What started as a simple request to replace failing kitchen cabinets in a 1960s apartment has evolved into a masterful renovation that celebrates both old and new design elements. Architect Tom Healy of Healy Ryan Architects saw tremendous potential in this character-filled Parkville home, which retained many of its original mid-century features including popcorn ceilings, archways, exposed brick walls, and vintage tiles.

The apartment was already vibrant with personality, filled with the clients' extensive collections of art, ceramics, and books. A small sitting area adjacent to the kitchen opened onto a terrace with stunning views of surrounding eucalyptus trees and the beautiful Royal Park beyond. Recognizing the spatial limitations, Tom proposed removing the dividing wall between the kitchen and sitting area to create a more functional kitchen-dining space and establish a series of connected, sociable areas enhanced by the expansive outdoor views.

The homeowners, who are passionate cooks and frequent entertainers, were initially hesitant about open-plan living arrangements. Tom addressed their concerns by proposing a partial opening that would maintain some separation while improving functionality. He also emphasized the sustainable reuse of existing materials to create a seamless blend of original and contemporary elements. "In houses, it's simpler in a way," Tom explains. "There's often a really clear delineation between the original and the new, and the new will be quite distinct in character. Whereas, in apartment fitouts, they overlap a lot more."

The renovation's centerpiece is a skillfully designed island bar with overhead display shelving that fits perfectly into the new opening between the kitchen and sitting room. Open shelves facing the living space provide an ideal showcase for the clients' objects and books, creating both functional storage and visual interest. "It's completely changed the way that the apartment is used now," Tom notes. While a separate living room remains available for quiet activities like reading or watching television, the new kitchen area has naturally become the home's social hub.

The transformation included several key material updates that honor the apartment's mid-century heritage. The sitting room door was replaced with elegant hardwood-framed sliding panels, while worn carpeting gave way to rich blackbutt floorboards. The kitchen features creamy white cabinetry accented with bold red handles and cheerful orange tiles – the original tiles were carefully hand-cleaned and re-laid to reduce waste while weaving together old and new design elements.

These preserved orange tiles inspired the selection of striking orange joinery from Woodcraft Mobiliar, creating a cohesive visual connection that unifies the apartment's contemporary updates with its mid-century Australian modernist roots. The color palette creates a joyful atmosphere while respecting the building's architectural heritage.

"For me what was really interesting about the design process was trying to get the balance right between openness and separation," Tom reflects. "I felt like there were a lot of requirements coming together with that jigsaw puzzle piece of joinery we created." The project successfully demonstrates how thoughtful renovation can enhance functionality while preserving character, creating spaces that encourage gathering while maintaining the intimate scale that makes apartment living special.

The renovation utilized high-quality materials and fixtures throughout, including a Delerium Granite benchtop from Marella Granite and Stone, 2-pac cabinetry in Dulux Trinket Gold and Buff-It Half finishes, and Barben cabinet handles powder-coated in Dulux Manor Red. Kitchen appliances include a Westinghouse multifunction oven and Bosch induction cooktop, while lighting features Darkon downlights and an Amedeo wall light by Zava. The project was completed by builder Jam Building Group with engineering by Maurice Farrugia and Associates.