There are few architectural buffs like Martin Hiscock who have lived in, and, on occasion, restored, some of Melbourne’s most significant homes.
March 22nd, 2016
Cardiologist Martin Hiscock had no intention of buying architect Guilford Bell’s Seccull House in bayside Brighton when an agent offered to show him through. But after inspecting the spacious home (approximately 500 square metres) nestled on over 2,000 square metres of manicured gardens, there was only one option: moving house yet again. “I’m a serial mover, particularly when great architecture is presented to me,” says Hiscock.
Fortunately the Seccull House had only been altered in parts since it was designed in 1972. The original kitchen had been replaced in the 1990s and some of the finishes, such as the plush white carpet and silk drapes, were slightly worn. Steel gutters and detailing also needed attention.
Working with architect Graham Fisher, Guilford Bell’s younger business partner, the Seccull house now presents as Bell’s original vision, with a couple of fine contemporary insertions to accommodate family living nearly 50 years later. But the past has also been lovingly preserved, with items such as the original Maytag washing machine and dryer remaining in the kitchen-size laundry. “The house is a suntrap. The northern light is reached on two fronts, with the two main wings orientated to the light and gardens,” says Hiscock.
Read the full story in Indesign Issue #64, on sale now. Subscribe here.
Photography by: Nicole England.
A searchable and comprehensive guide for specifying leading products and their suppliers
Keep up to date with the latest and greatest from our industry BFF's!
The Sub-Zero Wolf showrooms in Sydney and Melbourne provide a creative experience unlike any other. Now showcasing all-new product ranges, the showrooms present a unique perspective on the future of kitchens, homes and lifestyles.
Channelling the enchanting ambience of the Caffè Greco in Rome, Budapest’s historic Gerbeaud, and Grossi Florentino in Melbourne, Ross Didier’s new collection evokes the designer’s affinity for café experience, while delivering refined seating for contemporary hospitality interiors.
Marylou Cafaro’s first trendjournal sparked a powerful, decades-long movement in joinery designs and finishes which eventually saw Australian design develop its independence and characteristic style. Now, polytec offers all-new insights into the future of Australian design.
Savage Design’s approach to understanding the relationship between design concepts and user experience, particularly with metalwork, transcends traditional boundaries, blending timeless craftsmanship with digital innovation to create enduring elegance in objects, furnishings, and door furniture.
Di Lorenzo tiles celebrated the launch of their Willoughby showroom – their fourth in Sydney – with a magnificently catered occasion attended by specifiers, interior designers and industry professionals.
For over 110 years, Rogerseller has been a name synonymous with design. Supplying the finest bathware, kitchen and wellness spaces in the market, we design and manufacture our own premium collections alongside a core line-up of exclusively imported brands. Rogerseller is now proud to announce another new arrival – Lema, completely customizable wardrobes, living and […]
The internet never sleeps! Here's the stuff you might have missed
2024’s theme, “Reawaken,” calls for a journey through reinvention and sustainability.
Paying homage to that wonderful tool of life, the book, SJK Architects’ design for the new headquarters of Penguin Random House is both a temple to the library and a captivating place to work.
In the pursuit of an uplifting synergy between the inner world and the surrounding environment, internationally acclaimed Interior Architect and Designer Lorena Gaxiola transform the vibration of the auspicious number ‘8’ into mesmerising artistry alongside the Feltex design team, brought to you by GH Commercial.