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Bondi Refresh – Bondi Beach House by Baikie Corr and Lara Ette Design
After a series of ad-hoc renovations over the years, this Bondi semi was in need of rejuvenation. A collaboration between Baikie Corr and Lara Ette Design has reimagined the spaces within, taking advantage of the roof cavity and creating consistency and flow through material choices and spatial planning.
The house had a tight existing footprint and allowable building envelope, so in order to create more space, architects Baikie Corr took advantage of the underutilised roof cavity, creating a double-height entrance foyer and a further level upstairs, where the bedrooms are located. Moving through from the front door, the floating staircase was folded above the entry hallway, which helped create the airy light-filled entrance while maximising the floor area of the adjacent rooms. As a result of this process of opening up, the home gains a voluminous sense of space and the raked ceilings helped in the creation of a fresh plan for the lower level.
The floating staircase was folded above the entry hallway, which helped create the lofty, light-filled entrance while maximising the floor area of the adjacent rooms.
Due to its location on a northwest-facing corner lot, the architects had no trouble accessing natural light, and lofty ceilings bring plenty of sunlight into the connected spaces within the home. But there were some challenges around controlling the amount that would flood these newly open spaces. A well-placed stand of trees outside came to the rescue, though, providing ample shade for the lower level in the afternoons.
Inspired by both the architecture and coastal location, interior designer Lara Ette (who took over from Karen Akers, who had begun the preliminary interior concept and planning for the house) drew on a palette that seems taken straight from Bondi Beach itself. Pale timbers are reminiscent of the white sand and textured stone recalls the cliffs. Balancing this light, calm materiality, she added richness and vibrancy through the selection of key pieces of furniture, such as the powder pink armchair in the living room, finishes such as the dolomite benchtops and white limestone floating plinth, and an emphasis on handcrafted elements, such as the lighting by Articolo and Marz Designs.
As a modestly sized house, storage was key. Kitchen cabinetry is designed to merge with the v-groove wall panelling in the living spaces, while built-in seating and shelving create a relaxed atmosphere. An office nook is tucked into a plywood-lined section of shelving, which can be hidden away by cupboard doors. Upstairs, the master bedroom features a wall lined in cabinetry also, with panelled detailing.
Comfortable and light-filled, Bondi Beach House finds a delicate balance of clean lines and crisp textures. Through the collaborative approach to the architecture and interiors, Baikie Corr and Lara Ette Design have brought this coastal semi back to life, creating an airy and spacious family home.
