Past Perfect: House 1915 By Studio Esar
House 1915 by Studio Esar is a masterclass in restraint and richness—a refined composition where timeless detailing and tactile depth honour the home’s past while embracing the present.
Words HANDE RENSHAW Photos ELISE SCOTT
‘Every piece, every finish was chosen to respect what was already there, while introducing a contemporary language that feels both bold and deeply personal,’ says Silvia Roldan, Studio Esar principal designer.
In the living space, Ligne Roset rug from Domo, Echo Mirror by Hendel Futerfas from Criteria Collection, Avet coffee table by Prostoria from Stylecraft, and Gentry Sofa by Moroso from Mobiilia.
‘We crafted a heavily textured material palette that elevates the space, drawing attention to its inter-war detailing, particularly the intricate ceiling and wall mouldings.’
‘House 1915 was never about reinventing the home it was about listening to its history and finding a way to bring that story forward with integrity.’
Forest-inspired woven textile wallpaper by Arte, a custom walnut table by Christopher Blank, and a Cangini & Tucci pendant set a grounded and tactile tone in the dining space.
“Our vision was to honour the historic charm of the house while creating a space that felt fresh, contemporary and deeply reflective of our client’s lifestyle.”
A forest-inspired woven textile wallpaper by Arte sets a tactile tone in the dining space.
‘This room radiates a kind of quiet confidence, it's theatrical, but doesn’t break from the language of refined restraint established in the rest of the home.’
‘The dark green ceiling immediately sets a grounded tone. It’s bold but not overpowering and cocoons the space,’ says Silvia Roldan.
A framed transition from dining to living—rich textures and sculptural forms unfold across both rooms, unified by a palette of muted greens and warm neutrals.
A custom-built wine storage feature immediately commands attention upon entry.
The bespoke cabinetry of the custom'-made wine storage cabinet is finished in timber veneer and adorned with patterned grilles by Joseph Giles and sculptural marble handles.
“Every piece, every finish was chosen to respect what was already there, while introducing a contemporary language that feels both bold and deeply personal.”
The master bedroom pairs heritage elements with sculptural forms and a muted palette.
The study pairs clean lines with natural texture for a serene and focused retreat.
In the master bedroom—a curved upholstered bed by Pianca is paired with vibrant artwork by Gabrielle Jones.
In House 1915, Studio Esar delivers a thoughtful restoration that delicately blends historic character with contemporary design. Stage one focused on the home’s original front rooms—the entry, dining room, living room, and master bedroom — preserving the layout while reimagining each space with refined detail.
‘Our vision was to honour the historic charm of the house while creating a space that felt fresh, contemporary and deeply reflective of our clients' lifestyle,’ shares Silvia Roldan, Principal Designer at Studio Esar. This considered approach became the guiding principle throughout the project—one that embraced the home's inter-war detailing while layering in sculptural objects, custom finishes, and a richly tactile material palette.
The home’s former identity, with its mint green carpets and dark timber panelling, set the stage for a reimagining that would balance softness with structure. ‘We wanted to create a space of calm sophistication with this new palette,’ Silvia says. ‘Muted greens, olives, and warm taupes... are soft and inviting, without being bland.’
In the dining room, the palette takes centre stage. A forest-inspired woven wallpaper by Arte envelops the space, complemented by a custom walnut dining table by Christopher Blank and sculptural pendant lighting by Daniel Giffin. ‘The wallpaper was one of the first textiles we selected, setting the tone for the green hues that weave subtly throughout the home—this rich, refined palette is carried through in the custom walnut dining table by Christopher Blank, adding warmth and craftsmanship,’ shares Silvia. The result is a cinematic yet grounded space, anchored by a bold green ceiling that ‘cocoons the space’ and evokes a painterly, romantic atmosphere.
Throughout the home, materials serve both function and feeling. From sculptural marble handles to dark green boucle armchairs, every finish adds depth without excess. ‘By adding in additional soft textiles, glass, timber, stone, and ceramics, we've created a tactile rich room,’ says Silvia.
The Master Bedroom continues the narrative of contrast and composure. Here, a curved upholstered bed by Pianca, Bonsai chaise by Arflex, and vibrant artwork by Gabrielle Jones are set against inky blues and nude pinks. ‘Quiet luxury was at the forefront of this palette,’ Silvia notes. ‘Finding the right balance between a masculine and feminine space meant exploring sharper tones of inky blues contrasted with nude pinks and always with a rich layering of textiles and textures.’
Integral to the project was a decision not to alter the existing layout. ‘There was a delicate balance between preserving the home’s rich heritage and introducing the modern aesthetics that the clients desired—each piece [was] carefully selected for its ability to enhance both form and function.’
The result is an interior that doesn’t demand attention, ‘Rather than making a loud statement, each room radiates a quiet confidence,’ Silvia says. ‘The interiors are refined, romantic, and timeless… every element contributing to a subtle but immersive sensory experience.’
With House 1915, Studio Esar has crafted more than a renovation—it's a masterclass in layered design that feels deeply respectful.
