Architecture — Roger Nahum and Andrew Spaile
Interior Design — Carla Barton
Styling — Studio CD
Photography — Felix Forest
Designed by Carla Barton in collaboration with Roger Nahum and Andrew Spaile, this impressive home in one of Sydney’s most desirable suburbs exudes timeless elegance, striking a considered balance between old and new.
Drawing inspiration from classical Georgian architecture, as well as chic, contemporary European interiors, this ‘downsizer’ residence seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, slotting into its historic setting with elegance and ease.
On the ground floor, a welcoming and expansive entry foyer sets the tone, leading into refined living and dining areas, a modest, thoughtfully designed kitchen, integrated laundry, powder room, study, and double garage. On the top floor, three bedrooms, each with generous ensuites and walk-in wardrobes, have been imagined as quiet spaces for rest and repose, with calming colours and luxurious textures harmonising to stunning effect. Separating the two levels, a stone and iron staircase winds upwards through the home’s centre, sitting as both a striking feature and conduit between private and public domains.
When it came to how they wanted the newly-built home to feel, the client’s brief was clear: cohesion and calm came first. When imagining the palette, they didn’t want any finishes to jump out, or be too ‘in your face’, and as such, Barton kept things soft and understated, drawing inspiration from the blend of contemporary interior lifestyle and rich architectural history in projects coming out of Paris, London, and New York.
Striking, natural materials such as detailed marble, quartzite, timber veneer, metal, and Murano glass take centre stage, imbuing the home with a sense of warmth and bringing subtle character to living spaces, punctuated with an eclectic yet elegant mix of furnishings and artworks adding depth and vibrancy to an otherwise muted and minimal canvas.
“The design challenge was to create a home that transcends trends and embraces a timeless aesthetic, while maintaining a fresh, modern, and luxurious appeal.”
The design challenge was to create a home that transcends trends and embraces a timeless aesthetic, while maintaining a fresh, modern, and luxurious appeal. Grand Georgian was meticulously designed to reflect the client and designers’ shared reverence for quality, with a mind to the changing needs of family life over time.
As a result, the quietly designed interiors reflect a sophisticated blend of old-world charm and contemporary allure. Regal Georgian detailing and architectural accents pay homage to the home’s heritage, while a carefully curated mix of modern furnishings and finishes add a dynamic contrast. This fusion of styles creates a design language that is both sophisticated and timeless, with understated luxury prevailing — making way for the future while honouring the past.
