BUYERS’ MARKET

When it comes to updating your home and lifestyle, only the best will do – so here’s a roundup of the latest and greatest products out there

A MODEST UPDATE of an inner-city apartment turned into a complete revamp by Felicity Watts. wattsstudio.com.au How did you become involved with this project and what was the client’s brief? The scope quickly grew into a complete refurbishment. The whole- oor apartment, in a 10-year-old boutique block, was stripped back to the bare bones. We re-designed the spaces to maximise function, while maintaining style and luxury. What were the challenges and how did you resolve them? The original oorplan had the entry straight from the elevator in to the open-plan kitchen and living. By introducing black steel glass doors we were able to create a private entry foyer, which assists with the acoustics, heating and cooling and the sense of arrival. The client wanted a gas replace – a challenge as it could not be ued directly up and out, so we opted for a rear ue that exhausts directly out the wall behind. One of the biggest challenges was managing the delivery of large furniture items and materials, necessitating ‘crane day’ which was exciting but nerve-wracking! Describe the completed interior? This epitomises luxury downsizing. A mix of new and vintage pieces were sourced to complement the client’s extensive art and antiques collection. These, together with top finishes, timeless style and meticulous detailing create unique character and luxury. The layering of textures and the rich colour palette contribute to the ambience. What are some favourite elements? Were there any devices used to maximise the sense of space? A favourite is the joinery, custom designed to maximise space. Also, the leather-wrapped desks and lights that were recessed in to the cabinetry in the study. What informed the selection of furniture, art, ttings and nishes? The clients have lived in many countries and have beautiful artworks and artefacts from which we drew inspiration for the palette. Were the owners happy with the execution? How do they use the space? They are thrilled, and use the apartment as their Melbourne base during the week.

came together in a harmonious manner in this Sydney terrace by William Smart. smartdesignstudio.com How did you become involved with this project and what was the client’s brief? The clients had seen our Mandalong House project, a refined updating of a traditional house. They wanted more light and openness in their house and a uid connection between inside and outside. What were the challenges and how did you resolve them? The house had a traditional Victorian format and the formal rooms were dark. Bringing in light was a challenge. A skylight now runs the length of the kitchen and the formal rooms open onto a light-filled generous living/dining/kitchen space. We have used height to counter the narrow site and the house doesn’t feel constricted. There was no connection between the indoors and the Japanese garden outside, so we took the level change internally. The living/dining/ kitchen now has very high ceilings and ows directly onto the terrace and grassed area. Marrying old and new was another challenge. A curved ceiling connects the existing house to the new extension. Describe the completed interior? The older work of Álvaro Siza informed the architecture, especially where the stone and timber fold around corners in quirky ways. The interiors are contemporary, layered with muted blues, mauves, caramel and greys. It’s sophisticated family living. What are some favourite elements? Were there any devices used to maximise the sense of space? The spatial qualities are my favourite thing, achieved with high ceilings and large volumes. I also love the marble handrail on the stair that connects the formal and casual living rooms. What informed the selection of furniture, art, ttings and nishes? The nishes are light and neutral to allow the owner’s contemporary art to shine. The furniture had to be suitable for a family with young boys, so blue velvet and khaki leather upholstery were chosen. Were the owners happy with the execution? How do they use the space? They are delighted and wouldn’t change a thing. Every corner of the house has been thought out and there’s a place for everything. They spend more time at home than before.