Unalla by Alana John Design
Projects
14.01.2022Some of the homes we come across have long histories, with many stories that have unfolded behind their walls. These are special places that we look to preserve as a unique part of the fabric of our cities, but are also places that need to be cared for to ensure they live on and are relevant to the demands of today. For designer Alana John, when she came across the 118-year-old Federation home known as Unalla in Perth’s suburb of Peppermint Grove it was love at first sight. Although she had originally planned to purchase a vacant block in the area and build a new home, there was something about this iconic home that drew her in.
The project that lay ahead for John would involve a masterful marriage of old and new, in which the category-one heritage-listed building would be restored to its former glory, complemented by a new addition on the adjacent block. “As I walked in, I instinctively knew what I’d love to do with the home,” she recalls, “and after looking at the heritage portion, I knew what I could change and what the potential was.”
The project that lay ahead for John would involve a masterful marriage of old and new, in which the category-one heritage-listed building would be restored to its former glory, complemented by a new addition on the adjacent block. “As I walked in, I instinctively knew what I’d love to do with the home,” she recalls, “and after looking at the heritage portion, I knew what I could change and what the potential was.”
The approach of bringing together the old and the new was carried through to the soft furnishings, with a mix of contemporary, vintage and custom pieces used to create a rich and layered interior. “From the moment we saw the beautiful, historic elements of the home we were immediately excited to work with Alana on the project and source some significant pieces for the home,” said Mobilia’s Sam Fazzari.
As the founder and director of Alana John Design, John was both the project’s owner and building designer. Quality, longevity and versatility were all key considerations for John when selecting furniture; ensuring the pieces could be mixed with other furniture styles or make a strong statement on their own.
Mobilia worked with their global design brands and John to take a custom approach to some of the furniture pieces used for the project. Moroso’s Redondo sofa designed by Patricia Urquiola was upholstered in a smooth, non-quilted fabric, giving the sought-after piece a completely different feel that is in keeping with the unique character of the home and vintage pieces that John had selected.
Sculptural lighting by Cypriot-born, London-based designer Michael Anastassiades features throughout, with his playful and intellectual take on contemporary design complementing both the old and new parts of the home. “Lighting pieces have been selected from collections throughout Michael’s career, which means there is a lot of diversity in the work and the pieces respond to different spaces,” explains Sam Fazzari. “The entrance in the original part of the building features one of Michael’s earlier pieces which references an art deco style and has an elegance reflective of the time. Whereas in some of the other areas, we’ve opted for pieces with more of a contemporary feel.”
From Michael Anastassiades’ Tube Chandelier (2006) through to the Architectural Collection (2017), the lighting provides ambiance while creating sculptural moments to discover as you explore the home.
Unalla has been lovingly filled with pieces that reflect the property’s uniqueness and John’s own personal design philosophy. Not only has John created a beautiful family home that is rich in character, she has preserved a piece of Western Australia’s history that will go on to witness many more stories for the next hundred years.
Sculptural lighting by London-based designer Michael Anastassiades features throughout, with his playful and intellectual take on contemporary design complementing both the old and new parts of the home.
PROJECT DETAILS
Interior designer: Alana John Design
Builder: Litehouse
Photography: Jack Lovel