Monomeath House by Technē Architecture and Interior Design
The Melbourne home of Nick Travers, director of Technē Architecture and Interior Design and his partner Maree Papadakis, draws on Hollywood grandeur, Palm Springs and mid-century design motifs.
Words: Emma-Kate Wilson I Photography: Caitlin Mills
Photo: Caitlin Mills
Photo: Caitlin Mills
Located in Toorak, Monomeath House was once a part of an old mansion that dates back to the 1930s.
The expansive, original building was divided into four townhouses, with Technē Architecture and Interior Design director Nick Travers and his partner, Maree Papadakis, purchasing Monomeath House, nestled at the very back of the property, about six years ago.
In late 2019, the couple decided to infuse their family's vivacious and playful personality into the three-level house. To accomplish this, they enlisted the services of Bianca Baldi, an interior designer who went above and beyond her senior interior associate role at Technē by leading the renovation project alongside Nick.
Boldness and colour features throughout the spaces, with references to Hollywood grandeur, Palm Springs and mid-century design motifs. The three level dwelling features a number of surprises intertwined with a meticulous sensitivity.
The colourful redesign of the house incorporated the old-world charm of its ornate fireplaces and ceiling details, while also taking inspiration from the family's visits to Los Angeles and Hollywood's golden age. The kitchen is dramatic with its jewel tones, including a deep green marble splashback, a curved stone island bench, and a teal velvet curtain.
The courtyard has been transformed with a Palm Springs-inspired vibe through a retro outdoor setting and new landscaping by Ayus Botanical. The living room is bold with dusty pink panelling and contemporary art, and a hidden doorway to a glamorous blue powder room is found within the timber-clad staircase.
According to Bianca, the refreshed Monomeath House now feels like a luxurious hospitality venue, with the wide, moody stairway to the garage giving the impression of walking down to a basement cinema or bar.
Designed with entertaining in mind, the home is reminiscent of a high-end hospitality establishment. Photo: Caitlin Mills
Photo: Caitlin Mills
The dining space opposite the kitchen. Le Grazon #2 sculpture by Jean Paul Mangin. Photo: Caitlin Mills
“The LA-inspired townhouse is filled with abundant colour and striking artwork.”
Landscape designers, Ayus Botanical, revamped the exterior of the house. Photo: Caitlin Mills
Photo: Caitlin Mills
The living room's ambiance is enhanced by the addition of timber panels in a dusty pink shade. Photo: Caitlin Mills
Colour blocking was key to the renovation. Photo: Caitlin Mills
The main bedroom. Photo: Caitlin Mills
Hollywood vibes in one of the glamorous bathrooms. Photo: Caitlin Mills