A contemporary reimagining of an Arts and Crafts home

The Arts and Crafts movement was born in the mid nineteenth century in England as a backlash to the mass production of items from the industrial revolution of that time.  These were perceived as being sub standard and this movement sought to refocus on handmade furniture and items of beauty made in a traditional style.  William Morris was a proponent of this style and his well known quote is one that we should all bear in mind:  “Have nothing in your house you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful,”

The Arts and Crafts movement spread to America and its presence was also felt here in Australia.  Houses built into the early part of the 20th century all had a high level of detail and are very distinctive in their style. During this period there were many houses built in Australia that evoked the new trend of cruise liners built purely for holidays and leisure.  These houses are distinctive in that they have beautiful round rooms that look out to sea.  Blended with our own distinctive Federation style of that period, these Australian homes have so much grace and beauty which will be a huge loss when they are no longer standing.

I was therefore really interested to see this contemporary reimagining of an Arts and Crafts home at Gunnamatta Bay in south Sydney.

A project that saw one large Arts and Crafts home divided into two residences was recently accomplished by Tass Construction Group.  Navigating the original residence’s Arts and Crafts style home and its multiple living spaces, the conversion delivered two individually distinct, yet seamlessly integrated residences.

Driven by a desire for familial togetherness and personal privacy, the homeowner envisioned two separate dwellings, each complete with its own double garage. “Despite the age of the home, the essence of the design brief was to keep the existing charm of the house ensuring that the two new residences still looked like one large home,” said Ben Tass, co-founder of Tass Construction Group.

Chris Freeburn of Ironbark Architecture ensured both new residences are almost equal in size and enjoy split level floorplans providing majestic Gunnamatta Bay views from restored terraces. The home’s original boat house, cabana area and outdoor kitchen received a cosmetic makeover, and forms part of a common area along with the pool and wharf.

Located on the upper floor, Dwelling B is the epitome of coastal elegance, boasting herringbone timber flooring and modern luxuries. Lift access to the main living area of the home from the entrance future-proofs Dwelling B, while the open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area flow onto a tiled balcony terrace, offering panoramic views of Gunnamatta Bay.

The kitchen’s intriguing three-quarter circle shape features custom round joinery and benchtops, and bay views from multiple windows. “It’s a captivating blend of form and function that celebrates coastal living at its finest,” said Ben, noting that the design is further enhanced by an array of various ceiling heights, raked ceilings, intricate tile designs, curved walls, and wall angles throughout the home.

“Design features elevate each residence beyond mere functionality to a realm of unparalleled elegance,” said Ben. “It’s so rewarding that we have been able to maintain the charm of the existing house whilst upgrading their living standards and creating two dwellings from one.”

Before delivering the final result, the project required a huge amount of structural work. “We have built some difficult homes in the past but this was certainly up there,” said Ben, noting the involvement of range of third-party consultants including engineers, architects, and BCA specialists. There were so many moving parts and professionals involved it was a pleasure to be a key part of it. These “difficult builds” are what we thrive on at Tass Construction Group and we have the structure and the experience to deliver.”

Adding further challenges to the project was new compliance requirements introduced during construction. Updates to Residential Apartment Buildings (Compliance and Enforcement Powers) Act 2020 No 9, required all construction and corresponding documentation to meet stricter standards, especially when it came to fire proofing. “In this situation we were troubleshooting and detailing construction as we built. It was a huge effort and required almost daily input from the architect, certifier, BCA consultant, and ourselves to get it right,” said Ben.

The final result is testament to the transformative power of design in creating spaces that nurture connections and inspire awe. From the sweeping views of Gunnamatta Bay to the intricate details of custom joinery, every element speaks to the timeless allure of coastal living.

What I love about this contemporary reimagining of an Arts and Crafts home

• The circular kitchen is an absolute standout in this design.  I love every part of it.  With its beautiful curves I feel that it would be a really great kitchen to work in.  With no hard corners to hinder movement, I am sure that working here would be a breeze.  The timber joinery is perfect and I love the attention to detail in the space.  I think that the original proponents of the Arts and Crafts movement would be very happy with this design.
• The timber herringbone flooring in a mid tone finish also suits the style of the house.  Again, it offers great attention to detail.
• I love the classic terracotta style roof too.  There's something about flying into Sydney and seeing the red roofs that makes you feel as if you are home.  We're losing this to more modern design, but this look is so very classic and comforting.

For further information visit https://www.tasscg.com/

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