Jess Flaherty and Mitchell Bink wanted a unique home, one unlike any other. They wanted something modern and refined, yet something still connected to the natural environment. But… it had to fit their budget.
Renovation was the answer. Flaherty and Bink purchased a property in Fisher, and now, with the first stages of renovation complete, the results are astonishing. They have managed to create a stunning open plan home with clean lines and natural textures worthy of any architecture and interior design magazine.
Originally, the couple’s renovation plans were modest. Re-carpeting, retiling, possibly redoing the kitchen. Nothing overly ambitious.
“After looking at a number of open homes in Weston Creek, we originally purchased this home because we thought it would be the least amount of work to renovate, it was liveable with nice enough carpet” said Flaherty.
But, before they knew it, they were knocking down walls, tearing out the kitchen, laying new tiles and new carpet, and building a walk-in-robe for the master bedroom. All in a strict 6-week time frame.
After purchasing the property, the first point of call was the kitchen. It was to be ripped out completely, and redone. The floors were retiled, and a calm, neutral palette was decided upon. Striking copper accessories tie the room together, and complement the lush garden backdrop.
Perhaps the most interesting feature of this kitchen is the custom handcrafted polished concrete bench tops, made by Mitchell Bink Concrete Design. “There is no one in Canberra with the same designed kitchen bench top as us, and we love that,” says Flaherty.
The kitchen island is huge, over 3m long and 1m wide, and is definitely the focal point of the space. The bench top raises up about half way along, creating a dynamic, multi-purpose surface perfect for both food preparation and entertaining.
The waterfall sides of the kitchen island are embellished with a distinct timber herringbone design. Made by Mark Fawcett from Exquisite Projects from recycled timber; the warmth of the wood contrasting perfectly with the cool, slick concrete.
The stunning timber design is used a second time to create a bold feature wall at the entrance of the property. It’s eclectic, and truly spectacular. The wood tones balance the cooler tones of the floor and décor; the two work together in perfect harmony.
The bench tops and timber design add a point of difference to this property. These handcrafted, one-of-a-kind features are a breath of fresh air in a world of mass-produced products.
Flaherty and Bink wanted to enhance the ambience created by these natural materials with lighting. Lighting defines the mood and atmosphere of a space; their home featuring an array of modern down lights and a feature pendant light in the entrance way. The hallway also makes use of censored down lights, which lead to the bedrooms. These elements are just another personal touch that makes this home extra special.
With the first round of renovations complete, the owners are overjoyed. “It was all achieved and we couldn’t be happier with our first home together.”
The property looks incredible, but the owners have plans for further renovations in the future. A new coffee table will be custom-made for the home, and will feature the same polished concrete and herringbone timber motifs used throughout the property. They will also have a polished concrete vanity top created for the ensuite bathroom. Then, the outdoor space will be transformed into an entertaining area. “There’s no deadline on this one though!” says Flaherty.
Leave a Reply