Hawthorn House

Interior Architecture : Designed by Dita Studio

The Hawthorn House is a renovation and extension project adapting an existing character – filled 1860s Victorian home to meet the modern needs of the client. Partial demolition of the rear extends to accommodate an open plan living, dining and kitchen on the one level. The original home retains many of its original features in pristine condition including 4 metre high ceilings. The project also provides for a rear garden retreat.

The simple, contemporary architectural extension was complemented by the interiors to achieve a functional, uncluttered, light filled aesthetic.

Wide French Grey Oak timber provides a warm and textural story throughout to floors.

Throughout the residence all new painted soft grey joinery, is enhanced by adding an applied paneling detail. The joinery is further complemented with the use of a durable reconstituted stone which adds a crisp white finish cutting through the grey. Warmth and interest was further introduced through the use of clients existing artwork, sculpture when combined with contemporary furniture.
Natural light had been a focus so that the occupier of the house would be able to appreciate the quality of light, as well as the shadow and pattern that this light creates. Interest in this light is achieved through restoration of existing bay windows, introduction of 3x new expansive skylights, and the use of stained glass windows. Shadows are created by the stain glass windows and skylights are enjoyed by the client all throughout the day.

Untouched interior

When the property was purchased by the client, it had been untouched by the previous owners for over 60 years, maintaining original fittings, cornicing detailing and light fittings was the key to the design brief.

The brief was simple – maintain the historic fabric of the home and to restore as much of the original to celebrate the character of the old.

The restoration to the relatively ornate and original front door, surrounding glass and porch has been elevated simply by the introducing new landscaping

Material and detailing intent

A connection to the landscape provided the impetus for the spatial planning of the house, defined on a strong diagram of circulation axes.  Upon entry the arrival space surrounds you in the perforated ceilings with soaring heights of 4m. Original timber windows, doors and cornicing have been painted in a simple palette to enable a reading of the inherent detail.  Built in cabinetry is detailed with complementing handles, low kickplates and unobtrusive mechanisms to read as simply when open as closed. 

Of note is the durable reconstituted stone which is cutting through the soft grey cabinetry. The aim was to create a mature, refined and thoughtful synthesis of interior and architecture reflective of each period of construction and a stronger connection to setting and place.  Spaces are notable for their strong interrelationship and clear visual connection to the outside and more importantly connection to light.

Photography: Elise Scott. https://elisescott.studio