An old military barracks is transformed into a party house

Article by Belle

Architects Kerry Phelan and Stephen Javens, directors of K.P.D.O., created a home out of the ramshackle garage of an old military building in Melbourne

Behind its heritage facade a new building was constructed of brick, concrete, travertine and timber – simple materials used in a very graphic way. Rooms with no particular function were included, the couple preferring to have gorgeous spaces to house art and a judicious selection of furniture.

A timeless mood prevails in the design with personality coming from 70s ceramics, 80s furniture, Italian and Scandinavian glassware and vintage textiles from Greece and Morocco.

Words by: Carli Philips. Photography by: Richard Powers. Story from: Belle.

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The entrance to the property features a small courtyard hidden behind a dark timber gate.

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A BassamFellows daybed sits in the hallway.

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Despite the block’s size, the relaxed nature of negative space was celebrated. Originally planned to be a library, the entry area was transformed into a “room for no reason,” just a space hosting art and some furniture.

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“We’ve had some sensational parties where I danced for five hours and people didn’t leave until 4am,” says owner and architect Kerry Phelan. “It was great for us – maybe not so great for the neighbours.”

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The hardwood floor means no damage control is needed for spilt drinks.

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The result of a lifetime of collecting, the house is infused with periods and styles that criss-cross 70s ceramics, 80s furniture, Scandinavian and Italian glassware, vintage rugs found in Mykonos, faded Moroccan fabrics and family totem weaving.

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“We’re in an age when furniture and design and lighting often become the hero pieces and add the colour. When you do a residential project you have to be careful not to put too much personality in it so the people who take on the house or the interior can feel confident to overlay their individuality,” says Kerry.

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To delineate the living area from the kitchen, a split dark concrete panel forms a partition.

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A two-storey void runs through the centre of the home, with the master bedroom overlooking the open-plan dining and living. “We didn’t want to be closed in. The idea of walls kind of horrifies me,” says Kerry.