Gifted a clean slate on which to build a new dwelling for a family in an enviable location, Madeleine Blanchfield of Madeleine Blanchfield Architects used the site’s limitations, such as extreme weather and proximity to heavily used public land, as inspiration to manifest an outstanding result. What was the brief? The house was a typical beachside semi-detached with its side fence running the length of Marks Park. The client had owned it for many years and engaged us to knock it down and rebuild.
The family of five with young children wanted to create a unique home and maximise the benefits of the site, its location and views. What were the challenges of the site and how did you resolve them? The greatest challenges were the narrowness of the site and the fact that it is attached to an old-style semi on one side. On the other hand there is an extraordinary 270-degree view from the upper level, so the challenge was worth taking on. Are there any particular considerations when designing a home in a coastal setting? The site is subject to extreme weather at times.
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DAYS OF HEAVEN
A new build in the Adelaide Hills presents the opportunity to create an interior befitting the home’s glorious surrounds.
CHERRY ON TOP
Set against neutral tones, the final flourish on this newly renovated heritage home in Melbourne is a bright pop of powerfully accented red.
Double vision
Two in one has a special significance for this home in Sydney’s eastern suburbs. One of a pair by the same practice, it also has both public and private personas.
Breaking out
An elevated platform in the warehouse office of Studio Prineas creates a dedicated zone for staff to congregate and collaborate.
nature spirit
Embraced by its bushy hinterland habitat, a newly built family home radiates an aura of peace and harmony.
LIFE ENHANCING
An elegant layering of lush patterns, rich colours and bespoke pieces has enveloped this home in warmth and created a welcoming ambience for a large extended family.
PENTHOUSE pleasures
This lofty retreat presented fertile potential but also posed some tricky challenges for its enterprising designer.
SECOND CHANCES
Contemporary artwork and new openings have lightened the mood at this renovated 1930s family home in Melbourne.
Silver lining
With a look of maturity that belies its youth, an additional wing to a humble cottage, plus inspired makeovers inside and out, have transported this property to another realm.
WHITER SHADE of PALE
A neutral palette promotes a calm and elegant mood in this expansive Sydney home that is furnished with a judicious selection of antiques juxtaposed against contemporary art.