The Vision and Restoration

In 2015, Estelle embarked on her search for a house she could restore. Although the renovations were minor, the process spanned five years. Major changes were concentrated on the third floor, transforming small rooms and a workshop into an open-plan space by removing interior walls. The decision to adopt an upside-down layout, with bedrooms on the lower level and living areas above, was initially met with scepticism from her family. However, Estelle's vision prevailed, ensuring that the primary living spaces benefited from abundant natural light.

Balancing New and Old

A key element of Estelle's design philosophy was to balance new additions with the home's original character. Wherever possible, she preserved existing tiling and introduced new materials only where necessary. This approach is evident in the bathroom, which was formerly a kitchen, retaining the original sink placement.

Material Choices and Finishes

The aesthetic upstairs contrasts sharply with the downstairs. Estelle preferred a more raw finish, but her sister, an architecture student, advised against it. The compromise resulted in a mix of whitewashed walls and exposed concrete, showcasing imperfections and raw textures. This juxtaposition of finishes has become one of Estelle's favourite aspects of the house.

Expanding the Family

Originally, Estelle envisioned the house for herself, with plans for a guest bedroom or a clinic. However, her plans shifted when she met Noel. They decided to foster two boys, necessitating significant changes to the downstairs layout. The original bedroom became a study, the walk-in closet transformed into the boys' bedroom, and the study became the main bedroom. This reconfiguration was essential to create a functional living space for the family.

Designing for Functionality

The study, designed for Estelle's work as a product designer, is the first room you encounter upstairs. It features a centrally placed desk, allowing Estelle to greet visitors and keep an eye on her children while working. The boys' bedroom, once a closet, connects to the study through two doors, expanding their play area and preventing a claustrophobic feel.

Staircases and Kitchen Design

The house features a mix of old and new staircases. The narrow, original staircase was retained despite its size, while a new steel staircase was introduced to allow light to filter through. The kitchen design is unconventional, with all amenities packed into an island. This setup addresses Estelle's aversion to kitchens placed against walls but presents storage challenges, exacerbated by the house's size and open shelving.

Navigating Minimalism and Storage

Noel, a minimalist, finds it challenging to maintain order with numerous items on display. The arrival of the boys intensified this challenge, necessitating creative storage solutions both within their small bedroom and throughout the house.

Conclusion

Despite numerous changes and challenges, Estelle and Noel's house remains functional and welcoming. Its ability to adapt to their evolving needs reflects the thoughtful design choices and compromises made along the way. The home continues to evolve, meeting the demands of the family it shelters.