This stunning house started its life as a 1980’s brick and tile home in the beachside suburb of Suffolk Park, close to the hip beach town Byron Bay in Australia. Henman Designs and SPACEbuilt architects transformed the home into a quintessentially midcentury modern home.
From exposed beams, contrasting materials, wood panelling, sandstone walls, expansive windows and a seamless blend of the interior and exterior this home espouses all the characteristics of a midcentury home despite being built in the eighties.
We chatted with the interior designed Jamie Henman to find out more about his thoughts on interior design, especially with regards to a midcentury style.
First of all, could you tell us a little bit about your background?
“I’m based and operating out of Byron Bay, New South Wales. Bathroom design is something I am mostly experienced in and an exciting and important area of every home.”
What got you interested in midcentury modern inspired interior design?
“Open plan living and minimal details both internally and structurally.”
What do you think was so special about the midcentury period in American design?
“The way in which midcentury architecture opens up a home and the importance of incorporating multiple rooms into one.”
How do you approach the interior design process?
“I assess the function and purpose of the home and areas of focus for the client and start from there.”
Do you have any tips for people interested in adding midcentury design elements to their home? What should they pay attention to and why?
“Adding midcentury to an exisiing home can be as simple as selecting key furniture pieces and lighting. Alternatively if you are renovating or building, this will be based around the structure, layout and finishes / fixture selections.”
What advice do you have for mixing and matching vintage items with new?
“Explore the variety of textures and colours you can incorporate of both vintage and modern elements, to ensure they complement each other.”
What is the best approach for homeowners when starting out? One room or the whole house?
“Look at the house as a whole and focus on which rooms are a key focus for you.”
Photos by Anna Hutch
