MEETING point

Space to be apart and space to come together was a driving force in the design of this multigenerational family home.

- Carli Philips

First and foremost, the brief for this Melbourne home was for a layout capable of accommodating a multi-generational family. Embracing this concept, interior designer Trudie Cunningham of Killena set to work on a floor plan that would answer the needs of the owners, a couple in their thirties.

Together with the building team of Lane Project Management and stylist Susanne Sutton, no part of the house was untouched. “The homeowners needed space to be apart and space where they could come together,” says Trudie. “They wanted a distinctly Australian home that was mostly contemporary to suit them, but also one that recognised her cultural heritage. She wanted her parents to feel comfortable and welcome when they visit, so we created a tea room with traditional china that is used mostly by her father.”

THE PALETTE

Dulux Natural White
(staircase bannister and walls throughout)

Dulux Haast
(joinery)

Dulux Domino

Central to the brief was an appreciation of seasonality and awareness of the cyclical changes between summer, spring, winter and autumn. “I have memories of my childhood home where I watched the seasons change and I wanted to replicate that feeling,” says the owner. Accordingly, Eckersley Garden Architecture used plantings that germinate depending on the weather. 

THIS IS THE LIFE