April 13, 2018 Felton case study: Bellevue beauty
At Felton Constructions we’re often inspired to share global trends and inspirations with readers, but occasionally a special project of our own deserves a mention; like this gem among Sydney homes, which demonstrates a typical brief for the home designs NSW clients are currently requesting.
As with leading edge designs created by many NSW home builders, the key driver for this new house in the Sydney suburb of Bellevue Hill was to maximise natural light and ventilation in the living areas. The clients also wanted a modern design that had a warm and homely feel. The material palette enabled Felton to achieve this – grey washed oak floors contrasted to Black Japan Tasmania oak v-groove panelled joinery. Super White Granite bench tops and Axolotl bronze cabinetry were selected as hero finishes for the space.
The double height spaces and courtyards were used to filter natural light into the communal areas. Pared back, high quality furnishings enhance strong architecture. Tropical foliage outside is offset by sophisticated resort-style furnishings in a palette of sea foam green velvets, grey linen, leather and wood. Rich jewel coloured art, indoor plants and accessories add warmth and life.
Echoing key trends noted by home builders NSW, the design employs a sense of intentional restraint: a consistent material palette allows indoor and outdoor spaces to flow seamlessly. The family room, rumpus and kitchen areas spill out onto an internal courtyard and large alfresco / garden area. Ceiling heights vary, and rooms and balconies sit within and project beyond the exoskeleton, an approach that overcomes the site’s modest footprint.
To the north east of the site is a double-height open plan living space with the meals/ bar to one side, and the kitchen a few steps up. Down a half level from the entry is the rumpus room opening to a private internal courtyard with a vertical green wall. The main rear garden faces north off the living area and incorporates a lawn, a swimming pool and covered dining space. Bedrooms occupy the top floor, two of them overlooking the courtyard space and operable glass louvers and screens enable the northern sun to stream into the spaces.
In order to achieve the minimalist modern aesthetic, the construction detailing was heavily considered from design concept through to client hand over to achieve constructability and user functionality. Integration of operable glass louvers, external Venetians and custom timber screening provided challenges throughout the construction process, which required a lot of design work shopping and customisation of these elements.
Even if we say it ourselves, we believe this beautiful home typifies the best project homes Sydney currently offers. We’ve enjoyed sharing it with you and we hope it inspires you!
