Simple in principle

Drawing inspiration from, and adapting an existing style to suit a contemporary lifestyle has long been common practice in architectural circles. The secret to an enduring design lies in finding a style that itself has stood the test of time.

Richard Archer, of architectural firm Archer+Wright, says he has long been inspired by the work of noted English architect Charles Voysey, and the featured project gave him the opportunity to revisit some of the aspects of the Arts and Crafts style that Voysey endorsed.

"Voysey is renowned for a number of significant country houses, and his style is considered a precursor to Modernism. For a house of this period, with a brief to create a home that would suit a growing family, and that would permit entertaining on a grand scale it made perfect sense to me to seek inspiration in his work."

Proponents of the Arts and Crafts style extolled the virtues of craftsmanship over the increasingly machine-dependent, overly decorated style that was typical of the late-Victorian period.

Unadorned lines and simple interiors were a particular hallmark that Archer has used throughout this project.

"Limiting the material palette to timber, marble and a neutral paint finish was not only in keeping with the home's original style, it allowed the views to sing, and the spaces to flow into each other."

To ensure the interior architecture and design were of the same standard, Archer worked closely with longtime collaborator Glenda Barnes of Glenda Barnes Design.

"At Archer+Wright, we believe it's important that architecture and interior design are fully integrated," says Archer. "Glenda and I worked out the detailing and materials for this project right at the beginning of the process.

"The use of marble on the staircase as a delineating material between carpet and timber flooring is a case in point. The marble acts as a guide, inviting visitors upstairs both visually and physically. This is a modern take on the processional staircases traditionally found in grand country homes."

Another traditional element to receive a modern makeover is the timber-panelled formal dining room where heavy, dark timbers have been replaced by a visually lighter motif.

"We used anigre panelling in the formal dining room not only to add warmth to the space, but also as a reinterpretation of the traditional timber panelling found in formal homes. Shadow lines lend an element of ornamentation, but the whole look is in keeping with Arts and Crafts principles of simplicity."

Upstairs, the minimal material palette remains, but with a few additions. In the master suite, timber panelling has been augmented with silk panels, while the timber flooring favoured downstairs gives way to silk and soy carpeting.

Archer says it was important that the overall theme of restraint be incorporated into these personal rooms as well.

"This I think is the true success of this home the sense of harmony that flows from one space to another, from public space to private."

Story by: Justin Foote