Designed by Hare + Klein, Taylors Bay Residence projects an air of sophistication through a simple aesthetic and attention to detail. Over time, the house underwent questionable renovations and was semi-converted from late Federation to faux French Provincial, gradually morphing into an architectural Frankenstein’s monster. Thus, a contemporary redesign characterised by a cohesive narrative, intricate detailing and a bold palette, was essential.
The layout at Taylors Bay Residence needed to accommodate the family of six. Hare + Klein redefined the floorplan and repurposed unused spaces that were once dimly lit and uninviting by imbuing a new design language. The reconfiguration interconnects spaces, unifies materials and plays with levels to shape functional areas for the family. The floorplan is simple and evokes a sense of space that is open and communal while maximising natural light.
As the house evolved, so did the design brief: what originally began as a mere interior remodel has expanded to include the full modernisation of the exterior. The update of the exterior lightly referenced its late Federation beginnings, acknowledging the loss of many original elements. These subtle references forged a relationship with the contemporary interior, bringing it to a modern, sustainable standard.
Although a tribute to a bygone era, the combination with a contemporary understanding of spatial arrangements and human interactions ensures the home maintains relevance while feeling nostalgic. Flatness is achieved throughout the home by opening the layout and infusing semi-private spaces with finishes, materials and hues that resonate with the interior and exterior realms. The renovation started on the southern side of the residence, where Hare + Klein designed intimate spaces characterised by darker hues and a rich textural palette.
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Transitioning to the northern aspect, these semi-private spaces seamlessly integrate with the indoor/outdoor continuum. The living quarters were designed openly, to maximise natural light infiltration, while raw timber craftsmanship extends from the entry into the depths of the home, offering a tactile balance to the sleek, clean lines defining its internal spaces. The design decisions and connections link the front harbour vista filtering the southern light through to the back garden bathed in northern light.
Redesigning within the constraints of the original framework – as opposed to complete demolition and rebuild – is a sustainable practice in itself. Throughout the design process, there was a strong preference for sustainable principles and non-toxic materials to be implemented in the choice of finishes, appliances, lighting and solar heating.
Hare + Klein has been conscious of adjusting the house to suit the Australian climate through natural ventilation, introducing operable skylights and windows allowing cross-ventilation. The roof is insulated to keep the interior cool and retain heat. With an emphasis on durable and reliable furniture, fixtures and fittings were also introduced to reduce the impact of producing replacements.
Taylors Bay Residence was an entry in 2023 INDE. Awards, which included categories relative to The Interior Space, The Building and more – entries for the 2024 INDE.Awards are now open.
Hare + Klein
hareklein.com.au
Photography
Jen Wilding
