A dramatic transformation has unfolded in the coastal town of Torquay, where a dated family home has been reborn as a stunning, light-filled Mediterranean-inspired sanctuary. In a remarkable renovation journey, the owners decided to keep just two original elements: a majestic established tree and a classic brick fireplace.
From Dated to Dream Home: The Vision
The project, led by Geelong-based building designer Danielle Taylor of DRT Design, began with a home that was dark, segmented, and failed to connect with its generous block. The clients, a couple with two young children, desired a complete overhaul that would bring in light, improve flow, and capture a relaxed, coastal-European vibe perfect for entertaining and family life.
The original 1980s brick home was largely demolished, making way for a new two-storey structure that cleverly reimagines the space. The preservation of the existing liquidambar tree became a central design pillar, with the new layout curated to frame this natural feature. Similarly, the original fireplace was retained and integrated into the new living zone, providing a tangible link to the home's past.
A Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Connection
The new design masterfully blurs the lines between inside and out. The ground floor now features an open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area that flows effortlessly onto a spacious alfresco terrace and pool area. This setup is ideal for the Australian coastal lifestyle, encouraging year-round indoor-outdoor living.
Key design choices reinforce the Mediterranean aesthetic:
- Material Palette: A mix of rendered walls, bagged brickwork, and timber battens creates texture and warmth.
- Colour Scheme: Soft, earthy tones dominate, complemented by terracotta roof tiles and limestone flooring.
- Architectural Details: Arched openings and vaulted ceilings add character and a sense of grandeur, while large steel-framed windows flood the interiors with natural light.
Upstairs, the private quarters house four bedrooms, including a luxurious main suite with a walk-in wardrobe and a double vanity ensuite, offering a serene retreat for the parents.
The Heart of the Home: Kitchen and Living
The kitchen is now a true centrepiece, designed for both functionality and socialising. It features a large stone island bench, sleek cabinetry, and high-end appliances. This space flows directly into the living area, where the preserved brick fireplace now serves as a beautiful focal point, adding cosiness to the expansive, airy layout.
The successful execution was a collaboration between DRT Design and builder Simon Rowe of Rowe Built. The project demonstrates how a strategic, full-scale renovation can not only modernise a property but completely reinvent its character and relationship with the land.
The result is a bespoke Torquay residence that feels both timeless and perfectly suited to its beachside location. It stands as a testament to the power of bold design decisions, showing how preserving select elements of the past can beautifully anchor a home's entirely new future.
