Dawn House, a stately Victorian homestead rooted in the 1860s, recently underwent a transformative journey to become a contemporary family haven on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula.
Focusing on the sofa, playing a pivotal role in home design.
The sofa holds a pivotal role in home design, serving as the anchor and focal point that sets the tone for the entire living space, one of the most used rooms in a home. More than just a piece of furniture, the sofa is a reflection of personal style and a functional centrepiece that brings people together. Its design, colour, and texture contribute significantly to the overall aesthetic, influencing atmosphere and visual appeal.
![Dawn House](https://livingedge.com.au/on/demandware.static/-/Library-Sites-shared_library/default/dw7c1090f8/blog-post/Blog_DawnHouse2a.jpg)
Pictured: Living Landscape Sofa by Walter Knoll
Beyond aesthetics, the sofa plays a crucial role in shaping the functionality and flow of the living room. It defines seating arrangements, creating a social hub for gatherings, conversations, and shared moments. The choice of a modular or classic design can impact the room's versatility, catering to various needs, whether it's cosy family movie nights or accommodating guests for overnight stays.
![Dawn House](https://livingedge.com.au/on/demandware.static/-/Library-Sites-shared_library/default/dw2b1c9c61/blog-post/Blog_DawnHouse1a.jpg)
Pictured: Alpha Chair by Made In Ratio
Dawn House, a stately Victorian homestead rooted in the 1860s, recently underwent a transformative journey to become a contemporary family haven on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula. The historical significance of the original structure served as the foundation for Mim Design's vision, with a commitment to preserving the grand scale and ornate details that characterise Victorian architecture. The architects, Neil Architecture, joined forces with Mim Design in a collaborative effort to seamlessly fuse the old and the new. This fusion involves a careful balance of respect for the homestead's heritage and a forward-looking approach that caters to the needs of a modern family. The result is a reimagination that retains the essence of the 1860s while infusing the space with a fresh, modern vitality.
![Dawn House](https://livingedge.com.au/on/demandware.static/-/Library-Sites-shared_library/default/dw17b2b8c1/blog-post/Blog_DawnHouse4.jpg)
Pictured: Mariposa Sofa by Vitra
The design team employed a complementary language in the new elements. In the library, a space designed for relaxation and contemplation, Mim Design made a deliberate choice by selecting the Vitra Mariposa Sofa. This particular piece of furniture, known for its contemporary design and exceptional comfort, aligns seamlessly with the overall vision for Dawn House. This marriage of old-world charm with contemporary functionality not only respects the historical context but also creates a home that is warm, inviting, and conducive to family connection and entertainment.
Architecture: Neil Architecture
Interior Design and Styling: Mim Design
Photography: Sean Fennessy
Other Vitra Sofas
Vitra sofas often feature distinctive and avant-garde designs, making them statement pieces in any living space. With a focus on both form and function, Vitra sofas offer a harmonious blend of comfort and style. Ranging from iconic and timeless designs to more contemporary creations by emerging designers, Vitra sofas represent a commitment to excellence and a celebration of design innovation.
![Polder Sofa](https://livingedge.com.au/on/demandware.static/-/Library-Sites-shared_library/default/dwc56eb93c/blog-post/Blog_DawnHouse5.jpg)
The distinctive design of the comfortable Polder Sofa by Dutch designer, Hella Jongerius, derives from its asymmetrical shape, varied combinations of fabrics and colours, and carefully chosen details.
![Grand Sofa](https://livingedge.com.au/on/demandware.static/-/Library-Sites-shared_library/default/dw166d2cbc/blog-post/Blog_DawnHouse6.jpg)
Grand Sofa is Antonio Citterio's interpretation of luxurious comfort and contemporary design. The designer's Italian flair for lightness and elegance is united with the trademark quality and precision of the Swiss company Vitra.
![Soft Modular](https://livingedge.com.au/on/demandware.static/-/Library-Sites-shared_library/default/dwd845f085/blog-post/Blog_DawnHouse7.jpg)
The Soft Modular Sofa is Jasper Morrison's updated interpretation of what has become a modern classic: the low-slung modular sofa with a decidedly horizontal emphasis. Uniting carefully balanced proportions, great comfort and a conscious renunciation of decorative details, the Soft Modular Sofa exemplifies the characteristics of this sofa type in their purest form.
![Suita](https://livingedge.com.au/on/demandware.static/-/Library-Sites-shared_library/default/dwa4177eae/blog-post/Blog_DawnHouse8.jpg)
The elegant Suita sofa family by Antonio Citterio encompasses a wide range of elements that can be freely combined with one another. The geometrically precise body and cushions seem to float above the sleek, bridge-like aluminium legs, in what can be seen as a tribute to mid-century American design.