The Monochromatic Renovation of This Victorian Cottage Proves That Colour is Overrated
Taking up residence in a prime piece of perfectly-manicured real estate in the picturesque harbourside suburb of Darling Point, this home that has been altered and added to by local architects Alexander & Co. is a delicate exercise in the art of combining heritage roots with a contemporary sensibility. As has become the norm for architect Jeremy Bull and his award-winning design team, this project is imbued with an air of handmade craftsmanship that sets it apart from the other blue-chip homes this Victorian gem calls its neighbours. Elegant yet youthful, Darling Point breathes contemporary life into a historic cottage for a young family to enjoy for generations to come.
When you enter the gates of this modest brick facade, you'll most likely be awed by the trail of navy and white tessellated floor tiles before you've even reached the front door. A nod to heritage? Tick. Fun? Another tick. You get the impression you're in for something unique when you finally make it inside and are greeted by a compact vestibule finished with curvy sculptures and a brass sconce that ultimately sets the tone for the overall palette inside. The light-filled transitional space quickly leads you into the rest of the living areas, where chalky oak floors change the atmosphere instantly and let you know that this is a place for relaxation. A beautifully-resolved staircase mixes ornate curves with sleek lines to separate private spaces from communal areas and maintains a sense of grandeur that you'd expect from a home of this calibre.
That clever play of organic lines and sharp edges is a tactic Bull has adopted throughout to keep the property from feeling too serious. Shapely armchairs mingle with angular table legs for an aesthetic that keeps your eye wandering throughout a room, never knowing which expertly-curated piece to land on next. It's safe to say that it's impossible to pick a favourite furniture piece, with heirlooms from Knoll, Minotti and Tom Dixon scattered across this gorgeous four-bedroom home. With a delicate, slightly feminine touch, the resounding colour scheme here is natural, where artisanal ceramics, wood grains and stone textures take centre stage. A supporting cast of browns, beige and greys filter through in Armadillo & Co. rugs and monochrome wall art that do their bit to enhance the laidback luxury vibe that's evident here. The addition of brass feature lighting that will develop its own distinct patina over time is like a piece of jewellery that ties the home together.
Both brand new and brimming with a rich history, Darling Point is an exciting display of a sympathetic and cutting edge solution to contemporary living where the role of heritage custodianship comes into play. By reconfiguring the layout, electing classic and robust materials, and looking to longevity in terms of interior decoration, this cottage is set to become the new contemporary classic.
Images courtesy of Alexander & Co. Photography by Tom Ferguson.
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