Designed by buck&simple & Texture Studio

Working with the bones of this post-war, government-built home and inserting new elements of colour and texture as well as connecting it to the outdoors has created a vibrant family home with an appropriate dose of mid-century flair...

Government-built home lovingly transformed into a Mid-century gem

Ainslie Cottage in the inner-Canberra suburb of the same name had great bones and proportions, it just needed to be updated to suit a modern family lifestyle. Architects buck&simple worked with interior designer Texture Studio to create a modern home with mid-century character.

Government-built home lovingly transformed into a Mid-century gem

Importantly, the cottage needed better access to the garden to take advantage of a decent-sized yard. A new deck at the same level as the interior helps to draw people out into the garden. A large new window and door connect the kitchen and dining area to the deck and, in turn, celebrates leafy views of the garden. The red bricks and classic gable form of the home now feel balanced and highlighted from the garden.

Government-built home lovingly transformed into a Mid-century gem

The placement of new windows was key to improving the home's cross-ventilation and natural light. This will reduce the need for air-conditioning and heating, to create a more sustainable and environmentally sensitive home.

Government-built home lovingly transformed into a Mid-century gem

"A soft green and white colour palette draws inspiration from the natural setting with each window having an outlook to the native Australian landscaped setting of the home", explains the architect.

Government-built home lovingly transformed into a Mid-century gem

Government-built home lovingly transformed into a Mid-century gem

Timber is used extensively, bringing warmth and texture to the home while also nodding towards mid-century details. "A continuation of polished timber flooring tie together the natural timber details in the timber windows, picture rails, benches and joinery", explains the architect.

Government-built home lovingly transformed into a Mid-century gem

Government-built home lovingly transformed into a Mid-century gem

Government-built home lovingly transformed into a Mid-century gem

"A playful selection of tiles with robust fixtures create functional bathrooms and a laundry that are suitable for family living."

Government-built home lovingly transformed into a Mid-century gem

Government-built home lovingly transformed into a Mid-century gem

Government-built home lovingly transformed into a Mid-century gem

Government-built home lovingly transformed into a Mid-century gem

By leaning into the mid-century character of the home, the architects and designers have created a warm, vibrant home that's packed full of personality. Sensitive updates and the insertion of new windows has created a home that is perfect for modern living and proves the ongoing flexibility and functionality of the many post-war government-built homes.

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