Measured Resurgence – City Beach Residence by Design Theory

A revival of its original design intent, City Beach Residence is reworked from inside to out, creating a flow of movement and connection between the newly established zones. Design Theory references the midcentury character that existed prior, reinstating and replacing where needed through a respectful lens and innately focused on a quality-led and enduring outcome.

Located within Perth, and as a standing testament to the many other modernist homes populating the city and suburbs alike, City Beach Residence was inevitably going to be a project of retention and restoration. Whilst the original scope focused more on increasing internal connection and functionality, once the peeling back of layers commenced, a need for repair was revealed. In wanting to retain the unique character and charm designed by Duncan, Stephen and Mercer in the late 1950s, the contemporary and inserted elements were tested to ensure they aligned with the principles the home was conceived within.

In wanting to retain the unique character and charm designed by Duncan, Stephen and Mercer in the late 1950s, the contemporary and inserted elements were tested to ensure they aligned with the principles the home was conceived within.

Like any renovation effort, a minimal amount of change to the original was key. In this case, a concerted effort was placed towards honouring the past. Needing to accommodate fluctuating numbers of guests and family, and with the kitchen being a core function of that gesture, the plan was reworked accordingly. Allowing for greater visual and physical flow between rooms, the newfound openness also increased access to natural light and ventilation.

The selected and newly applied materiality feels as though it has always been in place, further entrenching a sense of place and timelessness throughout the home. The intentional and woven application of timber veneers, detailing and a linear geometric sensibility ensure that there is a blurring of lines between the old and new – a gesture consistently overlaid throughout. In retaining elements of the past, the home is readied for its upcoming chapters with the ability to integrate personal customisation through furniture, artwork and lighting. As an expression of its owners, this final layering becomes a curation where memory is evoked in a playful and interactive way.

Allowing for greater visual and physical flow between rooms, the newfound openness also increased access to natural light and ventilation.

Embracing the time spent at home, City Beach Residence emerges as an extension of its owners. Design Theory ensures a continued relevance of style, and the origins of the home are celebrated through a careful and respectful response.