Residence 1973 by Studio AB
Located in Melbourne, Residence 1973 by Studio AB is a considered reworking of a modest suburban home.
Rather than expanding the existing footprint, Anny Benjamin of Studio AB approached the project as an exercise in refinement, retaining the architectural integrity of the original structure while adapting it to support contemporary living.
A Dialogue Between Past and Present
At its core, the project is grounded in a respect for the material language and character of the 1970s. Existing features such as bullion glass have been retained and celebrated, while new insertions bring clarity and cohesion. The result is a layered interior that balances nostalgia with precision, maintaining a strong dialogue between past and present.
The design vision centred on drawing out the inherent qualities of the home rather than imposing a new architectural identity. Studio AB leaned into the tonal richness, tactility and expressive qualities synonymous with the era, reinterpreting these elements through a contemporary lens. This approach is evident in the material palette, where warmth and depth are paired with moments of restraint and refinement.
Defining Features
Bankston hardware plays a critical role within this composition. The H04 Pull Handles and H05 Knobs from the Hemispheres by Civilian collaboration, specified in American Walnut and Smooth Nickel, were selected for their ability to bridge material contrast, combining the organic warmth of timber with the precision of metal. The domed form and finish contribute a quiet sense of ornamentation, while remaining grounded within the overall palette.
Rather than being treated as a secondary detail, the hardware was integrated as part of the architectural language from the outset. Its placement and proportion were considered in relation to the surrounding joinery, ensuring each element contributes to a cohesive visual and tactile experience. In key areas such as the kitchen and laundry, the hardware reads as a defining feature, anchoring the joinery and introducing a measured level of contrast and detail.
Design with Intention
Within the broader narrative of Residence 1973, architectural hardware becomes a connective thread, linking the project’s historical references with its contemporary expression. The pairing of American Walnut and Smooth Nickel echoes the richness of the original era, while introducing a level of precision that elevates the overall composition. In doing so, the hardware reinforces a design language that is both cohesive and enduring, articulating a home that feels intentional, resolved and deeply connected to its origins.
Featured: H04 Pull Handle
