80’s Drab To 80’s Fab

This 1980s brick-and-cedar home in Point Chevalier was an unpolished gem when we found it, full of original charm but crying out for connection, light, and thoughtful reconfiguration. Our vision was to retain the best parts of its 80s character while elevating it with a modern, textured material palette and a more intuitive flow between spaces. We reoriented the kitchen to the north to open it to the garden, added a scullery, and reworked the layout to include a guest bedroom, ensuite, and second bathroom, all without shifting the original load-bearing walls.

The interior celebrates warmth and personality: soft blue cabinetry, brass detailing, and ochre-toned quartz in the kitchen are balanced with fluted panels, travertine accents, and layered tiles in rich, earthy hues. Two curved archways guide movement between zones and set the tone for a ‘modern 80s’ aesthetic, one that’s bold yet refined. The separate studio was transformed into a self-contained work-from-home space and art studio, extending the home’s flexibility. The result is a highly personal, design-led renovation that blends playfulness, practicality, and a strong sense of place.