The other strategic move made by the team was to create flexible spaces for a couple who work from home and have a young child. So, there’s a library on the first floor, complete with a mezzanine that can be used every day or for client meetings.
A spiral staircase leading to the rooftop terrace.Credit: Tom Blachford
Techne also included a separate office nook that benefits from a view into the void.
Given there are 360-degree views of the CBD on the upper levels, Techne located the kitchen and dining areas on the top level, with a spiral staircase leading to the rooftop terrace – the latter complete with a plunge pool and alfresco dining area.
Given the owner’s history as a chef, the kitchen is far from traditional and includes generous swathes of green marble and stainless-steel benches.
Cobalt blue was used on the new steel staircase.Credit: Tom Blachford
And rather than the usual butler’s kitchen concealed to one side, here the open arrangement is more of a cocktail bar as much as a place to prepare food. The existing in-situ concrete also comes to the fore, creating a play between the raw and more luxe finishes.
The word ‘sumptuous’ is often used in period homes. And this one has many lavish original details such as open marble fireplaces, decorative rosettes and cornices along with leadlight in the side panels of the front door.
But this word takes on a new meaning when one views the contemporary insertions – such as a multi-faced mirrored wall in a guest powder room, adorned with lights by Alex Earl. It makes the space appear to go on indefinitely.
Other features include the sinuous timber wine racks in the basement that are an artwork in their own right.
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“Our clients didn’t hold back with our ideas, but obviously, we followed their brief,” says Phythian, pointing out the plush cobalt blue carpet on the treads of the original staircase and a similar blue used on the new steel staircase that connects the main bedroom suite and library to the kitchen and dining area above.
Whatever could be preserved within the Victorian footprint was achieved – including a singular Corinthian column that was unearthed as part of the renovation.
“It felt like an archaeological dig at times. We certainly didn’t want to whitewash the Victorian era but we also wanted to create different experiences and not just one look or feel,” says Travers who, as with his restaurant and hospitality work, knows the importance of engagement and experience.
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