Hughesdale House

Californian bungalows are enjoying a resurgence, with many heading towards 100 years. They offer period charm but are often dark. Designed with architect Rob Harris of Elements of Home, for a couple with a toddler and a newborn on the way, this renovation has transformed a 1918 bungalow into a fine contemporary home.

The floorplan was reworked to bring an open plan kitchen, dining and living area to the rear, with large sliding doors to the garden. The open fireplace, decorative plaster ceilings and stucco walls of the front rooms were kept.

“They were both keen to have their favourite colours included, such as pink and blue,” says Tennille. Pale blue tongue-and-groove timber sits below the island, dusty pink pendants hang over the dining table, and a full-length wine fridge and an oak veneer cocktail cabinet answer the couple’s love of entertaining. The media room, in the darkest part of the house, is painted dark blue on the walls, the ceiling and even the original fireplace.