From the outside, this Federation style home showcases its true elegance and classic heritage charm. Walk inside and it’s been impeccably restored to its former glory.
With the addition of a modern, open plan extension, this home blurs the lines between heritage and modern architecture. We were delighted to take a look around with lead designer, Priscilla Elasi of The Stylesmiths.
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Bringing The Stylesmiths on board for this renovation project was pure genius. Anything they touch turns to design-gold.
Receiving a brief from their client to create a home for ‘liveability’, Priscilla well and truly delivered on that promise. This home in Burwood in Western Sydney strikes the perfect balance between everyday living for the family of 5, as well as providing plenty of entertaining space.
The family were keen to honour the home’s original features. Being a beautiful Federation style home, it was important to hero the gorgeous, intricate details that made the family fall in love with the home in the first place.
“These features remain the quiet heroes that inspired every decision,” explains Priscilla.
The interior extension demonstrates blending moments from the past with modern, timeless and uncomplicated design.
And while the modern extension is where most of the magic happened, Priscilla’s team also showed the original features a bit of love.
From the upcycled copper stone used to retile the front doorstep, to the architectural moulding and beautiful archways that grace the front entrance hall. It’s clear this renovation project was given the respect and time it deserved.
As you walk through the property, there’s clear definition between old and new. But tastefully so. The front reading room is rich in layers of deep navy with statement furniture pieces that compliment the fabulous fireplace.
What’s clever is seeing how Priscilla takes inspiration from here, and uses it throughout the modern extension. The authentic vintage crystal chandelier that takes pride of place in this space was the revelation that led to the use of handblown glass for all the new contemporary light fixtures throughout the rest of the home.
The main open plan living space is a modern paradise, but still merges seamlessly with the original Federation style home.
Described as a, ‘European-inspired peaceful flow’ this great room houses the kitchen, dining and living spaces. It’s also the access point to the expansive backyard, with its ocean blue, kidney-shaped pool. And let’s not forget that ridiculously fun-looking slide!
Everywhere you look, there’s texture and detail. Yet it all blends harmoniously. Handmade, slightly imperfect Moroccan Zellige tiles add depth to the kitchen splashback. Pared with the porcelain back bench and marble island with its contrasting deep walnut lower-half, it’s the kitchen of dreams.
Made for large family events, the ten-seater solid timber dining table is enormous, yet somehow feels in proportion to the space.
Steel and glass bi-fold doors and skylights flood the space with natural light, softened by pure linen curtains.
“In a calm, tonal space such as this, where colourful decoration is restrained, playing with tactile materials [was the] perfect way to build character and interest,” says Priscilla.
In the living room, a double-sided wood fireplace adds that wonderful cosy element. The perfect spot to unwind after a long day and admire this incredible home.
Photography — Fiona Susanto
Thank you to Priscilla Elasi and the whole of The Stylesmiths team for taking us on a tour of this charming Federation home… with a modern twist. Be sure to take a look at The Stylesmiths website to discover all of their projects, or take a look through their Instagram page.
Do you love the blend of modern vs traditional? Did you have a favourite element to this home? Tell us in the comment section below.
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