Before Phoebe Rolleston and her family bought this Glen Iris home in 2014, it had already undergone two renovations in the 80s and 90s. During its latest renovation in 2019, architect Lucy Bowen (who was engaged by the Rollestons) united the previously disparate design influences into one cohesive theme.
Stripping back the architectural references to Scandinavian lodges and Japanese design, the newly renovated house now exudes a calm and breezy coastal feel. ‘The existing living and kitchen were redesigned to give a softer, lighter feel and more of a European style’ explains Phoebe. ‘New materials and textures were introduced to create a calm and relaxed feel for our young family.’
The four bedrooms remain in their original positions at the front of the house (on both the ground and upper floors) with the communal areas unfolding as you move through the body of the house. Sweeping curved motifs in the kitchen wall and staircase bring a sense of architectural elegance to the contemporary design.
A set of arched glass doors are a key focal point at the back of the house, stretching to the tall ceiling, they open up the dining and living rooms to the rear courtyard. Up a set of stone steps lies the raised garden and pool (landscaped by Andrew Panton Design), which is connected to the back studio via a set of retractable glass doors.
Every element of this house has a personal touch and exacting eye for detail – down to the exact shade of eucalyptus green coating the exterior, which Phoebe mixed herself. And though the faultless art and furniture selection don’t come with the house, in-built features such as sisal carpeting, textured walls and rattan cabinetry details ensure the bones of the house retain its unique character.
‘We love the detail in Lucy’s design, like the raised skirting and indented shelving, all the small things add heaps of character,’ says Phoebe. ‘We love the light, airy feel of the living room and outdoor area, the soft edges of the render and the window seats give it all a calm feel.’
The perfect move for a family looking for a home that takes you on holiday!
40 Aintree Road, Glen Iris will be sold on Friday, 5th November at 12:00pm by Michael Armstrong and Edward Fanning at Kay & Burton. See the full listing or book an inspection here.
