Beaumaris Modern: Modernist Homes in Beaumaris

“Beaumaris has the greatest concentration of interesting houses in the metropolitan area.” — Royal Institute of Architects ‘Guide to Victorian Architecture’ written in 1956 for the occasion of the Olympic Games.

Beaumaris Modern: Modernist Homes in Beaumaris is a collection of mid-century modern Beaumaris houses, beautifully documented by Jack Shelton, a bayside local now living and working as a professional photographer in LA. Some are original in their design and are the architects’ own homes from the 50s and 60s and other homes have been sensitively restored and renovated.

All the houses have a back story, fascinating interiors and architectural details, particularly the houses in which the owners have lived for over 60 years.

Each house features a history, written by Fiona Austin, a Beaumaris resident, interior designer and local Beaumaris heritage expert, and Alison Alexander, a Beaumaris mid-century home owner, writer, editor and daughter of prominent architect Ross Stahle, from the architectural practice Mockridge Stahle Mitchell. Each house includes a biography of the original architect, written by mid-century expert and architectural historian, Simon Reeves. A detailed floor plan also accompanies each house.

The foreword to the book has been written by Dr Philip Goad, Professor of Architecture and Deputy Dean in the Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning at the University of Melbourne, who grew up in Beaumaris in a mid-century home.

The book has been stunningly designed by dynamic graphic designer, Sean Hogan, and will fit comfortably amongst any collection of high quality architecture and design books.

The Author

Fiona established Austin Design Associates 20 years ago. After completing her education in both fine art and design, she worked for several interior design magazines, including Home Beautiful, The Period Home Renovator, Belle and The Age’s ‘Home’ section, while also practicing as an interior designer. Fiona’s previous experience includes working as an interior designer with the Stonehenge Group before establishing her own design practice. She particularly enjoys the process of collaborating with her clients and with builders, cabinet makers, architects and building designers. Fiona also has a passion for 1950s and 60s architecture, particularly in Beaumaris. Fiona is a Fellow of the Design Institute of Australia and has been a member since 1983.

melbournebooks.com.au