Hawthorn Dining Room
Set within a renovated Edwardian home in Hawthorn, this project evolved gradually over time through a series of custom furniture commissions designed to bring continuity and balance to the modern extension at the rear of the home.
The relationship with the clients began with the design and construction of a custom entertainment unit, followed by a floating buffet positioned opposite within the open living area. As the interior evolved, the clients returned wanting to resolve the adjoining dining room and create a cohesive connection between all of the spaces.
The brief centred around warmth, functionality and simplicity. The clients were drawn to the idea of a solid timber dining table that would soften the darker architectural elements already existing within the room, including the charcoal feature wall and expansive floating cabinetry. After exploring a range of timber options, American oak was selected for its warmth, natural grain and timeless character.
A previously designed table was presented during the concept stage, paired with classic Eames dining chairs. The combination immediately resonated with the clients and ultimately became the foundation of the dining setting, with the chairs also sourced and organised as part of the overall project.
To anchor the large open wall space, a custom floating buffet was designed to provide concealed storage for crockery and everyday dining items, while still allowing areas for display and styling. Above, a series of integrated overhead cupboards concealed the existing air-conditioning units within the room — transforming what was previously a visual interruption into a clean architectural feature.
The concealed flap doors were engineered to lift completely upward and sit flat against the ceiling when open, allowing the air-conditioning units to operate freely without restricting airflow. When closed, the entire system disappeared seamlessly into the surrounding joinery, maintaining the calm and minimal feel of the space.
Ambient LED lighting was integrated throughout the joinery to soften the dark charcoal wall and create warmth within the dining area during the evening. Rather than introducing suspended pendant lighting, which would have visually cluttered the split-level space, concealed lighting was used to create a softer atmosphere that complemented the architecture and allowed the dining area to feel relaxed and inviting at night.
Throughout the project, attention was also given to the smaller practical details within the home — resolving minor issues, refining existing elements and quietly improving areas that were not functioning as they should. These small adjustments often become an important part of custom projects, helping the overall home feel more resolved and considered.
The completed project reflects a balance of craftsmanship, practicality and understated architectural design — with each piece designed to sit comfortably within the evolving story of the home.
