The Whimsy of French Grandeur – Ottawa House by Fiona Lynch Office

Meticulously appointed and sculptural in its interior form, Ottawa House by Fiona Lynch Office is materially-rich and refined, carefully balancing classical and contemporary elements.

An understated residence designed for hospitality stalwarts, the house is both private and exacting. Beyond delicate wrought iron gates sits a concealed entryway to a subterranean garage. A pebble forecourt is lined with red oaks, which impressively frame the heritage-inspired home and change with the seasons. Upon entering the house, the designer’s rigorous touch becomes more apparent, as the entry foyer is flanked by dual living spaces, each anchored by striking hearths of rough-hewn stone. A warm minimalist composition and soft ambient lighting gives the spaces a sense of intimate ease.

Journeying to the centre of the house and a circular atrium bathed in natural light from an oculus in the domed ceiling provides a gallery for art and sculpture across both levels. The mezzanine above is punctuated with blackened steel balustrading, framing views between levels. The reworked impression creates both a modern liveable space and a haven for entertainment.

Ottawa House by Fiona Lynch Office is materially-rich and refined.

With that in mind, the kitchen is unsurprisingly a focal point of the interior, with fixtures from Boffi, and Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances appointed. Perhaps most impressive, however, is the expression of stone throughout, with chiselled and sculpted stone highlighting the impeccable joinery. Meanwhile, the dining room alcove is shrouded with folded metal shelving and a weighty marble plinth.

Upstairs, bedrooms are light-filled and thoughtfully detailed. Bespoke wardrobes are lined with wheat-toned linen and feature timber door pulls, tactility that traverses through to the linen drapery and boucle woollen carpets. Original stone fireplaces have been retained, as figured stone also shrouds the ensuite, artfully contrasted against graphic fixtures and bordered by floating vanities.

Thoughtful and minimalist, with an emphasis on natural materials and architectural features that seek to complement the blackened parquetry floors and French doors, the interior spaces of Ottawa House give an inherent sense of strength and grace.

The kitchen is unsurprisingly a focal point of the interior.

The interior spaces of Ottawa House give an inherent sense of strength and grace.