Rainforest Retreat
Renovation, A Tranquil Haven Reborn Amidst the Dandenongs
Nestled in the lush rainforests of the Dandenongs, a hidden gem awaited its transformation. The owners, young first-time homeowners, saw beyond the worn facade and outdated interior of their weatherboard home. They recognised its potential and embarked on a journey to create their dream space. With a clear design brief and a vision of spaciousness and rejuvenation, they turned to architecture and design professionals to bring their dream to life.
The renovation of this old weatherboard home in the Dandenongs showcases the power of vision and the ability to breathe new life into a tired space. The young homeowners, with their unwavering determination, embarked on a remarkable journey to create a rainforest retreat that perfectly suits their lifestyle. Through the use of consistent spotted gum flooring, light tonal paint colours, creative integration of Bord veneer boards, and the stunning INAX Yohen tiles, the house has been transformed into a haven that seamlessly blends with its surroundings. This renovation stands as a testament to the potential that lies within neglected spaces, reminding us all of the transformative power of good design.
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Hats off to these young first homeowners for seeing the potential in their house when it was on the market. Others may have struggled to see past the fake log wall, tiny kitchen, and patchwork of different floor finishes, but not them. Their love for their rainforest retreat in the Dandenongs and its fantastic location inspired them to reimagine the space.
The design brief was clear - their three-bedroom home felt cramped and lacked adequate space and that had to change. The interior fittings, fixtures, and materials were all very dated, contributing to a dark and gloomy atmosphere. The separate toilet without a basin and the leaking shower had taken a toll on the timber structure, requiring urgent attention. Furthermore, the cramped bathroom made it challenging for the client to carry out everyday activities like hair and makeup.
Undeterred by these challenges, the clients remained steadfast in their determination to transform their house into a comfortable and inviting home. Their vision, combined with the expertise of the design and construction team, propelled the renovation forward, resulting in an impressive reinvention of the space.
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Fast forward to the new design, where careful choices and meticulous attention to detail have breathed new life into the old weatherboard home. From the choice of materials to the colour palette, every element has been thoughtfully considered to create a harmonious and inviting atmosphere.
Consistent spotted gum flooring, a hard-wearing Australian hardwood, was selected to withstand the demands of a family with a new dog. Its durability is matched by its warm and earthy tones, which provide a welcoming backdrop throughout the home.
To infuse the interiors with an airy and open feel, light, tonal paint colours have been applied. Occasionally anchored with a muted grey-green shade, these colours add depth and character to the space. The result is a balance that allows natural light to gracefully dance through the rooms, illuminating every corner.
One of the standout design features is the creative use of Bord veneer boards. Rather than concealing a structural beam that runs through the center of the room, these boards have become a beautiful feature, celebrating the timber floor and seamlessly tying the space together. This thoughtful design element adds warmth and character, paying homage to the home's heritage.
A defining element that unifies the entire scheme is the textural and tonal INAX Yohen border tiles. From the early stages of the project, the clients fell in love with these tiles, and the entire colour scheme was designed to complement them. These tiles act as a unifying thread, gracefully connecting the various areas of the home. Their organic patterns and soothing hues echo the tranquil beauty of the rainforest surroundings, further enhancing the retreat-like ambiance.
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3 Bedrooms
Renovation
Completed 2022
Photography - Phil Ng
Staging - Chiara Hunwick
Builder - Kematch (Though to be honest a project this size is likely much too small for their booming business these days!)
Kallista, Melbourne
Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Land
Yarra Ranges Council
Inspired by this project? Let’s create yours.
“Audrey and the team at Whisker Architecture are absolute superstars!
With a tight budget, they took a dark boxy house and created a beautifully functional home that complements the way we live. The entire design and construction process was an enjoyable experience. We could not be more thrilled with the end result and would highly recommend engaging their services.”
Aimee & Phil, Clients
BEFORE
AFTER
Others may have struggled to see past the fake log wall, tiny kitchen, and patchwork of different floor finishes, but not them. Their love for their rainforest retreat in the Dandenongs and its fantastic location inspired them to reimagine the space.
BEFORE
AFTER
A defining element that unifies the entire scheme is the textural and tonal INAX Yohen border tiles. From the early stages of the project, the clients fell in love with these tiles, and the entire colour scheme was designed to complement them.
BEFORE
AFTER
Thinking about transforming your own home?
See how we help homeowners reimagine existing spaces with clarity and purpose.
BEFORE
AFTER
The renovation of this old weatherboard home in the Dandenongs showcases the power of vision and the ability to breathe new life into a tired space.
Clarity Starts with a Call
Starting a home project can feel overwhelming. You need the right architect—someone who understands your vision, budget, and timeline.
At Whisker Architecture, we guide you through every step:
📌 Dream It – Define your vision and goals
📌 Design It – Create a tailored plan with the Home Masterplan Report
📌 Build It – Bring your project to life with our expert guidance
Let’s start with a quick chat to see if we’re the right fit for your project.
