The Grove

The Grove is a major renovation of a heritage Californian Bungalow, preserving architectural details while offering a refined connection to the new.

An existing Bentleigh property has been reimagined to create a layered country aesthetic balanced with a contemporary European feel. The Grove is a refined renovation of an existing Californian Bungalow, preserving the architectural details seen throughout the existing parts of the home while offering a seamless connection to the new.

Materiality is at the heart of the project with blackbutt timbers floors and polished nickel fixtures combined with fine details seen across the traditional-style entrance, ornate heritage ceilings and carefully curated colour palette that transition with ease throughout the course of the day.

In the kitchen, handmade Moroccan tiling reflects a naturally iridescent hue across the splashback, complementing shaker-style joinery in whisper white, contrasting with the classic black range cooker. Entertaining was a crucial element to consider for the young couple, hence the built-in custom bar working to merge the living and kitchen space effortlessly after dark.

Moments of calm surrounded by light and flora saturate the living area during the day before morphing into a homely retreat with gas log fireplace and wall sconces.

In the bathroom, rich blue tiles inject warmth and softness to the space while maintaining a timeless sophistication with freestanding Victorian claw bath.

The final design of this home respects and preserves its historical features and feel, alongside creative adaptations and insertions that allow for a contemporary way of living. Achieving privacy from the surrounding apartment buildings and flats, the home feels like an intimate hideaway, with surprising interactions between the built and natural environment.

With its refined palette and layered balance of heritage and contemporary detailing, The Grove project is the epitome of inner-suburb Australian style for this young, growing family.