Introduction to the Unflipping Trend
As I travel through the Mediterranean, I’m captivated by the vibrant architecture—the sun-warmed yellows, blush pinks, and bold teals create a lively tapestry of color. In stark contrast, back in Australia, the term “Mediterranean-inspired” all too often equates to a sterile white aesthetic. This begs the question: Where has the color gone in our homes? Where is the creativity and life that should flourish within our living spaces?
The Shift Away from Character
In our quest for market appeal and resale value, there has been a significant shift towards all-white walls and empty spaces. We were led to believe that clean slates were necessary for prospective buyers, stripping homes of their unique quirks and character. This trend has left period residences—ranging from classic beach shacks to mid-century marvels—void of their soul even before new owners arrive.
Enter the Unflipping Movement
However, a quiet rebellion is brewing among homeowners, encapsulated in a movement affectionately termed “unflipping.” This trend encourages individuals to reject the sterile renovations often seen in today’s market. Instead, they are opting to embrace vibrant colors, character, and craftsmanship that embody a lived-in joy.
Real-Life Examples of Unflipping
In Mount Evelyn, Victoria, interior designer Ruby Shields and her carpenter-designer husband, Pat, are reviving a 1980s weatherboard home that had previously undergone a lackluster renovation. Initially considering flipping the property, they soon recognized its potential as a canvas for creativity. Shields describes their renovation as a “colour-drenched rebellion,” prioritizing boldness over conformity.
“We wanted to create a joyful ‘f— you’ to white walls,” she states. With innovative features such as brass-inlaid pantry joinery crafted from salvaged materials and a blend of concrete and timber elements, the home has transformed into a vibrant playground of design.
Preserving Historical Charm
Similarly, in Milton, NSW, magazine publisher Sophie Lord and architect Ben Gray embarked on a journey to restore their late-1970s bungalow. Faced with the “Apple Store effect,” where color is often stripped away in favor of minimalist white, they made a conscious effort to retain the home’s inherent character.
“The house had character up the wazoo,” Lord recalls. Their renovation features green mosaic tiles throughout, linking modernity with thoughtful nods to its past. This balance creates a space that feels both fresh and timeless, avoiding the pitfall of falling into kitsch.
The Broader Implications of Unflipping
This movement isn’t exclusive to Australia. Last year, the potential demolition of a mid-century-modern home designed by Craig Ellwood in Brentwood, Los Angeles, highlighted a growing concern for the preservation of unique architectural styles. The outcry demonstrated a collective grief for homes that are disappearing due to soulless renovations and demolitions.
Conclusion: Join the Colorful Revolution
The unflipping trend signifies a broader cultural shift towards embracing individuality, creativity, and color in our living spaces. Rather than viewing homes merely as commodities for resale, many homeowners are recognizing their potential as vibrant canvases that reflect their personality and lifestyle. As we move forward, let’s celebrate this colorful revolution and welcome the character that makes each home unique.
