An extensive restoration and renovation has resulted in a luxurious family home

One couple had big ideas but needed the expertise of an interior designer to unlock the potential of their Melbourne bungalow

From little things, big things grow; and this often rings true when it comes to renovating. To be specific, from small ideas, big family homes grow. This beautifully bright and casually elegant house is a perfect case study in starting off with a simple idea then expanding in scope as new possibilities come into focus. After couple Adrianna and Chris found a great neighbourhood to buy in, they had to work out how to make the dilapidated old home they purchased more family friendly. “The house had definitely seen better days. It was completely original, and quite rundown inside and out,” says Adrianna. The pair started the renovation as soon as they settled on the purchase of the property. “We loved the stately facade but that was pretty much it – and even that needed serious restoration!”

DREAM IT.

Adrianna and Chris felt like the property was a great investment, but they found it hard to put their finger on all of the potential the block and the building offered them. “We needed a contemporary addition to the house but something that connected well to the original rooms,” says Adrianna. “We were committed to remaining true to the era of the home as well.”

All of their thoughts of renovating began with revamping the living spaces within the existing roof line. “We always imagined a home that brought us together as a family, but also allowed for quiet moments,” says Adrianna. It was interior designer Felicity Watts of Watts Studio who pulled the project into sharp focus for them. “First and foremost, this was to be a home for a young family,” says Felicity. “It was important the interior was practical, comfortable and livable.” The scope quickly grew once the family were able to unlock all the ideas Felicity gave them access to. Suddenly, a dream house was on the table.

DESIGN IT.

Bright open spaces became the catchcry of the design process. Adrianna and Chris were adamant the home needed generously sized windows and plenty of sunlight, an element too often neglected in bungalow-style houses.

Felicity didn’t waste any time in revealing the design potential of the home, collaborating with the couple, who also enlisted the expertise of building designer, Andrew Brown of Sketch Building Design. “Chris and Adrianna brought many fantastic ideas to the table,” says Felicity. “The fireplace, the window seat and the stunning white bricks are all part of Adrianna’s vision.”

The home’s interior design honed in on artisan details, natural textures and gentle finishes. “We love a neutral palette, understated luxury and beautiful design elements,” says Adrianna, who conveyed her inspirations to Felicity via screenshots from her mobile phone.

From the screenshots it was agreed that the home would showcase the best of Australian and New Zealand design. Products from local craftspeople, from the basins to the lighting, furniture and accessories, were all incorporated into the interiors. “The home encapsulates the effortless beauty of Australian design, highlighting quality workmanship and honesty of materials,” says Felicity. Of Felicity’s ideas, Adrianna says “she knew what we loved and I don’t think we ever said no to any of her suggestions.”

Combined with top-quality finishes, the home’s luxurious but never-ostentatious take on timeless style emerged, underlined with meticulous detailing for a sense of unique character.