On a compact 320sqm site, the designers of this cosy abode have set a shining example of how with thoughtful design and inspired use of materials, it really is possible to do more with less.
The overall vibe of the home is relaxed, with a feeling of tranquillity. For the owners, a young couple and their happy hound, the modest light-filled home is perfect for their relaxed lifestyle. Designer Janik Dalecki says they are gardening enthusiasts and lovers of Mid-Century Australian design. “The clients were keen to create a three-bedroom, two-bathroom home with a calm, minimalist atmosphere fostering strong connections between indoor and outdoor spaces,” he says.
The clients were first-home buyers (and builders), so budget was a potential constraint for them. However, the designers rose to the challenge, creating a beautiful dwelling that delivers on style and liveability. The house combines render, shiplap cladding and brickwork textures, as well as timber battens and panelling. Janik says it was important that the design had a sense of unity and flow, that the lines between interior and exterior spaces were blurred. “Upon entry, an external ‘hit-and-miss’ brick wall appears to sail into the interior, establishing a feeling of continuity between indoor and outdoor volumes,” he explains.
Inside, the warm interiors are light-filled and welcoming. Of the design and architecture, Janik describes it as a clever twist on Mid-Century Modern. In its purest form, this style is characterised by clean lines, with a blend of organic and geometric design. Here, some cosier elements than purist Mid-Century Modern design are artfully infused. “Minimalist fittings, warm floor tiling and a combination of rectilinear
and organic forms reinterpret the restraint of mid-century design, presenting warm and enduring environments to support family life,” explains Janik.
The kitchen, dining and living areas are open plan, spaces where the family can gather together. The space is expansive, with a soaring living room ceiling. The sweeping bulkhead over the kitchen has a
commanding presence. “Layered with planting, it mimics the sculpted form of the island bench below and gently binds and softens the transition between spaces,” says Janik.
The thoughtful use of materiality is apparent in every aspect of this project. Janik says the interior’s crisp palette is interjected with a series of timber cabinetry accents. “These echo the architecture’s striking material contrasts,” he notes.
There are so many captivating aspects of this build that embody thoughtful design. One of Janik’s favourite is the open-plan living area. “In particular, the different levels/heights and lines that all work together to separate the spaces within the open-plan volume, especially the curved kitchen bulkhead,” he enthuses. “And that plant shelf is to die for!”
With a stellar 10-star energy rating, passive solar design principles are at the heart of the design. Of course, there are also plenty of other eco-friendly measures. These include double glazing; high-level
insulation; construction methods including framed, double-brick and reverse-brick veneer; ceiling fans; LED lighting, a rainwater tank and solar PV.
The Bromley is a shining example that defi es the notion that for those with a modest budget, you’re limited to volume builders. “This is a great example of a lower-cost custom home that provides not
only something beautiful, but also functional and of high quality,” says Janik.
This project was particularly enjoyable for the designer as the client was a friend. “This was a little different to the larger-scale, higher-budget projects we are more familiar with,” says Janik. “It was a real
pleasure to work with a friend to bring their dream project to life.”
