By Justine Olivier, Project Consultant Stacey Cowden, Photography Grant Pitcher
It takes vision to dramatically transform something into what it is not, and vision is exactly what these home owners had. The owners converted a 1952 one-bedroom home into a quasi-Tuscan abode, based on similar designs that they had seen while visiting the more rural parts of Tuscany.
Maintaining the authentic feel, the owners chose to keep all the old oregan floors, which were then white-washed to create a contemporary, light and free-flowing ambience in the home. Contributing towards this ambience, all interior walls were taken down to open up the public spaces, with the lounge area being extended as well as the kitchen forming part of this design.
Using their own sense of design flair the owners chose to decorate the interiors themselves. With a predominantly classical theme, the interior ties together harmoniously with a touch of eclectic style.
Each space speaks of the owners’ unique tastes and their adventures from their numerous trips overseas to India, Europe and Morocco. “I enjoy mixing up the old with the new; using recycled furniture, including reupholstered pieces – why throw away perfectly good dining room chairs and lounge suites when to recover them in a fantastic fabric would add a totally new dimension to your home?” adds the resident.
With a fairly neutral palette throughout the house, colour is ingeniously brought in through the use of soft furnishings and decor items. As the owner works from home, the study (which is his workspace) was brought to life with red and cream and has been further complemented by old oak furniture and original oil paintings to infuse and cultivate an atmosphere of creativity. This room was superbly finished off by the central placement of a Persian carpet.
More than pleased with the end result of their home, these owners showcase what having a clear-cut vision, essential planning and a structured follow through plan can achieve.
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