The Hensman
Designed to support the ebb and flow of family life – with all its noise, joy and movement – The Hensman, as Janik Dalecki of &Dalecki describes it, is a lesson in relaxed liveability.
In Shenton Park, one of Perth’s leafy and character-filled neighbourhoods, The Hensman is a reimagined Federation home that sits comfortably alongside other heritage dwellings. While its historic presence remains intact, a reworking at the rear has created a sanctuary designed for family life.
Designed as a ‘kick-off-your-shoes’ kind of home – one with zero pretence and an abundance of warmth – the brief centred on shared family values of liveability and longevity. In response, &Dalecki created a residence that balances communal gathering spaces with quieter zones of retreat, both refined and robust in execution. The internal planning unfolds across three zones. At the historic front, the children’s section contains three bedrooms and a shared lounge for gathering and recreation. Stone flooring marks the transition into the new addition, where a chocolate-hued, timber-lined ceiling draws residents through to an open kitchen and dining space, contrasted by an intimate sunken lounge. Broad sliding doors extend the interior into a generous alfresco, barbecue and sunken firepit area that overlooks a sculpted, lagoon-style pool – a sequence of uplifting, adaptable settings for relaxed family time or effortless entertaining.
Ascending the timber-lined stairs, a serene parents’ retreat appears to float among the treetops, its expansive glazing framing verdant views. A walk-through robe links the bedroom to a calming ensuite with a sculpted shower alcove, freestanding bathtub and a porthole window that captures the surrounding greenery.
The interiors are grounded in durability and restraint, expressed through a material palette that emphasises continuity and tactility. “For us, the balance came from keeping the palette simple and honest, then letting texture and detail do the work,” says Dalecki. Painted brick, natural stone and timber flow seamlessly from inside to out, blurring thresholds and reinforcing a sense of cohesion. Finishes are deliberately pared back – practical, low-maintenance and enduring – yet enriched by their inherent texture and depth.
“It was important that the house never felt overly polished or precious,” says Dalecki. “By holding back on unnecessary finishes and focusing on a few key materials that flow inside and out, the home feels calm and restrained, yet still warm and welcoming.”
This foundation is enriched through quieter gestures: handmade tiles, bespoke joinery and a considered curation of lighting and furniture, including accent pieces from furniture maker Pop and Scott, adding nuance without excess. The result is a home that welcomes family life in all its fullness, where surfaces can take daily knocks and still weather gracefully over time.
Refined but never precious, The Hensman offers layered zones of retreat and connection – spaces where the family and their beloved dog can feel at ease, slow down and connect.
Interior design by &Dalecki. Build by Formview Construction.
