A 1980s haven in Sydney’s north cherry-picks the best of mid-century design
By Susan Redman
This reimagined 1980s home fuses mid-century modernism with cosy living and stylish finishes.
Patrick and Elizabeth Mitchell in their living room with its stone fireplace. The vintage suite is from Metro Road Trading.Credit: Jennifer Soo
The house
A single-storey, three-bedroom house in Warrawee, on Sydney’s upper north shore, with elements of mid-century design inspired by the owners’ years living in the Netherlands.
Who lives here
Patrick Mitchell, ex-banker, now part-time public servant, his wife Elizabeth, and their wheaten terrier, Saga.
What we did
“We wanted a mid-century inspired home that was both practical and beautiful,” says Patrick. “We worked with Studio Prineas architect Eva-Marie Prineas, who kept the asymmetric roofline but remodelled the rest with a Richard Neutra-inspired design to achieve a light and airy home with tons of built-in storage.”
Our favourite room
“The combined living, dining, kitchen space,” says Elizabeth. “It exemplifies the design aesthetic we sought. It’s functional, with lots of space, and a leafy outlook over the garden.”
The ’hood
“Warrawee is green and quiet, close to amenities and the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park,” says Patrick. “It’s also evolving into a more diverse area.”
Future plans
“To continue enjoying the house as it is,” says Elizabeth.
Best advice
“Choose an architect wisely, then commit to your decision by trusting their suggestions during the build,” says Elizabeth.
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