Tapping into its rich architectural past and 1980s New Wave bones, Doherty Design Studio have skillfully commandeered an epic journey to reinvent this Melbourne family home.
Embarking on the significant redesign of a home by renowned Australian architect Peter McIntyre, Doherty Design Studio, along with a team of talented collaborators set about honouring its architectural past, while adding a punchy modern twist.
Tasked with capturing the existing presence of the original 1980s design while balancing the growing needs of a family of five; Mardi Doherty, director of Doherty Design Studio, had her work cut out for her.
The central dining table captures attention through the unique Pink Satin Twisted Form sculpture, designed by Anya Pesce.
The grand entrance of the home features the Grain Cut Side Table designed by Jaime Hayon for Wittmann. Alternating terrazzo tiles in Northstone Mantova 05 and Northstone Catania 05 from CDK Stone form the base of the entrance.
A glimpse of the Bonnie Armchair designed by Pierre Paulin for Ligne Roset is visible in the lounge through the salmon doors, alongside the Marset Dipping Light Table Lamp by Jordi Canudas.
“The existing home had many wonderful original features from the 1980s when it was built, which informed so much of the renovation,” Mardi says. “In essence, we have added to the perimeter of the home and kept the central core of the home intact.” According to Mardi, the staircase and kitchen locations, as well as the new double garage, informed a lot of the spatial re-jigging.
While the relocation of the staircase and kitchen played a pivotal role in developing the new floor plan, upstairs was all about private bedroom quarters. Every family member has their own individually-designed private suite, differentiated through cabinetry, bathrooms and room layout. The inclusion of two more bedrooms has resulted in a more harmonious home while providing ample space for three teenage girls.
The kitchen showcases a four-metre Cote D’Azur marble bench, where a brass seam articulates the join in the stone. Deep navy blue cabinetry and a Lambert & Fils pendant light add another layer of 1980s glamour, atop the Iva Stools for Grazia&Co.
“Our clients are in the construction industry, and both have a great appreciation of architecture, and also spatial planning. We worked with them to create a floor plan that maintained most of the existing features of the home.”
– Mardi Doherty
The Brodware Manhattan Kitchen Mixer in the kitchen
Large-scale photographs by Korean artist Lee Kyoung-Hwa preside over the space that is complemented by an iconic set of Togo sofas designed by Michel Ducaroy from Ligne Roset, a soft pink Païpaï Chair for Ligne Roset, Beaubien Wall Double Shade lamps, an open fireplace and limed oak floors.
Building designer Ari Alexander was tasked with the central spine of the home. Consisting of a two-storey void, the spine is complete with adjoining bridge and a pitched, glass roofline which creates an impressive atrium. “Maintaining the central void and the view from the front door all the way down to the pool was imperative,” Ari says.
An impressive collection of bold and contemporary artworks curated by art consultant Georgie Bruce builds focal points against the bursts of block colour. The home’s palette paints a picture of fun, frivolity and personality, splashing about peachy pinks, peacock greens and more grounding greys which make reference to the home’s 1980s beginnings. A careful selection of iconic and contemporary furniture and objects further complement the home’s organic curves to deliver a modern revision.
A caramel-hued Bonnie Armchair designed by Pierre Paulin from Ligne Roset provides contrast between the peacock green carpet and custom terrazzo floor. The Raawii Green Gables Bowl seamlessly blends into the interior.
The cohesive design narrative continues with floor-to-ceiling windows and doors which provide an easy entertainer’s flow to outdoor areas. The outdoor areas include a sunken conversation and fire pit, lush tropical plantings and forest-like bamboo foliage by landscape designer Ben Scott. A bold tangerine geometric sculpture by Caleb Shea adds a dramatic element to the lawn.
“Our clients are in the construction industry, and both have a great appreciation of architecture, and also spatial planning. We worked with them to create a floor plan that maintained most of the existing features of the home.” Mardi says.
This piece originally appeared in est magazine issue 35.
The Paradise Bath Towel by Loom Towels hangs elegantly on the side of the freestanding bath.
Articolo Lumi pendant lights in grey provide a serene touch to the master bedroom. Linen from Abode softens the bedroom space.
