Mirror House by Pasquale Cook

Words by Bronwyn Marshall
Photography by Lillie Thompson

Reflecting its inhabitants’ desire to live within an elevated, luxurious setting, Mirror House combines the stillness expected of a residential offering with moments of heightened boldness. Pasquale Cook infuses character and personality through materials and finishes that tell a story of the owners.

What was once a dated ‘90s structure has undergone a remarkable transformation, blending a contemporary freshness with timeless elegance to create a residence that captivates with an attuned aesthetic. “The owners wanted a warm and uncluttered living environment,” says Sally Cook, co-founding director of Pasquale Cook. “They were very interested in the way materials were going to age and tarnish over time, which led to a more robust palette.” Emerging as a holistic redesign of an existing home, Mirror House evolved to be more than just a renovation.

What was once a dated ‘90s structure has undergone a remarkable transformation, blending a contemporary freshness with timeless elegance to create a residence that captivates with an attuned aesthetic.

As a modern sanctuary, the home combines comfort and warmth through using layers of texture that are inviting and familiar. “We were wanting to create a luxurious feel without it feeling ostentatious,” adds Sophie Di Pasquale, co-founding director of Pasquale Cook. “Light and fresh finishes such as the soft linen curtains paired with striking marbles and brass are applied in a restrained manner.” With both park and city views available, opening up and clearing visual access beyond the exterior grounds the home in its Hawthorn location.

Carrying the stateliness and permanence seen in the surrounding homes into the interior was an important underlying principle. The home feels like a modern retreat, tucked away and disconnected from the neighbours and streetscape. Collaborating with several renowned artisans and designers, Pasquale Cook curated a collection of furniture and art that integrates seamlessly into the space. “Vellum and brass decorative lighting allowed for a little bit of grandeur and luxury,” adds Sally Cook, “and the cabinetry was elevated with a striking stone selection applied generously.”

Emerging as a holistic redesign of an existing home, Mirror House evolved to be more than just a renovation.

Mirror House sees a neutral approach used throughout, with clearly integrated and executed detailing. In elevating the 1990s home into a more aspirational series of spaces, Pasquale Cook injects a longevity and durability that will inevitably see the residence remain relevant into the coming chapters.

Interior design by Pasquale Cook. Build by Sway Homes.