Whispering Dunes by Homeroom Studio, Melbourne

A harmonious blend of heritage and modernity, Whispering Dunes is one of the latest completed projects by Homeroom Studio. The primary objective of the redesign was to enhance rather than modify the house’s original character, which is why finding the ideal balance between preserving the property’s inherent appeal and a modern, contemporary revamp was crucial.

To ensure a refined result, the design team at Homeroom Studio used an adaptive reuse approach in which they carefully decided on sustainable materials meticulously implemented in the house. The family home has been thoughtfully designed, focusing on spatial planning that facilitates a practical family home environment. The result is a house that feels modern yet classic, in the middle of bustling day-to-day life. This elegant home with its open layout perfectly accommodates the dynamics of family living all the while providing a peaceful haven.

The opulent jewel-toned furniture, custom-made pieces, and artwork by Gregory Hodge give the home movement, vitality, and fluidity. The thoughtful blending of modern and traditional elements highlights and enhances the home’s past characteristics.

The atmosphere of peace and calm in the house is greatly enhanced by the earthy, natural colour scheme. The focal point of this colour scheme features a marble stone, that establishes the overall mood for the room with its flowing fissures that resemble sand dunes. The softness and warmth of Whispering Dunes radiate a calmness that acts as a serene confidence that contrasts with the elegantly layered and textural furniture chosen for the home.

The living area exudes sophistication with its welcoming, modern wrap-around couch and deeper-hued armchairs, which perfectly frame the room. All the furniture is placed in front of the main wall, decorated with the home’s distinct marble feature. The marble adds a sensation of motion, a subliminal nod to the vibrant, ever-moving city life. An electric fireplace is seamlessly embedded in the wall adding warmth without disrupting the minimalist aesthetic of the room. Striking a balance between style and utility, the space provides built-in shelves that supply a space for storage or displaying décor. Lastly, the room is pulled together with a circular centerpiece, that brings a contemporary look to the design.

Romy Dankner founded Homeroom Studio, which is renowned for its innovative and sophisticated approach that expertly strikes a balance between design and function. The company goes beyond creating designs by personalising them to resonate with its clients. As part of this commitment, they offer furniture curation services, such as the custom-designed Sandstorm dining table featured in Whispering Dunes.

The custom-built dining table, called Sandstorm is one of the distinctive features of Whispering Dunes’ redesign. This one-of-a-kind piece was created in partnership with Christopher Blank and functions as the focal point of the interior. The dark wood table contrasts perfectly with the subdued interior designs throughout the home. The curved tabletop supported by its abstract leg shape, is a satisfying juxtaposition to the house’s linear classical components. Additionally, the table is paired with complementary artwork and a contrasting white chandelier with circular features, that blend together to resemble clouds.  By depicting the swirling intensity and visual impact of the desert storm, Sandstorm provides the area with a dynamic touch.

Custom-built dining table, called Sandstorm is one of the distinctive features of Whispering Dunes’ redesign.

Whispering Dunes by Homeroom Studio is a great example of sustainable design. By adding new,  modern design elements to an already existing structure, the redesign minimises material waste and supports the reduction of urban sprawl. As a result, this remodel perfectly highlights the intersectionality between contemporary and sustainable design and showcases its coexistence.

Photographer – Timothy Kaye

Read more interior features here.