Castlecrag Residence
Castlecrag Residence
Concept The New Modern - finding beauty in the before.
We were given the remarkable opportunity to renew a space within a late 1950s home created by the iconic architect, Harry Seidler. It was the kind of project that we are always grateful for – presenting the challenge of striking the perfect balance between retaining the character of the original home and bringing a fresh timelessness as we honour the client’s vision.
The residence was last renovated in the 1990s, so there was a need for a reimagining, but in a way that remained loyal to Seidler’s vision. Both the client’s and our own deep respect for this ensured that every decision made aligned with his original intentions for the home.
Commissioned in 1958 and originally named ‘Luursema House’ after the original owners, it is a perfect example of a Seidler Mid-Century Modern residence. Functional, open plan living spaces flow over three levels, with exposed brickwork, timber flooring, and floor to ceiling windows framing leafy, water views. We were engaged to breathe new life into the kitchen, nestled in the northern corner of the home.
The palette blended olive green, walnut and nude to reflect elements of the kitchen’s outlook over the harbour, and a warm white to provide a calming, cohesive contrast. The bespoke olive green cabinetry has symmetrical, deep groove cupboards to ensure a minimalist aesthetic, and allows for all kitchen detritus to be neatly stowed away. A curved edge, running from floor to ceiling, adds a softness as a counterpoint to the brickwork. Pocket doors open to reveal a tidy nook for coffee making.
The walnut timber tones of the kitchen island, bench and nook compliment the green joinery and were topped with warm white Corian benchtops. To add a geometric contrast that echoed similar motifs around the home, we chose a cylindrical element to support the kitchen island, and bubble saucer fabric pendant lights, inspired by George Nelson’s iconic mid-century Modernist design. The addition of speckled organic kit kat tiles to the kitchen island created texture, along with the nude Japanese tiles both within the nook and adorning the northern wall. We ensured a walnut display shelf for posies and precious items, and to cleanly delineate the functional space below from airy lightness above.
Soft white linen sheers filter the bright sunlight on those searing summer days, and lend the entire space a sense of calm.
The kitchen now has its own sophisticated charm. It blends seamless functionality and capacity, with a spaciousness that invites the family to come together as they prepare meals, unwind and share their day.
