This lovely Malvern home saw a total transformation of all wet areas, including the main bathroom, ensuite, kitchen, and laundry. A professional couple with two young children, our clients tasked us with turning their newly bought Malvern property into their dream home. The property was in great condition, but the interiors were outdated and lacked the functionality to support a young family’s busy lifestyle. Because this was their forever home, we designed the spaces collaboratively with our clients focusing on nailing their aesthetic brief while providing them with a high level of functionality to suit their present and future needs. Our brief: The design needed to be child-friendly but with a sophisticated aesthetic All materials needed to be durable and have longevity A fresh, modern look with textures was a must The clients love cooking, so a kitchen that was functional as well as beautiful was paramount. The kitchen really is the central hub of this busy home, so we wanted to create a modern, bright, and welcoming space where all the family could gather and share quality time. The first thing to go was the outdated, curved floor-to-ceiling window, which didn’t align with our client’s vision for their dream home. We replaced it with large modern bi-fold stacking doors that let natural light seep in. We also removed an impractical external double door and replaced it with a tightly waterproofed servery bi-fold window, which our clients loved. The existing U-shaped kitchen was impractical with only one access, which created accessibility issues. Our solution was to completely redesign the kitchen to create an L-shaped layout with a large central island and two accesses for even flow. The table-like island was a priority in our client’s wish list because they wanted a spot where they could sit together and share meals and where the children could do homework after school. They loved the idea of sitting facing each other instead of in a line like you do in standard islands. That’s why we installed a custom-made powder-coated steel leg on the island, which looks beautiful and allows the family to sit on either side of it. To update the room’s aesthetics, we selected high-quality and durable materials for a fresh and modern look. The sleek white cabinetry features a super matt melamine finish with anti-fingerprint technology, which is low-maintenance, easy to clean and great for when there are kids in the house. To maximise every inch for functionality, we included smart storage solutions throughout the cabinetry, as well as a spacious pantry that can be tucked away when not in use. To create visual intrigue and add a textured layer to the space, we juxtaposed the smooth surfaces of the cabinetry and porcelain benchtop with a textured, hand-made look tiled splashback. The splashback is easy to maintain thanks to its epoxy grout, which is waterproof and repels dirt and grime. We also included lovely natural timber handles to add an organic touch to the design. We wanted the room to feel bright and happy, so LED downlights were evenly distributed throughout, complete with dimmers for when mood lighting was needed. We also used LED strip lighting under all overhead cabinetry and an automatic light in the pantry. The finishing touch was the lovely hub pendant above the island, which certainly takes the room’s aesthetics to the next level. To continue with the same modern tactile look in the laundry, we used a handmade square tile paired with led lighting to showcase the texture in the tile. Because the space also needed to be easy to maintain (and child friendly), we used super matt melamine with anti-fingerprint technology for the cabinetry with porcelain benchtops for ultimate durability. We used large-format tiles, which are easy to maintain and create the illusion of space, perfect for this small room. Lack of storage was solved with large floor to ceiling cupboards, which allowed us to use every inch of the room. To add a warm touch to this bright and airy space, we used circular timber handles. For the family bathroom and the ensuite, we continued the child-friendly theme by utilising large-format tiles pair with anti-fingerprint finishes for the cabinetry. In line with the modern aesthetic of the kitchen and laundry, we wanted to create a sophisticated space that felt unique to the home. Because we also wanted the bathrooms to feel calm and serene, we introduced curves in the design for a softer look and feel. The circular shape theme proposed by the custom mirrors continues in the basin, large free-standing bath and natural timber handles. The client loved the idea of using gunmetal finishes instead of the traditional chrome finish, so we selected gunmetal tapware which looks amazing paired with the custom arch mirrors. The led lighting around the mirrors provides function and form, being a decorative feature that creates mood lighting and additional task lighting. LED downlights were also evenly distributed throughout the spaces- all with dimmers for versatility. Drawers were the preferred method of storage, and they include concealed power points for practicality which was a critical point of our brief.

A residential project located in Elsternwick. Oozing retro characteristics, this nostalgic colour palette brings a contemporary flair to the bathroom. The new space poses a strong personality and sense of individuality. Behind this stylised space is a hard-wearing functionality suited to a young family.

Jenna Sue

This full home mid-century remodel project is in an affluent community perched on the hills known for its spectacular views of Los Angeles. Our retired clients were returning to sunny Los Angeles from South Carolina. Amidst the pandemic, they embarked on a two-year-long remodel with us - a heartfelt journey to transform their residence into a personalized sanctuary. Opting for a crisp white interior, we provided the perfect canvas to showcase the couple's legacy art pieces throughout the home. Carefully curating furnishings that complemented rather than competed with their remarkable collection. It's minimalistic and inviting. We created a space where every element resonated with their story, infusing warmth and character into their newly revitalized soulful home.

This master bathroom is elegant and rich. The materials used are all premium materials yet they are not boastful, creating a true old world quality. The sea-foam colored hand made and glazed wall tiles are meticulously placed to create straight lines despite the abnormal shapes. The Restoration Hardware sconces and orb chandelier both complement and contrast the traditional style of the furniture vanity, Rohl plumbing fixtures and claw foot tub. Design solutions include selecting mosaic hexagonal Calcutta gold floor tile as the perfect complement to the horizontal and linear look of the wall tile. As well, the crown molding is set at the elevation of the shower soffit and top of the window casing (not seen here) to provide a purposeful termination of the tile. Notice the full tiles at the top and bottom of the wall, small details such as this are what really brings the architect's intention to full expression with our projects. Beautifully appointed custom home near Venice Beach, FL. Designed with the south Florida cottage style that is prevalent in Naples. Every part of this home is detailed to show off the work of the craftsmen that created it.

Design & Build Team: Anchor Builders, Photographer: Andrea Rugg Photography

Ensuite bathroom with vintage & plants

Here are a couple of examples of bathrooms at this project, which have a 'traditional' aesthetic. All tiling and panelling has been very carefully set-out so as to minimise cut joints. Built-in storage and niches have been introduced, where appropriate, to provide discreet storage and additional interest. Photographer: Nick Smith

The house was originally a single story face brick home, which was ‘cut in half’ to make two smaller residences. It is on a triangular corner site, and is nestled in between a unit block to the South, and large renovated two storey homes to the West. The owners loved the original character of the house, and were keen to retain this with the new proposal, but felt that the internal plan was disjointed, had no relationship to the paved outdoor area, and above all was very cold in Winter, with virtually no natural light entering the house. The existing plan had the bedrooms and bathrooms on the side facing the outdoor area, with the living area on the other side of the hallway. We swapped this to have an open plan living room opening out onto a new deck area. An added bonus through the design stage was adding a rumpus room, which was built to the boundary on two sides, and also leads out onto the new deck area. Two large light wells open into the roof, and natural light floods into the house through the skylights above. The automated skylights really help with airflow, and keeping the house cool in the Summer. Warm timber finishes, including cedar windows and doors have been used throughout, and are a low key inclusion into the existing fabric of the house. Photography by Sarah Braden

These back to back bathrooms share a wall (that we added!) to turn one large bathroom into two. A mini ensuite for the owners bedroom, and a family bathroom for the rest of the house to share. Both of these spaces maximize function and family friendly style to suite the original details of this heritage home. We worked with the client to create a complete design package in preparation for their renovation.

This Scandinavian-style home is a true masterpiece in minimalist design, perfectly blending in with the natural beauty of Moraga's rolling hills. With an elegant fireplace and soft, comfortable seating, the living room becomes an ideal place to relax with family. The revamped kitchen boasts functional features that make cooking a breeze, and the cozy dining space with soft wood accents creates an intimate atmosphere for family dinners or entertaining guests. The luxurious bedroom offers sprawling views that take one’s breath away. The back deck is the ultimate retreat, providing an abundance of stunning vistas to enjoy while basking in the sunshine. The sprawling deck, complete with a Finnish sauna and outdoor shower, is the perfect place to unwind and take in the magnificent views. From the windows and floors to the kitchen and bathrooms, everything has been carefully curated to create a serene and bright space that exudes Scandinavian charisma. ---Project by Douglah Designs. Their Lafayette-based design-build studio serves San Francisco's East Bay areas, including Orinda, Moraga, Walnut Creek, Danville, Alamo Oaks, Diablo, Dublin, Pleasanton, Berkeley, Oakland, and Piedmont. For more about Douglah Designs, click here: http://douglahdesigns.com/ To learn more about this project, see here: https://douglahdesigns.com/featured-portfolio/scandinavian-home-design-moraga