The existing house from the 1950s on this Mona Vale site comprised two levels, including a largely forgotten area on the lower ground floor.
In addition: “The house has not managed to optimally use its incredible position without access to the views that could have expanded the living experience,” says Benjamin Selke, director at Studio Pulp.
'The house was divided into a labyrinth of small rooms, each cut so that it felt separated and inefficient.
“It was clear that the layout required a great overhaul because the configuration of the house did not match the modern family lifestyle.”
The house with three bedrooms and two bathrooms was renovated to become a house with six bedrooms and four bathrooms over three floors.
Most of these changes were reached by new configuration of the existing rooms, with the exception of a new garage wing with two new bedrooms and a bathroom that is positioned on a half level between the existing ground floor and a newly created extension on the first floor.
“This unique positioning of the bedroom led to a feeling of separation and offers both privacy and connection to the rest of the house,” says Benjamin.
The common rooms were transformed, which emphasizes a central cuisine as part of a spacious open place that flows to the back yard with a new circular pool.
The updated lower level is self -contained (complete with bedroom, living area, kitchen and bathroom) in order to serve as a versatile grandma if necessary.
The material palette of the renovated interiors refers to the original design of the middle of the century and the coastal location of the house.
The exposed wooden ceilings were entertained, and green bathroom tiles are an allusion to olive mosaics in the original residence.
Benjamin adds: “We wanted to reinterpret the room and optimally use the increased position and the natural environment of the house and at the same time introduce this iconic design details, which made the original structure so special.
“This was the spark that led the aesthetic vision for the transformation and ensured that the house would think of both nostalgically and forwards.”
New colors in the design and styling of the house reflect the Benjamin as “living, distinctive and anything but typical”.
“They were looking for a home that contained splashes of paint and brave design decisions, but with a careful overview of the future,” he says.
The kitchen, for example, has cupboards that are painted in a soft, green-blue tone and are paired with a contrasting pink terrazzo bench.
The natural oak in key areas ensures a balance, such as on the kitchen cupboards, on the floor and in the bathroom the overall design softer and at the same time adds a layer of heat and texture.
Studio Pulp has also added a natural wood tone to the front balcony. “This supplement not only contributed to articulating the architectural lines, but also adding the depth of the exterior,” says Benjamin.
“The only bold splash of color on the outside was the front door – a pulsating color that gives the sound for what is waiting inside and offers an insight into the playful, versatile interior design.”
While technically a project for changes and additions, this property feels like a completely new house that has changed the life owners visually and practical.
'The new layout offers a slow journey through the rooms, each of its own story.
“It is a home to enjoy moments with family and friends in which oversized glazed doors remain open, the gentle breeze moves the sheer curtains and the architectural elements tell a story of history and sit calmly with its street presence,” says Benjamin.
“With a careful balance between light, space, color and architectural references to the design of the middle of the century, we created a home that felt personally, timeless and ultimately.”