A masterclass in space planning, this Melbourne home looks completely unrecognisable after small layout changes and a big update in aesthetics courtesy of Nina Di Marco at YDM Design Studio. “The brief was to update this home as much as possible without major structural changes in order to maximise the space and functionality,” says Nina, who worked on the whole home with particular focus on the kitchen, European laundry, WC and bathroom.
Home to a young couple, their one-year-old and two dogs, the original home was dated and lacking in functionality – not ideal conditions for a growing family. “Their main need was to turn the pantry into a Euro laundry accessible from the opposite side in the hallway. This meant we could remove the laundry from the bathroom and add a much-needed bath – especially with it being the only bathroom in the home,” says Nina.
In the kitchen, the ‘island’ section was removed, and the bench was extended into the dining space to elongate the kitchen and create a greater sense of space. The external door was removed which meant the kitchen now wraps around all three walls and storage extends to the ceiling on the internal wall.
The navy-blue 2pac paint finish (Dulux Companion) is paired with CDK Sky Rose Dolomite benchtops and timber details for warmth and to tie into the home’s new Blackbutt timber flooring. “The touches of brass, the natural stone benchtop and white subway splashback also added warmth to the space, creating an inviting and cosy space for our clients,” says Nina.
The bathroom layout was completely changed – a generous vanity, walk-in shower and freestanding bath create a ‘wet room’ style layout. “The positioning of the tiles, with the floor tile wrapped slightly up on the walls and the stacked gloss white subway tile above, helped to give the illusion that the bathroom is a lot larger than it is,” says Nina who used the same tiles and timber as the kitchen to make the spaces feel cohesive.
“I’d describe the new spaces as transitional, blending classic features with a contemporary aesthetic. I love layering texture in projects, so my favourite thing is how the different textures come together, from the shaker doors, the timber and the natural stone benchtop to the tiles and the brass tapware.”
Builder: Edwards Renovations | Cabinet maker: Wynn joinery
Photography: Elise Scott
