Alexandra Kidd’s Mid-century House in Western Sydney is a textural nod to mid-century style with a modern twist.
Sydney-based interior design studio Alexandra Kidd Design were called on to create a united front between the Mid-century House architecture framework and the interiors. Adhering to the owner’s love for mid-century style through the flexibility and functionality of spaces, as well as key interior details, Alexandra Kidd Design have realised a tasteful homage to the era we know and love.
The kitchen features the SP01 Thomas Bar Stool
The Brodware Swivel kitchen mixer and Zip Hydrotap in the upstairs kitchen.
Central to the brief was the homeowners’ love for the mid-century era. The design team’s challenge was not to imitate the classic style but to cultivate modern elements with a subtle, mid-century flavour. Alexandra Kidd interior designer Demi Barnes says they were introduced to the home when the ‘building shell was already underway’, setting out to create a clear direction for the joinery, decorative architectural aspects of the home, as well as the furnishings. “Our clients engaged us to put all of the pieces of the puzzle together seamlessly,” Demi adds.
The Mid-century House encompasses a series of spaces for entertainment as well as privacy. As Demi puts it, the sunken lounge “screams for a large celebration but is also the perfect secluded hiding space”. The sheltered courtyard is described as the ‘hub’ of the home. The iconic mid-century feature establishes an indoor-outdoor connection, casting natural light into the communal spaces. The home accommodates the needs of every family member, with two kitchen spaces, a bar and cellar, extra bedrooms, ensuite and powder rooms and a significant walk-in robe.
“Encased by full height sliding glass doors, the internal courtyard acts as the axis around which the family will operate, as well as flooding the home’s open expanses with much-envied natural light and air.”
– Demi Barnes of Alexandra Kidd Design
The bar features a Sub-Zero Wine Fridge.
The living area features the Brig coffee table and the Sveva Armchair by Flexform, alongside custom upholstered leather bench seats.
The home’s materiality reflects the precise architectural language. Terrazzo floors connect the communal spaces alongside off-form concrete to complement the spotted gum veneer and Calcatta marble. A terrazzo island bench in the kitchen is an entertaining winner, while the unlacquered brass Laminex range hood also catches the eye. The staircase leads to a smaller second kitchen composed of soft marble and brass joinery. “The timber batten screening provides a hint of movement to the static staircase, stitching together otherwise unframed moments of everyday life,” Demi adds.
Alexandra Kidd decided on a minimal interior scheme, selecting furnishings for their longevity and functionality, rather than for decoration. One of the design firm’s favourite furnishings is the Giorgetti Round coffee table, surrounded by custom upholstered sofas in the lounge.
A true entertainer’s delight, Mid-century House by Alexandra Kidd Design realises a vision for smart and considered design that’s flexible to everyone’s needs. Through this approach, the home reflects the inherent design values of the mid-century movement, alongside a modern appreciation for the style’s classic materials and textures.
The sunken lounge features the leather Maggiolina lounge chair and pouf by Zanotta.
Giorgetti Round Coffee Table and Flexform Wing Sofa in the sunken lounge.
The master bedroom features the Flos IC Table Light and Orbit Bedside table by Fanuli.
“Our approach to furniture was to focus on quality, timeless pieces that would fulfil a need, and not just fill a space.”
– Demi Barnes of Alexandra Kidd Design
The sheltered courtyard is a welcoming entertaining space featuring the Aireys Woven Sofa by Kett, Tosca Dining Table and Chairs by Monica Armani for Tribu, as well as the Tao Low Table by Monica Armani for Tribu.
The Senja Sofa by Studio Segers for Tribu creates a spot for relaxation by the pool.
The mid-century exterior is framed by a wall clad in local sandstone. The landscaping takes advantage of the site with concrete steps and a lowered driveway.
