Resort style

Every decade can be defined by its architectural fashions in the 1990s it was large geometric forms, square-edged columns and cream-coloured plaster that dominated the suburban landscape.

Such exteriors were frequently bland and lacking in visual impact. Not surprisingly, many of these properties are now ripe for renovation.

The owners of this 1990s house wanted their home to better reflect their relaxed indoor-outdoor lifestyle. The alfresco living area needed to have a stronger link to the pool at the rear of the house and the owners wanted the property to reflect a tropical resort look.

Designers Jason Saunders and Nicole Tollman of arc seven.1 were commissioned to redesign the house to fit these objectives. As well as transforming the front facade, the designers provided a major change to the rear. The original 3m-long outdoor seating area was replaced with an expansive 7.2m x 5.9m outdoor pavilion incorporating a deck that cantilevers out towards the pool.

In keeping with the tropical feel, the roof is lined with dark-stained Western red cedar boards and the flooring features matching batu decking. Slate was introduced as an accent material it wraps around one side and the top of the wall facing the pool.

The textural palette was further enhanced by the use of a copper paint finish on the single enclosed wall of the room. This wall features a round window, which repeats a motif from the original portico of the house.

"The curves help to visually soften the room and balance the more geometric elements," says Saunders.

Louvres within the round window allow cross ventilation, ensuring the pavilion stays cool in summer. There are also large fabric awnings that can be dropped to provide wind protection on the other sides if required.

The fully self-contained kitchen features cedar cabinets with stainless steel trim and benchtops. Appliances include a fully integrated Fisher & Paykel bar refrigerator as well as a high-end barbecue and rangehood.

Tollman says water hyacinth furniture, a matching rug and decorative pendant lights reinforce the Balinese resort feel. Similarly, tropical plants, including frangipani, enhance the ambience.

Landscaping has also transformed the pool area. To soften an angular corner where two walls meet, Saunders created a backlit onyx panel with a centralised water feature, which is set within a whimsical, bowl-shaped sculpture of steel columns.

Story by: Trendsideas