A young family of four briefed Studio Doherty on a renovation of their bay side home, calling for their small double-fronted weatherboard cottage to be converted into a fun, energetic larger home filled with colour and character. The front of the home was retained and a two-storey extension was added by Techne Architects. The extension was based on the form of a contemporary shipping container which helped shape our interior response – reflecting this simple utilitarian aesthetic while using materiality, bold graphic shapes, robust finishes and strong blocks of colour to fulfil the brief.
The original front of house and new extension are separated by a perforated black folded screen which not only acts as a visual separation, but also an interesting feature. Cutouts in the screen are designed specifically for colourful Dinosaur Design vases. A mid-grey tile separates and defines the step up from old to new, while three irregular sized box-like timber steps lead upstairs, with solid messmate flooring throughout.
Painted timber lining boards extend from the living room ceiling into the undercover outdoor area to give a continuous detail and punch of colour. Speaking of colour we brought more into the home with pendant lights, bright orange carpet, a large sliding door with a bespoke paint-drip feature and unusual powder-coated mirrors – three different colours in the kids’ bathroom and a large bright-blue mirror in the ensuite.
Perforated steel mesh paneling, white brick fireplace, a deep-boxed timber-framed window in the living, terrazzo, checkerboard wall paneling and graphic-patterned tiles all come together and create this highly graphic aesthetic. Pale woodgrain used on the joinery throughout softens the look, while folded leather handles and custom cork mirrors in the bathroom add an element of interest and raw luxury.
The black and white wall paneling is yet another strong graphic detail, not only adding a playful element, but also a personal touch. The client is a pub owner and was keen on a kooky display solution for his wine and beer. This grid-clad structure is a laminate box that surrounds the pantry and features 14 circular cutouts for bottles, which can only be accessed from behind the pantry