Issue 34 February/March 2010
An original 1970s flat has been thoughtfully converted into a designer family home.
Words Soraya Nicholas Photography Simon Devitt & Thomas Law
Over six years ago, architectural designer Richard Furze and wife Rebecca decided to buy a 1970s flat as a rental. But after spending more time at the property, they quickly decided that the views were too great to pass up. After six months of living in the very original dwelling, they had come up with plenty of ideas for what they would like to do. The bright, garish wall tones and rambling exterior was not part of the picture they had in mind, but Richard knew that beneath the façade, there were some great bones to work with.
“It took a couple of years to develop the idea for the design,” says Richard. “It was a matter of considering what we wanted from the home, and creating a design to suit both the house and our needs.”
Indoor/outdoor flow was high on the agenda, as was maximising solar gain, ensuring privacy, and being true to the original design. “I was conscious of leaving distinct traces of the 1970s character, such as the block walls and the original handrail. I wanted to be honest about what it was, while putting my own modern spin on the design.”
The house also had to grow with Richard and Rebecca. When they first moved into the dwelling and started the design process, it was just the two of them, but now the house is also home to daughter, Claudia (2). This meant that the addition of a third bedroom was crucial to the design.
“It works just as well as a family home as it did when there was just the two of us,” comments Richard. “It’s very easy, especially the living area, because Claudia can be playing and we are in the same space with her. You can be cooking and still keeping an eye on her.”
The outdoor room is another great space for both children and adults. It is a safe area for Claudia, and a fantastic spot for entertaining. “The best thing is that it’s covered, so in summer you can be protected from the hot midday sun, but in winter the sun can flow straight into the kitchen.” It is also very private, with strategically placed windows keeping the area light, without allowing neighbours to look in.
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