Modernising a mid-century masterpiece: Step into 208 Kooyong Road, Caulfield North
When architect Lani Fixler discovered she was about to renovate a cosy, split-level home in Caulfield North, she was thrilled. Because this was no ordinary home! Created by the late Ernest Fooks, 208 Kooyong is charmed with its warm light, bare brick and sleek designs. We spoke with Lani about how she kept the captivating character of Ernest’s design and brought it into the modern era.
Embracing Ernest’s vision: A love of simplicity
Lani Fixler knows the beauty of elegant craftsmanship – and she found it on a wide, picturesque road in Caulfield North. The nostalgic dwelling in a quiet neighbourhood awaited the right person to bring it back to life. And Lani was delighted to be given the opportunity.
Ernest Fooks is considered Australia’s most important post-war, mid-century architect. His style continues to inspire today.
‘I’m a big admirer of his work, and I could immediately see that this was Ernest’s design,’ Lani shares. ‘His plans focus on capturing as much natural light as possible.’
And it’s not just the light he loves. The home at 208 Kooyong Road clearly displays Ernest’s affinity for simple yet charming designs.
‘The way he created zones is very clever and well thought out,’ she goes on. ‘He designed thoughtful bedrooms, entertaining and dining areas that really made the home feel comfortable.’
And since Lani also prides herself on this area, it didn’t take long to see that these two creative minds were on the same page.
Designer meets builder: Working with the owner
Many hands make light work – and so Lani was elated to have the owner on site with his hands on the materials.
‘The owner comes from a long line of builders and carpenters, and he instantly fell in love with the property,’ Lani shares.
‘He couldn’t bear it if someone tore it down. So he put in an offer! He just loves working on houses. This was a real labour of love for him.’
Every team member lifted their game with the owner around.
‘Every time I stepped on site, he was there,’ she smiles. ‘We made a lot of the decisions together. Everyone could feel his energy and enthusiasm for the project.’
Time to resuscitate: Making changes
The bones were solid, and the heart was evergreen. But it still needed lots of attention.
When Lani studied the layout of the rooms, it was clear she needed to make some changes.
‘There was only one bathroom upstairs,’ she reveals. ‘And the kitchen was tucked away in a corner. We love big, open spaces in our homes today, so we needed to focus on that.
‘Then we moved the laundry room to the basement and opened the entertainment spaces for hosting family gatherings.’
Expanding the kitchen was Lani’s favourite part of the project.
‘I loved adding a central island so people can sit in the gorgeous morning sunlight and have a cup of coffee. It’s a beautiful space to spend time with loved ones.’
With the layout decisions made, it was time to think of the finishers.
From then to now: Building with the past
Lani knew the integrity of the property came from the materials Ernest chose.
‘The materials are honest,’ she explains. ‘If there’s brick, it’s not painted over. If there’s an exposed beam, we keep it. It’s about simplicity and form.’
But it wasn’t always easy.
‘The mid-century joinery took a lot of love and care to refurbish and bring back to life. Including the record player in the living room, which adds a sentimental feel to the space.’
Speaking of sentimentality, Lani was careful to maintain 208 Kooyong’s mid-century signatures – while still making it modern – through her chosen colour palette.
‘We replaced the cream carpet with a warm, tan shade – and we selected timber that would tie back in with the joinery. The quartzite countertop on the kitchen island was specifically chosen for its dazzling bronze and brown touches, which complement the warm feel.’
But even so, it seemed the owner struggled to let some materials go.
‘The property originally had these green flowered tiles for the barbecue. But they weren’t the right fit. He kept them aside right till the end, and ended up reusing them,’ Lani laughs.
The perfect fit: Looking for a good time
When we ponder the future of 208 Kooyong, the dreamy scene below is what comes to mind:
It’s a lazy summer afternoon, and they open the joinery in the living room and position the needle on their favourite vinyl. The music spills over into the kitchen, where their favourite wine sparkles – freshly poured – in new glasses. Conversation echoes into the back garden, where children whoop with laughter as they splash around in the pool.
At least, that’s what we hope for. Because Lani believes this home would be perfect for entertaining.
‘It’s got a big party feel with all the inviting entertaining areas,’ she says. ‘The pristine pool and gardens out back are perfect for that Palm Springs feeling.’
To us, it’s easy to imagine a couple of little ones reading books on the light-dappled sofas or adults sipping mojitos by the water. That’s the life!
Let’s sell: Working with Gary Peer
Every property needs capable minds and hands. This project was lucky to have both – with Lani, and our very own Phillip Kingston and Leon Gouzenfiter.
And Lani was chuffed. ‘They listen to their clients. They do everything they can to get the best outcome for everyone. I’ve worked on many Gary Peer projects, and the team always goes above and beyond for their clients.’
But if you haven’t had the chance to meet either Phillip or Leon yet, the perfect opportunity will present itself when 208 Kooyong goes to auction.
Faithfully restored: Honouring Ernest’s legacy
Completing such an inspiring project came with pleasure… and a little pressure.
‘There was a lot to live up to,’ Lani admits. ‘But I believe we did a good job honouring Ernest’s design while making it contemporary.’
Reverence for the original design and materials – together with Lani’s vision – created a calm, inviting home that any modern family will adore.
‘All the home really needed was a little love to bring out its beauty,’ she smiles.
And the million-dollar question: Would Ernest be proud of how the house turned out?
‘I certainly hope so!’ smiles Lani.
