SITCHU MAGAZINE This Victorian-era home has lived through many iterations throughout its 140-plus-year history. Without a doubt, this is the most elegant yet. For Joss Knight, founder and studio director of STUDIOJOS, taking on this heritage Paddington terrace required a considered approach—one that would respect the original character of the home, while creating a functional and thoughtful backdrop for the owners’ daily life. The goal was to develop a strong design concept that didn’t overpower the home’s history, as well as a series of contemporary interventions that would enhance its liveability. While the project reflects Joss’ belief that interiors should feel enduring rather than tied to a particular trend, La Belle Époque, as the project came to be known, allowed for a slightly more decorative and romantic approach than some of the studio’s more minimalist projects. “I drew inspiration from La Belle Époque, an era that celebrated beauty, art, craftsmanship and French elegance,” says Joss. “Rather than attempting to recreate a period interior, I wanted to capture the elegance, craftsmanship and optimism associated with La Belle Époque and reinterpret those qualities through a contemporary Australian lens,” he continues. “The result is not intended to belong exclusively to the past or present. It is a home shaped by history and the arts, but ultimately designed as a reserved and considered backdrop to the clients’ everyday lives.” This approach involved a “warm, layered and timeless palette” that uses texture in place of colour to create depth and allow the home’s architectural detailing, furniture and objects to take centre stage. Think soft, chalky neutrals, natural stone and light timber. “The panelling was introduced as part of the new interior scheme. I designed it to feel as though it had always belonged to the home, taking cues from traditional Victorian detailing but simplifying the proportions and execution,” adds Joss. “It gives the rooms depth and architectural rhythm while helping to bridge the original heritage character with the more contemporary elements.” “I drew inspiration from La Belle Époque, an era that celebrated beauty, art, craftsmanship and French elegance.” — Joss Knight 03
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