The design brief for transforming this 1920s Californian bungalow was to maintain and revitalise the vibrant, colourful nature of the previous Kennedy Nolan renovation, whilst re-working the living area, kitchen, entry, bathroom and laundry. Mardi Doherty of Doherty Design Studio explains ‘rather than shunning the home’s colourful past, our design response was to heartily embrace these elements.’The re-design creates a balance between spaces and joinery that echoes the boldness of the original, colourful renovation, and quieter areas of relaxation and subdued tones.

The existing glossy red room divide on the ground floor was the key-pin in informing a bright and bold design response. But while colour reigns supreme, it is clever material choices that bring this rainbow together! Mardi describes how the bungalow is updated with a ‘robust and daring mix of materials; black steel, oversized terrazzo, marble, Corian, fluted glass, polished plaster and mosaic tiles.’

The new upstairs bathroom echoes the scale and graphic qualities of the retained orange and blue bathrooms, but here is realised in white mosaics, against bright blue grout. The raised ceiling and curbed corners in the shower recess create further graphic appeal and sense of space. An elegant update that references the heritage of the home.

The living and dining room is fitted out with vintage furniture and new accessories, bringing further pops of colour with orange chairs, a magenta stool, and patterned rug that reflects the tones in the nearby rainbow window.

Though it makes a bold statement, in fact, the success of this project lies in its respectful celebration of a previous renovation. A clever, vibrant interior treatment that shows just how transformative colour can be!