STAMFORD PARK HOMESTEAD

Brahman Perera

CONCEIVED WITH the sensibility of a home rather than as its function as a hospitality venue and community resource, Stamford Park by Brahman Perera is now an outstanding contemporary homage to its origins as a country retreat. What was the brief? Built in 1882, Stamford Park is one of the few 19th-century homesteads in the area. Knox City council acquired the property in 1987 but it fell into disrepair until 2017 when a plan for its redevelopment began. The project spanned three years with rigorous consultation with heritage, local councils and the community. The brief called for a compelling hospitality proposition to harness the full potential of the iconic asset. Council accepted my concept for a thoughtful restoration of timehonoured furnishings, contemporary art and signature design interventions for a highly functional venue fit for contemporary use. What were the challenges and how did you resolve them? The project breathes new life into a treasured community asset, building on the homestead vernacular while presenting a compelling new hospitality proposition. Spaces were redefined as private suites and delightful ancillary settings such as the library bar, private dining rooms and parlour. What were some of the influences that shaped your design concept? The interiors borrow from the tonality and moving textures of surrounding gardens and wetlands, combining elegant statement pieces typical of the homestead style with modern detailing and brilliant colour. Crisp plaster pendants, sheer drapery and bold artworks by the likes of Marnie Haddad and Paul Ryan imbue the homestead with contemporary inflections. Exaggerating scale and form, the interior reinvigorates the experience of Stamford to be more ceremonial and whimsical, crafting an enchanting and memorable experience for guests. How would you describe the completed interior? Stamford Park is both classic and contemporary in its design sensibility. The interior strikes a fine balance; at once disrupting and reinvigorating the typical homestead style, resulting in a finely curated place of hospitality, serenity and celebration. What informed the selection of furniture, art, fittings and finishes? Reclaimed and locallymade furniture pieces have a focus on sustainability. 1950s chandeliers, burled birch plinths, Victorian dining chairs, leather armchairs and timber cabinetry are thoughtfully restored, modified and layered with finishes to suit their new home. Made Studio handcrafted the American oak and rattan dining chairs, leather banquette seating and striking reception console, topped with red-veined marble. What are some of your favourite elements? I handmade the plaster pendant lights that reference servant bells found on the property. Rooms are meticulously layered with personal touches: an heirloom violin, a carved walking stick and artworks from a Paris flea market. brahmanperera.com.au