This 1920s penthouse apartment encapsulates old-world spirit

Spanning the upper level of a Spanish mission apartment building in Bellevue Hill, a beautifully restored 1928 penthouse unfolds. Its vast windows invite natural light to flow unimpeded through its spaces and frame breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour and Double Bay.

Within its luminous interior, historic ornate detailing marries Parisian chic, while a distinctly personal selection of art and objects weave throughout.

Restored and reimagined by design firm Arent and Pyke, Villa Amor’s contemporary update celebrates the apartment’s old-world spirit while giving it a whole new life.

“The apartment swept our clients off their feet, and rightly so,” says Sarah-Jane Pyke. “Stepping from the entry lobby straight into the central volume with that spectacular view, every detail of the original interior held the kernel of something sublime. Our job was to capture that beauty and flow while creating an abode that was very much about home.”

Each space is rich in style and function. An enviable main suite embraces a luxurious bedroom, en suite, walk-in wardrobe, and Pilates studio. Opposite, a guest bedroom and casual lounge sit alongside a charming kitchen boasting impressive water views. An elegant arched opening, with concealed sliding door, separates the kitchen and living space, allowing for either privacy or flow between.

Original architectural features, such as French-style garland frieze, fluted archways, deep windows and vaulted ceilings have been thoughtfully preserved and enhanced.

Soft white walls, dark accents, and rich oak chevron floors provide a sense of airiness yet warmth to the spaces. The mostly black-and-white colour scheme accentuates sumptuous, noble finishes like velvet, linens, wood, coloured glass and marble – the latter used to graphic effect as a hearth to accompany a restored firebox in the lounge.

Parisian-inspired design sensibilities merge with a contemporary collection of art, artefacts and materials, forming a unique and harmonious interplay of French, Asian and classic European design, both classical and modern. “We wanted to bring to the apartment that French tradition of collecting where you expect to see European furniture, unusual market finds, as well as contemporary art, all sitting together,” says Pyke.

In the lounge, both striking and quirky artworks and pair of pink velvet Redondo seats provide vibrancy, while a modern cream linen sofa and antique woven rug imbue a feeling of softness. Scattered throughout, sleek modern decor, like a glass and stainless-steel bar cart, graphic print ottoman, and sculptural table lamp act to unify all elements.

The main bedroom, a synthesis of chic and warmth, shows a vivid use of colour and play between texture and styles. Rich in French-inspired decor with Chinoiserie touches, deep dark walls contrast dramatically with a crisp white ceiling, providing the perfect canvas for the rich autumnal hues of a decorative antique room divider, layered bed linens, and curves of an elegant cane chair.

“We love the combination of the elements that doesn’t feel like it’s all from one era,” says Pyke. “It’s a base for the owners to continue to add and collect over time.”

Style notes

The tubular chair

An iconic chair, the cantilever S 32 is the epitome of modern classic, and a seamless mesh of wickerwork and tubular steel.

The statement light

A nod to legendary sculptor Alexander Calder, this statement light from Douglas & Bec looks chic and elegant in any space.

The coffee table

A study in functionality and style, the Rio low table features six segments creating a beautiful silhouette.