In episode seven of our Focus On series, we sit down with Kirsten and Steve Junor, long-time Marrickville locals who have transformed their late-Victorian home into a stunning mid-century oasis. Guided by sustainability every step of the way, they’ve proven that style and high-end design don’t have to cost the earth.
Originally purchasing the home in 2010, it wasn’t until much later that the couple started working on the extension they’d always had in the back of their minds. While the mid-century design aesthetic has experienced a resurgence in the past few years, Steve and Kristen are anything but trend followers. Taking a pilgrimage to Palm Springs to study the aesthetic, Steve fell in love with the mix of raw materials, clean lines, and open spaces, “[I walked] through the house thinking, ‘we could do this’, they’re pretty simple structures really.”
A combination of serendipitous timing and a DIY attitude meant the build overcame many of the hurdles presented by the pandemic. Steve drew most of the plans himself on SketchUp, allowing for complete creative control while keeping costs low. Enlisting the help of a builder friend who, in a different life, was also the drummer in his band, the two collaborated throughout the entire build. Steve notes, “We’re very good friends, and we had a great time building this place.”
Blending form and function and showcasing the beauty of raw materials is a central component of the mid-century design philosophy and informed much of the Junors’ build. Durable and understated, the suspended slab concrete floors provide excellent thermal insulation, as do the wide eaves, which deflect the summer sun. The clay brick walls, which would’ve cost hundreds of thousands of dollars if bought new, were sourced from a liquidated manufacturer in Queensland, proving that high-end materials can be both sustainable and accessible with a bit of savvy research. The stunning double-sided stone fireplace that anchors the open-plan layout is formed on top of a concrete brick structure, dramatically reducing costs without compromising style.
As the CEO of Marrickville-based Reverse Garbage, Kristen’s passion for sustainability is both professional and personal. Founded in 1975 by a collective of ahead-of-their-time teachers, Reverse Garbage was created to divert industrial discards from landfills, not only to lessen their environmental impact but to source cheap materials for their classrooms. The same can be said for the couple’s home, which is an eclectic yet harmonious assortment of second-hand furniture, discarded décor, and sustainable materials. “Some of it we picked up off the side of the road, some of it we spent money on for quality pieces of furniture that will outlive us because they were built so well,” says Steve.
This appreciation for quality-made pieces underpins the couple’s style; “Things used to be made to last; to be repaired. For us, finding pieces that you’re going to treasure, keep, and pass on is very important,” says Kirsten. In fact, many of the furnishings were inherited; “The lampshade that’s above the snooker table was from Steve’s childhood home. The dining table was my parents’. The bathroom cabinet used to be in the hallway of my old home. It’s really nice to bring those memories with you,” says Kirsten.
More than just a stylish retreat, the Junor’s home is a reflection of their commitment to sustainability and mindful living. As Kirsten puts it, “[When you] value the human resources plus the planetary resources that go into making anything, you have a deeper connection, you look at them in a different way, and you are part of their story.” Their home stands as a reminder that with thoughtfulness and creativity, you can craft a beautiful space that honours both the past and the planet.
This feature is part of a year-long short film series highlighting local heroes of our vibrant Inner-city community. If you’re an artist, a maker, an entrepreneur, an artisan, or a small business operating in the creative space and would like a feature, get in touch.