St Huberts, St Kilda VIC
Robson Rak Seamlessly Integrates the Old with the New at St Huberts
Originally built in the 1880’s, St Huberts is a grand Victorian mansion that started out as a single residence to serve St Kilda’s wealthy elite of the time. In 1910 the home was reconfigured as four separate apartments before its current owners purchased it in 2017. The local family engaged award winning architecture and interior design firm, Robson Rak to respectfully restore the building to its former glory, while upgrading the technology for modern living, and to serve as a fully functioning single home for the young family of five.
“The use of natural sturdy materials of timber, stone and steel reflect the era.”
Chris Rak, Director of Robson Rak
Steeped in history and charm Robson Rak has restored the period dwelling beautifully. Taking inspiration from the Victorian era itself, the resulting home is respectfully aware of its richly layered history.
“The use of natural sturdy materials of timber, stone and steel reflect the era.” Says Chris Rak, Director of Robson Rak. “There is a strong emphasis on detailing and craftsmanship throughout the home, encapsulating the attitudes of the 19 th century whilst creating a new and distinct design language.”
Contemporary updates remain faithful to the building’s intricate heritage with the inclusion of mosaic tiles, ornate plasterwork and further nostalgic finishes. With smart technology key to the brief, Robson Rak has demonstrated how a period building can adapt fluidly to modern day living.
“The brief intended a full re-configuration, restoration and modern addition to seamlessly integrate the old with the new and to future-proof the 19th century house for the 21st century, with the implementation of smart technology,” says Chris.
A key consideration of the client’s brief was for technology to be integrated throughout but not on show. The kitchen design exceeds expectations, integrating technology with power assisted doors, smart lighting and elegant Gaggenau appliances, while still retaining an old-world charm through its detail and choice of materials.
