In Wickham, NSW, the former Orton Building HQ warehouse has undergone an unrecognizable transformation and is now proudly home to two luxurious duplex homes. Justine and Luke Orton, a husband-and-wife team, took on the challenge of creating two modern abodes suitable for contemporary family living.
The exterior of the duplexes now boasts a stunning facade that conceals any remnants of its industrial past. Textured cladding, battening, and a vibrant rooftop garden combine to deliver an impactful and cohesive design for the two homes.
While the structural layout of the residences remains identical, the interiors showcase distinct material palettes that add a sense of individuality. One of the homes presents a soft contrast of timber and white, evoking an urban coastal aesthetic. In contrast, the other residence embraces a more luxurious ambiance, with darker joinery and richly textured stone elements.
From the early stages of planning the project, Luke and Justine were certain about including the Escea DF960 gas fireplace. Familiar with Escea since their first build, the couple opted for the DF Series once again, four years later.
"The Escea fireplace is undoubtedly the highlight," Justine says. "It's our go-to choice, particularly the gas model for its seamless installation process."
Escea's flexible flue technology proved invaluable during the construction of the duplex, allowing the flue to traverse the upper floors before exiting through the roof of the top story.
While the fireplaces remain consistent across both homes, they are distinguished by different surround choices. One showcases a clean white rendered surround, while the other boasts a textured finish that harmonizes with other design elements in the space.
A neutral colour palette comprising warm timbers, soft tiling, and natural finishes provides the perfect backdrop for showcasing local artwork, breathing life into both residences.
Justine remarks, "People sometimes hesitate to use timber and white, but it truly is versatile, and this project is a shining example of its potential."
Take a closer look at the Escea DF Series to discover why it has become a favourite among renovators and an ideal fit for modern family homes.
Explore the DF Series.
