We were commissioned to design an open, contemporary home for a family, with inviting spaces where they could spend quality time together yet have their own space. Dating from 1905, the traditional house was in need of a makeover - the original detailing was lost under layers of previous renovations that had also enclosed the spaces.

Our design - which involved a renovation, alteration and extension - imagines the ground floor as an open living landscape: extending 27 metres long, it comprises a series of interconnected spaces that are enhanced by height differences and organised around spatial furniture elements and connected by a beautiful parquet floor. The original historic character of the house is enhanced by the design of these custom-designed elements that complement the colour, material and texture of the original detailing.

The top floors accommodate an office, a new terrace and the boys’ rooms; the first floor is dedicated to the parents. The entire length of the latter has also been opened up; the generous bathroom with sauna at the back and grand bedroom at the front are connected by a dressing room. Downstairs, the gate-like passageway under the stairs leads to the cellar. New custom joinery and subtle lighting have helped transform the vaulted cellar from a low, dark service basement into an exclusive space that centres on the wine collection.