ArchShowcase Sumit Singhal
Sumit Singhal loves modern architecture. He comes from a family of builders who have built more than 20 projects in the last ten years near Delhi in India. He has recently started writing about the architectural projects that catch his imagination. Bellevue Hill House by Madeleine Blanchfield ArchitectsJuly 21st, 2019 by Sumit Singhal
Article source: Madeleine Blanchfield Architects This project was to remodel the interiors of a large art deco house. The existing planning was convoluted so we created vistas through various rooms and a circular vestibule to tie together unconnected spaces. Simple materials in keeping with the existing house were used and found elements we uncovered were showcased.
Describe the project The brief was to retain the heritage character of the house, bring clarity to the layout and modernise the spaces, especially the kitchen. The family of 5 liked that the house had distinct rooms. They spent a lot of time in the kitchen which, unlike other rooms, had no view. Other parts of the house were rarely used as they had no visual connection. An open plan kitchen wasn’t appropriate as there was already a huge formal dining room, so we created a separate eat in kitchen that was large and casual, with a fireplace and dining table. We demolished several walls to make a clean, simple space then lined the walls with oak to strengthen the notion of the kitchen as a whole and separate room. The result is a warm and cocooned space with oak lined reveals and openings into the various other areas in the house, which are painted white and have high ornate ceilings and detailing. The new veneer walls were matched to the existing timber flooring. We selected lighting and furniture that were contemporary but had the qualities of classic art deco design. Why is the project an example of excellent interior design The project deals with the delicate task of modernising an art deco home. It uses materials and details that are sympathetic to the existing house but brings clarity to the layout and circulation. In particular it revisits the functionality of an older style ‘eat in’ kitchen and makes it appropriate for contemporary family life. Found elements such as sandstone walls were embraced in the design, which developed fluidly as the existing building was uncovered. This approach reduced the need for new materials and instilled the character of the old elements. What are the truly innovative aspects of the design The design departs from the current trend of open plan kitchens and explores using the cooking space in a different way. The timber panelling is a nod to the timber lined, insular rooms of past eras. Light is introduced from different sources such as skylights and splashbacks. It demonstrates how thoughtful design can make a room cosy and appealing even when it has larger rooms with views to compete with. Contact Madeleine Blanchfield Architects
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