The Southdowns Residence

The Southdowns Residence was approached as a careful balance between preservation and transformation, retaining the character of the original home while removing the dated red and orange tones and introducing a darker, more refined material language.

Existing timber flooring was preserved through the principal living areas and kitchen, while terracotta tiled and carpeted zones were reworked with new finishes including solid timber herringbone flooring and a custom concrete screed with brass detailing. Original face brick was retained and painted black, with black door and window frames and brass hardware creating a consistent architectural language throughout.

More substantial interventions included the complete redesign of the bathrooms and cabinetry, as well as major changes to the primary bedroom through a new false ceiling, integrated LED lighting and concealed air conditioning. The existing fireplace was renovated and grounded with a solid marble hearth slab, giving it greater presence while retaining its place within the original architecture. The open loft office was enclosed with new glass flooring and glazing to create privacy and acoustic separation while maintaining its visual connection to the double volume living space.

Externally, the pool, patio and landscaping were completely reworked. Existing furniture was also retained where appropriate and refinished using specialist paint techniques, allowing familiar pieces to remain part of the home while sitting comfortably within the new scheme.

The result is a layered and atmospheric residence that combines traditional detailing, country character, dark contemporary finishes, warm timber and brass accents without losing the sense of history that made the original home distinctive.