A series of portal openings improve connections between rooms and bring extra light into this 1970s residence in Melbourne renovated by Australian practice Studio Four.
Studio Four aimed to renovate the home, which was designed by Australian architect Wayne Gillespie in 1972, to improve the internal plan and bring it up to date for contemporary living.
A series of portal openings provide views of the garden beyond (top and above)
"While the existing house was of solid build, the interiors felt lightweight by comparison and did not flow or function as desired," said Studio Four.
"Some spaces, in particular the existing kitchen, were dark and compartmentalised and did not fully harness the possible connections with the garden." Solid wood furnishings create a sense of warmth in the otherwise monochrome kitchen
Located in the city's South Yarra neighbourhood, the Cunningham Street Residence was designed by Gillespie as his first independent project and his first home.
The architect, who died in 2001, was known for his use of pure, clean lines, and combining classical design features with modern technology.
A planter is integrated between the dining table and kitchen island
"The client's brief was to provide a holistic solution," explained Studio Four.
"Their brief was to strengthen Gillespie's original vision, as opposed to creating an alternate vision that would directly contrast it."
The kitchen was relocated
Studio Four replanned th...