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Herron House by K.Holland Architectural Interiors
K.Holland Architectural Interiors offers a thoughtful reinterpretation of Stefano de Pieri’s mid-century home. Designed as a chef’s retreat, this Mildura abode serves as a showcase for cherished artefacts, weaving a rich Italian heritage into the fabric of a humble outback setting.
Nestled along the shores of the Murray River, Mildura is renowned for its vineyards, citrus groves and the ebullient personality that is Stefano de Pieri – author, presenter and chef. Embracing the simple pleasures of this laid-back hinterland, he finds solitude and respite on the edges of suburbia. Set on a 390-square-metre corner site, de Pieri’s Herron House embodies modest mid-century architecture, serving as a repository for art, objects and homewares, all with a focus on cooking at its heart.
Herron House presents a tasteful reinvention of a modernist entertainer’s home. Built around an existing framework, the brief called for honouring the past while celebrating bicultural eclecticism. “We abandoned our minimalist tendencies, and instead embraced the opportunity to design spaces to complement and display Stefano’s wonderful collection,” says design director Kelly Holland. Like the artworks housed within, significant attention is given to restoring and preserving the home’s defining attributes. One would be hard-pressed to discern old from new in this neatly crafted interior.
Upon arrival, a central porch leads to a patterned sidelight and an offset entry door. To the left, a generous lounge awaits, while the northern wing houses the private areas – laundry, bathroom and ensuite – bookended by bedrooms. Passing through a recessed pocket slider, the kitchen and dining area unfold, revealing a gorgeous mid-century character that is both utilitarian and sincere, perfect for a chef of the highest calibre. Flanked by a private alfresco courtyard, the kitchen is designed to enhance de Pieri’s craft, utilising a strategy of peripheral concealment that draws focus to a central island workspace.
Clad in rendered brick and grooved cement sheet, the subdued exterior is a refreshing contrast to the rich materials within. Scalloped and book-matched timbers adorn the walls, doors and joinery, punctuated by dyed veneers in olive greens and deep blues. Above the kitchen island, backlit fluted glass floats gracefully, framed by cross-lapped joints that echo throughout the space. Terracotta floor tiles traverse the communal areas, reflecting modernist sensibilities and a spirit of functional hospitality. Luxurious terrazzo benchtops meet the owner’s exacting standards, sculped with oversized sinks and raised drip edges. “Stefano added to the design brief as we went along,” recalls Holland. “When he cooks, he adds ingredients as he goes, and I think he approached the project in a similar fashion. This was a challenge for us to navigate, but in the end enhanced the flavour of the final product.”
Bespoke joinery enhances many rooms throughout the dwelling. To retain the essence of the original craftsmanship, “the best sections of the original cabinetry were repurposed for present-day use – expanded upon to inspire new elements,” says Holland. This approach of adaptation maintains the unique identity of 20th-century Mildura and honours the artistry of its residents.
“We abandoned our minimalist tendencies, and instead embraced the opportunity to design spaces to complement and display Stefano’s wonderful collection.”
K.Holland Architectural Interiors presents a thoughtful reinterpretation of an existing structure. Tailored to de Pieri’s zestful disposition, Herron House is a chef’s retreat, embodying both contemplation and repose.
Architecture and interior design by K.Holland Architectural Interiors. Build by JAAG Professional Builders.
