Project: House 1915
Interior Design & Decoration: Studio Esar
Lead Designer: Silvia Roldan
Location: Elwood, Victoria, Australia
Year: 2025
Photo Credits: Elise Scott
House 1915 is a residence of significant historical and architectural value. In Stage One of this project, Studio Esar undertakes the delicate restoration and transformation of the home’s front portion. Guided by its heritage-listed status, the design honors the original character while introducing a layer of contemporary elegance. Consequently, past and present coexist seamlessly throughout the Entry, Dining Room, Living Room, and Master Bedroom.
Preserving the Architectural DNA
Rather than reconfiguring the original floorplan, the architects carefully preserved it, ensuring the home’s interwar DNA remains intact. Consequently, each room retains its spatial proportions, ceiling heights, and wall moldings. However, Studio Esar re-imagined these spaces through a curated selection of sculptural furniture and rich materials. In doing so, the restored interiors celebrate the home’s historic detailing—particularly the intricate ceiling and wall moldings—while feeling fresh and sophisticated.
Responding to Existing Finishes with Textural Richness
Upon initial inspection, the front portion revealed relics of its era: mint-green plush carpet, dark-stained timber paneling, and rough stucco walls. In response, the design team employed a heavily textured material palette that elevates the space and emphasizes its character. For example, in the Dining Room, a forest-inspired woven textile wallpaper by Arte Wallpaper sets a tactile tone. Consequently, the room feels moody and atmospheric, providing a backdrop for both conversation and contemplation.
Sculptural Furniture and Bespoke Details
Throughout the restored rooms, bespoke artist-made pieces balance form and function. In the Dining Room, a solid timber table by Christopher Blank sits beneath a sculptural pendant by Daniel Giffin, while fully upholstered chairs by Gubi offer comfort and a contemporary silhouette. Meanwhile, a custom-built wine storage feature commands attention upon entry: timber veneer cabinetry with patterned grilles by Joseph Giles provides transparency and texture, and sculptural marble handles echo the rich tones of the wood. As a result, this functional element transforms into a work of art.
Living Room: A Dialogue of Detail
In the Living Room, Studio Esar layered plush fabrics, soft lighting, and sculptural rugs to enhance the interwar detailing. For instance, deep-pile area rugs in neutral tones anchor bespoke sofas and armchairs, inviting both repose and social gathering. Moreover, carefully placed floor lamps and sconces highlight original moldings while introducing modern warmth. Consequently, the living area feels both cozy and grand—respecting its roots while speaking a contemporary design language.
Master Bedroom: Strength and Fluidity
In the Master Bedroom, the architects struck a refined balance between structure and softness. Oversized Ficupala pendant lights by Cassina anchor Dedalo bedside tables, creating sculptural focal points. Meanwhile, a Bonsai chaise by Arflex invites repose in front of a restored fireplace. Additionally, a curved upholstered bed by Pianca, paired with vibrant artwork by Gabrielle Jones, completes the room’s serene yet expressive atmosphere. As a result, the suite exemplifies “a blend of masculine strength and feminine fluidity,” to quote Principal Designer Silvia Roldan.
Bringing History Forward with Integrity
With House 1915, Studio Esar listened to the home’s history and found a way to bring that story forward with integrity. Each piece and finish was chosen to respect what was already there, while introducing a contemporary language that feels both bold and deeply personal. In doing so, the project achieves a harmonious fusion of heritage and modern living—ensuring the residence remains both timeless and relevant.
“With House 1915, it was never about reinventing the home; it was about listening to its history and finding a way to bring that story forward with integrity. Every piece, every finish was chosen to respect what was already there, while introducing a contemporary language that feels both bold and deeply personal.” — Silvia Roldan, Principal Designer, Studio Esar
