A Sympathetic Repositioning – 6 Springdale Road by Rothelowman

With a renovation that deeply considers the historical lineage of the existing heritage house whilst adding refined and well-positioned modern nuances, 6 Springdale Road in Sydney’s leafy North Shore suburb of Killara is an eloquent example of how to sensitively update a historically rich design into a modern family home. Engaged by WINIM Developments and award-winning architect Rothelowman simultaneously positions the home in its historical and contemporary epochs in a captivating way.

Originally designed by renowned Australian architect, Ken Woolley, the stunning internal contemporary update keeps the original midcentury aesthetic of the home in structure and texture, harmonising with rich fabrication and muted colourways to emphasise the exposed natural materials and original design. A new pool and tennis court are masterful additions to the north-facing backyard, providing a central outdoor hub for entertaining or relaxation.

The home benefits from an abundance of natural light, with dappled illumination falling throughout and contrasting beautifully with the muted tones and soft textural finishes.

The upscale remodelling by award-winning architects Rothelowman alongside WINIM Interior Designer Elissa Griffin included the holistic refurbishment of the existing areas, complemented by new bespoke joinery and soft furnishings to further enhance the warmth of the space. The primary kitchen features luxuriously crafted Carrara marble, with a striking Calacatta Viola enlivening the entertainment bar and kitchenette. Further stone elements such as Larosa, Vigo Lena and Smeraldo – all supplied by Artedomus – are scattered throughout the home. The abundant appliances and fitments for this large family home include Wolf and Sub-Zero.

Throughout this inspired reimagining, the modernist façade is honoured whilst additions only enhance its softness and overall functionality. The home benefits from an abundance of natural light, with dappled illumination falling throughout and contrasting beautifully with the muted tones and soft textural finishes. The addition of best-in-class solar energy and cross-ventilation within the design also welcomes the home into its next era.

This Killara home is a reminder of how to sympathetically upgrade an exemplary architectural structure, whilst the addition of a tennis court, swimming pool and numerous outdoor areas remain attuned to the demands of contemporary family life.

Ken Woolley’s original floor plan is largely unchanged, grounded by openness and connectivity. The living rooms and bedrooms are predominately on a single level, allowing flow and creating a greater sense of space. Variations in scale are an interesting feature of 6 Springdale Road – from the double-height corridor joining entry to lounge and living, dining and kitchen, to more intimate bedroom and bathroom zones – allowing unique angles and plays of light.

This Killara home is a reminder of how to sympathetically upgrade an exemplary architectural structure, whilst the addition of a tennis court, swimming pool and numerous outdoor areas remain attuned to the demands of contemporary family life. Offering an inspiring blend of the old and new, this modernist home retains a softness and warmth that speaks to its origins in a rich and powerful way.