The Gentleman Apartment: A Symphony of Art Deco in Redfern, Sydney
Nestled in the heart of Redfern, a trendy suburb of Sydney, The Gentleman apartment is a striking example of art deco architecture, masterfully reimagined by the local interiors studio, YSG. This renovation presents a harmonious blend of historical styling and modern comforts across its 95 square meters.
A Nod to Heritage
Built in 1929, the apartment was the canvas for YSG’s meticulous restoration, bringing back the elegance of the original art deco features. YSG emphasized the beauty inherent in the apartment’s high ceilings and distinctive architectural details. The design celebrates the chamfered surfaces and warm hues that define the art deco style, echoing the charm of the building while ensuring it meets contemporary living standards.
The Vision Behind The Design
Named “The Gentleman,” the project reflects the personality of its owners—two cultured men whose shared values resonate throughout the home. “The home essentially personifies many of their combined attributes, becoming in a sense the third ‘gentleman’ in the equation,” says YSG director Yasmine Ghoniem. The renovation aimed to encapsulate their warmth and scholarly sophistication, alongside their passion for classical music, particularly the works of composers like Rachmaninov and Bach.
Spoiling for Space
One of the unique challenges presented by the apartment was its original dimensions. Given that both clients are over two meters tall, YSG took the unusual step of raising the entryways, temporarily removing original architraves to achieve this. The existing architraves were preserved and reinstated with thick Australian Red Cedar skirtings, ensuring they matched the newly increased door heights. This attention to detail not only enhances the functionality of the space but also maintains its historical integrity.
A Linear Flow of Spaces
The apartment’s layout features a linear configuration, effectively maximizing space. A welcoming entrance leads into a central dining area, flanked by two bedrooms on one side and a bathroom, kitchen, and living room on the other. This thoughtful arrangement directs the eye through the apartment, creating a seamless flow that enhances the sense of openness.
Warmth and Comfort
In its design palette, golden ochre hues adorn the living room walls, lending warmth and character to the space. Amber sconces echo the tones of the original front door’s tinted panels, providing soft illumination while maintaining an inviting atmosphere. Textures of chocolate brown and toffee further punctuate the décor, enveloping the residents in a cozy embrace.
A Harmonious Blend of Functionality and Style
The galley kitchen serves as a focal point, bringing style and functionality together with its stainless steel surfaces and the dramaticLauriana quartzite chimney hood. This bold element is not just about aesthetics but also enhances the kitchen’s usability, encouraging culinary creativity amidst a setting that exudes elegance.
Unique Features Stand Out
An intriguing oblique wall, skillfully designed to incorporate a laundry room, discreetly extends into the corridor, creatively dividing and uniting spaces at once. This form is mirrored in a bespoke timber banquette that wraps around the wall, alongside an “angled halo” light hanging above the dining table. Such elements embody the owners’ appreciation for modern artistry interlaced with traditional aesthetics.
Bathrooms with a Statement
The striking bathroom highlights YSG’s commitment to creating memorable moments in smaller spaces. Here, one can find a monolithic vanity with a sloped face, enveloped in sepia hues from amber glass window panels. This intersection of functionality and style allows for a rich sensory experience while providing the necessary privacy.
Attention to Detail
Every inch of The Gentleman reflects a curated approach to design. From the bold patterns in the kitchen stone to the angled dining banquette, each room is imbued with character and deliberation. YSG’s desire to embody the clients’ personalities translates into an environment that is not only livable but also deeply personal.
The Experience of Light
YSG drew inspiration from the art of Vermeer, reflecting on the mastery of light and shade seen in his paintings. This artistic influence is evident in the use of lead white shades that unify the apartment’s walls, allowing natural light to play beautifully throughout the space.
Creating Ambiance
In terms of mood, the combination of deep colors and rich materials works to create an intimate yet dynamic living environment. The design team ensured that both comfort and style coalesce, allowing the residents to experience both relaxation and sophistication daily.
The Future of Design
The Gentleman stands as a testament to YSG’s design philosophy—merging the old with the new while honoring personal stories and histories. With recent projects ranging from holiday homes to café interiors that reflect chic, nostalgic elements from different decades, YSG proves adept at crafting spaces that celebrate both aesthetic beauty and the essence of the inhabitants within.
With its enchanting blend of architectural heritage and modern design flair, The Gentleman apartment is not merely a living space; it is a narrative—a story woven through time, personality, and artistry.