RETRO REVIVAL

Retro Revival is a contemporary interior refurbishment located within the historic Wybalena Grove bushland townhouse development in Cook, ACT. Originally envisioned by architect Michael Dysart in the 1970s and championed by the Cook-Aranda Cooperative Housing Society, this medium-density residential architectural gem embodies the essence of community living in Canberra.

Wybalena Grove embraces cooperative living principles, boasting shared amenities like car parking, driveways, lush communal bushland, individual plot entitlements, vegetable gardens, a communal pizza oven, a village green, and recreational spaces. It fosters a vibrant community spirit where neighbours nurture a sense of belonging.

Type | Interiors
Location |
Cook, ACT
Country | Ngunnawal
Builder | Wilby Constructions
Photos | Lightstudies
Status |
Complete
Completed | 2022

Steel frame skeleton and rammed earth walls on site at Kampung Batu Bigga, a project designed by Sarah Truscott Architect Canberra

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Steel frame skeleton and rammed earth walls on site at Kampung Batu Bigga, a project designed by Sarah Truscott Architect Canberra

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Scaffolding erected on site at Kampung Batu Bigga, a project designed by Sarah Truscott Architect Canberra

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Steel frame skeleton and rammed earth walls on site at Kampung Batu Bigga, a project designed by Sarah Truscott Architect Canberra

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1  Bench seat integrated with kitchen joinery to minimise spatial intrusion and introduce close connection between the two areas
2  Layers of joinery define the subtle transition from living spaces to kitchen
3  Tiles appropriate to the original era of the townhouse were selected for the kitchen
4  Compact combined bathroom and laundry installation with key datum lines linked to existing features

This particular townhouse, extended previously by architect Bruce Fisher, underwent a transformative interior design by our team at STA. The complete renovation focused on revitalising the downstairs living spaces—an integrated living/dining/kitchen area and the bathroom/laundry—that had weathered 45 years and were in dire need of rejuvenation.

At STA, we prioritise maximising spatial efficiency and relish the opportunity to undertake design work on compact homes such as this. Utilising joinery instead of traditional walls, we reimagined internal spatial divisions while paying homage to the original 1970s design. Our attention to detail extends to carefully selected finishes, preserving the authentic ambiance of the era.

Let’s talk about how our considered interior refurbishment services can refresh your home while honouring existing architectural heritage!

Interconnected joinery detailing between the kitchen and dining spaces designed by Sarah Truscott Architect for a Wybalena Grove townhouse in Canberra