Evolving Australian Architecture: Updating Your Home Without Losing Its Soul

Celebrating Authentic Australian Homes

In today’s fast-paced design world, it’s easy to get swept up in the latest trends. But when you step back, there’s something incredibly special about homes that have stood the test of time. Whether you're living in a mid-century modern beauty, a 70s open-plan, or an 80s suburban dream, the design elements from these eras still hold a lot of charm—and they’re incredibly relevant for modernisation today. The trick? It’s all about preserving authenticity while making subtle changes that align with modern life.

The 50s and 60s: Simplicity and Connection to Nature

An untouched 1960s Australian home

Australian homes from the 50s and 60s were often straightforward and functional, shaped by the post-war era’s focus on practicality and modest materials. These homes were typically simple, double or triple-fronted brick houses, designed to meet the needs of a growing population. While the emphasis was on functionality, there was still a strong connection to nature, evident in the use of natural materials like brick, stone, and timber. Large windows and open, airy interiors made the most of natural light and the surrounding environment, creating a subtle integration between the indoors and outdoors.

By the 1960s, architecture began to shift slightly. The once boxy structures started to incorporate softer curves, textured walls, and earthy finishes, reflecting the more organic, free-flowing design trends of the time. These homes, while still simple in form, took on a sense of warmth and individuality, creating a balance between practicality and the beauty of natural materials. The result was a style that celebrated both functionality and the connection to the environment, giving these homes a timeless appeal.

An untouched Merchant Builder Australian home

Tip #1: Lean into Natural Materials

If your home has timber beams or raw brick walls, don't cover them up—embrace them! These features are a beautiful part of your home's story and can be enhanced with contemporary elements like sleek furniture or neutral colours. Keep the warmth of these materials while adding modern lighting and textural contrasts to create a balanced, inviting space.

The 70s: Open Spaces and Earthy Tones

An untouched 1970s living room with natural timber features—an ideal setting for art that captures the essence of the space's history.

As we move into the 1970s, the focus shifted toward creating larger, open-plan spaces and a deeper connection with nature. Shag carpets, earthy colours like mustard yellow, avocado green, and terracotta, and timber paneling were hallmarks of the decade. Large windows and timber accents were popular, allowing the landscape to become part of the home.

Homes built in this era have great bones but may need a little updating to bring them in line with today’s tastes. Modernising doesn’t mean completely abandoning the spirit of the 70s; instead, it's about making subtle adjustments while still respecting the design principles that made these homes so special.

An untouched Merchant Builder Australian home

Tip #2: Create Lighter, Airier Spaces

If your 70s home has a darker, more enclosed feel, try opening it up with lighter wall colours like soft greys or warm whites. Natural light is key—consider adding skylights or larger windows to invite more of the outdoors in. The iconic earthy tones of the 70s can still be relevant today if they’re used sparingly—think about adding small accents in rustic reds or soft olive greens to complement the natural beauty of your space.

The 80s and 90s: Larger Homes with Personal Expression

An untouched 1990s Australian 'Colonial' home

By the time the 80s and 90s rolled around, Australian homes had evolved into larger, more compartmentalised spaces. These suburban homes were designed with functionality in mind, with distinct rooms for living, dining, and entertaining—each offering a sense of privacy and comfort. The architecture of the era often featured brick veneer homes with rendered façades and more traditional detailing that felt both substantial and refined.

A classic 1990's Australian timber kitchen

Tip #3: Subtle Updates for Comfort and Style

If you're living in an 80s or 90s home, updating these spaces doesn’t mean stripping away their soul—it's about making thoughtful, authentic changes that enhance their original charm.

1. Lighter Timber Tones: If the dark, mid-tone stained timber feels too heavy, consider refinishing the cabinetry with a more neutral or lighter stain. Soft, warm tones like honey or walnut can bring a sense of airiness to the space without losing the original character. This approach keeps the rustic warmth while giving the room a more modern feel.

2. Introduce Modern Touches with Timeless Elegance: Swap out round knobs for simple, yet elegant handles or pulls that maintain the mid-century feel but update the look. Think brushed brass or matte black hardware, which brings a more sophisticated touch but still feels in tune with the era.

3. Balance with Natural Materials: Keep the natural materials that defined these homes—such as stone or timber—but try pairing them with lighter surfaces. For example, swap out dark granite for light marble or limestone countertops that still hold the timeless appeal of natural stone, but with a more airy, open feeling.

4. Open Shelving or Glass-Front Cabinets: To reduce the bulkiness of cabinetry, consider adding some open shelving or glass-front cabinets. This approach helps break up the solid, weighty look while still maintaining functionality and storage space. It also offers a chance to display beautiful vintage glassware or ceramics, adding personality and life to the kitchen.

5. Colour Updates that Honour the Past: Instead of harsh modern colours, consider soft neutrals or earthy tones for your walls and accents. Warm greys, sage greens, or muted taupes can add a sense of freshness while still feeling grounded in the natural aesthetic these homes were built with.

6. Textures and Fabrics to Soften the Space: Whether it's in the living room or the kitchen, adding textiles can help balance hard materials. Opt for natural linen or wool throws, cushions, and rugs in warm, earthy colours that tie the space together. The aim is to add softness, but keep the vibe grounded and authentic to the original design.

Maintaining the core fundamentals of a 90s timber kitchen, this space gets a slight lift with updated colours, round knobs, and an open bar bench that connects to the next room,

By focusing on these subtle updates, you can modernise the 80s and 90s home without stripping away its authenticity. Embrace the enduring features of these homes—timeless materials, spacious layouts, and connection to nature—while thoughtfully incorporating modern touches to make them more comfortable and aligned with today’s living. The goal is not to erase the past but to respect it while allowing the home to evolve in a way that feels natural and inviting.

Unique Design Ideas: Subtle Ways to Honour Your Home’s Past

Modernising a home isn’t always about a complete overhaul. Sometimes, it’s the smaller, less-obvious touches that make all the difference. Here are a few design ideas that might not be on every blog but can help your home embrace its history while still looking fresh:

• Mirrors for Light: Adding a large statement mirror in a dark room or hallway can instantly bring in light and make the space feel more expansive—an especially useful trick for homes built in the 70s or 80s, where smaller windows might have limited natural light.

• Add a Retro Touch: Vintage furniture or decor can give your home an instant sense of charm. Consider adding a mid-century sideboard or a vintage record player to create a connection to the past while still fitting within a modern space.

• Local Maps or Prints: A vintage map of your local area or the subdivision your home is part of can be a cool way to tie in the history of your home and neighbourhood. Framing a map from the 60s, 70s, or even earlier is a fun way to personalise the space.

• Rustic Accents: Adding a rustic wooden table or a handmade ceramic piece can enhance your home’s character. These touches can complement the more traditional design of 80s or 90s homes, bringing in a natural element that makes the space feel more timeless.

Australian Architects Who Helped Shape the Design of Their Time

Looking to past masters can provide valuable insight and inspiration for updating your home. Australian architects have been instrumental in shaping the homes of the 50s through the 90s, and their work can offer fresh design ideas for your own renovation projects:

• Robin Boyd: A key figure in mid-century modern architecture, Boyd’s designs were grounded in the idea of creating homes that were functional and connected to the Australian landscape.

• Brett and Alison Lane: Known for their innovative use of natural materials and sustainable design, their work in the 80s and 90s is a fantastic resource for those looking to modernise their homes with an eco-friendly, timeless approach.

• Richard Leplastrier: Leplastrier’s designs are inspired by the landscape and often feature open, airy spaces that blend seamlessly with nature. His work from the 70s onwards is a great guide for integrating natural materials into modern design.

• John Andrews: Known for his avant-garde designs that often-used brutalist elements and raw materials, Andrews’ work from the 70s and 80s is bold, inspiring, and still relevant today.

Bringing It All Together: Evolving with Authenticity

Whether your home dates back to the 50s, 60s, 70s, or beyond, the key to modernising is in maintaining its authenticity. Embrace the natural materials, open spaces, and functional beauty that made your home special in the first place. You don’t need to chase every fleeting trend; instead, update your space with thoughtful, modern touches that make it work for today’s lifestyle while respecting its architectural roots.

True design is all about evolution, not revolution. By staying grounded in the best features of your home’s history, you can create a space that feels fresh, inviting, and timeless.