Two Distinct Halves by The Stylesmiths
Located in the heart of Ballarat, the Two Distinct Halves project, by Melbourne-based interior designers The Stylesmiths and architects Here Studio, brings together both traditional and contemporary design.
Words: Emma-Kate Wilson | Photography: Marnie Hawson
The green brick chimney takes centre point in the home and is also mirrored at the rear of the extension. Photo: Marnie Hawson. Styling: Belle Hemming.
A green brick chimney takes centre point in the home, mirroring the green cabinetry in the kitchen. Photo: Marnie Hawson. Styling: Belle Hemming.
On a quiet street in Ballarat, a traditional colonial-style home provides a series of unexpected architectural and interior design features. The façade honours the 1911 cottage through a sensitive renovation, which is then completely disrupted by a dynamic geometric addition to the rear by architects, Here Studio.
Conceptualising the design in a palette of grey on the exterior and additional hints of gold and blue throughout the interior, the structure of the home was allowed to sing, including the restored lead-light windows and verandas mimicking traditional cast-iron lace.
Nicole Rutherford from The Stylesmiths wanted to honour the original features throughout the home, enhancing the timeless qualities, such as employing hanging lighting fixtures to play tribute to the high ceilings of the Victorian era.
‘The design brief asked for a clear divide between old and new – an obvious, harmonious disconnect,’ says Nicole. ‘The only consistent aspect was that both halves were to represent the client in personality, functionality and background.’
As such, the home cherishes the client’s love of Asian design — after time spent in Shanghai for business. The Stylesmiths embraced the existing collection of Chinese furniture, artwork and ornaments, scattered around the home alongside contemporary design pieces.
‘The ultra-modern facade effortlessly flows on from the traditional front in the most unexpected, yet brilliant way, allowing visitors to roam in and out across two centuries of residential design in one house,’ says Nicole Rutherford. Photo: Marnie Hawson. Styling: Belle Hemming.
“This project is bold, confident, textured and culturally influenced. Andrew Kuiler (owner) unapologetically calls himself a ‘disruptor,’ which is oh-so-evident throughout his home.”
‘Aluminium cladding, specifically manufactured for this project, engulfs the back half of the property in a geometric pattern that boasts originality,’ says Nicole Rutherford. Photo: Marnie Hawson. Styling: Belle Hemming.
The entry console is of simple Chinese design, celebrated by Chinoiserie patterned wallpaper that is also found in the library. Photo: Marnie Hawson. Styling: Belle Hemming.
The designers extended this design choice into textural and bright features such as the Chinoiserie patterned wallpaper in the living rooms and lush, velvet golden curtains drapes. Not shying away from the bold, a green brick chimney takes centre point in the home, mirroring the green cabinetry in the kitchen.
‘Gorgeous glossy green and dominant in size, the fireplace/chimney is the undeniable hero of the backend extension,’ says Nicole. ‘The bold statement piece references jade-coloured tiles Andrew had seen in China and accentuates them with an element of home; the variation of lighter bricks simulating native eucalypts.’
White walls and polished floorboards allow for these design features to be elevated in the contemporary yet traditional home. They also offer a continuity throughout, where the architecture defines the old and new — a sunken recess separating the kitchen from dining and lounge, and a feature stairwell with a brass balustrade connecting the levels.
Designed as a calming sanctuary, Two Distinct Halves unites eclectic opulence with Ballarat tradition in a contemporary home that brings together its inhabitants in cosy nooks and a balance of gentle yet dynamic design.
‘Walking through, one can find classical bedside tables, abstract wall art and ceramic trinkets such as the white elephant that lives on the coffee table.’ Photo: Marnie Hawson. Styling: Belle Hemming.