Contemporary balances character

Designed by Rebecca Bailey Design

From the interior design studio:

A full renovation from concept to completion 

The brief was to design each space in a contemporary, bold and unique aesthetic, using colour, texture and light to create ambience throughout while still maintaining the character features of the 1900s villa. 

Luxurious yet practical was key in creating a harmonious environment suitable for a busy young family.

The result was dramatic, sophisticated and luxe. 

Every detail was carefully considered using commercial grade finishes to accommodate the harsh reality of day-to-day family living with young children and pets. 

Design principles such as vertical lines were deliberately replicated in multitude, subconsciously linking the spaces together creating a sense of harmony and cohesiveness throughout.

The kitchen

The brief for the kitchen was contemporary and minimalistic with a soothing yet bold colour palette of neutrals, black and gold, with textural undertones.

The original 1970s kitchen was knocked through to create an open-plan kitchen / dining area more conducive to entertaining.

Structural beams were hidden in the ceiling and gibbed to counteract the differing ceiling heights and angles, giving it a more contemporary feel.

A stand-out feature was the dramatic veining of the bookmatched porcelain tile splashback and island. 

An addition of strip lighting under the island benchtop casts a shadow highlighting the simple lines of the fluted detail, adding depth and ambience.

A winning combination of the raw 3D mosaic splashback and the warm strip lighting draws attention to the hidden bar with pocket doors featuring an integrated bar fridge for easy entertaining.

The custom-made, commercial-grade burnt orange velveteen booth seat steals the show, drawing inspiration from the warm undertones of the porcelain tile in the open-plan kitchen/dining area.

Main bathroom

The porcelain tile is mirrored in the main bathroom vanity benchtop creating a backdrop for the warm palette of greys, black and brushed brass tapware. 

A ‘dog-leg’ entry was awkward and intrusive so the walls were removed and replaced with a floor-to-ceiling reeded glass shower panel – opening up the space while adding another layer of dimension to the overall aesthetic.

Master ensuite

Breaking from the norm, the brief for the master ensuite was bold, dramatic and unique with an industrial twist. 

A resulting 900 x 900 Italian glossy wall tile demands attention alongside the juxtaposition of the matte industrial Doric concrete basin and ECC pendant lighting.

The custom-made corner shower was specified to combat the challenge of a compact space. 

A smoky glass screen seamlessly blends into the background so as to not compete with the other ‘heroes’ in the room.

The dramatic palette of black and white with brushed brass accents together with the Buster & Punch industrial door hardware throughout is a subtle nod to the rest of the house.

The master bedroom draws reference to the vertical lines with the full-width velveteen custom-made headboard giving it a sense of luxury while maximising the spatial dimensions of the room. 

The overall visual effect is bold, well balanced yet practical and wouldn't look out of place in a five star luxury resort.

Designed by: Rebecca Bailey Design

Story by: Trendsideas

Photography by: Kate Burton-Brown