Spanish Mission
House
Traditional Custodians: Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation
Location: Prahran, Victoria
Floor Area/Land Area: 240 sqm/430 sqm
Minimal intervention and maximum impact were key ideas to this project which caters for a retired couple downsizing from the big family home. Inspired by the artwork and furniture pieces the couple brought with them, the design massaged the volumes of this Spanish Mission House into their way of living.
A clumsy layout, poor orientation and alterations which defied logic, provided ample opportunities for improvement. Working with the clients, Lande was able to draw on a lifetime of histories, experiences and anecdotes to inject into the project. Initial moves were to prioritize Northern aspects to living spaces, give the front a sense of arrival, and make the kitchen much more functional for the couple. The laundry was shifted to the south, opening to one of the 4 courtyards that surround the house, and the kitchen was converted to an eat-in kitchen, to meet the couples way of living.
The key joinery insertions were deliberately designed and even hand painted to derive ambiguity, resulting in a suite of pieces and units which look they may have been there all along, or might have been brought with the couple.
Colour, texture and careful placement of personal objects help paint each inherited space with a unique dialect of a common language. Colour theory as well as close collaboration with the clients and their collections delivered calming greens, bold blushes, and moody corks which spoke to the era of the house in a personal way.
The clients have always had a soft spot for Victorian period homes, which traditionally had varying colours throughout the house, and by working closely with them, we were able to bring this into their home in a tasteful and cohesive manner.
By doing no more, but no less than what is required, we were able to celebrate the quirky features of this house, and build upon them to create an eclectic interior which speaks to a collection of art, furniture and things which has evolved over time. The interiors speaks to a maturity and confidence akin to a couple of their vintage.
Modern touches also bring convenience and age-proof design, such as large reveals and finger pulls, sit side by side with traditional elements such as easy access larder drawers
Featured In:
Awards & Recognition:
Shortlisted - INDE Awards 2024
Photography:
Shannon McGrath
