Art director David Widmer has carefully restored his late-1960s bungalow, documenting the process through his platform, House Safari.
Words Neela Shearer / Photography and Styling David Widmer of House Safari
When David Widmer, art director and the creative force behind House Safari, first saw this late-1960s bungalow, he was immediately attracted to its honest architecture and strong connection to the surrounding landscape. Large windows, terracotta floors and exposed brick walls define the interior, while the layout maintains a sense of openness typical of mid-century design.
The house itself remained largely untouched and David's focus was on restoration rather than major changes.
“It was actually in very good condition and remained almost entirely in its original state, which felt like a real stroke of luck,” says David. “My intention was never to completely transform it, but rather to respect its character and gently enhance what was already there.”
Built-in cabinetry was updated with colour, while a few smaller brick walls were plastered to create calmer visual surfaces. The most significant change happened outside, where the garden was redesigned in a minimalist style to complement the architecture.
“The patio is particularly special to me — it beautifully connects the house with the garden and creates a very calm outdoor living space.”
Architecture and interiors have long been central to David’s life, and House Safari emerged naturally from living in the space. After moving in, he began photographing daily life in the house as he gradually shaped and refined it.
“What began as a personal visual diary slowly evolved into a platform where I share architecture, furniture and everyday moments within a space that reflects my design sensibility.”
David’s interiors are built around mid-century furniture, including a favourite piece, his Poul Cadovius shelving system.
“I like interiors that feel lived in and layered rather than overly curated,” David explains. “Mid-century furniture forms the foundation because these pieces are often beautifully proportioned and timeless.”
In addition to vintage furniture, David’s collection of pottery and African art adds warmth and texture throughout the house. Lighting also plays an important role, with a particular fondness for sculptural paper lamps designed by Isamu Noguchi.
“I love my collection of Akari paper lamps, especially the large vintage floor lamp 23N, which creates such a beautiful atmosphere in the evenings.”
For David, collecting is a gradual process. Some pieces are sourced deliberately, while others appear unexpectedly through vintage dealers, auctions, markets and private sellers.
“I enjoy collecting slowly over time,” he says. “It allows the house to grow organically and prevents it from feeling overly staged.”
The house also serves as the setting for much of David’s creative work. Through House Safari he collaborates with likeminded brands such as vintage furniture dealers and ceramicists.
“Authenticity is very important to me,” he explains. “I prefer collaborations where the product or brand genuinely fits into the environment and the story of the house.”
When we asked David what advice he had for others looking to restore or furnish a mid-century home, his response was simple.
“Respect the architecture,” he says. “Mid-century houses were often designed with a very clear understanding of proportion, light and materials.”
Rather than reinventing the structure, he believes small interventions often have the greatest impact.
“Working with what is already there and allowing the architecture to guide your decisions usually leads to the best results.”
And like the house itself, good interiors tend to evolve slowly.
“Good design takes time. Living in a space for a while helps you understand how it really wants to function.”
