This modern home, renovated by Smith & Sons Ryde, boasts supreme indoor/outdoor flow, an open-plan interior and a pergola-covered outdoor space with seating by the pool.
It’s hard to tell just by looking at it, but the previous incarnation of this Sydney home comprised a series of enclosed spaces that lacked functional flow or sufficient natural light. Housing a dated 1960s-style kitchen and bathroom, the dwelling featured a living space that was less than ideal, particularly considering the inhabitants’ penchant for entertaining.
Owners Luke and Vanessa were after a modern, industrial aesthetic for their home. “After spending many a Christmas or family celebration at their house, it became evident the planning didn’t accommodate Luke and Vanessa’s love of entertaining,” says designer Monika Branagan. “The new open-plan layout allows more natural light to flow into the space and the new doors and canteen-style window provide a great flow between outdoor and indoor living.”
Working within the existing footprint, the internal renovation comprised work to the kitchen and laundry. The new kitchen features appliances and fittings from Smeg, Franke and Caroma. With a statement gantry over the island, the kitchen provides the owners with plenty of space, while the laundry incorporates wine storage as well as washing facilities. The kitchen opens out onto the living and dining area, which leads directly to the back deck and new pergola that was constructed using blackbutt posts.
To complement the dark flooring (Cyprus tongue-and-groove boards stained black), Monika set about creating a strong black-and-white contrast with industrial pops coming through in the kitchen’s concrete-look benchtops and concrete-look feature paint. To cement the industrial vibe, the overhead shelving exudes strong industrial charm, softened with styled planting and VJ ceiling lining. “I copied the detailing of the existing doors and added a mosaic tile feature floor to blend the existing older-style home with modern architectural details,” Monika adds. “With a large amount of space dedicated to wine storage, the net result is a home built for hospitality and great parties.”
Black and white and more than alright, this Smith & Sons renovated home is an inspiration for anyone hoping to update their tired-looking abode and improve their standard of living.
Designer Monika Branagan
Builder Pete Beeman, Smith & Sons Ryde
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