Drive past this pristine villa and you’d be
forgiven for thinking it was simply a large
traditional residence – redolent with
charm but perhaps a little dark and gloomy
on the interior. However, with developer
Andy Blyth’s driving passion for villas and
architect Paul Leuschke’s design dexterity,
the home offers far more than a classic air.
Essentially, with this comprehensive
renovation the developer set out to create
a modern-functioning family home with
all the character of a grand historic villa.
“Very few new villas are being built,
while renovated versions usually have
a contemporary extension added at the
back,” says Blyth. “I prefer to build afresh
or make any changes and additions to an
original villa appear seamless, so the home
achieves a continuous, flowing aesthetic.”
In reality, the word renovation doesn’t
do justice to this project. The word rebirth
might be more appropriate. The original,
dilapidated home was all but levelled –
retaining only one wall, the front bay and
part of the veranda – while ancillary build-
ings on the property were trucked away.
Previous pages: Brand new – or better than brand
new? This villa renovation by developer Andy
Blyth of VillaVilla and architect Paul Leuschke
of Leuschke Kahn Architects involved pulling
down over 75% of the original home and ancillary
buildings before beginning again.
These pages: The reworked villa has a wealth of
classic detail – such as on the living room fireplace
– combined with a modern, flowing layout and
everything else you need for a relaxed, uncluttered
family lifestyle. Sculptural modern lighting
contrasts the traditional-look interiors.
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