Melbourne-based interior design studio Hecker Guthrie has reimagined the interiors of a historic townhouse in Sydney’s inner suburbs, skilfully integrating its Victorian-era charm into the new design.
In an interview with design writer Karen McCartney for our podcast series This Much I Know, Hecker Guthrie co-founder Paul Hecker shared, “I don’t want to create sterile homes; I want to create homes that have warmth and charm—homes that make people feel good, whether they’re with others or alone.” This sentiment is particularly evident in the studio’s latest project, where they embraced Japanese design principles to transform a heritage family home.
Working with Hecker Guthrie for the second time, the client placed immense trust in the studio to deliver on the brief, notably incorporating Japanese design elements through the material palette. In the kitchen, the interplay of solid stone floors, richly-stained timber panelling, light-grey terrazzo benchtops, and a milk-coloured zellige-tiled splashback creates a grounding, soothing environment characteristic of Japanese homes. This atmosphere extends into the dining area, featuring richly-stained timber and stone floors. As you move into the living space, Hecker Guthrie chose a darker, earthier colour scheme, with ash-grey walls, warm timber floors, and an olive-green sofa.
Focusing on the finer details within the home, custom joinery—including built-in shelves and cabinets—displays precious ceramic objects, bringing a theme of craftsmanship to the interiors. “Our philosophy has always been to do it once, do it well, and do it forever,” Paul noted in the same interview. “This is especially true for the joinery in each of our projects; we want it to have a life beyond its current one. To us, that is sustainability.” Art also plays a prominent role in the project, with the walls showcasing works by renowned Australian artists such as Greg Wood and Lottie Consalvo.
Custom joinery—including built-in shelves and cabinets—displays precious ceramic objects, bringing a theme of craftsmanship to the interiors.
In the living room, Hecker Guthrie chose a dark, earthy colour scheme, with ash-grey walls, warm timber floors, and an olive-green Maker and Son Song sofa. A paper pendant lamp complements the home’s Japanese aesthetic, while the Nemo Potence Pivotante Mini wall lamp introduces a contemporary element.
Hecker Guthrie has kept some of the original Victorian-era features, including the ornamental stair balustrade.
The studio has employed light, neutral tones in the primary bedroom and en suite to cultivate a tranquil atmosphere. Pictured in the bedroom is the Arflex Marenco armchair.
