Living Legacy

Putting a contemporary spin on a grand old home has completely reinvigorated it for a new generation.

- Carli Philips

A deceased estate of epic proportions, this house in Melbourne’s beach side suburb of Brighton was a messy rabbit warren of rooms when it went up for sale. To make it liveable would be a daunting task that required immense foresight, and this young family of five were the only bidders come auction day. The inherent conviction of “just knowing” its potential was a sure thing for designer Mardi Doherty’s clients, Alexandra and Brodie. Its vastness was overwhelming, but after a sensitive refurbishment, it has come into its own, a home “very much of the moment with proud references to its rich and important heritage”, says Mardi.