The renovation of a 1970s farmhouse on the New South Wales Mid North Coast is a testament to the power of family collaboration and a playful twist on retro design. Led by Maxwell & Page Architects' designer Jess Garnham, the project breathed new life into a home that had been in the family for generations, with a focus on preserving its modernist roots and creating a space that truly reflected the family's lifestyle.
One of the key principles guiding the transformation was a simple yet powerful mantra: 'no white walls.' This decision was a deliberate attempt to honor the home's original character and create a space that felt warm, inviting, and uniquely their own. Garnham explains, 'In the end, everything came back to two guiding rules: “no white walls” and “made for family life.”'
The interior design choices were a celebration of the home's history, with exposed brickwork and timber linings taking center stage. The family's hands-on approach to restoration is evident in the slow sanding and restoration of the timber, a labor of love that adds character and depth to the space. The bathrooms, once adorned with incongruous country-style wallpaper, now feature a playful pink theme with Colori Matt tiles from Tiento, a delightful contrast to the sage green tiles in the main bathroom, paying homage to the original finishes and the surrounding bushland.
The renovation also incorporated strategic design choices to enhance the family's connection to their surroundings. Lowering the windowsill in the main bathroom not only captures stunning views of the landscape but also allows the family to enjoy the simple pleasure of brushing their teeth while watching kangaroos hop by. The kitchen, with its stainless steel benchtops and blue tiles, nods to the previous yellow finishes, creating a cohesive and nostalgic atmosphere.
Despite the challenges, including delays in materials and finding tilers willing to take on the extensive tile work, the project has been a resounding success. Garnham reflects, 'The biggest hurdle was a delay in some materials and getting local tilers to take on the job; not many of them had the patience to stick it out — there are a lot of tiles.'
The renovation is a testament to the power of preserving a home's history while infusing it with modern functionality and a touch of whimsy. As the project progresses, the family's dream of a space that is both deeply complete and filled with color, personality, and functionality is coming to fruition, shaping the fun moments in their everyday lives.
