BODACIOUS AND KERB-ACIOUS
In a city encroaching almost 2 million private dwellings and encompassing a range of styles dating back to the 18th century, designing an exterior façade that is both durable and awe-inspiring can pose a challenge to intrepid homeowners seeking to build or update their humble abodes. Within this article, Emma Warner Allen chats with Fyffe Design’s head designer, Alec Hogan, about ways one can create a timeless and spectacular external home design that will attract attention from the kerb.
Written by Emma Warner Allen.
Sydney boasts an exceptionally eclectic array of houses. With the passage of time, Sydney has seen many architectural styles gain in popularity only to be replaced by newer, innovative styles. From the gorgeous cast-iron latticework verandahs of Paddington’s Victorian terrace houses, to the understated brick veneer homes of the ‘80s, Sydney’s homes are constantly evolving.
AS IF IT’S GOING OUT OF STYLE
To keep up with ever-changing designs, many choose to renovate their homes to update a classic look. When selecting a style, a common pitfall is to only consider the home’s aesthetic appeal; however, it is important to select styles that will also stand the test of time. When addressing a subject matter as fickle as style, achieving an everlasting look requires plenty of planning and consideration. With extensive industry experience informing his judgement, Alec believes that staying true to stylistic features, such as incorporating natural light into your home and taking into consideration the home’s proportions, is the best way to ensure your home ages gracefully as “style is temporary”.
Rejecting the modish, geometric builds of this century, designs have been shifting towards forms that incorporate character and personality. Current trends have seen, “Scandi, French Provincial, and Hamptons [become] very popular.” Alec expands, “We find that less people are choosing modern, square forms and looking for more sentimentality.” When designing an eye-catching exterior, Alec states, “it is about the form and proportions of the building rather than the materials and selections”. He advises readers seeking to design or renovate their home to adopt a flexible approach by focusing on the home’s features and dimensions rather than directing your efforts towards a particular style.
However, when faced with a choice, Alec agrees with the sentiment that for those wanting a long-lasting finish, classic styles are best. “When it comes to longevity, you can’t beat a brick veneer home.” However, “it is about the form and proportions of the building rather than the materials” he elaborates, “That being said, there are a whole new series of new products that are continually improving the building industry and construction methods.”
LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOUR
Striking the balance between a beautifully executed exterior and a garish design can be a fine line. When the goal is to create a striking home that looks appealing from the kerb, it is also important to consider the styles of the neighbourhood. Understanding the housing landscape will mean you are better positioned to create a wonderful, captivating exterior that stands out for all the right reasons.
Alec notes that when planning a home, “as a designer you don’t want it to look garish, but at the same time we must look at our neighbours to understand what the market wants”. This is particularly important to consider if you are planning on selling your property post-renovations. When designing a show-stopping home, it is best to pull inspiration from your surroundings in order to create an abode that is complementary to the existing streetscape. Implementing and refining features and stylistic elements utilized by the other residences in the vicinity can be an excellent way to create an exterior façade that makes a strong, positive impact. For those working on a smaller budget, something as simple as repainting your exterior can make a strong statement, “bold colours and a great design” will help you achieve a stunning home exterior.
THE PERFECT FIT
For those after a spectacular exterior design, Alec stresses the importance of seeking advice from an industry professional. Just like house-hunting, it is crucial to find the right fit and he encourages his potential clients to talk to multiple experts on the matter. “Clients must speak to many industry professionals to get the right information” he explains, “A lot can be done with standard construction methods with the right people and experience.”
Finding inspiration for your home can be a difficult task. When consulting experts on the matter, this should be a chance for the professionals to flaunt their knowledge, provide you with ideas, and encourage an open discussion in order to identify your needs and stylistic preferences. Alec also recommends conducting your own research, “We also recommend that our clients take time to travel locally and internationally.” Take advantage of the expertise your designer or architect has to offer, as their wealth of knowledge will help inspire you as they guide you through the creation process to produce a beautiful, ageless and cohesive exterior.
Qualified professionals will not only provide advice on the design aspects, but they will also help you navigate the murky waters of Development Applications (DA) and Complying Development Certificates (CDC). “Finding the right people with the right expertise will make the journey easier” Alec explains. “We find all the restrictions prior to any design work and encourage the client to have an open mind. We find that being upfront and proactive generates a better design.”
When you are planning your dream home, take the time to consolidate your thoughts so that you have a clear vision and ask around to get the best advice and craftsmen available to execute your vision. Ultimately, Alec’s take home advice is that, “Good design takes time and [requires] a good connection between clients and designers”. Just by following professional advice and with careful planning you should be well on your way to creating a magnificent and everlasting building façade.
