Opulent Reimagining – Albert Park Residence by David Hicks

The owners of Albert Park Residence wanted a home that matched the generosity and vitality that they approach life with and could accommodate fluctuating groups of visitors. David Hicks combines an old-world charm and detailed elegance with a unique flair and opulence to create an extension of the owners.

Set within its namesake suburb, Albert Park Residence enters its next chapter through a reworking of the existing heritage details and an overlaying of more modern touches throughout. Balancing dark and light tones, each of the spaces aim to match their intended function – either by enhancing the perceived volume or creating a more retractive feel when inside. The ornate detailing and plasterwork are restored and painted in a consistent neutral colour to allow the new pieces to have their own moments. David Hicks brings his known interpretation of contemporary luxury, one that references traditional and European influences in form and texture.

Balancing dark and light tones, each of the spaces aim to match their intended function – either by enhancing the perceived volume or creating a more retractive feel when inside.

In fusing old and new, the timelessness of the original is seamlessly merged with a contemporary style, with similar proportions and references to scale being integral to a sense of continuity. In particular, it is the connection to a Victorian ornateness and the mansions of Italy and their delicate stonework that provide the primary musings. Needing to be both a primary residence and a place to entertain, the home holds spaces that can expand and contract when needed.

What began as a restoration project quickly evolved into a journey of self-expression for the owners and a desire to make sure each of the spaces captured a different part of themselves. The home’s configuration has been realigned to fulfil the owners’ vision for a more open and light-infused dwelling. The vintage charm of the home set the scene for the curation of furniture, lighting and artwork.

In fusing old and new, the timelessness of the original is seamlessly merged with a contemporary style, with similar proportions and references to scale being integral to a sense of continuity.

Evoking the feeling of an Italian holiday, Albert Park Residence incorporates custom and bespoke Mediterranean pieces. David Hicks’s reworking of the interior ensures the home is readied for its coming chapter while retaining core connections to the past.