Large spaces can be arranged for multiple uses, using design tricks to define each zone. An area rug, furniture layout, artworks, and different finishes on vertical surfaces – all of these delineate each area in a large space.

Janet, Sven and their two teenage sons immigrated to Australia prior to the COVID-19 pandemic; the family had serial renovators in Denmark. After a few months renting in Melbourne, they bought a functional, non-descript 1950’s cream brick veneer house.

The rear of the house was north facing, but without any direct access or windows overlooking the sizeable rear yard. It was the perfect location for a simple extension, without causing much disruption to the existing house.

They added a long 14 metre room with sloping ceilings lined with timber lining boards; three exposed recycled timber trusses contributed visually to separating the space into an open plan living and dining area. A liberal coating of white paint over exposed brick and plastered walls united the room. The wooden frames of the floor to ceiling sliding doors and windows were highlighted in black. The windows were spaced evenly between the trusses, making an architectural statement.

At one end of the room a stone feature wall containing and open fireplace, with a raised hearth, and no mantle was installed. Recycled planks lacquered with a very dark stain were used as shelves in the 2 metre wide cavities either side of the chimney.

A modern sofa group was places in a central position opposite the fire, surrounding a coffee table, casually grounded by a large exquisite Persian rug. By moving furniture away from the walls, the room was allowed to breathe and felt spacious.

The sofa space was further delineated by several banks of floor to ceiling shelving along the wall, tastefully styled with books, plants and a selection of ceramics. This provided a visual boundary to the sofa area. A contemporary pendant light fitting was hung low over the coffee table.

Sven’s grandmother’s baby grand piano was placed in the centre of the room, commanding prime position, its ebony lid open in anticipation of special occasions and impromptu performances.

The final third of the room is dedicated to dining: a scrubbed black Baltic pine table with an assortment of classic leather and mismatched wooden chairs are there. It wouldn’t be Danish without a selection of assorted candles on the table.

It’s always enjoyable re-visiting this family. On my last visit, afternoon tea was served in the dining room, while one of the sons played the grand piano in the background. We then relocated to the other end of the room, in front of the fire. Each area of the room had its own function and purposeful decor, feeling in empathy with every other part of the room and the existing house. We don’t all own a grand piano, but the design of a difficult space can become easier with the clever use of furniture, rugs and lighting.

Published in the July 2022 Issue of The Trentham Trumpet