By Whisker Architecture
A Tranquil Haven Reborn Amidst the Dandenongs
Nestled in the lush rainforests of the Dandenongs, a hidden gem awaited its transformation. The owners, young first-time homeowners, saw beyond the worn facade and outdated interior of their weatherboard home. They recognised its potential and embarked on a journey to create their dream space. With a clear design brief and a vision of spaciousness and rejuvenation, they turned to architecture and design professionals to bring their dream to life.
The renovation of this old weatherboard home in the Dandenongs showcases the power of vision and the ability to breathe new life into a tired space. The young homeowners, with their unwavering determination, embarked on a remarkable journey to create a rainforest retreat that perfectly suits their lifestyle. Through the use of consistent spotted gum flooring, light tonal paint colours, creative integration of Bord veneer boards, and the stunning INAX Yohen tiles, the house has been transformed into a haven that seamlessly blends with its surroundings. This renovation stands as a testament to the potential that lies within neglected spaces, reminding us all of the transformative power of good design.
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Fast forward to the new design, where careful choices and meticulous attention to detail have breathed new life into the old weatherboard home. From the choice of materials to the colour palette, every element has been thoughtfully considered to create a harmonious and inviting atmosphere.
Consistent spotted gum flooring, a hard-wearing Australian hardwood, was selected to withstand the demands of a family with a new dog. Its durability is matched by its warm and earthy tones, which provide a welcoming backdrop throughout the home.
To infuse the interiors with an airy and open feel, light, tonal paint colours have been applied. Occasionally anchored with a muted grey-green shade, these colours add depth and character to the space. The result is a balance that allows natural light to gracefully dance through the rooms, illuminating every corner.
One of the standout design features is the creative use of Bord veneer boards. Rather than concealing a structural beam that runs through the center of the room, these boards have become a beautiful feature, celebrating the timber floor and seamlessly tying the space together. This thoughtful design element adds warmth and character, paying homage to the home's heritage.
A defining element that unifies the entire scheme is the textural and tonal INAX Yohen border tiles. From the early stages of the project, the clients fell in love with these tiles, and the entire colour scheme was designed to complement them. These tiles act as a unifying thread, gracefully connecting the various areas of the home. Their organic patterns and soothing hues echo the tranquil beauty of the rainforest surroundings, further enhancing the retreat-like ambiance.
ABOUT YOU
This idea and this need has been percolating in the back of your mind like a perfectly brewed coffee in one of those hip, laneway cafes with a well moustached barista - and it’s ready to serve. You’re ready.
You value design, you may be a bit fuzzy on the how and why but you know it makes a difference to the way you behave and feel - and you’re ready to harness that power.
You’re worldly, you’re “woke” to the priorities of society (even though you’re a little disdainful of that word), and since you’re about to invest in a construction project you want that investment to reflect your values of social and environmental responsibility. You’re ready for a clever design that’s centred around your unique needs and your personality.
ABOUT US
We champion the principles of sustainability and accessibility in our projects -
because we only have one planet, and everybody deserves to feel included on that planet.
“Live [in] Your Values”
This is our Why. It’s about the home, school, or workplace reflecting what’s important to them.
We believe when we live, learn, and work in a space that supports who we want to be and how we want to live,
we have more capacity for empathy, kindness, and generosity.
And who wouldn’t want a world with more of that?