With respect to the past

An important part of a period renovation is accentuating the charm of the original home. Even subtle changes can help emphasise past glories.

This turn-of-the-century villa renovation is by interior designer Vicki Whittle, in close partnership with architect Bruce Shadwick and owners Dawn and Chris Anderson. The project was substantial, with many period elements restored or replaced, and new rooms added for improved functionality and to bring out the original character.

"On the outside, a new double front door was added, filigree restored and an original dormer reinstated," Whittle says. "Interior work improved the flow of spaces, introduced a new kitchen and dining room and brought more natural light into the rooms."

At the heart of the interior, a kitchen and dining area were swapped and a wall knocked down between the new kitchen space and an existing flat. Whittle says that removing the wall allowed them to claim the adjacent area for the kitchen and a new family room, and flooded the enlarged space with light from new external windows and doors.

A bulkhead was added in the kitchen to help disguise differences in ceiling heights and the modern pantry was built around an original brick flue. This was partly to retain a reference to the home's past in the new kitchen and also to enable ongoing use of the fireplace in the living room, on the other side of the wall.

"Another area of focus was the stairwell," says Whittle. "This was raised and rebuilt on the central landing to free up ceiling space for the kitchen and to help reconcile the ceiling levels. We increased the size of the entrance to the attic and added a window."

The residence's master suite was also revamped, and an adjacent sunroom was transformed into the master bathroom. The old bathroom became a walk-in wardrobe.

"Where possible, existing details, such as the living room ceiling battens, were restored, and windows added to bring more light into the interiors," Whittle says. "As a result, the refit celebrates the original atmosphere of the house. Even though the kitchen is almost entirely new, the colours help draw everything together."

Story by: Trendsideas