A Spanish Beauty – St Kilda East
With its existing Spanish Mission stylings preserved, St Kilda East sees the insertion of key formal and transitionary elements that connect the inside and out, echoing a Mediterranean sensibility. Designed in collaboration between Melanie Beynon and Megan Hounslow (formerly of Meme), the resulting home creates zoning through a hierarchy of private and gathering spaces.
Located in Melbourne’s inner beachside suburb of the same name, St Kilda East sees the renovation of an existing Spanish Mission style home into a more connected and considered family residence for its owners. Spotted and acquired by the clients for its existing distinctive features, the home mirrors the Spanish openness of a lifestyle centred around the outdoors. Taking cues from the original archways and heavily weighted masonry elements, the new proposed alterations and additions act as an extension, further emphasising an anchored feel. Similar to many homes in similar climatic conditions, the ease of flow between in and out was imperative, and the new works were subsequently founded on these principles. Designed in collaboration between Melanie Beynon and Megan Hounslow, home of natural and organically textured finishes emerges.
The overall approach is restrained with purpose, combining refined and enduring elements to create a streamlined and minimally calming abode.
Taking inspiration from its Spanish origins, handmade hexagonal patterned floor and wall tiles add an element of the handmade and connects to the maker, while the expressed metalwork reinforces the styling.
