Boldly Animated – 1885 House by Arent&Pyke

Fusing playfulness and an existing grandeur, 1885 House is balanced by contrasting elements, which focus on craft and a layered approach. Arent&Pyke overlays a richness through texture and colour, bringing the heritage details of the home into a more contemporary context that is more open, connected and inviting as a result.

Within its established surrounds, 1885 House sits as a distinct reminder of a different time and includes modern touches to extend its relevance. True to its name, the history of 1885 House is a defining aspect of its identity yet, through its latest iteration, currently focuses on creating outward connections through a more contemporary sense of openness. Located in the lower North Shore of Sydney, the grounded nature of the sandstone base provides an ideal, enduring foundation whilst being equally robust for absorbing the impacts of everyday living. Internally and between the interior and exterior thresholds, the spaces contain a new lightness and draw in a natural connection. Additionally, altering the floor plan of the original home shifts movement towards key living zones. The home balances both intimate and open spaces, maintaining the residence’s original intent whilst adding a contemporary twist.

True to its name, the history of 1885 House is a defining aspect of its identity yet, through its latest iteration, currently focuses on creating outward connections through a more contemporary sense of openness.

The scale of the home is a key part of its personality, yet the extent of the handcrafted details brings a human element to this long-standing form. Transforming the residence into a more comfortable and casual place of retreat required a more approachable arrangement across the site. As spaces are broken down and opened up, framed views out towards the equally generous and lush landscape are formed. The infusion of the current custodians’ taste called for a layering of colour and pattern, allowing for the existing and ornate detailing to remain as a reflection of the home’s past.

The blending of old and new elements only adds to the depth of the home. Needing to be a place of rest and recharge, the residence’s private spaces are key to the inner experience. Balancing a sense of openness with the new contemporary arrangement of flowing living spaces, which operate as the centre for daily functions, was also essential.

The scale of the home is a key part of its personality yet the extent of the handcrafted details brings a human element to this long-standing form.

Having endured for many years, the most recent changes to 1885 House reflect an increased and deliberate sense of connection. Arent&Pyke manages to maintain a respectful celebration of the past as well as layer in a contemporary energy through newly introduced gestures in the process .