaining an elegant aesthetic that balances privacy, openness, and connectivity to its site. The residence's architectural design thoughtfully responds to the sloping terrain, allowing its three levels to cascade from front to back. This layout incorporates strategic cutaways and sightlines that facilitate an intuitive flow throughout the home, guiding occupants between shared and private spaces. The design philosophy, as articulated by True Story, aims to create a sensory experience akin to a "salmon swimming upstream," where ascending through levels involves encountering diverse spaces and materials that evoke both activity and tranquility, leading to moments of family interaction, gentle reflection, and ultimate solitude. Local heritage guidelines played a significant role in shaping the home’s visual language and spatial organization, especially given its public-facing plot. Rather than creating a sharp contrast, the design team opted for narrow, textured glass to seamlessly bridge contemporary and traditional architectural elements. This subtle integration respects the historical context while introducing modern forms, thereby achieving both architectural relevance and contextual harmony. Inside, the Salmon House features distinct yet cohesive living areas. Communal spaces, such as a sunken lounge that extends to an outdoor terrace, are designed to foster connection. In contrast, private zones like a library and a rooftop terrace offer spaces for quiet retreat and contemplation. Large, floor-to-ceiling windows throughout the home frame panoramic views of Melbourne's skyline, firmly embedding the residence within its broader urban setting. The interior material selection reinforces the layered narrative of the house, incorporating finishes such as Grey Ironbark flooring, sculpted concrete island benches, and custom cabinetry made from warm, natural veneers. The sunken lounge features burnished concrete flooring that extends outdoors, effectively blurring the distinction between the interior and the exterior landscape. The primary goal behind Salmon House's conception was to create a space that strengthens family bonds by providing both communal living areas and opportunities for individual solace. An expansive outdoor terrace and an adjacent pool house are designed to encourage year-round social gatherings, while dedicated study and library spaces offer refuge and a focus on personal activities. The swimming pool itself serves as a unifying element, connecting the home and its outdoor environment into a single, cohesive experience. Adding to the unique indoor-outdoor integration are the glass-topped showers, which are open to the sky yet ensure complete privacy. These secluded bathing areas are bathed in natural light, offering a tranquil experience that further blurs the boundary between indoor comfort and the surrounding natural elements. The complexity of the Salmon House project necessitated extensive coordination among True Story, the structural engineer, the builder, and pool specialists. This collaborative effort ensured the seamless integration of various components, from the subterranean basement to the elevated rooftop terrace. The culmination of these efforts is a unified, warm, and inviting living environment that exemplifies modern family dwelling. #SalmonHouse #MelbourneArchitecture #TrueStoryStudio #LayeredDesign #UrbanWarmth #SculpturalArchitecture #ModernInteriors #ResidentialDesign #IndoorOutdoorLiving #SustainableDesign

Barn houses are characterized by high ceilings, exposed beams, large open-plan living spaces, durable surfaces, and sliding barn doors. These architectural features provide a unique aesthetic that combines rustic charm with modern functionality. While often associated with rural settings, barn-style homes can be adapted to various environments, including coastal and urban areas, or their design elements can be incorporated into existing structures. For those seeking a more straightforward construction process, barn-style kit homes are also available, offering a pre-designed solution for achieving this aesthetic. The key design elements of barn-style houses differentiate them from barndominiums (barndos). A barn-style house integrates traditional barn aesthetics into a conventional home design, while a barndominium is typically a repurposed barn or shed converted into a residential space, often featuring a metal structure and a simpler design. Both options offer a distinct living experience, but barn-style houses are generally comparable in cost to regular homes, whereas barndominiums tend to be more affordable due to their structural origins and simpler construction. The article showcases several examples of modern barn-style homes in Australia, illustrating the versatility and appeal of this architectural trend. One notable example is a dream weekender in the Victorian Alps, designed by former Olympian snowboarder Joh Lyle, which features two distinct pavilions connected to the landscape. Another instance is the "Little Red Barn," a barn-style kit home transformed into a family retreat by Rachel Luchetti and Gerard Cook, known for its striking red exterior and a concrete plunge pool with hinterland views. These examples highlight how individuals can customize barn-style homes to suit their preferences and locations, whether by utilizing kit homes or undertaking extensive conversions. Further examples include an eco-friendly family home in Pambula on the NSW Sapphire Coast, which blends traditional barn charm with passive house principles, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable living. A modern barn house in rural Victoria, designed by Slap Architects, was created for a sustainable lifestyle, emphasizing natural materials that complement the West Gippsland landscape. The Barn at Rangeview, with its raked ceiling and wrap-around windows, optimizes natural light and scenic views, providing unique country accommodation. A small barn-style house in Daylesford maintains classic barn design elements such as a high-pitched ceiling, exposed beams, and repurposed antique windows, infusing historical character into a new build. The Byron Bay barn house presents a luxurious interpretation of the style, inspired by the property's original sleeping barn and drawing influences from Italy, Aspen, and Malibu. A Queensland pool house exemplifies how barn-style architecture, with its high ceilings, exposed timber beams, and concrete floors, can be effectively integrated into a coastal setting. The Highlands Black Barn, influenced by Norwegian summer houses and New Zealand barn architecture, stands out with its striking black exterior and modern farmhouse aesthetic. These diverse projects demonstrate the adaptability of barn-style architecture to various climates, personal tastes, and functionalities, ranging from weekend retreats and family homes to pool houses and luxury residences across Australia.

Carson and Dori Boneck, former Wicker Park residents, initially envisioned themselves as city dwellers but shifted their perspective when searching for a suitable lot to build a new home. After two years of unsuccessful searching in the city for a sufficiently sized lot, they decided to move to Wilmette, seeking large, functional living spaces for their two young children. The result was a 4,600-square-foot modern farmhouse completed in 2013, featuring six bedrooms and five bathrooms. The interior architecture and design were handled by Kelley Audrain of Audrain Architecture and Cookie Weber of Inside Job. The design brief was to combine Dori's rural upbringing with their years of city living, aiming for a balance of rustic charm and urban edge. This fusion is evident in the home's exterior, which features traditional white board-and-batten siding punctuated by a black door and black window casings, giving the classic farmhouse a modern feel. This palette extends indoors, where one-inch-thick jambs around doors and windows are painted a deep gray, a design choice initially daunting but ultimately defining for the house. The designers emphasized creating a lived-in and comfortable atmosphere, incorporating rustic elements throughout the new construction. A sliding barn door connects Carson's office and the living room, adding texture. A woven-oak chandelier by Chicago artist Lucy Slivinski draws attention to exposed ceiling beams. In the dining room, a reclaimed wood mantel contrasts with contemporary metallic wall covering. Furnishings primarily consist of refurbished mid-century pieces from Knoll, Risom, and Eames, upholstered in kid-friendly fabrics, alongside new and custom items. The kitchen features a rustic table from Anthropologie paired with a bench and chairs from Skokie-based New Breed Furniture Network, a company also responsible for Carson's desk and the master suite's bedside tables. The Bonecks prioritized supporting local artisans and vendors over catalog purchases. A distinctive feature of the home is its bold use of wallpaper, much of it from the Dutch company Eijffinger. This is applied in the dining room, powder room, and children's rooms, introducing an element of surprise, layers of color, and depth that transform potentially quiet spaces. The overall design successfully achieves the Bonecks' goal of a home that blends city and country aesthetics, and modern and rustic styles, creating a unique and satisfying living environment. #ModernFarmhouse #WilmetteRealEstate #HomeDesign #InteriorArchitecture #RusticUrbanBlend #CustomFurniture #WallpaperDesign #SuburbanLiving