Long-held Homes | Time honoured homes
Time Honoured Homes
Written by Aleesha Callan and Photography by Martina Gemmola
With time, a house becomes much more than a place to live. It’s through the passing of time that a long-held home develops patina and memory on every surface, corner and creaky floorboard. Renovating these homes calls for more than just functional upgrades – it’s about respecting the past while creating a bright, fresh new future.
At Cantilever Interiors, we approach these projects with care and curiosity. Our clients have often lived in their homes for many years, decades even, and their connection to the space runs deep. Our role is to listen closely, respond thoughtfully and design kitchens that support evolving needs while honouring the home’s unique character.
Working on well-loved family homes is something we’ve had the privilege to do many times, and these four homes – each a personal legacy – have kitchens that now anchor the next chapter of living.
Habitat House
In the inner-city suburb of Northcote, Melbourne, this well-loved Victorian cottage holds years of family history. Having spent 17 years living in the home and raising their kids in that time, it was time for a sensitive upgrade. The renovation sought to create a kitchen and dining area that was both practical and open, improving flow and connecting with a newly instated outdoor area and pool – teeming with life.
The K2 Kitchen System forms a tactile centrepiece, balancing warmth, functionality and simplicity. Sustainable design principles guided the approach, from material selection to energy-efficient systems.
Tread Lightly
This renovation preserves the spirit of a family dairy property, with the kitchen becoming a new heart for shared meals and stories. After 28 years in the home, owners Martin and Jennifer knew it was time for a refresh. This one was really all about respecting the heritage – as it had been in the family for generations.
Featuring the K3 Kitchen System and terrazzo benchtops, the space embraces everyday functionality while referencing the home’s history through robust, earthy materials. It’s the special heart of the home as a favourite place for Jennifer, who’s love language is food, and now gets to cook and create with ease.
Spirited Legacy
Another home that has been in the family for generations, this double-fronted Victorian was ready for a renovation. With a love of cooking, the kitchen reimagines tradition through a contemporary lens.
The design leans into the idea of being ‘anti-trend’ and prioritises longevity. The stainless-steel Tableau Kitchen introduced that right level of considered detailing. Anchored by a family table that has hosted generations, the space now supports new rituals while holding onto old ones.
Heritage House
In Pascoe Vale South, Heritage House is a whole-home renovation that speaks to the bones of the original build. The integration of the Tableau Kitchen embraces material richness and architectural sensitivity. This is a project that blends modern craft with heritage cues. The outcome? A grounded, light-filled home, ready to handle decades of more memory making.
We understand what it means to renovate a home you already love – and with care and understanding to the memories that make it yours, we’re here to help shape it for the years to come.
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