Sean and Jessica swapped inner-city living for mud brick life in the bush

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The Warrandyte house they bought In 2019 the kitchen and bathroom were updated as they had not been updated since the 70’s.

While maintaining the home’s aesthetics, they worked with the architect to add 21st-century features like a dishwasher and an en-suite bathroom in the master bedroom. Adriana Hanna.

The process made them aware of the danger of losing appreciation for the original condition of this style of home.

Wanting to introduce the homeowners who look at these houses, photographer Fennessy and creative director and interior stylist Lillico created their photo book. Bush Modern.

In capturing the stories of the original builders and homeowners of the 23 homes featured, they revealed a strong and passionate community with an affinity for Knox’s style.

“They were a mix of people who built houses with their own hands from adobe they made themselves and recycled lumber they salvaged,” Fennessy says.

“On the other side, there is a new generation of people who are interested in these houses, renovating these houses, preserving them in their original state, appreciating the historical value, which is really exciting.”

Fennessy says the houses have a typically Australian style, not only in terms of materials but also in the way they are built.

“The lifestyle where it was affordable to buy a plot of land and build a house that probably didn’t have electricity or running water to begin with no longer exists,” he says.

“It goes back to when people were building houses themselves, making mud, salvaging lumber – it was affordable and I don’t know if it will ever be possible again.”

There is a high demand these days for these time capsule houses representing Australian architecture, especially those designed by Knox.

A recent example 46 Victoria Avenue, RosannaIt has attracted a lot of attention since it was listed in October.

Nelson Alexander partner and auctioneer Nick Smith He says the house was sold by the sons of the late owners, who commissioned the house in 1968.

While some buyers were intrigued by Knox’s design, others unfamiliar with architectural history were impressed by its character.

“It brings people from far and wide; expats from across country Victoria, interstate and the UK are among the fans,” he says.

The three-bedroom home features Hawthorn brickwork and Oregon cedar paneling, not adobe brick like many of Knox’s designs.

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Slate flooring, high ceilings and open fireplaces enhance the home’s character, while full-picture windows further connect the home to nature.

“The backyard was also created by renowned landscape designer Gordon Ford, and there is a lovely view from every room to the garden, giving a sense of tranquility,” says Smith.

Those looking to capture a piece of their own Knox history should cast their nets in Melbourne’s leafy north-eastern suburbs, the agent says.

“These homes are mostly located in Eltham, Research and Eaglemont,” he says.

This article was first published by. domain.com.au. Reproduced with permission.