This blog post is inspired by an article written by Jessica Bella in Inside Out Magazine.

When Karly and Ben spotted a charming 1927 Californian bungalow for sale on their street in Glen Iris, Melbourne, they knew it was an opportunity they couldn’t pass up. With two young boys, they envisioned transforming this classic home into a modern sanctuary while preserving its unique character.

A Vision for Family Living

Karly, the head of CMO advisory at Deloitte, and Ben, co-founder of construction tech company Hammertech, were not looking for just any house; they wanted a home that reflected their family’s personality. “We didn’t want to live in a McMansion—we wanted a home with personality,” Karly explains. Their goal was to create a space where their boys could play freely, while also fostering connection and comfort.

Designing with Purpose

With planning kicking off in early 2016 and renovations wrapping up a year later, Karly and Ben collaborated with Melbourne-based building firm Tilbuilt and interior stylist Marcia Hong to breathe new life into the bungalow. They emphasized an open layout that encouraged family interaction while respecting the home’s original heritage features.

“We wanted to keep the moulding and ceiling details, and include skirting and architrave designs from the 1920s,” says Karly. By incorporating these elements, they ensured the home felt cohesive and inviting.

Modern Meets Classic

The newly renovated space features a bright façade, painted in Dulux Limed White Half, and is punctuated by a stunning black timber bench from The Banyan Tree. Inside, the open-plan kitchen, dining, and living areas are bathed in natural light thanks to generous windows and glass sliding doors. “We chose neutral colours for the hard surfaces throughout, with a black accent on some of the fixtures,” Karly shares.

The result is a stylish yet comfortable environment that blends modern design with classic charm—a true reflection of the family's vision.

Lessons Learned Along the Way

The renovation process wasn't without its challenges, but Karly and Ben embraced each lesson. “With young kids and full-time jobs, we simply didn’t have the time to be traipsing through furniture stores on weekends,” Karly notes. Hiring an interior stylist proved invaluable, streamlining the furniture selection process and ensuring they achieved a beautifully curated result.

The Perfect Family Home

Now settled into their new home, Karly and Ben couldn’t be happier. They love the open-plan layout, which allows for family gatherings and playtime, as well as the stunning design details that pay homage to the home’s history. “We’ll be happy here for a long time,” Karly assures.

Their journey illustrates the power of thoughtful design and the importance of creating spaces that foster connection and comfort, all while respecting a home's unique history.

Final Thoughts

If you’re considering a renovation, take a cue from Karly and Ben’s experience: envision a home that not only meets your family's needs but also reflects your personality. By blending modern updates with classic elements, you can create a space that feels like home—one that tells your family's story.

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