Central to the success of this project is the seamless link between interior and exterior zones. The external zones free-flow off the interior to create a sophisticated yet secluded space to lounge, entertain and dine.

Hood House is a playful protector that respects the heritage character of Carlton North whilst celebrating purposeful change. It is a luxurious yet compact and hyper-functional home defined by an exploration of contrast: it is ornamental and restrained, subdued and lively, stately and casual, compartmental and open. For us, it is also a project with an unusual history. This dual-natured renovation evolved through the ownership of two separate clients. Originally intended to accommodate the needs of a young family of four, we shifted gears at the eleventh hour and adapted a thoroughly resolved design solution to the needs of only two. From a young, nuclear family to a blended adult one, our design solution was put to a test of flexibility. The result is a subtle renovation almost invisible from the street yet dramatic in its expressive qualities. An oblique view from the northwest reveals the playful zigzag of the new roof, the rippling metal hood. This is a form-making exercise that connects old to new as well as establishing spatial drama in what might otherwise have been utilitarian rooms upstairs. A simple palette of Australian hardwood timbers and white surfaces are complimented by tactile splashes of brass and rich moments of colour that reveal themselves from behind closed doors. Our internal joke is that Hood House is like Lazarus, risen from the ashes. We’re grateful that almost six years of hard work have culminated in this beautiful, protective and playful house, and so pleased that Glenda and Alistair get to call it home.

THE BAREFOOT BAY VILLA

The Designory

Hill House

Kaiko Design Interiors

Main living space - Dulux Terracotta Chip paint on the upper and ceiling with Dulux suede effect in matching colour to lower Dado. Matching curved sofas with graphic black and white accents. All lighting custom designed - shop today at Kaiko Design

MIDDLE HARBOUR

ATELIER ALWILL

Research Outer Eastern Melbourne

Substance Within

Port Melbourne Residence

MR.MITCHELL

Contemporary Living Room

Fingal

Rebekah Hampshire

Rosanna Family Home

Sally Feeney Interior Design Pty Ltd

Through the use of form and texture, we gave these spaces added dimension and soul. What was a flat blank wall is now the focus for the Family Room and includes a fireplace, TV and storage.

High House

Dieppe Design

Martis Camp_Thunderbird Circle

Emily Roose Interiors

This warm, elegant, and inviting great room is complete with rich patterns, textures, fabrics, wallpaper, stone, and a large custom multi-light chandelier that is suspended above. The two way fireplace is covered in stone and the walls on either side are covered in a knot fabric wallpaper that adds a subtle and sophisticated texture to the space. A mixture of cool and warm tones makes this space unique and interesting. The space is anchored with a sectional that has an abstract pattern around the back and sides, two swivel chairs and large rectangular coffee table. The large sliders collapse back to the wall connecting the interior and exterior living spaces to create a true indoor/outdoor living experience. The cedar wood ceiling adds additional warmth to the home.

Apartment 402, Ahmedabad

Abhishek Shah

Modern Living Room

Beverly Hills Modern

Lori Dennis, ASID, LEED AP

Modern Living Room with floor to ceiling grey slab fireplace face. Dark wood built in bookcase with led lighting nestled next to modern linear electric fireplace. Contemporary white sofas face each other with dark black accent furniture nearby, all sitting on a modern grey rug. Modern interior architecture with large picture windows, white walls and light wood wall panels that line the walls and ceiling entry.

VERDE URBANO

Annalisa Carli Architetto

Soggiorno con carta da parati prospettica e specchiata divisa da un pilastro centrale. Per esaltarne la grafica e dare ancora più profondità al soggetto abbiamo incorniciato le due pareti partendo dallo spessore del pilastro centrale ed utilizzando un coloro scuro. Color block sulla parete attrezzata e divano della stessa tinta. Foto Simone Marulli

Formal Sitting Room

Sara Slade Interiors

It is a luxury to have two sitting rooms, but with a house with many floors and a family it really helps! This room was designed to have a calmer area for the family to sit together and for this reason we calmed the colours down o give it a softer feel. A large rug in the room and floor to ceiling curtains really elevates the space, whilst taking the textured wallpaper around the room ensures the room feels luxurious and warm.

Ameublement et décoration d'une pièce de vie dans une maison contemporaine

Aix-Lyone

Contemporary Games Room

Studio Fabbri

Contemporary Living Design Ideas

The best room for gathering with your family and friends in a cosy environment is your living room or family room. You want to hang out where the lounge furniture is the most comfortable and sofas or chairs create a sense of homeliness. Filling this important space with cheap furniture is unlikely to bring you the same long-lasting comfort as a quality chaise lounge or a couch. These choices will directly affect the quality of your evenings as you wind down from the daily grind. While planning a renovation or redesign, weigh up the priorities of seating, heating, an entertainment unit and bookcases. Identify your main activity in the room and and design around that. Many contemporary living rooms aren't complete without a fireplace, but if you can't accommodate that, invest in built-in or furniture that suits your home. Common trends include Danish furniture and other kinds of Scandinavian furniture. Plush sofas, recliner chairs and sofa beds will always be popular. Finally, when the big components are planned out, think about what colour scheme and decor will best suit you and your family. If needed, an interior designer can help here.

Should I include a fireplace in my living room or family room?

Depending on your climate, a fireplace might be a great way to add warmth and interest to your living space. Even if your location is warm year-round, you can always add a faux fireplace or nonfunctioning fireplace as part of your decor. There are many options to choose from, so be sure to check them out. A wood-burning fireplace gives an authentic experience, though a gas one still emits heat without the mess. A double-sided or corner unit strays from the ordinary, or you can go with a wood stove fireplace if you're looking for a piece of art. If you want a contemporary touch, veer away from the traditional wood or tile mantel by going with stone, concrete or metal instead.

What kind of built-ins should I add to my living room?

Although it might not seem glamorous, having enough storage is instrumental when it comes to keeping the room organised and practical. Built-in bookcases, shelves and cabinets are a great way to add hidden, functional storage for all the knickknacks you accumulate. Movie and gaming buffs will love a custom entertainment centre, with enough cabinets for movies, speakers and electronic accessories; you can even create a media room with a projector and lounge chairs! If you still have room to spare, include a booth for homework or craft projects.

How do I decorate my home interiors?

When it comes to decorating, neutrals are always the safe option because they look good and never go out of style. They also give any artwork you hang enough breathing space. If you do want to try out a bolder colour scheme, add colour with walls and contemporary accessories. That way, if you get sick of a colour, you can quickly repaint the walls and find new knickknacks, instead of having to replace your sofas every time trends change. Popular colours include blue, green and grey, but don't be afraid to try bright colours like red or yellow, even if it's just on an accent wall. Finally, make sure there is plenty of light. Recessed or track lighting are great ways to hit every corner — better yet, add more natural light by installing additional windows or a skylight.