Lillelund House - AIDA Commendation

The Australian Interior Design Awards honour outstanding achievements in interior design through a respected, industry-led program, endorsed by the Design Institute of Australia - the official body representing designers nationwide. These awards hold both national prestige and international relevance.

Designed by Sydney -based architecture firm Madeleine Blanchfield Architects, Lillelund House is a compelling study in balance and nuance. Characterised by a scalloped architectural frame, immersive gardens, and a carefully stepped layout, the home speaks through a refined visual language. The collaboration between the architects’ considered approach and the client’s progressive, design -literate vision has produced a residence that is both innovative and enduringly sophisticated.

From the moment you step through the front door, the garden becomes a central figure - filtering through every space and framing the home in green. The name Lillelund, meaning “little forest” in Danish and drawn from the client’s great -grandfather’s surname, captures the project’s poetic relationship to heritage, nature, and tranquillity.

Originally a 1914 Californian Bungalow, the house has been reimagined through a sensitive yet striking addition that introduces light, height, and spatial generosity. A sculptural arched portal marks the transition between old and new, borrowing its curve from original fireplace and window details. This thoughtful gesture signals not just a shift in architecture but a dialogue across time - between preserved character and contemporary expression.

In the words of the client:

“Our home embodies the Arts and Crafts movement’s emphasis on craftsmanship, natural materials, and harmonious design. With its neoclassical influences, the original architecture reflects a dedication to proportion, detail, and a deep connection to its surroundings. The design gently amplifies the home’s heritage, introducing light and a seamless flow between past and present. The result is a home that feels profoundly serene, effortlessly functional, and deeply connected to its lineage. A space of tranquillity and beauty - one we find utterly mesmerising and never wish to leave.”

MASTER ENSUITE

Wall-mounted basin taps from The English Tapware Company were selected in a pewter finish for both the master ensuite and powder room. Crafted by Perrin & Rowe in England, these fittings are made from solid premium - grade brass, ensuring exceptional durability that resists rust and corrosion. Each piece is finished with a minimum 20-micron electroplated coating, providing a lasting lustre and timeless appeal. The wall-mounted design also maximises bench space - offering the family more room to organise and enjoy their daily routines with ease.

POWDER ROOM

The Langbourn spout reaches 180mm to allow it to be placed over a range of hand basins. The taps and spout are independent so they can be positioned wherever you wish.

The Langbourn crosshead handles are machined from solid brass, finished and etched with 'H' and 'C' lettering. The Langbourn lever handles (as featured in master ensuite above) are also machined from solid brass and feature a small red and blue dot to indicate hot and cold. 

All Perrin & Rowe taps feature excellent quarter-turn German made ceramic disc valves for many years of accurate and effortless use.

About Madeleine Blanchfield Architects

At Madeleine Blanchfield Architects we love design and are especially passionate about houses. We focus on designing new builds (and some large-scale renovations).

We are a studio of 10 architects and interior designers based in Paddington on traditional Gadigal lands since 2009. Prior to starting her own practice, Madeleine was Associate Director at one of Sydney’s leading architecture and interior design firms for almost 10 years. 

www.madeleineblanchfield.com