Strength & Unity – No. 58 Wattle by Ewert Leaf

Nestled in the leafy suburb of Hawthorn, No. 58 Wattle by Ewert Leaf is a collection of seven townhouses that thoughtfully rework their established site’s history. Layered with tactile materials, crafted details and lush landscaping, the residences present with an understated luxury that elevates contemporary life.

The original homestead at 58 Wattle Road became a point of reference for Ewert Leaf, who sought to reinterpret its character in the new development. “From the front garden, the old home appeared unassuming, screened by a vast oak tree,” reveals interior designer Simone MacGinley, Director at Ewert Leaf. “But on approach, the built form unveiled layers of ornate and quality details and meticulous craft synonymous with the surrounding streets.” Ewert Leaf embraced these elements as a guiding design methodology in collaboration with property developer Underline, delivering an elegant residential development with contemporary details at its core.

The decision to plan just seven residences on the site allowed for generously proportioned spaces, carefully planned to support functionality and facilitate connection.

The primary forms of the architecture, finished in concrete render, are softened by a layered garden that enhances the verdant energy, texture and shade of the old oak tree. Large picture windows ensure the presence of the established tree is felt in each townhouse, presenting an ephemeral display of the seasons. The façade is punctuated by accents of delicate reeded glass, black metal and timber entry doors, the last of which “creates a subtle reference to the grand oak tree and surrounding landscape,” says Simone.

The decision to plan just seven residences on the site allowed for generously proportioned spaces, carefully planned to support functionality and facilitate connection. Full-height glazing maximises natural light and views while ensuring strong visual connections between interior and exterior. Physical boundaries are tempered with open plan living spaces that extend onto expansive terraces and courtyards, encouraging a sense of living in the garden.

Physical boundaries are tempered with open plan living spaces that extend onto expansive terraces and courtyards, encouraging a sense of living in the garden.

Internally, materials embrace a naturalistic tone with crafted design elements that harmonise with the architecture. Wide oak-toned timber boards are complemented by a tonal palette of soft grey lacquered cabinetry, pure wool carpets and swathes of natural grey limestone, which allow the lush tones of the landscape to sing. Ewert Leaf has overlaid a series of fine details – including the stair’s profiled timber cladding and sleek metal balustrades, the fireplace’s metal detailing and the island bench’s striking composition of natural stone, shaker-profile cabinetry, slimline metalwork and solid oak legs – each referencing the detail and ornamentation of the original homestead.

The continuity of concept across architecture, interior and landscape design crafts a cohesive and captivating proposition at No. 58 Wattle that addresses the character and prestige of Hawthorn. “The design supports a heightened quality of life for residents by encouraging a sense of belonging, personal connection and engagement,” reveals Georgina Goldsworthy, Director at Underline. Well-appointed, expansive, crafted and light-filled, the residences create spaces to slow down, retreat and create new memories while feeling embedded in place.