Nestled in a sunlit, suburban pocket of Sydney, House 17 stands as a relaxed haven that captures the easy-going charm of contemporary living. Brought to life by Three Birds Renovations, this original Californian Bungalow has been thoughtfully transformed into a contemporary sanctuary. While the design embraces a fresh new direction, it continues to honour the home’s heritage. The result is ‘Cali Cool’ – a relaxed yet refined style inspired by the laidback elegance of the California coast.
Originally a dated, three-bedroomed bungalow, with a rabbit warren layout, the home has been significantly transformed. By adding a large extension at the back, The Birds have reconfigured the space into a four-bedroom, two-bathroom plus powder room, family sanctuary. A wide, oversized hallway connects the spaces, providing a dramatic yet practical welcome for the family while the extension houses an open plan kitchen, dining, living area with beautiful high vaulted ceilings and soaring windows, emphasising the light loving, open space.
Designed for a growing family who craved both style and functionality, House 17 reflects a deep appreciation for natural materials, layered textures and thoughtful detailing. Oversized west-facing windows frame views to the newly created pool and alfresco space, connecting the indoors and outdoors with ease. Every corner of the home has been curated to feel lived-in and loved, with a soft, earthy palette providing a warm backdrop to daily life.
From the beginning, light played a central role in shaping the mood of House 17. The Three Birds team were determined to celebrate the home’s abundant natural light while maintaining control over temperature, privacy and ambiance. To achieve this balance, they turned to Luxaflex Window Fashions, integrating solutions that complemented the relaxed yet refined aesthetic of the home.
In the main living spaces, Kori Curtains in Eggshell fabric frame the expansive doors to the alfresco, gently filtering the strong afternoon sun while preserving the home’s seamless indoor-outdoor connection. Their soft, flowing form adds a tactile warmth to the layered, coastal textures throughout the space. Smaller windows flanking the fireplace are treated with Pirouette Shadings in Valencia fabric, offering both privacy and a subtle play of light and shadow across the living room.
The open-plan living and dining areas have been designed to embrace both family life and effortless entertaining. A soothing palette of soft neutrals and natural materials flows through each zone, brought to life through the layering of timber accents, marble benchtops, natural stone finishes, rattan textures, and curated furnishings. Thoughtful lighting choices complement the large windows, creating a home that feels bright and inviting by day and cocooned and intimate by night.
The primary bedroom continues the story of relaxed sophistication with mornings bathed in soft, natural light. Rich earthy tones, plush bedding, and woven textures complete the space, delivering a timeless and calming atmosphere. Here, Sheffield Roller Blinds in Cedar, layered with Kori Curtains in Ginger fabric, offer both flexibility and comfort, transforming evenings into a cosy retreat.
In the nursery, Kori Curtains in Ginger block-out fabric bring a nurturing sense of calm, paired perfectly with Dulux Terra Rose walls to create an enchanting, cocoon-like environment for rest and play.
“The warmth of the colour palette, combined with the functionality of block-out light control, ensures the room remains a peaceful sanctuary at any time of day,” The Birds continue. Throughout the home, PowerView Smart Automation subtly elevates the everyday living experience. By synchronising window coverings with the sun’s movement, the house maintains a comfortable, steady environment across changing seasons, reducing reliance on heating and cooling while enhancing privacy and ambiance. The technology works quietly in the background adding effortless luxury that blends perfectly with the home’s laidback style.
Beyond the interiors, the seamless flow to the alfresco area and new swimming pool creates a lifestyle built around connection to nature, family gatherings, and easy outdoor living. Every decision, from material selections to spatial planning, was guided by a desire to create a home that not only looked beautiful, but genuinely supported modern family life.
“House 17 is a home built for the way people really live,” the Three Birds share. “It is welcoming and warm, stylish but never precious. It is a place to relax, gather, and grow.”
Through a thoughtful layering of texture, tone, technology and design, House 17 stands as a modern family retreat. A home where beauty, functionality, and light come together in perfect harmony, creating a place of true everyday joy.
Comments
Such a stunning transformation! I love how the natural light, textures, and warm tones create a calm yet stylish vibe that feels both luxurious and truly livable.