Collaborating closely with their clients whose brief was to create a ‘dream home’ that was, above all, liveable, Phoebe Nicol Interior Architecture embarked on a journey to revive a charming 1925 Californian bungalow.
Originally designed in the 20s by Bruce Dellit, with an A-frame extension added in 2001 by Alan Dukes Architect, Phoebe Nicol’s ‘Kings Road’ project is a testament to architectural evolution. Tasked with a complete interior overhaul, Nicol and her team embraced the home’s storied past while infusing it with fresh, contemporary charm.
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Maintaining the home’s historic character was integral to the overall design, and as such, inspiration was drawn from its art deco roots. Existing features were celebrated and enhanced, with new nods to this era introduced, while integrating modern elements lent a softness and sense of interconnectedness to the home.
The first step for the design team was rethinking the property’s configuration, balancing practicality and proportion while preserving the building’s integrity. No easy feat, but once the foundation was there, everything else fell quickly into place. A soothing, neutral palette of creamy tones became the unifying thread, weaving together the timeless and modern aspects of the home to craft a serene sense of comfort and casualness, uniting the series of spaces harmoniously.
The living areas are open and flow freely, with a sense of spatial separation created via thoughtful finishes — a change in flooring here, a slight shift in style there. A cleverly employed, delicate balance of styles blends the original charm of the home with modern elements to enhance livability and functionality.
This is most evident in the meticulous detailing, material palette, and thoughtful edit of furnishings. While some elements are classical and refined, capturing the essence of the storied residence, others lend a rustic and relaxed charm, bringing the home into the here and now. Carefully chosen artwork and accents add subtle layers of sophistication, infusing the space with a casualness and a true sense of homeliness.
Retaining the external integrity of the house, Phoebe Nicol’s focus was on infusing the interior with warmth and comfort, creating a truly liveable home for a young family — a brief she delivered on implicitly. Kings Road stands as a harmonious blend of past and present, offering a timeless retreat that elevates the everyday.
Love Handles Vase from Moda Operandi
from Ligne Roset
