Inspired by the informal park-side setting and informed by the formality of the Art Deco architecture of the building, Woollahra Residence draws on the layering, tonal colour and textural materiality found in nature and the decorative craftsmanship found in Art Deco design.

The clients desired “quiet simplicity”, which became the core of our brief, an essay in balance, quietly telling a story. The material palette was carefully considered to ensure a sophisticated yet pared back aesthetic was present throughout the space. A Subtle nod to Art deco materials, beautifully detailed storage, an emphasised curved arch and feature lighting for day and night, in the earthy textures and nature-inspired colours set the tone upon entry and are reflective of the clients desire for timeless and beautifully restrained design.

The kitchen has been designed to be as beautiful as it is practical, offering an abundance of storage and surface space. Timeless and robust stone counters, warm textures and pale toned cabinetry harmonise with the other areas of the home while feeling fresh and contemporary. The natural and imperfect quality of the handmade tiles employed in both the kitchen and bathroom offer a sense of restrained luxury. The subtle lustre juxtaposes the quiet and minimal quality of the matte materials and surfaces they sit beside, such as terrazzo flooring and the pale hues of the cabinetry.

The living and dining spaces continue to focus on soft layering of textures, complementing the character of the apartment and the site’s natural bushland, creating a unified space from the inside out. Bespoke cabinetry was designed for both spaces and allows the clients to display and store beloved books and treasured objects as well as house and conceal electronics and paperwork. A softer approach is taken for the bedroom, designed as a space for rest and respite, seeing harmonious textures and hues create a calming, tonal palette. The provision of wall-to-wall storage allows for the space to be kept restful and free of visual clutter, delivering a laid-back, sophisticated refuge within the home, offering and embodying the idea of quiet simplicity.

Photography by Damian Bennett