Architecture — Leuschke Kahn Architects
Interior Design — Venia Design
Photography — Sam Hartnett

A delicate balance between heritage charm and contemporary elegance defines this exquisitely transformed Grey Lynn residence — redesigned by Venia Design to embrace its historic roots while seamlessly integrating modern comforts, creating a harmonious family sanctuary.

Perched high atop a light-filled site in Auckland’s central suburbs, this historic villa plays to its stunning surrounds, maximising views while sitting as a refined retreat perfectly befitting the demands of family life. Enveloped by lush greenery and overlooking a verdant park, with fresh morning light filtering in from the east and dappled evening light flooding the back, Venia Design imagined the home’s interiors to be sympathetic to the light’s path, enhancing its impact at every turn. 

From the outset, the goal was to create a home that was both functional and striking, where children could play freely and adults could entertain with ease. As such, open-plan living areas were imagined to flow seamlessly into exterior spaces, with the light-filled, airy kitchen opening up to a stunning stone terrace and pool — a space which lends itself as easily to entertaining as it does daily family life.

Where the exterior of the home had to adhere to strict heritage guidelines to preserve its historical facade — elegantly transformed by Leuschke Kahn Architects, the interiors were able to be completely reimagined, breathing new life into the family home. High ceilings and open family spaces were achieved by reworking the internal structure, using level changes to define different zones within the home. Infusing the space with a sense of warmth and openness, hallways were designed to borrow light from adjacent rooms, while main living areas were crafted to gather and hold natural light. Considering light in a different way, bedrooms were furnished with soft hues to mitigate the coolness of evening shadows. 

Venia Design was focused on creating a calm, considered environment that is simple, elegant, and timeless — a feat achieved through the use of a thoughtful material palette, carefully conceived spatial layout, and luxurious yet practical furnishings. Statuario stone brings an unexpected richness to kitchen cabinetry, which features clean lines that blend contemporary and traditional villa aesthetics, while elsewhere, dark cabinetry accents add depth without overwhelming the space.

Furnishings were chosen to echo the prevailing sense of timeless elegance. Minotti sofas, with their strong lines, complement the Italian marble, while the front room features playful Redondo swivel chairs, inspiring repose. Custom mohair rugs soften rustic wide-board floors, while in the dining area, the home’s hub of entertaining, a soft oval table paired with Saarinen chairs invites connection. 

Ultimately, this thoughtfully reimagined Auckland-based residence sits at the intersection of heritage charm and modern functionality, creating a charming sanctuary perfectly suited to the changing tides of family life.