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FA SHION ISTA: At home with editor Eugenie Kelly
Hello
2021
WE’RE GLAD
GARDEN
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100 + contemporary & classic

pages
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TECHNICALLY SPEAKING: Stylish gadgets for smooth operators
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Our rugs lie lightly
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A R M A D I LLO - C O.C O M
Hello 2021
JANUARY
Cover stories
16 Fashionista: At home with
editor Eugenie Kelly
29 Technically speaking Stylish
gadgets for smooth operators
63 100+ pages of contemporary
& classic all-Australian homes
169 Garden inspiration for a green
new year
People
16 Dress Circle The home of style
maven Eugenie Kelly is one
classic beauty.
55 Retro Vision A vintage-loving
family and its rare 1970s Porsche.
194 The Creative Type
Lucy Montgomery.
Decorating
29 Go, Go Gadget Sleek and smart
tech for every room.
37 Ask An Expert Top tips for
integrating audio, visual and
productivity appliances.
41 9 By Design Statement chairs.
44 Windows Of Opportunity For
the best-dressed home, look to
fabulous curtains and blinds.
53 On Trend Sage and mint.
Houses
64 Coast Modernist The living is
easy at this elegant home on
the NSW South Coast.
74 Glory Days Restoring an 1850s
Photograph by Robert Walsh.
terrace was a labour of love for

its architect owner.
84 Perfect Harmony Barefoot
elegance abounds at this Sydney
home beside the seaside.
92 Shape Shifter This Japanese-inspired Gardens
design evolved alongside its owners. 170 Drive To Thrive Garden designer
100 Original Thinking Juxtaposing Kathleen Murphy’s own gorgeous
antique and modern was the key to plot in Victoria’s Macedon Ranges.
success in this updated terrace. 176 Simply Lovely A low-maintenance
108 The White Move A last-minute and delightfully inviting courtyard.
decision proved the right one for 180 Formal Lesson One man’s mission to
the owners of this Perth home. revive a disused school and its grounds.
118 Starting Afresh A newly empty nest
allowed a Sydney couple to begin Living
again in their favourite location. 185 Rose Haven Revitalise and reset
128 Precious Jewel The renovation took with a getaway in regional Victoria.
time to get going, but the resultant
gem was more than worth the wait. For our readers
138 Time Traveller An innovative 4 Subscribe to H&G for your chance
addition helps bridge eras at this to win $10,000 cash or one of 200
Mlebourne home. gourmet hampers worth $250 each!
148 Friends Indeed Creative mates 12 Top 50 Rooms! Your invitation to
helped one Sydney family achieve enter our annual interiors showcase.
the home of their dreams. 14 Your H&G Readers’ letters.
158 The Sky’s The Limit The glamorous 192 Where To Buy Stockists’ contacts.
makeover of a Brisbane penthouse. 193 Privacy Notice
On our cover
Once no more than a
‘fisherman’s shack’,
this cute cottage is full
of luxe surprises.
Photograph by Justin
Alexander. Turn to
page 84 for more.
FURNITURE & HOMEWARES | INTERIOR DESIGN | PROPERTY STYLING | DESIGN SCHOOL
WWW.COCOREPUBLIC.COM.AU
EDITOR’S LETTER H G
A
nd exhale! It’s finally time to breathe, and I hope by the time
you are reading this that you have had time to catch up with
your loved ones, especially those you haven’t seen all year. You
may have missed births, weddings, family celebrations or other
milestones, but if your nearest and dearest are here in Australia,
you will hopefully have the chance to get together and take a break at least for
a few days in the new year. And boy, do we need this new year!
I don’t know about you, but my shoulders have been sitting higher than my
ears since March 2020. I think we’ve all been holding onto a giant ball of tension
– not knowing whether the pandemic will flare up and re-enforce restrictions,
how the economy will fare, or what will the job market be like next year. My
son finishes university at the end of 2021 – will the whole employment landscape
and the way we work be significantly different by then? These and many other
scenarios play in a loop in my mind, and I am sure many of you have similar
narratives that keep you wide-eyed in the early hours! Luckily, I have a
prescription for distraction: this issue of H&G. Whether you are relaxing by
the beach, poolside or in the garden, I think you will find the following pages
very therapeutic. We have 12 absolutely fabulous homes and three stunning
verdant gardens – ranging in style from classic to contemporary – to keep you
engrossed for hours and hopefully inspire your dreams for 2021.
Take a look at architect Joe Agius’ Sydney home (page 74). With the help of
his wife Kate and sons Miles and Rueben, Joe restored a faded Victorian beauty
and added a contemporary compound without compromising its charm. Rob
Kennon’s stylish minimalist design (page 138) is a new-build but looks like it
has always been there, a great example of design that is sympathetic with its
heritage streetscape yet not a reproduction of an historic home. Architect
Madeleine Blanchfield conceived an incredible home (page 64) for her retiree
“I think you will parents Frank and Barbara. The building nestles beautifully in the coastal
find the following landscape and, according to Madeleine, creates the feeling of being at one with
nature, as if you were camping. The exquisite interiors are well-considered
pages very and understated, but I have to say that it looks more like glamping to me! For
some classic style, we visit former Harper’s Bazaar editor-in-chief Eugenie
THERAPEUTIC
Photograph by Kristina Soljo. Hair and make-up by Samantha Powell.
Kelly’s Arts and Crafts terrace (page 16) which she shares with her husband,
and inspire your two teenage daughters and their weimaraner. The house is beautifully appointed
yet robust enough to withstand the family’s busy lives.
DREAMS for 2021.” We hope you can hide all devices, slide onto the sofa, towel or hammock and
enjoy the lengthy read and we look forward to bringing you many more incredible
Australian homes in 2021. Happy New Year from the team at H&G!
Tanya Buchanan, Editor in chief

TOP PICKS
Tanya’s top five
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The 2019 Room of the Year,
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EDITORIAL
Editor in chief Tanya Buchanan
Creative director Antonietta Panuccio
Deputy editor Elizabeth Wilson
Interiors editor Kate Nixon
Senior features editor Sarah Pickette
Senior content/production editor Tamarah Pienaar
Homes group coordinators Sara Sleeman and Matilda Ringrose
ART & STYLE

Art director Shayne Burton
Designer/stylist Sophie Wilson
Prepress specialist Matus Kundrat
CONTRIBUTORS
Richard Allen, Justin Alexander, Kimbal Baker, Sibella Court, Stephen Crafti, Jody
D’Arcy, Elise Elliott, Olivia Giangrasso, Marnie Hawson, Andy MacPherson, Jack
Milenkovic, Tim O’Connor, Judy Pascoe, Chris Pearson, Samantha Powell, Hannah
Puechmarin, Prue Ruscoe, Beck Simon, Anson Smart, Kristina Soljo, Derek Swalwell,
Rhiannon Taylor, Mikkel Vang, Robert Walsh, Nicholas Watt, Dave Wheeler
ADVERTISING & PRODUCTION
Head of brands Anna Mistilis (02) 9282 8111
Calling all architects and interior Group commercial brand manager Rhonda Maunder (02) 9282 8687
Advertising production manager Kate Orsborn (02) 9282 8364
designers! Do you have a beautiful Brand executive Mikayla Skarzynski (02) 9282 8142
Victoria, SA & WA sales director Jaclyn Clements (03) 9823 6341
project to share? Enter now and be Director of sales, NSW Karen Holmes (02) 9282 8733
Artwork by Judith Wright. Styling by Claire Delmar. Photograph by Anson Smart.
part of H&G’s Top 50 Rooms showcase. Victoria head of direct sales Will Jamison (03) 9823 6301
Queensland head of sales Judy Taylor (07) 3101 6636
General manager – production services Ian McHutchison
Submissions open! Production controller Sally Jefferys
Advertising production controller Dominic Roy (02) 9282 8691
Top 50 Rooms celebrates the beauty, quality and Senior event manager Cate Gazal (02) 8226 9342
creativity in Australian interiors today. Entries close
MARKETING & CIRCULATION
Friday, January 29, 2021 with the best 50 projects to Marketing director Louise Cankett
appear in H&G’s April 2021 issue. Senior marketing manager Jillian Hogan
Circulation manager Robert McIntosh
Entry requirements Subscriptions campaign manager Jesvin Vincent
Brand manager Sarah Webster
Send in high-resolution images (jpg or tiff) of the room/s Marketing enquiries homes@aremedia.com.au
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Spring Summer 2020
H G LETTERS Facebook
YOUR H&G
The townhouse I’ve been renting out for more than 20 years
was well in need of a spruce up and, since I was planning to
move in myself, I invested in a new kitchen, laundry and
garden makeover. But I didn’t stop there: H&G spurred me
to consider other possibilities, and I recently submitted my
planning application to add an upper level. Structure sorted,
my H&G collection is out again, this time for interior
inspiration. It’s now starting to take shape – so exciting!
Jeanie Crowder, Malvern East, Victoria
A H A R MON IOUS HOME I had never read the magazine before,

I had long yearned to introduce antiques assuming it was more garden than house.
into our home, but struggled to persuade Boy was I wrong! I’m hooked on H&G Instagram
my partner, who favours modern designs. now and eagerly await the arrival of
Fortunately, your feature on Sally Beresford each issue. I’m currently sitting down
saved us from marriage counselling! Sally’s with a coffee, soaking in the December
home (Cultivated & Curated, November) issue. I think this one is my favourite –
showed us that old and new can cohabit aIthough I admit that I say that every
very happily. The antiques got a tick of month! Absolutely loving the houses,
approval and Sally has become a style from Steve Cardony’s Rosedale Farm
icon in our household. We are having a (Fields Of Dreams) to the design by Three
great time searching online and in stores Birds Renovations (Wedded Bliss). Thank
for our first bygone treasure! you for opening my eyes and encouraging
Marcus Blinco, Edgewater, WA me to think about my garden too.
Tamara MacLeod, Richmond Tasmania Pinterest
A LWAYS IN FAVOU R
I’m a long-time subscriber to H&G
and I have to say, the November issue W RIT E IN TO W IN H^G social
was a joy to behold. The featured homes, The author of each letter published The posts that made your month
both modern and classic homes, were so receives $50. Our favourite also
wins a prize. This month, Jeanie Facebookers fell for an elegant Euro-style
beautifully styled. The gardening section Crowder of Malvern East wins a Model home in Victoria, a revitalised Federation
– always a favourite – was wonderfully One Digital Generation 2 all-in-one radio, cottage took top spot on Instagram, and
complemented by the guide to outdoor bluetooth speaker, clock and Chromecast Pinners were inspired by the renovation of
unit from Tivoli Audio, valued at $449. an interior designer’s own home.
accessories (Open Season). Then there
For more details, go to tivoliaudio.com.au.
Letters may be edited for length and clarity.
was the food feature (Rise And Shine) – Email your letter to H&G@aremedia.com. Facebook facebook.com/
Bill Granger’s honeycomb butter is a au or post to Your H&G, PO Box 4088, australianhouseandgarden
firm favourite on pancake mornings. Sydney, NSW 1028. Please include your Highlights from each issue plus links
I’m looking forward to the Top 50 Rooms full name and address in order to be to tours of our favourite homes.
considered for publication.
showcase in the new year. In the
Instagram @houseandgarden
meantime, I’ll be re-reading old issues View the most inspirational
when I’m in need of a pick up! images of the month from H&G
Wendy Sinclair, Ipswich, Queensland headquarters and out and about.
Pinterest pinterest.com.au/
PRE ACH TO THE CON V ERT houseandgardenau
My husband accidentally bought me a Picture-perfect images from our pages
subscription to H&G for Mother’s Day. and sensational products to covet.
14 | AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

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Dress circle
Attentively renovated over many years, this elegant Sydney
home is as classic and comfortable as a cashmere jumper.
STO RY Elizabeth Wilson | ST Y LI N G Kate Nixon | P HOTO G RA PHY Kristina Soljo
at home with H G
REAR BALCONY Homeowner Eugenie Kelly, her daughter Daisy, 15, and
the family’s weimaraner, Willow, on the balcony which looks over treetops
to the North Sydney skyline. Wicker sofa with cushion in navy Sunbrella fabric,
Outdoor Elegance. Cushions in Pathfinder and Spirit fabrics, Unique Fabrics.
Ottoman by Acton & Rumble Interiors. Pot, Water Tiger. Balustrade in Resene
Grey Friars and Resene Perfect Taupe Half. ENTRY Opposite Willow sits in
greeting. Console, Orient House. Mirror, La Maison. Artwork, Rosy Lloyd. Timber
trims in Resene Grey Friars, Resene Sea Fog and Resene Perfect Taupe Half.
AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN | 17

rom the moment Eugenie Kelly stepped into this home, she
had a good feeling about it. There were sweet leadlight
windows at the front door, open fires crackling downstairs,
and high ceilings that made every room feel elegant and
generous. It needed work – the salmon-coloured walls
and velvet curtains would definitely have to go – but there was
a sense of comfort and nostalgia about the place that felt right.
It was 2006 and Eugenie and her husband Richard O’Neill were
home hunting. They had just welcomed their second daughter into the
world and were suddenly feeling the squeeze of their two-bedroom
inner-Sydney terrace. They were on the lookout for a more spacious
family home and were focusing their search on the city’s Lower North
Shore. This home, built circa 1910, struck a chord.
“It’s built in the Arts and Crafts style and has a lovely rambling feel,
which adds to its character,” says Eugenie. “I grew up in an old Federation
house so I’ve always had a thing for fireplaces, high ceilings and ornate
leadlight windows.” They bought it, and moved in with their young
daughters Charlotte, now 16, and Daisy, 14. “The first thing we did was
“WE TACKLED OUR RENOVATION

IN STAGES, AS TIME AND
BUDGET ALLOWED.” Eugenie Kelly, owner
paint it all white,” says Eugenie, who is a well-known face in the fashion
and beauty industries after a long career in publishing, most notably
as editor-in-chief of Harper’s Bazaar magazine.
At first, the couple was overwhelmed by the size of the three-storey
home. “Suddenly we had all this space and no furniture,” says Eugenie.
“A few of the rooms – the formal dining room, for example – were empty
for the first six months because we just didn’t own those bigger pieces.”
The decision was made to tweak the interiors in “chunks”, as time
and budget allowed. They started on the top floor and worked downwards,
consulting design experts along the way and managing the projects
themselves. Upstairs, there were four bedrooms and one outdated
bathroom, which needed urgent revamping and became their first
project. For this, Eugenie called on interior designer Sarah Davison,
who helped with the layout, fittings, lighting and tiles. Next, Eugenie
and Richard converted an empty space off the main bedroom into an
ensuite. Drawing on advice from interior designer Justine Hugh-Jones,
they installed a double-ended freestanding bath, positioned under an
arched window, with white tiled walls and marble hexagonal floor tiles.
Five years ago, the couple were ready to revamp the kitchen, which
is located at the rear of the ground floor. The formal living and dining >
at home with H G
FORMAL LIVING This page and opposite top Sofa, Coco Republic. Armchair in
Chivasso Bonsai fabric. Custom ottoman upholstered in Elliott Clarke ‘Vallan’
fabric in Sage, and cushions on sofa all by Acton & Rumble Interiors. Table lamp,
Melinda Hartwright Interiors. Rattan tray, Casa by Studio Kate. Sisal rug, The
Natural Floorcovering Centres. Chandelier, Luxury Chandeliers. Walls painted
Resene Truffle Half. HALLWAY Opposite bottom Sisal runner, The Natural
Floorcovering Centres. Walls, Dulux Natural White. Pendant light, Côté Maison.
Artwork by Rosy Lloyd. Botanical prints sourced in Paris.

H G at home with
KITCHEN “We change the pendant lights every couple of years to refresh
the space,” says Eugenie. Karma 24 pendants by Antonia Senia for
Seidenfaden Design. Caesarstone splashback in Snow. Stools, Thonet.
Vase, Orient House. Cooker and dishwasher, Ilve. Coffee machine, Smeg.
FORMAL DINING Opposite Dining table and chairs, Coco Republic.
Basket, Alfresco Emporium. Crystal vases, Manyara Home. Pendant light,
Magins. Antique mirror. Carafe and bowl on mantel, Mud Australia.
Champagne bucket, Laurent-Perrier. Rug, The Rug Establishment. The
walls are painted Resene Truffle Half.

rooms are also on this level, at the front of the house. “The beauty of
the original architecture is found in those two rooms, so keeping them
as separate formal spaces was important to us,” says Eugenie. To offset
the formality, they wanted to create a more relaxed, open-plan family
area at the rear. They removed a wall, opening up the kitchen to the
casual family room, and installed a new L-shaped kitchen with an island
bench that looks out onto a balcony. Eugenie opted for a simple white
scheme: “It’s a simple, classic style and I love it,” she says. “The best
thing about an all-white kitchen is that you can refresh it every now
and then.” She has done exactly this, most recently installing a pair of
smoky glass pendant lights above the island bench.
Downstairs, an oversize laundry was refurbished and equipped as a
third bathroom, while a fourth living space – once Charlotte and Daisy’s
playroom – has been painted and carpeted, turning it into an
entertainment zone that’s perfect for teenagers.
Most recently, Eugenie’s home projects have all been cosmetic, focused
on “adding comfort through furnishings and art”. For the latest refresh,
“I LOOK FOR THINGS THAT ARE

POLISHED AND ELEGANT BUT NOT
OVERLY FORMAL” Eugenie
she enlisted the help of Brooke Acton from Acton & Rumble Interiors.
“Brooke was amazing. She helped me source new pieces, including some
beautiful cushions and an ottoman, and advised on editing other pieces.”
Part of this refresh included painting the formal living and dining
rooms a soft grey (Resene Truffle Half), which imbues these spaces
with a refined air. Externally, the front brickwork has been tuck-pointed
and the timber work repainted.
Throughout the serial renovations, Eugenie’s focus has been on
maintaining a style that’s classic and comfortable. She loves the home’s
quiet, calming energy. “Whenever I buy pieces for the house I look for
things that are polished and elegant, but not overly formal,” she says.
“I have to be conscious that it’s a house that sees a lot of action, with
two rowdy teenagers, a dog and generally busy lives.”
For a fashionista who has spent much of her life writing about the
latest directions, Eugenie’s interiors style is “not at all driven by trends”.
If she was to equate her home with a fashion label, which would it be?
“It would have to be a designer who is into celebrating the classics,
someone who was into comfort and timelessness,” Eugenie says.
“Something like a Barrie cashmere jumper – the ultimate in chic when
it comes to comfort dressing!” >
H G at home with

CASUAL DINING This page and opposite Eugenie and “THE FIRST THING
Willow in the casual dining/living space that adjoins the
kitchen. Antique French farmhouse table. Antique sideboard, WE DID WAS PAINT
blue vases and candlesticks, all from Orient House. White
tableware, Mud Australia. Antique silver goblets. Baskets,
EVERYTHING WHITE
Freedom. Rug, Armadillo. Artwork by Leila Jeffreys. > – IT’S BEAUTIFUL
WITH THE
FLOORBOARDS.”
Eugenie
H G at home with
ENSUITE Custom vanity, Leader Bathrooms and Kitchens. Victoria+Albert ‘Toulouse’

bath, Harvey Norman. Tapware, The English Tapware Company. Wall tiles, Academy
Tiles+Surfaces. Carrara hexagonal floor tiles, Amber Tiles. MAIN BEDROOM Opposite
Martha Stewart bed, Coco Republic. Bedlinen, Cultiver. Dark grey bedcover, Sheridan.
Bedside table, La Maison. Rug, The Rug Establishment. Pendant light, Magins Design.
Floor lamp, Emac & Lawton. Table lamp, Melinda Hartwright Interiors. Artwork by Vayu,
Michael Commerford Gallery. Walls painted Dulux Natural White. >

“THE HOUSE HAS
A QUIET, CALMING
EVERGY; IT
PROVIDES RESPITE
FROM OUR BUSY
LIVES.” Eugenie
1
Photography courtesy of Loulou (1), Hotel Metropole Monte Carlo (3). Sun Loungers 2020 artwork courtesy of Clara
Adolphs (2), Femme No VI artwork courtesy of Wayne Pate (9). Photography from Getty Images (5) and Alamy (7).
9
3
10
8
LIFE & ST YLE
Eugenie shares some firsts and favourite things.
FIRST ADULT HOME? A two-bedroom terrace in Sydney’s Paddington.
BUCKET-LIST DESTINATION? Puglia (5). I almost got my wish: I was invited
to attend Dior’s Cruise 2021 show at the Piazza del Duomo in Lecce last May.
But then Covid-19 put a halt to that. At least I got to watch the livestream. Sigh.
BEST MEAL EVER? For a fancy meal, it’s a toss-up between Beige Alain Ducasse 4
Tokyo (6), which sits atop the flagship Chanel store in Ginza, and Joel Robuchon’s
restaurant in the Hotel Metropole in Monte Carlo (3). That said, my perfect
breakfast is from Nosh in Cremorne: an extra-shot skim latte and cinnamon scroll.
DREAM CAR? A Land Rover Defender (6) for when I (eventually!) move to
Northern NSW. Or anything comfartable that can tow a horse float.
7 FAVOURITE ARTISTS? I love the work of Wayne Pate (9) and Clara Adolphs (2).
FAVOURITE FASHION LABELS? My style has relaxed: Sir the Label and Matteau
(10) for sundresses; Christopher Esber and Khaite or events; Loewe (8) for bags.
FAVOURITE MOVIE? Every stylista nominates The Talented Mr Ripley (7) but it
delivers on so many levels. Relaxed tailored clothes, the interiors, the Amalfi Coast…
WHICH INTERIOR DESIGNERS INSPIRE YOU? Joseph Dirand designed one
of my favourite Parisian restaurants, Loulou (1), in the heart of the Louvre.
FAVOURITE DOWNTIME PURSUIT My eight-year-old warmblood mare
Rosalie, who I do dressage with. She’s very opinionated and needs constant
5
reassurance, but is quite the character. Some days I feel like I’m her therapist.
SOMETHING YOU’D LOVE TO PURCHASE? Another horse – but I’m not
allowed, so I’ll placate myself with custom riding boots from Celeris (4) instead.
YOUR NEXT WORK OR PASSION PROJECT? I’m in the early stages of
developing my own skincare brand. Stay tuned! #

D e c or at i ng
Thonet ‘S64’ chair, $2290, Anibou. Thor cabinet,
$6995, Coco Republic. ON CABINET From left
Flowers and vase from Poho Flowers. Joy Dawns art
print $203 (framed), Urban Road. Ridge footed
platter, $70, Globe West. Vintage Chinese tofu
pot, $155, Water Tiger. Tao table lamp, $495,
Coco Republic. Pompeii Black art print, $203
(framed), Urban Road. Rope bowl, $950, Greg
Natale. Native Union ‘Marquetry Drop’ wireless
iPhone charger, $140, Opsis Designs. Stone
Saffiano monogrammed AirPod Pro case, $49.95,
The Daily Edited. Peripheral View painting by Joshua
Chardia, $950, Becker Minty. Wall painted Interno
Lime Wash in Camelback, $130/4L, Porter’s Paints.
Styling by Sophie Wilson. Photograph by Kristina Soljo.
B E A U T I F U L B U Y S T O E L E VA T E T H E E V E R Y D A Y
Go, go G A D G E T
THIS PAGE Clockwise from top Vero
small cake stand with cloche,
$129, Anna Vasily. Lexon ‘Mino’
bluetooth speaker, $99,
Designstuff. Linear tumbler, $140,
Becker Minty. Elegance Optic
Champagne coupe, $139/pair,
Waterford Crystal. Polar coaster,
$230/four, Greg Natale. Bretagne
dinner plate, $16.95, Provincial
Home Living. Chelsea cutlery,
$300/5-piece place setting, Greg
Natale. Stripe napkin, $40/four, In
Bed. Margot candles, $19 each,
Maison Balzac. Wall painted
Interno Lime Wash in White Pepper,
$130/4L, Porter’s Paints.
OPPOSITE, ON WHITE BENCH
Clockwise from top Linear martini/
dessert glasses, $165 each, Becker
Minty. Ridge footed platter, $80,
Globe West. Brutti e Buoni biscuits,
$13.50, Simon Johnson. Salad
plates, $37 each, Mud Australia.
Niemeyer bowl, $450, Greg Natale.
ON SHELF From left Beacon
canisters, $29.95/three,
Salt&Pepper. Marimekko ‘Oiva
Terra’ teapot, $129, Top3 by
Design. Pebble bowls, $68 each,
Mud Australia. Quince Bunch
print, $149.95, Provincial Home
Living. Dolce Vita outdoor flutes,
$40 each, Opsis Designs. Aerin ice
bucket, $999, Palmer & Penn.
Stylist’s assistants Kate Lincoln and Tess Thyregod.

Montgomery Storage floating
shelves (110x24cm), $26 each,
Bunnings. ON REAR BENCH From
left Zip ‘HydroTap Celsius
All-in-One Arc’ boiling, chilled and
filtered-water tap, $6445, Harvey
Norman. Bitossi tumblers, $149/six,
Alex and Trahanas. Stelton ‘Collar’
coffee grinder, $205, and Alessi
‘Plisse’ electric kettle, $250, both
Top3 by Design. Smeg ‘Retro’
automatic espresso machine, $519,
Harvey Norman. Napkin, as before.
Salt&Pepper ‘Salut’ cake stand
with dome, $69.95, Myer.
Turn to tech that’s as smart-looking as it is clever. Carrara Marble laminate,
$501.95/m², Laminex. >
STY L I N G Sophie Wilson | P HOTO GR A PH Y Kristina Soljo | F LOW E R S & FO LI AGE Poho Flowers
decorating H G

decorating H G
Sleek, understated design makes integration easy.
THIS PAGE Clockwise from

top left Toothbrush, $27, and
Kristall tumbler, $190, both
Opsis Designs. Maison Crivelli
‘Santal Volcanique’ eau de
parfum, $299/100ml, and
L’Artisan ‘L’Eau D’Ambre
Extreme’ EDP, $219/100ml,
both Libertine Parfumerie.
Mirror, POA, Tamsin Johnson.
Supersonic hair dryer, from
$449, Dyson. Waffle XL bath
towel, $179, Oliver Thom.
Portofino pyjamas, $149,
Jasmine and Will. Beosound
A1 waterproof bluetooth
speaker, $420, Bang &
Olufsen. Louise Olsen x Alex
and Trahanas ‘Chifferi’
earrings, $290, Dinosaur
Designs. Kristall soap dish,
$190, Opsis Designs.
Apothecary body oil, $100,
Oliver Thom. Black Marble
laminate, $100.65/m²,
Laminex. OPPOSITE,
FOREGROUND From left
Vintage sling chair, $750,
Water Tiger. For similar
window, try Stegbar. Mercer St
pendant light, $1218, Dunlin.
ON VANITY From left Phoenix
‘Vivid Slimline’ mixer tap,
$319, Harvey Norman. Mirror,
POA, Tamsin Johnson. Kristall
soap dispenser, $410, Opsis
Designs. Aalto vase, $349,
Iittala. Nobu platter, $325,
Coco Republic. Kishi wide
vase, $89, and tall vase, $95,
Papaya. Cire Trudon ‘Solis
Rex’ candle, $380/800g,
Libertine Parfumerie. Carrara
Marble laminate, $501.95/m²,
Laminex. ON WALL Flexi
Storage floating shelves
(120x24cm), $43.60 each,
Bunnings. See page 193
for detailed information of
products on shelves. >

H G decorating
The power of good design is what, in the end, makes tech appealing.
THIS PAGE Clockwise from top

Crosley Voyager portable
turntable, $199.95, Hardtofind.
Folding stool, POA, Tamsin
Johnson. Benjamin Ripple
two-drawer desk, $2135, Globe
West. ON DESK Clockwise from
top left Fujifilm ‘Instax Square’
instant-printing camera, $148,
Officeworks. Bold Serif
monogrammed smartphone
case, from $69.95, The Daily
Edited. Espresso cup and saucer,
$61/set, Mud Australia. Monet
ornament, $95, Coco Republic.
Monogrammed desk pad,
$89.95, The Daily Edited. For
similar ballpoint pen, try Myer.
Timothy Oulton ‘Wild’ chair,
$7195, Coco Republic. Chess
Board wallpaper (used on floor),
$79/m², Luxe Walls. OPPOSITE
From left Brew infuser teapot,
$27.95, Salt&Pepper. Twister side
table, $1495, Sophie Davies.
Vintage Turkish pot, $750,
Manyara Home. Ralph Lauren
‘Hailey’ basket, $1175, Palmer &
Penn. Chair and desk, as before.
Hermosa raffia pendant light,
$485, Few & Far. ON DESK
Clockwise from top left Beoplay
H95 noise-cancelling
headphones, $1399, Bang &
Olufsen. Horn vase, $480, and
Bow vase, $420, both Dinosaur
Designs. Earth travel journal,
$29, Water Tiger. Aesop book by
Dennis Paphitis and Jennifer
Down with photography by
Yutaka Yamamoto, $110, Aesop.
Blackened Bronze tape
dispenser, $375, Studio Henry
Wilson. Apulian espresso cup
and saucer, $45/set, Alex and
Trahanas. ON WALL Palm
Springs limited-edition print,
$375, Greenhouse Interiors.
Interno Lime Wash paint in
Camelback, $130/4L, Porter’s
Paints. ON FLOOR Leila rug
(2.4x3m), $6000, Armadillo.
Chess Board wallpaper, as
before. For Where to Buy,
see page 192. #

decorating H G
Ask an expert
SM A RT THIN K ING
innovative design makes it easy to integrate technology, writes Kate Nixon.
Project design and styling by Studio Kate. Photograph by Maree Homer.
Framing a wall-mounted TV
with storage units softens the
impact of technology in a
living space.

H G DECORATING
‘I ntegration’ has long been a buzzword in

home-design circles, with automation
technology getting smarter, smaller and
more discreet by the year. Now, we are
enjoying the rise of luxury brand collaborations
with the likes of Apple x Hermès, LG x Prada
and Google x Yves Saint Laurent redefining
home technology as style statements. Think
super-slim TVs that look like artworks or mimic
the texture of the wall behind; slick slimline
sound bars that can be customised to
coordinate with the room; and sculptural
veneer-clad and leather-trimmed speakers
that also include storage and deliver premium
sound. Never before have we enjoyed
such bespoke and beautiful solutions
for effortless living. #
Shop around...
CRESTRON Intuitive products to complete
a smart-home system. crestron.com.
ZETR Architectural electrical switch plates
for that final tech flourish. zetr.com.au.
WINNING APPLIANCES An extensive
range of cutting-edge kitchen appliances
and home-theatre systems including
sound bars, TVs and wall brackets.
winningappliances.com.au.
DOMAYNE Smart-home networking,
Project design and styling by Studio Kate, photograph by Maree Homer (this page).
automation and audio-visual essentials.
domayneonline.com.au.
HARVEY NORMAN Home entertainment,
office tech and specialty audio products.
harveynorman.com.au.
Applied technology
1 2 3 4 5
1 Lexon ‘Oslo Energy’ bluetooth speaker and wireless charging dock, $129.90, Top3 by Design. 2 Master & Dynamic ‘MH40’ over-ear headphones,
$599.95, Amazon. 3 Lapod laptop desk and storage pod by Tony Heap for Objct Co, $189, Top3 by Design. 4 Sleepbuds II relaxation ear buds,
$379.95, Bose. 5 Linton Heritage speakers with storage stand, $3100/pair, Wharfedale. OPPOSITE TOP Beovision Harmony TV with Beolab 90
and Beolab 50 speakers, Bang & Olufsen. OPPOSITE BOTTOM Tessa armchairs, Feel Good ottoman, Pico coffee tables, Asolo modular sofa,
Fly side tables and Gilda floor lamp, all from Fanuli. For Where to Buy, see page 192.

Fresh ideas &
easy updates
✚ Use darker-coloured
“Luxury brand collaborations are redefining paint, veneer or stone
home technology as style statements.” behind a TV for a
distinguished disguise.
Joinery on either side of
the TV creates a frame
and aids integration.
✚ Extend a floor finish
up the wall to define
a media nook (see
opposite). Vinyl planks
from Polyflor are an
easy-care option.
✚ Consider installing USB
charging points around
the home for flexibility.
CREATE YOUR
FOREVER KITCHEN
TODAY
decorating H G
9 by design
Statement chairs
Looking for the perfect perch? Settle into one of these...
STYLI N G Sophie Wilson | P H OTO G R A P H Y Kristina Soljo
FLOWERS & FO L I AGE Poho Flowers
Stylist’s assistant Paloma Maine.
For chair details,

see page 43.

H G decorating
1
WOVEN
Hurley teak chair with
woven seat, $599,
2
Oz Design Furniture.
LINEN
Lowlife steel armchair
with linen upholstery,
$2010, MCM House.
8 SLING
Starling occasional
chair with leather sling,
$2595, Globe West.
7 TIMELESS
Frank 1950s-style teak
armchair with rattan seat,
$899, McMullin & Co.
ACCESSORIES Clockwise from top left Modena table lamp, $250,
Few & Far. Tony side table, $1795, Coco Republic. Catalana
Marble laminate (on plinth), $109.90/m², Laminex. Bart vessel,
$199, Frank bench seat, $1349, and Loretta vessel, $139, all
McMullin & Co. Danyon vase, $329, Coco Republic. Harry vessel
(cream), $129, and Robert vessel, $199, both McMullin & Co.
3
VINTAGE
Audoux Minet beech
armchair with rope seat,
$8140, Tamsin Johnson.
4 LEATHER
Santorini armchair
with leather upholstery,
$899, Domayne.
9 SLED
Slope lounge chair with leather
upholstery, $899, West Elm.
For Where to Buy, see page 192.
6
SCANDI
5
Georgio oak lounge chair
with paper-cord seat, COCOONING
$790, MCM House. Cabana armchair with
sheepskin upholstery,
$5395, Coco Republic.
H G decorating
Smart, sophisticated and timeless, shutters sit easily in both contemporary

and classic settings. Plantation shutters, Wynstan. Sofa upholstered in
Sanderson Folia velvet from Domestic Textile Corporation. St Albans throw,
Tara Dennis Store. Australian House & Garden mangowood accent table
and Norwood knitted cushion, both Myer. Rug, Your Display Gallery.
Artworks by Louella Woodham (left) and Matthew Johnson. OPPOSITE
Floor-to-ceiling S-wave curtains accentuate the scale of this heritage home.

Windows of opportunity
Text by Elizabeth Wilson.
Adding elegance and functionality, window furnishings provide

a tailor-made finishing touch for every room.
ST Y L I N G Sophie Wilson | P H OTOG R A P HY Kristina Soljo
H G decorating
LAYERED APPROACH
Curtains not only enhance the
look of an interior, they can boost
liveability too, says Amelia Taylor,
head of product at Wynstan.
Consider the following:
Purpose Think about which direction
the windows face and the way the
space is used. Do you need to block
out light at a certain part of the day?
Design S-wave folds, pinch pleats
and box pleats each have a unique
look and feel. To add a layer of
softness, choose a neutral tone that
blends into the surroundings; use
pattern or show-stopping colour
to make a statement.
Position Curtains can be hung above
the windowsill, or down from the
ceiling, which adds height to a room.
In the pictured space, the curtain rod
is at cornice height to draw attention
to the home’s period details.
Opacity Blockout curtains reduce
light and noise and create a luxurious
hotel vibe; sheer fabrics prevent
glare and allow diffused light in. >
Sheer S-wave curtains in Abaca Charcoal with wand control,

Wynstan. Australian House & Garden ‘Sandy Cape’ washed-
linen sheet set, ‘Norwood’ throw, and ‘Norwood’ knitted
cushion, all Myer. Custom bedhead, Heatherly Design. Console
table and chest of drawers, Your Display Gallery. Table lamp,
The Country Trader. Antique mirror. Artwork by Cameron Fraser.

“Curtains can transform
a space. A sheer curtain
allows natural light to
fill a room while adding
an extra layer of beauty.”
Amelia Taylor, head of
product, Wynstan
H G decorating
SHEER MAGIC
Falling to the floor in neat,
translucent undulations,
sheer curtains are delicate
in appearance but can
play a powerful role in
a space. Here’s how:
Soothing sight They add
a layer of texture, softness
and sense of calm.
Opposites attract When
selected in a contrast
colour – like these charcoal
grey curtains in a white
room – they create drama
and a point of difference.
Timelessness An elegant
sheer in a neutral colour
has perennial visual appeal.
Point of view Sheers
reduce glare and provide
a measure of privacy
while allowing views
to outside. >
Sheer S-wave curtains in Abaca

Charcoal with wand control,
Wynstan. Australian House &
Garden ‘Sandy Cape’ quilt cover,
Myer. Vintage cabinet. Artwork by
Lottie Consalvo. Rug from Ikea.

H G decorating
LIGHTNESS
OF BEING
Plantation shutters ensure
“Shutters are classic, stylish and popular as ever. Their privacy and allow you
practicality and traditional elegance make them a go-to.” to control light and air
Amelia Taylor, head of product, Wynstan movement. Other benefits:
Durability They’re
hard-wearing, low
maintenance and easy
clean. “Faux wood
shutters are perfect for
wet areas,” says Amelia.
Versatility The ability to
angle the shutter allows
you to keep light off
furniture and minimise
fading or sun damage.
Insulating They help keep
heat out in summer and in
during winter.
Colours While white is
classic and ever-popular,
shutters are also available
in black and timber shades
to suit your space. #
Plantation shutters, Wynstan. Australian

House & Garden ‘Sandy Cape’ linen quilt
cover in Saffron, Myer. Bed, La Maison.
For Where to Buy, see page 192.

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DECORATING H G
2
3
1
4
On trend
S AGE A N D MI N T 5
14
6
15
13
11
9
8
12 10
Produced by Shayne Burton.
Deliciously easy to live with, these hues are ideal ingredients in any room scheme.
1 Wide Dome porcelain pendant light, $1200, Mud Australia. 2 Paros glass vase, $14.95, Provincial Home Living. 3 Fan Coral resin choker,
$245, Dinosaur Designs. 4 Limoges ‘Legle’ hand-painted side plate in Water Green, $87.50, Maison Living. 5 Lila acrylic table lamp with linen shade,
from $750, Bloomingdales Lighting. 6 Adidas ‘Gazelle’ suede sneaker, $93/pair, Stadium Goods. 7 Imola teak bar cart, $895, Huset. 8 Ichendorf
Milano ‘High Rise’ glass tumbler, $35, Space. 9 Mono wool blanket (130x180cm), $172, Hay. 10 Morphy Richards multifunction cooking pot, $229,
Domayne. 11 Terrazzo arch ornament, $79, House of Orange. 12 Quadrant Soft single sofa, $1620, Koskela. 13 Stellar polypropylene chair, $165,
Gessato Design Store. 14 Serpenti Cabochon leather shoulder bag, $3850, Bulgari. 15 Fez Mint Matt ceramic subway tiles (152x62.5mm),
$115/m², Di Lorenzo Tiles. For Where to Buy, see page 192. #

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great house, great car H G
Dressed in vintage Gucci,
owner Amara Speechley
is in perfect harmony with
her 1976 Porsche 912E.
Retro V I S I O N
Who needs an suV when you could have a classic Porsche like this Melbourne
family, writes motoring expert and WhichCar presenter, Elise Elliott.
PH OTOG R A P H Y Tim O’Connor

H G great house, great car
T uckeddownoneofinner-Melbourne’s
ubiquitous graffitied laneways is a
nondescriptmetaldoor.Pushitopen
and you find yourself in a whimsical
communal courtyard. Climbing roses and
Amara and Cal’s love of retro extends to
their car, a rare 1976 Porsche 912E. After
being discontinued in the ’60s, the 912
experiencedaone-yearrenaissance:exactly
2092 were made in Germany in 1976, all of
clematis tangle with masses of purple which were shipped to the US. Somehow,
love-in-a-mist and Avonview lavender. this gem found its way to Melbourne and
Ornamental vines sprawl over exposed these very appreciative owners. “When we
pipes and wrought-iron steps. The garden brought the car home, Vetiver said he
reflects the personal style of its owners, wanted to live in it,” says Amara, laughing.
strategist Amara Speechley and her What led to you buying the car? We’d
husband, landscape designer Cal Watson, been dreaming about owning a vintage
whoistheco-ownerofBespokeLandscapes. Porsche for a while, but the logistics of
The couple live here with their three- having a child and inner-city living made
year-oldsonVetiverandtheirbulldog,Pearl. the dream seem out of reach. Then I
Their home is one of five apartments in stumbled across an article about the 912
whatwasonceadairy.“Welovetheuntamed that praised its city driveability. That kind
beauty of the courtyard,” says Amara. “It’s ofstuckwithme,sowhenthislittlebeauty
like having our own little village green.” In came up for sale we knew instantly that
contrast with the courtyard, the couple’s she would be ours. It has its original
sleek understated apartment is decorated CockneyBrowntint,norustandfitsachild
with authentic Mid-Century furniture – all seat in the back! It was one of only a few
sourced from local retailers – teamed with hundred built with a factory sunroof and
a carefully curated art collection. one of even fewer with aircon. >
TOP LEFT Amara and Cal with their son Vetiver and bulldog Pearl. TOP RIGHT Vintage sideboard, Homebody. Artwork on sideboard by Gurilla.
Bluetooth speaker, Marshall. Holmegaard lamp, Angelucci 20th Century. Sculptures on mantel by Jessica Tremp (limestone) and Kenya Peterson
(plaster). BOTTOM Pearl takes time out. OPPOSITE Painting by Stacey Rees (unframed). Framed artworks by unknown artists. Featherston ‘Numero
VII’ sofa, and vintage sculpture (on side table), both CCSS. Vintage side table, Casser Maison. 1970s coffee table, Modern Times. Hide rug, Mark Tuckey.
“My favourite part of the house changes depending on my mood, the light
and the time of year.” Amara Speechley

H G great house, great car
“I was petrified of driving a

car without power steering or
park assist but it’s amazing how
smoothly the Porsche glides along
the cobbled laneways.” Amara

What’s it like manoeuvring the Porsche are so in love with the space. We’re on the Sculpture plays a big part here too – we
around the city? It’s actually a dream! doorstepoftheCBDbutitfeelslikeaworld seem to be collecting a lot of heads!
After years of being spoilt with all the away. Opening the living room windows Favourites are by Stacey Rees, Jessica
luxuries of a modern car, I was petrified invites a bit of the buzzy street vibe in, Tremp,BettinaWillner-Browne,Den-Holm
of hopping into a vehicle that didn’t have but wandering into the courtyard is like Sculpture and Ria Green.
power steering, let alone park assist. It’s stumbling into a little garden in Europe. What do you love about the courtyard?
amazing how smoothly the Porsche glides What are the interior highlights in Its abundance and eclecticism are what
along the cobbled laneways of the inner your home? It changes depending on my make it so alluring. It’s unlike anything
city. The only modification we made was mood, the light or the time of year. The else in the city and is completely
adding a reversing camera. fireplace in the living room is simple but unexpected when you wander in from the
Where do you source your Mid-Century very striking. I appreciate the original laneway. There’s definitely a sort of wild
furniture? Finding authentic pieces can arches in the hallway. I also love Vetiver’s abandonment to it – we allow it to be a bit
be a challenge in Australia. My favourite bedroom, where soft light dances across unkempt, which is part of its charm. Our
stores are Castorina & Co, which has the the room in the afternoons. Both our life and home are incredibly ordered, so
most heavenly collection of vintage bedrooms look onto the courtyard. it’s a real joy to see the garden be more
originals (mainly Italian); Smith Street What are your favourite pieces? There like nature intended, rather than what we
Bazaar is always a treasure trove; and are so many to choose from! I love the intended. Each of the neighbours tends
Nord,whichcarriesScandinavianclassics. travertine dining table and chrome coffee their own little pocket; it creates lots of
Also Modern Times, CCSS and Nicholas table with smoked glass top – both 1970s opportunities for us to connect. >
& Alistair – I would be quite content to originals. Then there’s the Grant @EliseElliott_Media @WhichCar
browse those showrooms for hours. Featherston ‘Numero VII’ sofa, the Kai For expert motoring advice, go to
What are the benefits of living in Kristiansen shelves, sculptural Arch whichcar.com.au.
Melbourne’s inner city? We’ve lived dining chair by Sarah Ellison and the Bespoke Landscapes; 0437 958 944
here for more than six years now and we Giancarlo Piretti ‘Alky’ lounge chair... or bespokelandscapes.com.au.
ABOVE Amara and Cal’s 1976 Porsche 912E was in remarkably good condition, right down to the interior detailing. OPPOSITE, TOP LEFT Vintage
travertine dining table. Arch chair by Sarah Ellison (left). Menu ‘Afteroom’ dining chair. Painting by Sarah Brooke. OPPOSITE, TOP RIGHT AND
BOTTOM RIGHT Vetiver’s room is a sensory delight. All vintage furniture. OPPOSITE, BOTTOM LEFT Painting by Amara Speechley. Vintage French
headboard. Fritz Hansen ‘Night Owl’ lamp, Cult. The travertine box was a gift.
H G GREAT HOUSE, GREAT CAR
THE KNOWLEDGE
Amara, Cal, Vetiver and Pearl VINTAGE STAR
in the whimsical courtyard. Make: Porsche
Landscaping by Bespoke Model: 912E
Landscapes. INSET Amara, Elise Year: 1976
and the funky Porsche 912E. For Engine: 2-litre 4-cylinder
Where to Buy, see page 192. # manual
MODERN CLASSIC
Make: Porsche
Model: 911 Carrera Coupe
Year: 2020
Engine: 3-litre, 6-cylinder
with bi-turbocharging
and PDK gearbox.
“There’s a sort of wild abandonment to the courtyard. Our life and home are incredibly
ordered so it’s a real joy to see the garden be more like nature intended.” Amara
® ® TM
® ®
® TM ®
EFFORTLESS, BEAUTIFUL LIVING

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control at home?
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Coercive Control illegal in Australia.
This is not the man she fell in love there’s no safe way for her to leave
with. He makes life hell for her. She the relationship. Coercive Control is a
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he wants, just because it’s easier. there is currently no law against it.
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Hou se s
This NSW South Coast home was designed
as a weekender but its lucky owners loved it
so much that they made it their permanent
residence. Turn the page to take a tour.
H O M E S W I T H S T Y L E A N D S U B S TA N C E
C OA S T MODER N IS T
STREET ENTRANCE The landscaping at this NSW South Coast home is

designed to integrate with the architecture. Expanses of lawn cool the air
before it enters the house, adding to the property’s energy efficiency.
houses H G
Mid-Century style meets modern, eco-friendly design at this

outward-looking home on the NSW South Coast.
STO RY Stephen Crafti | ST Y L I N G & P HOTOG R A P H Y Robert Walsh

H G HOUSES
LIVING/DINING Clean-lined furnishings are in keeping with the home’s overall Mid-
Century-influenced style. Fusion day bed, BoConcept. A Louis Poulsen ‘PH5’ pendant light
from Finnish Design Shop makes a striking statement over the dining table. Wishbone
chairs, Cult. B&B Italia sofa, Space. European Biscuit sisal rug, International
Floorcoverings. Burnished-concrete flooring (throughout).
he beauty of having an architect in the family is that client
consultationsneedn’tberestrictedtoregularworkinghours.
It also enables the architect, in this case Madeleine
Blanchfield, to enjoy the result of their labours. “It’s lovely
to be able to head to the coast on the weekend and stay in
a house that I’m extremely proud of,” says Madeleine, who
designed the home for her retiree parents, Frank and
Barbara. “The existing brick house on the site, built some time in the
1970s, was totally featureless,” Madeleine adds. “It had been added to
ad-hoc over the years and really wasn’t salvageable.”
The home is located at Bendalong, just over three hours’ drive south of
Sydney on the NSW South Coast. Drawn to the region’s mix of tranquil >

THIS IS THE LIFE
Although this home has
the sunny ambience of
a simple beachside shack,
there are plenty of details
to make its occupants
comfortable year round.
The battened screens
enable Frank and Barbara to
control the amount of light “WE WANTED THE HOME
and air entering the home,
while underfloor heating TO BE LAIDBACK, UNDERSTATED
keeps everyone cosy in AND HONEST.” Madeleine Blanchfield, architect
winter. An enclosed terrace
off the living area is the ideal
spot to enjoy a meal alfresco,
protected from the harshest
sun and strong winds.
Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.
EXTERIOR The main living pavilion is elevated on a podium to make the most of the property’s views. It is framed by an expanse
of manicured lawn and a raised garden bed filled with oleander and pigface, the latter cascading prettily over the edges of the planter.
TV ROOM Stools and similar Malawi chair from Orient House. Escea fireplace. Moooi ‘Non Random’ pendant light, Space. Sisal rug,
International Floorcoverings. KITCHEN Counter stools from Thonet. The joinery is finished in Navurban Auchen Flower veneer. The
island benchtop is made from plywood and timber veneer; the wall-side bench is polished stainless steel. Icon tapware, Astra Walker. >

houses H G
THE PALET TE
Dulux Navurban Terrazzo

Antique White Auchen Flower flooring in
USA Quarter veneer Dove Grey
(interior, (kitchen) (upstairs
throughout) bathroom)
H G houses
bush, idyllic bays and pristine surf beaches, Frank and Barbara, pivot up to 90 degrees, so can be easily adjusted to control the
then Canberra residents, intended to use the home as a amount of light and/or privacy required. The screens are just
weekender. Given the location and the Mid-Century kit-home one of the property’s many passive-solar design features. “The
style architecture that is so prevalant in this part of the world, bulk of the house is pushed to the southern side of the site,
they opted for a relatively modest building and a limited allowing for a north-facing garden,” explains Madeleine. “The
materials palette. “We wanted the home to be laidback, concrete floor acts as a heat sink, while deep eaves and
understated and honest,” says Madeleine. It was also important the screens provide shading from the hot sun. Every room
that the house be robust enough to withstand the salt air and has good cross-ventilation and the materials were sustainably
powerful southerly winds of the coastal climate, as well as and locally sourced where possible. A photovoltaic array
bushfires, which are a constant threat in the region. captures solar energy, and the landscaping is integrated with
From the street, the house reads as a single-storey glass- the architecture.”
walled pavilion. “The home is elevated on a podium to enhance Inside, the materials take centrestage. White-painted steel
the water views without impacting the neighbours,” says beamsareafeatureinthekitchen/diningareaandarebeautifully
Madeleine. “It also gives the living areas a little more privacy.” complementedbyexpansesofwarmtimberveneerinthekitchen
Beyond the main pavilion, which contains a vast open-plan andbirch-plyontheliving-zoneceilingandtheTVroom’sjoinery.
kitchen/dining/living area, is a discreet two-storey wing at the “This is a place for relaxing, so I chose very low-maintenance
rearthataccommodatesthehome’sfourbedrooms(twoupstairs, materials and included flexible, easy-to-use spaces that people
two downstairs) and two bathrooms. A TV room marks the of all ages would enjoy,” says Madeleine.
transition point between public and private spaces. One of the most popular places to hang out is the protected
Perhaps the most distinctive feature of the design is the terrace. “We all gravitate to this terrace, particularly during the
series of timber-battened external screens covering large warmer months,” says Madeleine. The kitchen, which includes
panels of glass. The screens are independently operable and a 5-metre-long island bench, is another favoured spot. >

THE LAYOUT
Ground floor
Garden
Living First floor
Terrace
TV Room
Bath
Bed
Kitchen Dining Bed
Bath
Bed
Bed
Carport
DOWNSTAIRS BATHROOM
This page Rosa Mode bath, ACS
Designer Bathrooms. Tapware,
Astra Walker. Savoy Crystal wall tiles,
Skheme. Ciottolo Grande terrazzo
flooring, Inigo Jones. UPSTAIRS
BATHROOM Opposite Inax ‘Yohen’
finger mosaic tiles, Artedomus.
Custom vanity. Tapware, Astra
Walker. Terrazzo flooring in
Dove Grey, Fibonacci Stone.
H G houses
“I THINK THIS HOUSE

TERRACE The built-in
barbecue is Frank’s handiwork. MAKES US APPRECIATE
Dining table and chairs from THE ENVIRONMENT
Cosh Living. For Where
to Buy, see page 192. EVEN MORE.” Madeleine
Madeleine says the whole family is thrilled with the way the home
has turned out. Especially Frank and Barbara, who have now made
this home their full-time residence. “In some ways, being inside this
house feels like camping – where you’re at one with the outdoors, but
protected only by a light shelter,” says Madeleine. “That feeling makes
me even more conscious of the fragility of the environment around
here. I think it makes all of us appreciate it more too.” #
Madeleine Blanchfield Architects, Paddington, NSW;
(02) 9212 3343 or madeleineblanchfield.com. Sanders Construction
Projects, Nowra, NSW; 0410 639 059 or sanderscp.com.au.

H G houses
STREET FRONTAGE
Restoring this one-time
boarding house to a family
home was a labour of love
for its owner, Sydney
architect Joe Agius.
Glory DAYS
Thoughtfully revitalised and expanded by its architect
owner, this former boarding house in inner Sydney is
set to be enjoyed for generations to come.
STORY Stephen Crafti | P H OTOGR A PHY Robert Walsh

H G houses
ydney’sinnercityiswellknown it was built, the house faced a park and their two sons, Miles, 18, and Rueben,
for its genteel 19th-century would have enjoyed unimpeded views of 16,wereupforthechallenge.Determined
townhouses and terraces, the nearby bay,” says Joe. While the bay that the house should have longevity
many of which have been views have since been built out, the and work well for everyone, they spent
beautifully restored and/or surroundings remain part of the home’s more than a year thrashing out ideas
expanded to suit the lifestyle appeal.Butthestructureitselfhadbecome togetherbeforeembarkingonanywork.
of21st-centuryoccupants.This something of a monster over the years. The first step in converting the
1885 freestanding terrace, the home of “Like quite a few homes in the area, it boardinghousebackintoafamilyhome
architect Joe Agius of Cox Architecture, is was unsympathetically extended in the wasdemolishingtheexistingextension
aprimeexampleofthevalueofrestoration. interwar period and subsequently and stripping the structure back to
Today, the house looks as lovely as the converted into a boarding house,” he says. its original state. Happily, removing
day it was completed – perhaps even more Many would have put the project in the the partition walls and false ceilings
so. But it wasn’t always the case. “When too-hard basket, but Joe, his wife Kate and uncovered some period details, >

DINING This image and below
Owner and architect Joe Agius. Joe
made the dining table himself.
Dining chairs, Thonet. Artworks by
Ralph Kiggel (above mantel) and
Mark McCarroll (beside chaise). Le
Corbusier ‘LC4’ chaise, Mobilia.
Ghanaian basket from Channon
Markets. BALCONY The formerly
enclosed front balcony was opened
up to create a delightful people-
watching spot. Vintage chairs.
“ T H E H O U S E H A D P L E N T Y O F P OT E N T I A L , B U T R E S TO R I N G A H O M E O N T H I S S C A L E
WA S C E RTA I N LY G O I N G TO B E A C H A L L E N G E .” Joe Agius, owner and architect
Photograph by Kristina Soljo (this page, bottom).
“ H AV I N G A C E N T RA L C O U RT YA R D D RAWS N AT U RA L L I G H T I N TO T H E S U R RO U N D I N G RO O M S , E L I M I N AT I N G
T H E N E E D F O R A RT I F I C I A L L I G H T A N D A D D I N G TO T H E H O M E ’ S OV E R A L L E N E R GY E F F I C I E N C Y.” Joe
THIS IS THE LIFE

As parents of two teenagers,
Joe and Kate were careful to
factor independent spaces
for the boys into an overall
flexible floor plan that could
adapt as the family’s needs
changed. To this end,
Rueben and Miles’ quarters
are located at the opposite
end of the house from their
parents’ room. It has separate
access via the garage, which
will be welcomed in years to
come. Between the two are
a variety of multipurpose
areas to maintain a sense
of connection. >
HOUSES H G
COURTYARD Potted plants are

a practical solution for bringing
greenery to compact spaces.
KITCHEN/FAMILY ROOM Opposite
The Breuer ‘Wassily’ and Eero
Aarnio ‘Executive’ armchairs are
vintage originals. The coffee table
has been with the family for years.
Le Corbusier sofa. Cushions, Utopia
Goods. Wall hangings bought in
Indonesia. Plywood joinery, walls
and ceiling. Terrazzo flooring.
Stools, Thonet. Stainless-steel
splashback and wall-side benchtop.
Door and window joinery by Nicco
Joinery. Structural engineering
by Partridge Partners.
THE LAYOUT
Courtyard
Entry
Garage
Living
Dining
Family Kitchen Laundry
Ground floor
Bath Bed Bath

Bed
Study/
Library
bed
First floor Bed Bath

H G houses
suchaspressed-metalceilingsinthedining
area and main bedroom. There was some
disappointment, however, when it was
discovered that heritage elements, like
the balcony’s iron lace, had been lost.
Thenextstageoftheprojectwasreworking
the floor plan. Joe’s thoughtful design has
delivered a home that is ideal for a family
with young-adult children. Formerly an
awkwardcollectionofdisjointedrooms,the
layoutisnowopenandfluid,allowingevery
nooktobeusedtoitsfullpotential.“Wewere
very conscious of both sustainability and
protecting the home’s heritage,” says Joe.
“Weretainedthesandstonefootingsandas
much of the original brick as possible.
Although there’s lots of glass, the house is
very efficient to operate due to deep
overhangsandexternalshading, as wellas
recycledtimberandconcreteflooringinthe
link,whichcapturesandstoreswarmthfrom
the sun.” Each room is designed with good
cross-ventilation for natural thermo-
regulation, there is under-floor heating
for when it gets chilly, and a solar-power
array on the flat roof of the extension.
Theoriginalstructurecontainsseparate
living and dining areas at ground level,
with the main bedroom and home office/
guestroom on the first floor. An ensuite
bathroom is shared by both rooms, with
a cavity sliding door separating the vanity
from the toilet and bathing zone. “This
arrangement allows two people to share
the space without compromising privacy,”
says Joe. The boys’ bedrooms are located
on the first floor of the extension, with the
laundryandgaragebelow.Linkingoldand
new is an open-plan kitchen/family room
and the internal courtyard.
InspiredbyMoroccanriads,thecourtyard
is very much part of the living spaces
thanks to 2.4-metre sliding glass panels
that blur the boundary between indoors
and out. “Having a central courtyard >

MAIN BEDROOM This image and below left The pressed metal on the ceiling, now painted black, is
original to the house. The Parker chairs once belonged to Kate’s parents. Stool, Ikea. Codex wall
lights, Unios. Painting by Joe Agius (this image), prints by Masako Meida (rear wall) and Weegee
(right). ENSUITE Catalano basin and Eccentric Progressive tapware, all Rogerseller. Kaldewei
bath, Bathe. Brazilian slate tiles, Bisanna. STAIRWELL Mungo the border terrier relaxes on the
stairs leading to the boys’ bedrooms. A library wall makes good use of otherwise ‘dead’ space.
“ W E W E R E V E RY C O N S C I O U S O F B OT H S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y A N D P R OT E C T I N G T H E H O M E ’ S H E R I TAG E .” Joe
THE PALET TE
Dulux Dulux Dulux Domino

Stepney Malay Grey (pressed-metal
(exterior front ceiling and
and lacework) (doors) bathroom door)

H G houses
“ T H E R E ’ S A L OV E LY S E N S E O F C O N N E C T I O N W H E R E V E R YO U A R E I N T H E H O U S E .” Joe
OFFICE/GUESTROOM Rueben sits at a desk Joe

made for use in a previous home. Tolomeo desk
lamp, Artemide. Artwork by Joe Agius. FIRST-
FLOOR EXTENSION External battens are used to
shade the windows, negating the need for interior
curtains or blinds. EXTERIOR The extension is
clad in Cemintel fibre-cement sheeting. SIDE
ENTRANCE Joe at the side entrance, which leads
directly to the dining area. Original sandstone
footings. For Where to Buy, see page 192.
draws natural light into the surrounding
rooms, eliminating the need for artificial
light and adding to the home’s overall
energy efficiency,” says Joe.
Inside, the decor is modern yet timeless.
Thecolourschemeiswhite,greyandblack,
warmed by colourful artworks, touches
of timber and plywood joinery. Vintage
design classics dominate the furnishings,
among them Marcel Breuer ‘Wassily’
chairs and a Le Corbusier chaise that Joe
bought as a gift to himself after winning
an architecture prize. These elegant 20th-
century pieces help smooth the transition
between architectural eras.
Now complete, the family can relax and
enjoy the fruit of their labour. “It turned
out beautifully,” says Joe. “I’d have to say
thecourtyardisourfavouritespace–it’sthe
pivot point for the whole layout. It’s an
evolving landscape that is open to the sun,
and provides a lovely sense of connection
wherever you are in the house.” #
Cox Architecture, Australia wide;
coxarchitecture.com.au. Lachlan Lynch
Constructions, Killara, NSW;
lachlanlynch.com.au.
Photograph by Kristina Soljo (this page).

POOL AREA
Tallowwood decking
from Affordable
Flooring and Decking
surrounds the custom-
designed pool. The
outdoor chair was
bought in Bali and the
Weathertex cladding is
painted Dulux Casper
White Quarter.

houses H G
PER F EC T H A R MON Y
This home on Sydney’s Northern Beaches proves that a laidback,
barefoot feel doesn’t preclude the use of luxurious touches.
STO RY Sarah Pickette | P HOTOG R A P H Y Justin Alexander
efined yet relaxed, this home on Sydney’s Northern Beaches was expertly
transformed by interior designer Arabella Gardiner for a pair of empty-nesters
who saw the potential for it to become the epitome of resort-style living. The
couple bought the property in the 1990s, when it was a simple weatherboard
structure with yellowed walls and timber floors that had seen better days.
“ ‘Fisherman’s shack’ would probably be the best description,” says Arabella,
“but the block was large and level, it was close to Pittwater and the homeowners
knew that with a little work, it could become a real retreat.”
Rather than knocking the shack down, the owners chose to restore and add to it, with
renovations taking place in three stages. The most recent works, undertaken in 2018, saw
the home extended to make space for a main bedroom with direct access to the pool. New
parquetry flooring went in, the living spaces were opened up, and the kitchen reconfigured
to accommodate an exquisite centrepiece: a marble-clad island. “The island was inspired
by a piece I’d seen by French interior designer and architect Joseph Dirand,” says Arabella.
“I fell in love with the profiling of Dirand’s bench and because the homeowners adore marble,
I thought I would hero it here.” Complementing the marble are suspended brass shelves
that tie in with brass-finish tapware and pulls for the integrated fridge. Floor-to-ceiling
sheer curtains soften the space and wide-gauge parquetry balances the lines in the V-groove
ceiling. “It’s not an enormous house, but the broad floorboards help it feel bigger.” >
HOUSES H G
“THERE’S AN EASE TO THIS

THIS IS THE LIFE
HOUSE – IT ACKNOWLEDGES “The Northern Beaches
ITS LOCATION WITHOUT is a great place to bring
up a family,” says the
BEING OVERTLY BEACHY.” homeowner. “The beaches
Arabella Gardiner, interior designer and surfing are second to
none and drive an hour and
you’re in the middle of one
of the most spectacular
cities in the world.” Having
grown up on the Northern
Beaches herself, Arabella
instantly understood the
owners’ vision for a home-
as-haven. “She poured her
love and knowledge into
this project and it shows,”
says the owner.
KITCHEN The striking island, built by Fin Designs, is clad in Carrara marble
from Gitani Stone. The splashback is also Carrara marble. Custom brass
shelves and fridge handles. The Astra Walker tap features an aged-brass
finish to match. Oak parquetry in Raba, Tongue N Groove Flooring. Ceiling
V-groove boards painted Dulux Lexicon Half. Curtains in a Westbury
Textiles fabric and installed by Solis Products. Miele appliances.

H G houses
LIVING Sofas from Anibou were reupholstered in a Knoll fabric and teamed with a
quilted-leather ottoman designed by Arabella. Eames stools in walnut from Living Edge and
rug from Perryman Carpets. PORTRAIT Interior designer Arabella Gardiner. STUDY Eero
Saarinen ‘Tulip’ table with Arabescato marble top, Dedece. Strada pendant light bought
from a Kelly Wearstler store in Los Angeles. Joinery in Saltwood veneer from Eveneer.
Adjacenttothe kitchen istheliving area, redesignedto feel “more containedand cinema-

like”. Here, tall banks of joinery replace some of the storage lost by opening up the kitchen
and dining area. Elsewhere in this room, there is a new fireplace that features a bullnose
sandstonesurround.“Iwaskeentocreatetheimpressionthat there’d always been a fireplace
in that spot – even though there hasn’t,” says Arabella.
The hallway leads to the main bedroom suite, where french doors open out to the pool.
“The sound of the pool’s waterfall feature creates a distinct holiday vibe here.” Further
enhancing the house’s resort feel, white plantation shutters are used throughout and the
mirror-walled study and two guestrooms each look out to a pond. “The owners love
entertaining,sothepoolsideareaissetuptofacilitatethat,”explainsArabella.Lushtropical
plantings complete the holiday-at-home picture. “The owners enjoy their time outdoors,
spending happy hours tending to the garden or swimming laps. The pool is a consistent
depth (2 metres) and is lined with beautiful glass mosaics that appear either a deep blue or
green, depending on the light.” “THERE’S A
The house is now perfectly tailored to the needs of its summer-loving owners, people who LIGHTNESS AND
really value their space and privacy. “This is a home that feels contemporary, open and
liveable but also polished. There’s a strong sense of it being a personal haven for its owners
PEACEFULNESS
– it’s just so incredibly peaceful here.” > TO THIS HOME.”
AG Design, Palm Beach, NSW; 0417 254 969 or ag-design.com.au. Arabella
THE PALET TE
Dulux Dulux Oak

Lexicon Half Casper White parquetry
(ceiling, Quarter in Raba
throughout) (cladding) (flooring)

H G houses
THE LAYOUT
Wardrobe Bed Bath

Bath Courtyard Study
Bed Bed
Pool Entry
Deck Kitchen
Living

BEDROOM The second bedroom has a custom bedhead with Ralph Lauren light-denim
fabric. Dresser, Ruby Star Traders. ENSUITE Opposite and below right Boho concrete tiles
on the floor are balanced by white penny rounds, all from Teranova. The custom vanity is
topped with Carrara marble and complemented by a mirror from Candana. Shower, Astra
Walker. The walk-in wardrobe leading to the ensuite features a custom banquette in an
Elliott Clarke velvet. MAIN BEDROOM Below left A Malawi chair from Orient House is
positioned in front of an MCM House mirror. For Where to Buy, see page 192. #
FRONT YARD The battened
screen on the garage doubles
as a decorative feature of the
courtyard. Gervasoni ‘InOut’
chair, Anibou. Sesame Grey
stone pavers, Sam the Paving
Man. The bench seat is
blackbutt stained in Sikkens
Cetol black japan. Steps
(shown opposite) lead down
into the garden from the street.
Planter constructed with
stone tiles from SNB Stone.
houses H G
Shape
SHIF T ER
Taking its style cues from Japan, this Sydney
home has evolved and grown with its owners.
STORY Sarah Pickette | PHOTOGR APH Y Prue Ruscoe

H G HOUSES
THIS IS THE LIFE
The owners’ three children
are now aged between 19
and 24, and the home’s
layout works perfectly for a
household of adults. “We all
have our space,” says the
owner. “You might not want
the bedrooms so spread out
if you had little kids, but we
absolutely love it.” The living
areas are bathed in the most
glorious morning sun, she
says, and the balcony gets
plenty of use. “This is a
1920s house and we’re
thrilled with the way Brooke
has updated it.”
ENTRY Visitors to the house are greeted by a bespoke steel grille

designed by Brooke. American white oak boards from Floormania
flow right through the ground floor. Console, Camerich. Artwork
by Dean Home. FORMAL LIVING ROOM Opposite Toucan ‘Gala’
carpet in Charcoal from Whitecliffe Imports has been set flush into
the floor for a rug-like appearance without the safety hazard.
Custom entertainment unit, Zuster. Arflex ‘Naviglio’ sofa, Space.
he owners of this house in Sydney’s east are very made from a jet-black stone; on the sink side, the benchtop is
open to change, a trait reflected in the fact they’ve 7-millimetre stainless steel that flows out to a black-japanned
been renovating, expanding and tweaking their timber counter for casual meals and morning coffees. “I wanted
home on and off for the past 11 years. Architect to play with the thinness of the stainless steel and the thickness
Brooke Aitken was initially engaged in 2009 to of the stone and timber. The materials are having a conversation
improve the family friendliness of the house and with each other,” she says.
to deal with a very tricky issue: the ceiling of the In the dining area, banquette seating in a highly durable
bottom floor was just too low to allow the space to be functional. Designers Guild fabric acts as another plane, extending right
Brooke’s solution was nothing short of ingenious: raise out to the room’s edge. This space is notable for its striking
the ceiling to create an elevated platform for the living area moon-inspired Marion Borgelt artwork that again offers a nod
above. It has since become one of the home’s best-loved design to the family’s love of the Japanese way of life. “To me, moon
features. “My primary focus was to gain height underneath viewing is a very Japanese thing to do,” says Brooke, “and this
for the lower storey, but it also allowed me to create some floating is a moon that’s waxing so you’re getting a slash of beautiful
planes in the living area and to play with the Japanese aesthetic purple as you walk around it. I think it could be the perfect
that the owners love, having spent a number of years living in sculptural form for this spot.”
that country.” Two precisely mitred, broad timber steps now As part of the initial renovation, the bedrooms were updated,
lead up to the living area, neatly defining the space and making and a pantry and ensuite added. Downstairs, with the ceiling
it feel cosy and intimate. height now less oppressive, a bedroom and living area were
The kitchen, which suffered from poor connection to the living created, and a small bathroom added next to the laundry.
spaces, was also overhauled within the scope of those works. Shortly after this, a new timber and steel balcony was put
Now, the owners have a beautiful, clean-lined kitchen that looks in off the living area and a circular staircase installed to provide
and feels contemporary and showcases a beautiful interplay of a better connection between the house and its backyard and
materials. On the cooking side of the kitchen, the benchtop is pool. A few years after the first works were completed, >

“ T H I S H O U S E I S C L E A N A N D S U B D U E D,
C L A S S I C A N D M I N I M A L .” Brooke Aitken, architect
DINING The banquette is upholstered in super-durable Guiliano fabric in

Graphite from Designers Guild while the Thonet dining chairs have been
reupholstered in Pepe Pañalver ‘Devon’ fabric from Westbury Textiles. Flos 365
light, Euroluce. Artwork by Marion Borgelt. KITCHEN Below and opposite A
striking artwork by Stephanie Tetu presides over the kitchen. Joinery by Premier
Commercial Interiors and oak bench stained with black japan. The benchtops
are made from stainless steel (sink side) and Jet Black granite from SNB Stone.
THE PALET TE
Dulux Murobond Paint Porter’s Paints

Whisper White Iron Oxide Admiralty
(interior walls) (awning) Navy
houses H G
THE LAYOUT and with the couple’s three children fast becoming young
adults, the owners asked Brooke back to adjust the house for
a third stage of works, including reroofing the garage and
modifying the front of the house to create a beautiful outdoor
area with a fire pit.

The entry was enlarged to accommodate a striking Dean
Ground floor Home artwork and one of the bedrooms extended and
transformed into a formal living room. The fourth – and final
Balcony – stage of renovations was completed in 2020, with a powder
Dining Balcony room added and the top floor balcony modified slightly.
Living Living “You could call this a bionic house because it’s changed so
Bed
Bed
much and so often,” says Brooke. “One of the owners is a person
Kitchen
Laundry who really loves and embraces change. She’s always thinking
Bath
about how the house could be tweaked to suit her family at
Bed Study that point in time.”
Lower ground
Bath Bath Throughout the whole process of working on this house,
First floor Brooke has imbued it with a contemporary, subtly Japanese-
inspired aesthetic. “I didn’t want to do anything that was going
Bed
to date,” she says. “It’s clean and subdued, classic and minimal.
Sitting
Entry I really doubt the owners will want to change it any further now,
but we never say never!” >
Brooke Aitken Design, Ultimo, NSW; (02) 9212 6262 or
brookeaitkendesign.com.au.

“ T H E D O M I N O J O I N T I N G I N T H E F L OAT I N G F L O O R I S S O M E T H I N G
W E ’ R E V E RY P R O U D O F. I T ’ S E X P E RT LY D O N E A N D E V E RYO N E I S
D E L I G H T E D W I T H T H E WAY I T L O O K S .” Brooke
houses H G
DOWNSTAIRS LIVING AREA This

page With its ceiling raised, Brooke
was able to create a bedroom and
small living area on the lower floor.
Sofa bed, Sofa Studio. Ottoman in
Manuel Canovas ‘Sarla’ from
Domus Textiles. Winston armchair,
Jardan. Steel stairs constructed
by Enzie Stairs for WJ Building.
LIVING AREA Opposite The
same American oak timber from
Floormania has been used for the
floating joinery. Gervasoni ‘InOut’
armchair, Anibou. Mantis lamp,
Spence & Lyda. Lazytime sofa,
Camerich. Artworks purchased in
New Zealand. For Where to Buy,
see page 192. #

Original
T HI N K I NG
The sensitive update of a grand Melbourne terrace spliced

antique and contemporary with thrilling results.
STO RY Judy Pascoe | ST Y L I N G Beck Simon | P H OTOG R A P HY Rhiannon Taylor
houses H G
SITTING ROOM This page and opposite A gold Louis XV-style armchair from The Vault Sydney is a luxe touch. Apparatus ‘Triad 9’
pendant light from Criteria. A Flos ‘Taccia’ table lamp from Euroluce shines on an antique fruitwood table. The owners’ existing sofa
was refreshed with new upholstery in Westbury Textiles Nassau fabric. The artwork is a 1916 lithograph by Albany E Howarth.

utting the soul back into older houses is one of The previous owners, who lived in the house for more
the things interior designer Chelsea Hing does than30years,hadrenovatedandextended“verytastefully”
best, and her revamp of this beautiful, grand in the 1990s and maintained it well. “The existing layout
1880sterraceininnerMelbourneisnoexception. suited the new owners perfectly, so our main task was
Chelsea was contacted by a couple who were freshening things up and adding some personality,” says
downsizing to a city apartment, but it quickly Chelsea.“Ourbriefwastocreateatimeless,sophisticated
became clear that the owners’ hearts weren’t and richly decorated home, mixing existing heirlooms
really in that property. “It was obvious to me that they would with contemporary furniture, lighting and accessories.”
feel more at home in a house,” says Chelsea. “A week later, Walls throughout were repainted and technology
they called with the news that they had bought this beautiful upgraded before they got down to the fun part: choosing
old terrace on a corner block in one of the area’s best streets.” thedesignflourishes.“First,weaddeddecorativewalland
The double-storey home featured a classic layout: separate pendant lights and revamped the stairwell with a golden
living and dining rooms at the front, leading to a modern seagrass wallpaper,” says Chelsea. “Next, we selected a
addition with kitchen/dining/family room and courtyard mix of classic and contemporary furniture and rugs for
at the rear. All of the home’s three bedrooms were upstairs, colour and vibrancy.” The final step was commissioning
with an additional studio/bedroom above the garage. local tradespeople to create bespoke storage. >
houses H G
SITTING ROOM Molteni&C
‘Panna Cotta’ side table (red), Hub
Furniture. Rubn Lighting ‘James’
floor lamp, Fred International.
Cassina ‘Nuvola Rossa’ bookcases,
Space. Louis-style armchairs, The
Vault Sydney. ClassiCon ‘Roattino’
floor lamp, Anibou. Ligne Roset
settee, Domo. Laurel side table and
Apparatus ‘Triad 9’ pendant light,
both Criteria. Solid Blocks (used as
coffee table), Mark Tuckey. Old
Yarn oushak rug, Loom Rugs.
ENTRY Opposite Jewel console,
Zuster. Primitive Weave runner,
Loom Rugs. Kelly Wearstler
‘Precision 2’ wall lights, Studio
Cavit. The artwork is a collage by
Lyndell Brown and Charles Green.

H G houses

THE PALET TE
LIVING ROOM Retreat modular
sofa, Fred International. Captain
Flint floor lamp, Euroluce. Gubi Dulux
side table, Cult. Rug, Loom Natural White Porter’s Paints
Rugs. The artwork was a gift to (main walls, Santa Cruz Dulux Raku
the owners from the artist, Sally throughout)
Smart. DINING Elitis Parade Moko
wallpaper. The owners’ own dining
table is paired with Cassina ‘Cab’
chairs from Space. Bar cabinet,
Zuster. Antique Murano glass
chandelier. Vintage Italian wall
mirror. Agra rug, Armadillo.
The homeowners asked that their small but treasured

art collection and some beloved family furniture be
incorporated into the new scheme. One such piece, an
extendable diningtable thathad moved homeswith them
a few times, was lovingly restored and is now paired with
contemporary leather-upholstered chairs.
Other non-negotiables included retaining the existing
Elitis Parade Moko wallpaper in the dining room. Using
the wallpaper as a starting point, Chelsea updated the
room with a stylish cabinet, Murano glass chandelier
and a gilt-framed mirror. “Specifying complementary
pieces can be a challenge, but I think the room now looks
as if it has always been like that,” she says.
It is this mix of old and new that makes the house so
captivating. “We wanted to bring a feeling of old-world
charm but complement antiques with contemporary
pieces to make it feel exciting,” says Chelsea.
Inthemainbedroom,amodernfour-posterbeddelivers
realdrama.Anearly 20th-centuryFortuny silk chandelier
and wall sconces add to the effect, as do the luxurious
fabrics and textures. “The main bedroom had a palatial
Marie Antoinette style, so the new furnishings had to fit

THE LAYOUT
in with that,” says Chelsea.
As the owners are enthusiastic and frequent hosts, Cellar
both privately and for work, the house had to be suited Lower ground
to a crowd as well as just a couple. “The challenge was
to make it feel personal and like home as well as doing Ground floor
double duty as a reception space,” the designer says. The
Entry Kitchen
front room is open to the entry hall so Chelsea delineated Dining
the two areas with contrasting rugs. “It was important Living
Garage
to create a sense of arrival, but also to provide a feeling
of privacy and inclusion in the room,” she says. More Formal
dining Family
entertaining space is offered at the back of the house
with a private elevated terrace ringed by Manchurian First floor
peartreesandseatingupholsteredinleafygreenpatterns. Bath
Laundry
For the owners, the result is “everything we hoped for”. Bath
Chelsea is equally delighted: “Crafting these beautiful
Bed Bed
spaces was a genuine labour of love.” >
Wardrobe
Bed
Chelsea Hing, South Melbourne and Daylesford,
Bath
Bed
Victoria; chelseahing.com.au.
MAIN BEDROOM Customised Pearl bed from Zuster. Bedhead upholstered in Blithfield Fraser Velvet from Tigger Hall Design. Diane
Bergeron ‘Rita’ ottoman, Arthur G. Clyde table lamp, Cromwell. Kelly chest of drawers, Poliform. Laura Kirar ‘Petalo’ mirror, Studio
Cavit. Fortuny ‘Herbarium’ three-tier silk chandelier ‘Cesendello’ wall light, both Mondopiero. Recycled sari silk rug, Loom Rugs.
OUTDOOR ROOM Sika Design Georgia Garden ‘Charlot’ bench seat from Domo covered in Scalamandre Elsie de Wolfe from
The Textile Company. The dining setting was part of the owners’ existing collection. For Where to Buy, see page 192.
HOUSES H G
THIS IS THE LIFE

Since the owners are keen
entertainers, the formal
dining room was designed
to accommodate gatherings
of 20 or 30 as easily as an
intimate dinner for two. For
more casual get-togethers,
the owners head to the
elevated terrace at the back
of the house. Here, the lushly
planted garden, featuring
a row of Manchurian pear
trees, provides privacy and
colour throughout the year
as the leaves change from
green to cherry red through
the seasons. #

The white move
An eleventh-hour decision paid spectacular dividends for the owners of this Perth home.
STORY Sarah Pickette | P HOTOG R A P H Y Jody D’Arcy
houses H G
FORMAL LIVING This page and opposite Interior designer Emma Mackie
in the more formal of the home’s two living areas – the owners like to call
this one their “ocean sitting room”. Ashleigh sofas and Hampshire
armchairs in Diane Bergeron ‘Great Jones’ fabric from Coco Republic.
Tortoiseshell lamps and raffia side tables, Bragg & Co. Custom bookcase
in Dulux Lexicon Quarter by Urban Cabinets. Jute rug, Floors Natural.

H G houses
KITCHEN Katie pendant lights from The

Montauk Lighting Co. Joinery in Dulux Whisper
White, made by Urban Cabinets. The island
benchtop and splashback are Caesarstone
Calacatta Nuvo. Ovens and cooktop, Smeg.
Markson bar stools, Coco Republic.

THE PALET TE
Dulux Dulux Porter’s Paints

Whisper White Silkwort Dark Newport
(interior, (exterior) Blue
throughout)
rusting your instincts can sometimes lead
to such brilliant outcomes that you almost
can’tbelieveyouwereabouttotakeadifferent
fork in the road. That’s how the owners of
this oceanfront home in Perth feel.
A few years ago, they began renovating
part of the house they had lived in for about
30years.“ItwasaTuesdaynightandthebuildershadalready
pulled down the front section of the house,” recalls the
homeowner. “My wife said, ‘I just don’t think it’s going to
look good having half the house new and half old’. We
pondered that and concluded she was right, so we called the
builder the next morning and asked him to stop work. We’d
changed our minds and decided to knock the whole thing
down and rebuild.”
Driving this midweek epiphany was the owners’ desire to
stay in their home in coming years. “We’re both in our mid
70sandwhilewe’refitandyoungatheartnow,we’rerealistic
about what’s ahead. Rather than downsizing, we decided to
design a home where every aspect of it is accessible,
futureproof and tailored perfectly to our needs.”
With a new plan on the drawing board, Kings Rd
Constructions signed on to deliver the new build in close
conjunction with interior decorator Emma Mackie of
M Interiors. “This was a dream project,” she says. “The
builders were exceptional and the owners had a fantastic >

“ T H E S PAC E S F LOW TO G E T H E R A N D L E A D T H E E Y E O U T TO T H AT A M A Z I N G V I E W.” EM MA MAC K IE , INTERIOR DES IGN ER
houses H G
vision of the way they wanted their new home to work and
to relate to its coastal location.” For the homeowners,
functionality had to sit comfortably with beautiful materials
and finishes. This approach is reflected in their kitchen,
where Shaker-style cabinetry and striking pendant lights
are teamed with hardy stone-composite benchtops. There’s
also an office nook and a door that discreetly opens to a lift
to the upper level.
“The first floor is entirely given over to the main bedroom
suite,” says Emma. “It has its own sitting area and balcony,
a kitchenette and an accessible ensuite with a smart toilet
and large-format tiles to make cleaning easy. Basically,
they have everything they could possibly need in the one
area.” The best thing about this floor, though, is the view.
“It’s just extraordinary,” says the owner. “Because of the
way the home is built, it feels a bit like being on the bow
of a ship. There’s a road right next to us but we’re high
enough to not notice it; all we can see is ocean.”
Back downstairs, there are two living areas – one with a
TV and a more formal space without one. “The formal living
room is designed for conversation. It has a fireplace with a
stone surround and chairs upholstered in a beautiful Diane
Bergeronfabric,”saysEmma.“Weoptedtogowithvariations
in pattern rather than colour and I think it works well.”
Like the living areas, the dining zone is defined by a
generous jute rug and ceiling beams that frame and support
the striking box pendant light that hangs over the table.
Dark-chocolate engineered-timber floors flow right through
the house, extending from the living areas down a breezy
hallway that leads to the home gym, guestrooms and a
bathroom predominantly used by the grandchildren.
To make the most of its breathtaking location, the home
has a variety of outdoor areas where the owners – who are
keenentertainers –canhosttheir familyandfriends. There’s
a covered terrace furnished with a comfortable rattan sofa
and armchairs, plus a dining table positioned by the pool.
“The patterned tiles along its edge give the pool a point of
difference,” says Emma. “It gets used for laps every day,
rain, hail or shine.”
Blue and green might feature in and around the pool, but
these colours deliberately don’t appear in the house. “You
could say the house is Hamptons inspired, but we didn’t >
HALLWAY Havana engineered-timber boards, Woodpecker

Flooring (throughout). Curtains in James Dunlop Antipodes
fabric from Add Wow Interiors line the 20-metre hall.
FORMAL LIVING Newport limestone cladding from Eco
Outdoor surrounds the fire. DINING Darlana pendant light,
The Montauk Lighting Co. Dining chairs reupholstered in
Warwick Fabrics Kiko. Jute rug, Floors Natural.

THIS IS THE LIFE
“I hope I can live the rest of
my life in this home,” says
the owner. “We’ve worked
so hard for decades, I feel
it’s our reward to be able to
now have a house that’s
perfect for us.” Both the
build team and Emma went
above and beyond on this
project, he says. “Emma
really worked closely with
us and delivered everything
we wanted, plus she has
outstanding organisational
skills. Without her we
couldn’t have built this
home in just a year.”
MAIN BEDROOM SUITE This page and opposite top The

custom footrest by M Interiors was upholstered to match
the Maxime armchair from Coco Republic. Bedhead by
M Interiors. Murchison Villa carpet, Choices Flooring.
Bedside lamps, Bragg & Co. Artworks, Designer Boys
Collections. POWDER ROOM Vanity custom-made by
Urban Cabinets. Icon+ tapware, Astra Walker. Delice
Blanco Mate porcelain tiles from European Ceramics. >
houses H G
“ I C A N ’ T T E L L YO U H O W M U C H J OY I G E T O U T O F WA K I N G U P I N T H I S H O U S E E V E RY DAY.” HOMEOWNER
THE LAYOUT
Ground floor
Garage
Bed
Bath
Bed
Gym
Pool
Laundry
First floor
Bath
Entry
Family Bath
Pantry
Dressing
Office
Kitchen
Dining
Sitting
Living Bed

H G houses
“ S O M E T I M E S , R E T H I N K I N G W H AT YO U H AV E C A N C R E AT E S O M E T H I N G T H AT W O R K S B E T T E R .” OWNER
feel we had to stick strictly to a Hamptons-style colour

palette. I enjoyed breaking away from the blue and greens
and instead using white and oatmeal, caramel and taupe.”
Since they embarked on this rebuild, the owners
have watched friends of theirs take a similar approach to
updating their homes. “Downsizing isn’t always the answer
for empty-nesters,” says the owner. “Sometimes, it’s simply
a matter of rethinking what you have to create something
that works better for what your needs may be in the future.
No one can really say what the future holds – there is no
crystal ball – but I do know that every day we wake up and
feel absolutely euphoric about living here.” #
M Interiors, Cottesloe, WA; m-interiors.com.au. Kings Rd
Construction, Forrestdale WA; kingsrd.com.au.
TERRACE Avalon sofa and armchairs, Wisteria Design. Coffee

table, Janus et Cie. Rug, Dash & Albert. BARBECUE AREA Ziegler
& Brown Turbo Elite barbecue. Caesarstone bench and splashback
in Oyster. Schock Alfresco tap, Abey. POOL AREA Sunloungers,
Shelta. Lounger cushions in Warwick Fabrics Mallacoota. Teranova
‘Athens’ pool tiles, Myaree Ceramics. Quartz pavers, European
Ceramics. EXTERIOR FRONT Existing limestone was reused to
create the retaining wall. James Hardie Linea cladding in Dulux
Silkwort. For Where to Buy, see page 192.

S TA RT I NG
A FR E SH
Soft curves and a quiet simplicity serve this newly built Sydney
home well, enriching its owners’ lives as profoundly as they’d hoped.
STO RY Sarah Pickette | ST Y LI N G Olivia Giangrasso | P H OTOGR A PHY Dave Wheeler
houses H G
LIVING The organic lines in the
walls of the living area form a
subtle yet distinctive feature of
the space. Colour comes in the
form of a Kvadrat ‘Multitone’
rug from Hub Furniture. Coffee
table, King. Gas fire, Real
Flame. Huggy armchair,
Sarah Ellison. India Mahdavi
stool, Studio ALM. Artwork
by María José Benvenuto
through .M Contemporary.

H G houses

KITCHEN A striking Serge Mouille pendant light from
Cult adds movement to the kitchen. Cabinetry is two-pack
polyurethane in Dulux Timeless Grey. Allure Quartzite
benchtops, CDK Stone. Glass splashback from Palmers
Glass. Kashmir bar stools, District. Wall light from Tamsin
Johnson. Roden Perla floor tiles, Earp Brothers.
hildren grow, times change and, for those who find themselves with
a newly empty nest, opportunities present themselves. The owners of
thishomeinSydney’sinnerwestfoundthemselvesincreasinglydrawn
to the idea of a fresh start. They loved the house they’d raised a family
in for the past 39 years, but felt it had become quite dated and not
ideally suited to the kind of lifestyle they were planning for their
retirement. The solution? Build their dream home next door.
“The owners bought the adjoining house in the 1990s and had been renting it out,”
says Olivia Giangrasso, the interior designer engaged to design and fit out the new
property. “By demolishing the old house and building from scratch on that site, they
were able to maintain their connection to the family home and to stay in a street and
suburb they loved.”
Topoftheowners’wishlistwasthattheirnewhomebe“warmandwelcoming,elegant
but practical, and a reflection of their desire to live in an organised and uncluttered
way,” says Olivia. To this end, she designed the walls in the living areas to be mostly
unadorned,andtocurveandgentlydirectfootflowaroundthespace.Preciseshadowlines
on the ceiling and skirtings run right through the house and the mullions are set at
exactly benchtop height – a reflection of the attention to detail that’s evident in every
corner of this house. “I wanted a sense of consistency to underpin my design,” says
Olivia. “The layout of the house is based on Modernist principles. It’s quite minimal,
but there is a nod or two to the owners’ European heritage in its art and landscaping.”
From the front door, the rooms are all set to one side of the hall, creating a striking
gallery effect – there are no doors or niches to break the sightline through to the open-
plan living areas. A study in symmetry and balance, the kitchen has neat grey cabinetry
and a square island bench topped with a slab of Brazilian granite.
“Italian marble is used elsewhere, but the owners were determined that they wanted
granite for their kitchen island,” Olivia says. “It’s equal parts warm and modern,
thanks to its grey undertone and strong veining.” The island bench works well for
entertaining too. “Typically, you’re standing at one side of a bench, looking out. But
this arrangement is more welcoming and conversational, with seating for two >
LIVING A Plaza modular sofa from King stars in the living area. To the right of the fire is an
orange Cassina vase from Mobilia. Small stone sculpture by Carol Crawford, .M Contemporary.
KITCHEN Below The Allure Quartzite granite on the island bench is from CDK Stone. DINING
Opposite Tom Sullam’s Panarea series of photos hangs in the dining area. Arte dining table,
Jardan. Artek 611 dining chairs, Anibou. Roman urn sourced by Tamsin Johnson.
on either side.” A sculptural overscale pendant light is positioned over the bench
to break up the straight lines at play in the space. Good storage was a must, so an
abundance of drawers was included, as well as a walk-in pantry where the fridge
could be tucked away.
In the dining area, an irregularly shaped Jardan dining table has been customised
to match the timber in the nearby stair treads. The curved walls lead on to the living
area, where they wrap softly around the fireplace. Star of this space is a vibrant plaid-
look Kvadrat rug that introduces a jolt of colour and pattern.
Upstairs, the owners are lucky enough to have what essentially functions as their
own private retreat. The whole floor is given over to the main bedroom, its lounge area,
and a generous walk-in wardrobe and ensuite. “One door from the bedroom leads into
the dressing area, and another takes you straight into the bathing zone,” says Olivia.
“I love the stone and the natural light we’ve been able to draw into this space.”
When visitors come to stay they’re accommodated in a guest bedroom with its own
ensuite. These rooms have been kept simple and understated to allow the materials to
shine – the vanity is sleek and handle-free, and the bedroom walls are painted a crisp
white.“There’snothingtooloudorboldinthewholehouse,” says Olivia. “It was important
that everything feel cohesive, organised and calm.”
She managed the entire rebuild process, from the initial sketches of the design
through to the day the owners moved in – just 10 months after the old house was
demolished.“EverythingwentverysmoothlyandI’msopleasedathowmuch happiness
this home brings its owners. They tell me it’s just perfect for them.” >
Olivia Giangrasso Interiors, Woollahra, NSW; oliviagiangrasso.com.
houses H G
THIS IS THE LIFE

It may be minimal in style,
but there’s still plenty of
personality to be found in
this home. “The six photos
hanging in the dining area
are of the Italian island of
Panarea, where one of the
homeowners’ parents were
born,” says olivia. “It’s a
place of great significance to
the family.” The marble urn
on the dining table comes
from a villa outside Rome.
“The owners love that
their heritage has been
incorporated into their very
contemporary home.”

THE LAYOUT
Ground floor
Sitting
Bed Garage
First floor
Bath Wardrobe
Laundry
Bath
Study Dining Living
Bed
Kitchen
Balcony
Living
Deck
“ THE OWNERS
REQUESTED A CLEAN,
UNCLUT TERED LOOK
FOR THEIR NEW HOME.
I T WA S I M P O RTA N T TO
T H E M T H AT I T F E E L
BALANCED AND
L AY E R E D .”
OLIVIA GIANGR ASSO,
INTERIOR DESIGNER
houses H G
UPSTAIRS LIVING This cosy spot is situated just off the main bedroom. A Joe sofa
from MCM House is teamed with a Mongolian sheepskin pouf from CCSS and a
Fitzroy coffee table from Provincial Home Living. Rug, The Rug Collection. Artwork by
Sally Stokes. SITTING ROOM Opposite, top Joe love seat, MCM House. Artwork on
rear wall by Laura Jones through Olsen Gallery. Ptolomeo bookcase, Space. ENTRY
Opposite, bottom left Console, MCM House. Antique mirror, The Vault Sydney.
STUDY Opposite, bottom right Allure Quartzite from CDK Stone is used to create the
desktop surface. Herman Miller desk chair, Living Edge. Louis Poulsen light, Cult. >

THE PALET TE
Dulux Dulux Dulux

Timeless Grey Terrace White Monument
(kitchen joinery) (interior, (ensuite joinery)
main walls)
GUESTROOM This page The Andes Deco upholstered bed from West
Elm is topped with a Country Road throw. Cassina LC7 chair, Mobilia.
MAIN BEDROOM Opposite, top and bottom right Bun bed, Fanuli.
Palais sheet set, Sheridan. Cushions, Jardan. Curtains in Copenhagen
linen from Westbury Textiles. Artwork from Antique Print and Map
Room. WALK-IN WARDROBE Opposite, bottom centre Arabescato
Vagli marble from CDK Stone also tops the wardrobe’s island. GUEST
ENSUITE Opposite, bottom left Arabescato Vagli marble from CDK
Stone tops the vanity joinery, which is finished in Dulux Monument.
Soap stand, Papaya. For Where to Buy, see page 192. #
houses H G
“ T H E O W N E R S H AV E TA I L O R E D T H E I R N E W H O M E TO T H E I R N E E D S . T H E O P P O RT U N I T Y TO S TA RT
OV E R W I T H A B L A N K C A N VA S WA S TO O G O O D F O R T H E M TO R E F U S E .” O L I V I A G I A N G R A S S O

H G houses
PR E C IOUS
JEWEL
A little design magic transformed this
perfectly located Brisbane pad into a
glamorous entertainer’s paradise.
STORY Elizabeth Wilson | PH OTOG RA PHY Hannah Puechmarin

COURTYARD GARDEN The interiors and garden of
this Brisbane home were designed by CG Design
Studio to create a sanctuary for the owner, Helen
Davis. The main bedroom suite opens directly onto
this lush courtyard garden, where a curved bench
seat echoes the curved walls inside the home.
Landscape architect Sidonie Carpenter of Green
Canopy Design installed the garden, selecting a rich
varity of species including elephant ears (Alocasia
brisbanensis), walking iris (Neomarica gracilis)
and evergreen frangipani (Plumeria obtusa) with
kidney weed (Dichondra repens) around the steppers.
COURTYARD GARDEN Helen’s blue heeler, Blue.
Glossy-leaved elephant ears (Alocasia brisbanensis) and
Hope philodendron are planted in the external stairwell.
The bench seat is fringed by walking iris (Neomarica
gracilis). The pond and waterfall create a soothing sight
and sound. FRONT ENTRANCE The front door is
understated and elegant, belying the multifaceted gem
within. INTERNAL STAIRS The black steel staircase
takes on a sculptural presence in the home.
T H E C O U RT YA R D G A R D E N I S A N I N T I M AT E E N T E RTA I N I N G S PAC E A N D G I V E S T H E H O M E A R E S O RT F E E L .
THIS IS THE LIFE

Every detail in Helen’s home
is tailor-made, and carefully
considered. Adding to
the personalised nature
of her renovation is the
fact that her brother, Mark
Davis, handmade some
of the furniture and her
brother-in-law, Peter Hows,
was the builder. “It was a
family affair,” says Helen.
“I feel so blessed because I
had the most enjoyable time
ever during the renovation.”
houses H G
esign and decorating from a high-pressured corporate job,

have been lifelong and her love of colour and pattern.
passionsforBrisbane In particular, her obsession with
homeowner Helen peacock blues.
Davis.Evenasachild, Originally, the layout consisted of a
she loved sketching guestroom on the ground floor, with
floor plans, forever the main bedroom and additional
fantasising about her dream house. guestroom on the first floor and the
No doubt Helen’s younger self would kitchen/livingareaonthesecondfloor.
be impressed with the home she Helen decided to switch things up,
inhabits today: a newly renovated, locating two guestrooms on the first
multi-level beauty that unfolds and floor and dedicating the lowest floor
reveals itself like a jewellery box. to her main bedroom suite.
The journey to this point has been Helen briefed Christopher to create
years in the making. Helen bought the a “boutique hotel look” for her
1990s-era, four-level townhouse bedroom. Why so? “For me, it’s about
(including roof terrace), in 2006. everything being purposeful and
Located on a hill overlooking the tailored for the space – classic,
Brisbane River, it is part of a large beautiful and well-made,” she says.
complex and even Helen struggles to Christopher responded with a
know whether to call it an apartment luxurious scheme in a calming palette
or a townhouse: “It is more like a semi- ofnougatandcreamwithflourishesof
detached house in a unit complex!” peacock-toned velvet. Everything here
she says. She rented out the property isbespokeandplush.There’sa dreamy
for the first 18 months, before taking walk-in wardrobe with immaculate
up residence herself in 2008 with joinery (“a sophisticated fashion-
intentions to renovate. She enlisted boutique vibe,” says Christopher), and
aninteriordesigncompanyandstarted a dressing room that features wall
working on the plans with designer panelling in creamy leather. “It’s
Christopher Gyzemyter. Forced to put designed like a jewellery box,” says
those early plans on hold, it was Christopher. “It’s luxe and glam and
another decade before Helen was in a yetmadeforcomfortatthesametime.”
position to revisit the project. By that The ensuite is glamorous too, with
time, Christopher had launched his walls,floorsandbenchtopinlimestone
own design studio, a fact noted and a freestanding bath next to bifold
by Helen when she saw a project of doorsthat openonto thegarden. “With
his appear in H&G’s Top 50 Rooms the doors open, it feels like you’re
showcase in 2017. “That prompted me to reach out to him again. bathing in the rainforest,” says Christopher. “It’s a resort feel.”
We reconnected and started the journey afresh,” she says. When guests come to stay, they now have the choice of two
By then – the end of 2018 – the residence felt tired and dated. evocatively named rooms: the ‘Cloud Room’, featuring Fornasetti
Helen knew a radical approach was required. “It needed gutting cloud-print wallpaper, or the ‘Hollywood Palms’ room, so named
and I thought ‘I’m going to do this once, and I’m going to do it for its palm-tree print on the walls. Each exudes a warm welcome.
well’,” says Helen. “I had done a few previous renovations in a “I like my home to be a haven for other people too,” says Helen.
piecemeal way, and I didn’t want to do that here.” “When they need a break, it’s nice to invite them into some
Together, Helen and Christopher reconfigured every floor, luxury and give them a bit of a pamper.”
creating a tailor-made layout that takes into consideration Each level of this home radiates a distinct mood, thanks
Helen’s passion for entertaining, her need for sanctuary to the morphing colour palette, which becomes deeper >

THE PALET TE
Dulux
Whitsunday Porter’s Paints Porter’s Paints
Island Evergreen Deep Teal
(main walls)

houses H G
“ I ’ M N OT A F R A I D O F C O L O U R A N D PAT T E R N . I A D O R E T E A L TO O – I T ’ S S O C A L M I N G .” H E L E N D AV I S , O W N E R
LIVING/DINING This page Jasper sofa, King. Noguchi coffee table,

Living Edge. Black velvet armchair and side table, Coco Republic. Bar
cabinetry in Navurban Ravenswood. Artwork by David Fairbairn.
Dining table from Space. Emma Elizabeth ‘Round Diamond’ rug,
Designer Rugs. KITCHEN Island clad in brushed-brass sheeting.
Cabinetry finished in Navurban Ravenswood. The rear bench is topped
with Artetech Terra Nero porcelain panels from Artedomus. Scandal
pendant light, Articolo Lighting. Avorio Roche stool, James Said.
Zip ‘HydroTap Celsius Arc’ tap, Winning Appliances. Cooking
appliances, all V-Zug. Painting by unknown artist. >
H G houses
“ I L OV E H AV I N G B E AU T I F U L T H I N G S A R O U N D M E . T H E Y G I V E M E S O M U C H J OY.” HELEN
MAIN BEDROOM Custom bedhead upholstered

in Unique Fabrics Bello Velvet by Thimble and Co.
Custom bedside tables, Mark Davis Furniture. Arancini
lamps, Moda Piera. Memory Block art tiles by Sid
Dickens. DRESSING ROOM Custom joinery. Carpet,
Victoria Carpets. MAIN ENSUITE This image and
opposite Lucia bath, ACS Designer Bathrooms.
Tapware, basin and bath filler, all Rogerseller. Fizi
wall lights, Articolo Lighting. Floor and benchtop
in Chambord limestone from SNB Stone. Goat-hair
stool, West Elm.
and richer as you travel upstairs. The quiet tones in Helen’s
bedroom become bolder on the first floor and reach a crescendo
in the kitchen and dining/living space on the second floor. The
centrepiece here is the sensational brass-wrapped island bench,
inspired by a bar Helen visited in New York. “I didn’t want the
kitchen to feel like a kitchen, I wanted ‘wow’ factor,” she says. “We
researched the practicality or otherwise of the brass and I thought
‘what the hell’. It gets a few marks, a natural patina, but it polishes
up just fine. And at night, it gives off this beautiful ambient,
golden glow. I just love it.”
Just a few steps from the kitchen, a black dining table sits on a
circular rug patterned in shard-like shapes of blue, black and white,
like a giant gemstone. Helen loves it so much, she opted to have the
sameruginthelivingarea.Herfavouritetealtonesrecurthroughout
the space. “I adore all those jewel-like deep-ocean colours – I find
them incredibly calming. My wardrobe is full of the same hues.”
With a wine cellar and bar located on this level, everything is
geared for entertaining in style. Being located in balmy Brisbane,
that usually means people spill out to the rooftop terrace which
offers 360-degree river and city views. “A view like mine is meant
to be shared,” says Helen. “The roof terrace gets a really good
workout. I love to throw a party!” >
CG Design Studio, Stafford, Queensland; (07) 3856 5423 or
cgdesignstudio.com.au. Green Canopy Design, Brisbane,
Queensland; greencanopy.com.au.

“ I L I K E M Y H O M E TO B E A H AV E N F O R G U E S T S . I T ’ S N I C E TO M A K E T H E M F E E L PA M P E R E D .” HELEN

houses H G
THE LAYOUT
Entry
Bed
Garage Living
Bath
Pantry
Laundry
Dressing
Dining Atrium Bath

Bath
Study
Bed Terrace
Bed
Kitchen
Balcony
Balcony
Courtyard garden
Ground f loor First f loor Second f loor Roof terrace
ROOF TERRACE Kartell sofa and side table, Space. Helen

has owned the outdoor dining setting for years. ‘HOLLYWOOD
PALMS’ ROOM La Palma Hollywood wallpaper by Mokum. Custom
bedheads by Thimble & Co, upholstered in Unique Fabrics Nirvana
Rose Quartz with leather piping. Bedside table, Xavier Furniture.
Lamp, Cafe Lighting. STUDY Swivel chair, West Elm. Desk in
Navurban Ravenswood and shelving in Navurban Balmoral, all New
Age Veneers. Float pendant light in Drunken Emerald, Articolo
Lighting. For similar drum stool, try Orient Curio. POWDER ROOM
Fornasetti Acquario Viridian wallpaper. Black marble basin, Marble
Basin Hub. The joinery is wrapped in brushed brass sheeting to
match the kitchen. For Where to Buy, see page 192. #
H G houses
Time traveller
An innovative response to heritage regulations
delivered a dramatic, contemporary home
that sits comfortably with the past.
STO RY Stephen Crafti | P HOTO GR A P H Y Derek Swalwell
STREET FRONTAGE The ‘gatehouse’ is clad in timber

battens painted Dulux Palace Stone to match the picket
fence. FRONT COURTYARD Garden by Eckersley Garden
Architecture. Galvanised-steel roofing, Fielders.

OPEN-PLAN AREA “We open all the doors whenever the weather permits,” says Lillian. “It feels like we’re sitting on a
verandah.” The kitchen has an in-line layout for maximum efficiency of space. Hay ‘Revolver’ stools, Space. Appliances, Miele.
Tapware, Brodware. Skylights, Velux. DINING The dining table by local furniture designer Thomas Lentini is teamed with classic
Cesca chairs by Marcel Breuer, Dedece. Flos ‘265’ wall light, Euroluce. Artwork by Brooke Holm. Vase, Fenton & Fenton.
Assorted planters from Hay and The Plant Society. Assorted ceramics from Petite and Modern Times. KITCHEN Cloud-like
Super White dolomite, sourced from CDK Stone, provides a soothing counterpoint in the predominantly white interior.
“AT FIRST WE THOUGHT THE DESIGN WAS SLIGHTLY

LEFT-FIELD, BUT IT SOON BECAME APPARENT THAT IT
WOULD MEET OUR NEEDS PERFECTLY.” Lillian, homeowner
houses H G
he most extraordinary homes can result from taking a leap of faith.

That was the case for Lillian and Adrian, the owners of this bright
and spacious inner-Melbourne abode. They were clear on their must-
haves: lashings of light and a separate studio for Adrian’s woodwork
projects. They were less certain about the design or style specifics,
so put their trust in the creative vision of Rob Kennon Architects –
and secured an award-winning home.
Theresultisallthemorespectacularconsideringthattheproperty’sexistinghouse,
a Victorian-era double-fronted workers’ cottage, was so uninspiring. “It was certainly
past its use-by date – there was virtually nothing original left,” says Rob, who worked
closely with his colleague, Jack Leishman, on the project. On the upside, it offered
the opportunity to create a gorgeous-looking and wonderfully liveable home.
The decision was made to knock the cottage down and rebuild from scratch, but
they had to be mindful of the street’s heritage overlay. “The advice we received
indicated that the home should ‘respond to its context’,” says Rob. Not wanting to
mimic the style of the surrounding houses, they designed a new cottage-style
structure with Victorian ‘references’, such as the corrugated-steel roof and white >

H G houses
THE LAYOUT
Entry Ground floor

Workshop
Bed
Bath

First floor
Courtyard
Bed
Bath
Kitchen
Dining
Bed
Bed
Laundry
Living
Bath
Courtyard

THE PALET TE
Dulux
Palace Stone Porter’s Paints Porter’s Paints
(exterior battens Clay Pit Cygnet
and interior
throughout)
MAIN BEDROOM This

page Joinery in Dulux Palace
Stone. Artwork by Jackson
Slattery. Vase by Mel Lumb.
Curtains, AP Shutters &
Blinds. American-oak
flooring (throughout).
HALLWAY The bedroom
doors are integrated into
wall panelling for a clean,
minimal look. GUEST
SUITE Opposite, top right
and bottom The pivot door
to the ensuite is finished
in American-oak veneer
to blend in with the
surrounding joinery. Inax
‘Sugie’ wall tiles in Hanten
and Agape ‘In-Out’ basin,
all Artedomus. Tapware,
Brodware. Super White
dolomite benchtop. Dioscuri
wall light, Artemide. >
H G houses

picket fence, all typical features for the suburb’s streetscape. White-
painted battens on the cottage are a visual extension of the picket fence,
and a courtyard beyond acts like a verandah. “At first, we thought the
design was slightly left-field,” Lillian admits. “But when Rob walked us
through the drawings, it was apparent that the house would meet our
needs perfectly.”
The cottage, referred to as the gatehouse, comprises just two rooms:
Adrian’sworkshoptotheleftoftheentranceandaguestsuitetotheright.
It’s connected to the main house via a leafy courtyard. “Although the
location itself is quite quiet, the gatehouse and front courtyard create
separation from the street – the same as a verandah,” says Rob.
In contrast with the gatehouse, the two-storey main house is strongly
contemporary. Unusually, the front door opens directly into the kitchen,
part of an open-plan area that makes up the whole ground floor. The
space is bookended by walls of glass, with custom shelving acting as a
dividerbetweenthekitchen/diningandlivingzones.Aseriesofskylights
provide glimpses of sky and draw natural light into the communal space.
Thestaircaseleadingtothefirstflooristuckedaround a corner, ensuring
unimpeded sight lines through the ground floor.
Upstairs are three bedrooms (the main with ensuite and walk-through
wardrobe) and the main bathroom, which are decorated in the same
soothing palette as the communal area. The footprint of the upper level
extends into thecourtyard,whichprotectstheground-floorglazingfrom
direct sun and prevents the living areas being overlooked by neighbours.
For Lillian and Adrian, having faith in the designers more than paid
off: their old-meets-new home won top honours in two categories at the
recent Australian Institute of Architecture (Victoria) Awards, namely
‘New house under 200 square metres’ and ‘House in a heritage context’.
“Trusting Rob and Jack was the best decision we could have made,”
says Lillian. “The creative journey is as much part of the renovation
as the end result.” >
Rob Kennon Architects, Fitzroy, Victoria; (03) 9015 8621
or robkennon.com. Ben Thomas Builder, Preston, Victoria;
0417 142 647 or benthomasbuilder.com.au.
LIVING Potted plants

bring life to the cool-neutral
interior. The cantilevered
timber plinth extends the
length of the ground floor,
providing both display
space and additional
seating. Custom marble
coffee table. Resident
‘Arcade’ sofa, District.
H G HOUSES
“WE WANTED MORE THAN A CHECKLIST OF ROOMS. WE WANTED
THIS IS THE LIFE

Although the design was
unexpected, Lillian and
Adrian immediately
appreciated the concept.
“We didn’t want a ‘checklist’
of rooms; we wanted a
home that was flexible
and interesting too,” says
Lillian. “The gatehouse – a
separate-but-connected
wing – gives us that. There’s
a tangible sense of sanctuary
wherever you are in the
house. If I had to pick a
favourite element, it would
probably be that the home
works so well in all seasons.”
A HOME THAT WAS FLEXIBLE AND INTERESTING TOO.” Lillian
REAR COURTYARD
The floor-to-ceiling
bifolds are often found
wide open, blurring the
boundary between indoors
and out. Hay ‘Palissade’
outdoor furniture, Space.
Garden by Eckersley Garden
Architecture. The upper
level is clad in steel grating
from Webforge. For Where
to Buy, see page 192. #

KITCHEN The main joinery is finished in two-pack polyurethane
Dulux Palace Stone Half. Feature overhead cabinets in Eveneer
Ravenna. Super White Dolomite splashback and benchtops,
CDK Stone. Dita stools, Grazia & Co. Pendant lights, Studio
WM. Taps, Brodware and Zip. Appliances, Miele. Artwork from
Studio ALM. Donna Green Crater bowl on bench, Utopia Art.
Stylist’s assistants Luke Bonanno and Kylee Maki.

houses H G
Friends indeed
Having faith in the talent of their creative circle paid off
handsomely for the owners of this Sydney home.
STO RY Sarah Pickette | STY L ING Jack Milenkovic/Atelier Lab | P HOTOG R A P H Y Dave Wheeler

solid friendship that
stretches back 20 years
is the foundation upon
which this Sydney house
isbuilt.OwnerJordanhas
beenmateswitharchitect
AndrewCollins,adirector
of Canberra firm Collins Pennington
Architects, since they met through a
mutualfriendduringtheSydneyOlympics.
Factoring in this friendship, Andrew was
the clear choice when Jordan and his wife
Marije set about extending a cottage they
bought in 2017 for their family of five.
“Everyone warned us things can get
tricky when you work with a friend >
HOUSES H G
COURTYARD Landscape
design by Durie Design. Trace
outdoor sofa, coffee tables and
drinks trolley, all by Adam
Goodrum for Tait. Timber bowl,
Studio ALM. Jurassic French
limestone pavers, Barefoot
Living. DINING Trapeze 10
pendant light, Apparatus.
Dining table, ARP Design
Studio. Vessels on table by
Kirsten Perry, from Michael Reid
Clay. Zanotta console, Cult. On
console (from left) Susan Chen
vessel from Curatorial+Co,
Tacchini vase from Stylecraft,
Tracey Lamb sculpture from
Curatorial+Co and Foscarini
table lamp, Space.
“FROM THE FRONT DOOR, YOU CAN LOOK

SOUTH TO THE HARBOUR OR NORTH THROUGH
TO THE LEAFY COURTYARD.” Andrew Collins, architect

andmoney is involved,” says Jordan, “but the
friendship between Andrew and I was strong
and it remains so. I also know Andrew is
an exceptionally good architect. We had
inherent trust in him from the beginning.”
Having moved back to Australia after
working in Europe for many years, the
family purchased this home, in part, for its
proximity to a ferry wharf. “Jordan and
Marije approach life from a very European
perspective,” says Andrew. “It was important
to them to be close to public transport.
They’re people who are happy to embrace
public amenity over private – they see no
need for a big backyard when there’s a park
and beach nearby.”
While Jordan and Marije were keen to
honour the heritage of the 1905 cottage,
they also needed more space for their three
sons, Oscar, 12, Samuel, 10, and Boris, six.
Andrew’s solution was to enhance the
structure that was already there by adding
a zinc-clad, double-storey extension within
the existing footprint.
“We decided to excavate under the house
to improve the connection between the home
and garage,” says Andrew, who designed a
staircase that doubles as a light well, >

THE PALET TE
Resene Resene Resene

Double Grey Friars Sea Fog Half
Alabaster (window frames (window sashes
(interior walls) and trim) and eaves)
LIVING Above and opposite An artwork by Dutch photographer

Marjan Teeuwen presides over the Arflex ‘Marenco’ sofa and
B&B Italia ‘Fat Fat’ tables from Space. &Tradition ‘Boomerang’
armchairs, Cult. Sculptures by William Versace through
Curatorial+Co (above), Gidon Bing, Lionel Smit and Grant
Maxwell, all through .M Contemporary. Ludavico & Ludovico
artwork over the Escea fire by Retna and to its right is a painting by
Clara Adolphs. STAIR The beautiful ribbon-like staircase is finished
in Dulux Harbour Bridge Grey. Street artist Vexta was
commissioned to paint straight onto the wall. Standley wall light,
Rakumba. Sculpture on landing by Donna Green at Utopia Art.
houses H G
“COMFORT WAS OUR TOP PRIORITY IN THE LIVING

AREA. IT’S A SPACE WHERE WE DECOMPRESS.” Jordan, owner

H G houses
FAMILY BATHROOM Sticks

finger mosaics in Emerald
and honed terrazzo, all
Barefoot Living. Zuster ‘Issy
Halo II’ vanity and Agape
‘Unisono’ basins from Reece.
Brodware fixtures, Candana.
MAIN BEDROOM SOS
artwork by Nemo Jantzen at
.M Contemporary. Bedlinen,
Cultiver. ENSUITE Striking
Cote D’Azur marble from
CDK Stone is teamed with
Talisman sconce lights by
Apparatus. Zellige tiles,
Barefoot Living. PORTRAIT
Jordan and Marije with their
sons (from left) Oscar,
Samuel and Boris, plus
toy cavoodle Billy-Bob.

making every level feel that much brighter.
“Going in under the existing house also
allowed us to create a wellness area with a
sauna in the basement.”
From the home’s entrance, there’s a view
right through to the green-walled courtyard
by Durie Design (landscape designer Jamie
Durie is another of the couple’s creative
acquaintances). The main bedroom is
situated in the existing structure, along
with one of the boys’ bedrooms, but then the
house opens out into the new living, dining
and kitchen areas – all with glimpses of that
spectacular staircase.
In the kitchen, a 4-metre-long island is
topped with family-friendly Super White
Dolomite and features a striking shadowline
effect. “This detailing allows the stone to be
the star rather than simply butting into the
surrounding joinery,” says Andrew.
Stunning stone and tile selections made by
interior designer Megan Brown of Penman
BrownInteriors–anotherfriendofthefamily
engaged to work on this project – elevate the
ensuite, family bathroom and powder room.
“For the ensuite, I chose a heavily veined Cote
D’Azur marble for its fantastic energy,” says
Megan. “Everything else in the room is >
very minimal and soft.” In the family away on their PlayStation. The top-floor
bathroom, Andrew included a clerestory study morphs into a guestroom when
window to capture glimpses of the original friends or family come to stay.
brick chimney from the bath. “It’s nice to With its nooks, angles and graceful
be able to incorporate the home’s history design, it feels like there’s much more to
into new rooms,” he says. “It might be a the house than there actually is, says
small detail but it can speak volumes.” Jordan. “The footprint we were working
The dining area, part of an open-plan with was quite small, but Andrew has
space, is punctuated by a picture window created the maximum useable space for
with views to the green wall. Designed as us. The design is tight and efficient but
a space for relaxation and conversation, still flows intuitively.” #
the living area is primarily used by the Collins Pennington Architects, Griffith,
grown-ups. For the kids, there’s a rumpus ACT; collinspenningtonarchitects.com.au.
room downstairs plus a breakout space Penman Brown Interior Design, Manly,
on the first floor where they can game NSW; penmanbrown.com.
“ JORDAN ALWAYS TELLS ME HOW MUCH HE ENJOYS LIVING IN THE

HOME. FOR ME, THAT’S WHAT IT’S ALL ABOUT.” Andrew Collins, architect
THIS IS THE LIFE

“We’ve lived in Paris and
Amsterdam, and we
now reside in a densely
populated part of Sydney,”
says Jordan. “Despite that,
our home feels very private,
almost like a resort. I think a
lot of that feeling comes
from the courtyard and its
green wall.” Jordan and
Marije requested that the
new materials be allowed to
age naturally. “We’ve left
the deck to silver and the
zinc to fade; this is our nod
to our time in Paris and the
zinc rooftops you see there.”
houses H G
THE LAYOUT
Lower ground Ground floor
Garage
Bed
Cellar
EXTERIOR The bold rear
Entry First floor extension is clad in zinc from
Rumpus
Bed CASA Group. Walls of the

Wardrobe Bath
existing house painted
Study
Bath Bath Resene Black White. POOL
AREA The green wall by
Sauna
Living Retreat Durie Design includes bird’s

Laundry
nest ferns, New Zealand rock
Bed lily, Brazilian jasmine, coastal
Kitchen
rosemary and liriope. Tidal

Bed outdoor dining setting, Tait.
Dining Ann Demeulemeester stand,
plate and glassware, Spence
& Lyda. Curvy sculpture by
Sophie Nolan from Michael
Reid Clay. For Where to Buy,
see page 192.

THE SKY’S THE LIMIT
A new perspective on apartments led a pair of Brisbane empty-nesters
to realise that when it comes to downsizing, the only way is up.
STO RY Chris Pearson | P HOTOG R A P H Y Andy MacPherson
houses H G
KITCHEN Even Urbino

joinery, Eveneer. Vixen tap
from Dorf, HydroTap from Zip.
Arabescato marble splashback
and island, CDK Stone. Corian
Sparkling White island benchtop.
Julius tub chair, Becker Minty.
Rakumba ‘Highline’ suspension
light, Design Nation.

H G houses
“THIS APARTMENT
IS UNIQUE IN THAT
IT HAS MORE THAN
200 SQUARE METRES
OF OUTDOOR SPACE.”
Alison Ross, owner
ackin2017,empty-nestersAlisonandKeithRosswanted
to downsize. But having lived in family homes for so
many years, they were wary of the space limitations of
apartment living. Any doubts, however, have since
evaporated with this sanctuary in the sky, an airy
hideawaythatembracesviewsonthreesides–andthat’s
just one of its seemingly limitless attractions.
“This apartment was unique in that it had more than 200 square
metres of terrace, with a canopy of beautiful old fig trees on one
side and unobstructed views up the Brisbane River on the other,”
says Alison. “It felt very private and peaceful.” Those expansive
outdoor spaces, even larger than the open-plan living area, would
make indoor-outdoor living and entertaining a breeze.
The interior of their seventh-floor apartment was far from
heavenly, however. Part of a development completed in the early
Noughties, it sported oyster lights, low ceilings, ho-hum white
walls and tired, office-like beige carpets. Awkward bulkheads and
nib walls compromised the prized views too. Meanwhile, a plain-
Jane kitchen, tucked into a corner, lacked gravitas. “Although it’s
not particularly old, the apartment already felt dated and lacked
the grandeur of a luxury penthouse,” says interior designer >

LIVING/DINING Moroso ‘Redondo’ sofa, Hub Furniture. Ligne Roset ‘Clyde’ low table, Domo. Moooi ‘Container’ dining table
and Modo chandelier, both Space. Aver S dining chairs from Casa Mia with Brugge Old Gold upholstery. Artwork by Terri
Brooks. Pietra Grigio marble (on nib wall), CDK Stone. Rug by D’Cruz from Designer Rugs. Custom door with Big Moo door
pull from In-Teria. Horse sculpture by Jane Dawson. Manly Rustic Herringbone oak flooring, Havwoods (throughout).
“THE BRIEF WAS FOR A RICHLY
LAYERED, TEXTURED AND
DETAILED DESIGN BEFITTING
THE APARTMENT’S TOP-FLOOR
STATUS.” Andrea D’Cruz, interior designer
Andrea D’Cruz, who, together with architect Anna Gowen of Tonic

Architecture+Design, began transforming it in 2018.
Andrea had worked with Alison and Keith on their two previous
homes in Sydney, so they knew just who to call for this project.
The brief? “A richly layered, textured and detailed design that
epitomises luxury living, and a sense of formality befitting its
top-floorstatus,”saysAndrea.“Thankstoitsoutlook,theapartment
already felt calm and peaceful. We wanted that to be reflected in
the interior,” adds Alison. “Keith and I had a detailed wish list:
an open kitchen with easy access to outdoor entertaining, the
option to close off the family room from the open-plan living area
if needed, a fireplace and large bathrooms. I was also a little
obsessed with black-framed glass doors and wanted to use them
throughout.” The couple wanted an element of surprise too. “The
lift directly opens directly into the apartment so we wanted to
visitors to be curious about what would unfold as they moved
through the home,” says Andrea.
While the layout of the two-bedroom penthouse is largely
unchanged, Andrea and Anna removed fussy bulkheads and some
“superfluous nib walls” to smooth the flow of the floor plan. “The
challenge was the low ceilings, which we couldn’t change,” says
Andrea. “The solution was to open up the apartment horizontally,
creating sightlines from one end to the other.” Also on the menu
were an open kitchen, a walk-in wardrobe for the main bedroom
and a facelift for the bathrooms. Sliding steel-framed glass
doors close the family room off from the rest of the space when
a bit of separation is required.
The repetition of tones and materials fosters a seamless
transition from room to room. Andrea and Alison worked
collaboratively on the colour scheme. “The public zones of the
apartment – the living and dining areas, kitchen, family and
powderroom–feelveryrichthankstothecontrastbetweencolours
and textures,” says Andrea. This palette, together with marble >
FAMILY ROOM This page top and opposite Alison and Keith’s old sofa was
reupholstered in velvet from Zepel Fabrics. Kelly Wearstler ‘Cleo’ floor lamp,
Becker Minty. Custom ottomans made by Comax Australia. Custom rug
from Designer Rugs. Charles Wilson ‘Seymour’ armchair, King. Pedestal side
table, West Elm. Custom fireplace in Pietra Grigio marble, constructed by
Chapman Joiners. Maharam Mention jute wallpaper, Kvadrat Maharam.
Surface Sconce lamp (on mantel), Studio Henry Wilson. Artwork by Todd
Whisson. FOYER Left Halo cabinet, Zuster. Atollo lamp, Euroluce. Alison
and Keith have owned the print for years. Edo wall lights, ISM Objects.
The walls feature custom metallic panelling (left) and Kvadrat Tek-Wall.
houses H G
THE PALET TE
Dulux Dulux
Natural White Glacier Blue Porter’s Paints
(main walls) (main bedroom Atlas
armoire)

H G houses
“THE PALETTE DIVIDES AND

CONTRASTS THE ENERGY
LEVELS OF THE TWO ZONES
OF THE HOME.” Andrea D’Cruz

MAIN BEDROOM This page and opposite top Elysée bed, Fanuli. Walter Knoll ‘Bao’ chair, Living Edge. Classicon ‘Bell’ side table, Anibou.
Salisbury carpet in Ancient, Feltex Carpets. Armoire by D’Cruz made by Chapman Joiners. Rakumba ‘Typography Cilon Disc’ suspension light,
Design Nation. Bedside table by D’Cruz and upholstered wall panels made by Comax Australia. MAIN ENSUITE Stone Arc Bianco Gioia wall
tiles, Skheme. Corian basin. Vanity and mirrors designed by D’Cruz and made by Chapman Joiners. City Stik taps and towel rail, all Brodware. >
THE LAYOUT
Living
Bed
Kitchen
Dressing
Dining Bath
Family
room
Entry Bath Bath
Entry
Bed
H G houses
“OPENING THE APARTMENT

HORIZONTALLY CREATED
SIGHTLINES FROM ONE END
TO THE OTHER.” Andrea D’Cruz
andherringbonetimberflooring,lendssophisticationandglamour
to the spaces. The restrained palette is offset by squishy quilted
armchairs and a cossetting sofa in the living area. Splashes of
indigo on cushions, rug and select furnishings are a fitting
referenceforthe‘homeinthesky’.Chevronpatternsintheflooring
are echoed in cushions and accessories, while brass accents bring
sophistication and warmth.
Meanwhile, the private zones, including the two bedroom suites,
evoke calm and serenity through soft greys and eau-de-nil hues.
“This palette was introduced to divide and contrast the energy
levels of the two zones of the home,” says Andrea.
Alison and Keith have now embraced apartment living. So much
so that Alison struggles to pinpoint a favourite feature. “There
are so many,” she says. “The views of the city skyline of a night
while you are having a glass of wine or barbecuing are very special.
And I love the streamlined kitchen – it has such clean lines and
it’s very user-friendly. Then there are the black-framed glass doors
throughout – even the bedroom doors feature rippled glass, which
ensures there is privacy but also allows light to filter through.
The rounded edges and pale-grey palette give the ensuite a very
luxurious feel…” The list goes on.
Perhaps the biggest test presented itself in the midst of the
pandemic. “Alison and Keith returned from a trip overseas while
Covid-19 quarantine measures were in place so had to spend two
full weeks in their apartment,” says Andrea. “Afterwards, they
told me that they could not have wished for a better place to spend
their time in isolation.” #
D’Cruz, Maroubra Beach, NSW; (02) 9690 2232 or dcruz.net.au.
Tonic Architecture+Design, Fortitude Valley and New Farm,
Queensland; (07) 3852 5100 or tonic.cc.
GUESTROOM Bedside cabinet and upholstered headboard, both

designed by D’Cruz and made by Comax Australia. I Do wall light, ISM
Objects. Even Saltwood timber-veneer joinery, Eveneer. Salisbury carpet
in Ancient, Feltex Carpets. MAIN BATHROOM Falper D5P basin,
Rogerseller. City Stik tapware, Brodware. Stone Arc Bianco Gioia tiles,
Skheme. Bianco Gioia stone (on vanity), CDK Stone. Corian Sparkling
White benchtop. Mirror designed by D’Cruz. TERRACE Addis outdoor
sofas, Aireys woven armchairs, and Tosca coffee tables, all from Cosh
Living. Custom rug designed by D’Cruz, made by Designer Rugs. Existing
paving. Planters, Graceville Imports. For Where to Buy, see page 192.

THIS IS THE LIFE
This penthouse apartment
is a celebration of indoor-
outdoor living. “Travel
restrictions forced us to
spend more time at home
than we usually do – which
hasn’t exactly been a
chore!” says homeowner
Alison Ross. “The pleasant
Queensland climate means
we are able to have all of
the doors to the terrace
open for most of the year.
We are looking forward
to entertaining friends
and family again once life
returns to normal.”
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G a rden s
Pretty flowering chives in the
vegetable patch are among
the many self-seeding perennials
encouraged in this horticulturist’s
garden. See more of this buzzing
sustainable plot over the page.
Photograph by Marnie Hawson.
P L A N T- F O C U S E D S PA C E S T H A T I N V I T E A N D D E L I G H T
H G gardens
DR I V E T O T HR I V E
Inspired by the shapes of the natural landscape, garden designer
Kathleen Murphy devised an undulating, drought-tolerant wonderland
of natives and perennials that is also a model of sustainability.
STO RY Elizabeth Wilson | P H OTO GR A P H Y Marnie Hawson
Garden designer Kathleen Murphy, her
husband Robert and their children (from
left) Niall, Niamh and Conor gather
around the fire pit, with the Macedon
Ranges in the background. The burgundy-
toned crimson sentry maple (Acer
platanoides ‘Crimson Sentry’) is a hardy
variety that requires no supplementary
water in summer. In the foreground are
drought-tolerant Teucrium fruticans,
Teucrium betonicum, Westringia ‘Funky
Chunky’ and Euphorbia characias subsp.
wulfenii. A row of mallee trees (Eucalyptus
forresterae ‘Little Star’) planted along
the boundary will grow to form a
4-metre high informal hedge
without obscuring the view.

Kathleen’s studio is a room with a view: in the foreground is a sea
of perennial satin flowers (Sisyrinchium striatum). RIGHT Euphorbia
characias subsp. wulfenii in flower. BELOW LEFT Sunny yellow
bachelor buttons (Cotula sericea). BELOW RIGHT Purple Salvia
nemorosa ‘Amethyst’ mingles with dwarf kangaroo paw (Anigozanthos
‘Bush Ranger’). OPPOSITE Niamh, Niall and Conor enjoy
immersing themselves in nature, and exploring their own backyard.
Feature plants
_______
TREES
Mallee (Eucalyptus forresterae ‘Little Star’)
Crimson sentry maple
(Acer platanoides ‘Crimson Sentry’)
SHRUBS & GRASSES
Grass tree
(Xanthorrhoea australis ‘Supergrass’)
Coastal rosemary
(Westringia fruticosa ‘Funky Chunky’)
Shrubby germander (Teucrium fruticans)
Lomandra longifolia ‘Tanika’
Lomandra confertifolia ‘Seascape’
Dianella tasmanica ‘Tasred’
GROUNDCOVERS
Creeping boobialla (Myoporum parvifolium)
Tar bush (Eremophila glabra ‘Silver Spread’)
GARDENS H G
G
arden designer Kathleen Murphy loves experimenting landscape beyond. Kathleen and her husband Robert bought the
with plants. Using her own backyard as a botanic property in 2007 and it’s where they have raised their three
laboratory, she trials and tests their growing habits children Conor, now 14, Niall, 13, and Niamh, 12.
and tolerances, forever adding to her repertoire of When they arrived, there was a 1980s single-storey brick home
beauties that thrive in Australian conditions. on the site with an English-style garden at the front and a horse
Kathleen adores native plants but is equally fond of flowering paddock at the back. For years, Kathleen was too busy with young
exotics, some of which have proven to be extremely resilient. children and a growing business to spend time nurturing her
She is especially inspired by the naturalistic planting style of own plot. Out the front, she removed the dated rockeries,
the New Perennial Movement and has developed a trusty plant reinvigorated some beds and planted trees but “largely kept it
palette that mixes perennials among the natives. “I love hardy English-style because it suits the front of the house”. Then, four
plants that are drought- and frost-tolerant,” says Kathleen, who years ago, with the children older and her business rolling along,
is also a horticulturist. “I have no major loyalty [to plant types]... she began tackling the back garden – and that is a different story
I just use whatever works in the environment.” entirely. “I wanted to create a link with the wider landscape,”
Working with the environment at the heart of Kathleen’s design says Kathleen. “We had a great view of the Macedon Ranges and
approach. And her own sustainable garden, a recent winner of I wanted the garden to frame this view.”
The Design Files’ landscaping award, is a stunning example Kathleen’s vision for the 1-hectare plot involved mounding the
of her philosophy. Located at Gisborne, in the Macedon Ranges, terrain into undulations. This not only echoes the surrounding
50 kilometres north-west of Melbourne, it’s a wondrous space landscape, but also helps to capture and channel rainfall, ensuring
of undulating shapes and silvery greens, echoing the larger water doesn’t escape the property. “We have heavy volcanic >

H G gardens
The billabong is a magnet for the entire

family, including pet spoodle Benji. It’s
encircled by locally sourced basalt boulders
and aquatic grasses including tall sedge
(Carex appressa), knobby club-rush (Ficinia
nodosa) and upright water milfoil
(Myriophyllum crispatum). OPPOSITE From
top Pink spikes of Agastache ‘Sweet Lili’.
Kathleen Murphy in her element. A variegated
form of American agave (Agave americana)
with blue chalksticks (Senecio mandraliscae).
Russian sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia ‘Blue
Spire’), Agastache ‘Sweet Lili’ and dwarf
feather grass (Miscanthus sinensis ‘Aileen
Quinn’) frame this view of the home.

soil that holds onto water. The mounding also allows me to raise
the beds and create better drainage,” says Kathleen.
Thelayoutneededtoservethepracticalneedsofherfamilytoo,
so she installed an expanse of lawn suitable for the kids to kick
afootball.“Ialsowantedtonurturetheirrelationshipwithnature
andgive themplacestoexploreand play, so Icreatedmeandering
paths, boardwalks, bridges and secluded areas,” she says.
Kathleen loves the shimmering interplay of natives and
perennials. Of the natives, she is especially fond of the grasses
– Lomandra and Dianella species – which are planted en masse,
in swathes, bringing a sense of movement to the garden. Other
drought-tolerant favourites include Teucrium fruticans and the
cutely named Westringia ‘Funky Chunky’, a tight-knit variety
that naturally forms a mounded ball. “The silvery-grey tones
work well in the harsh Australian light,” says Kathleen. Mingling
with these grey-green foliage plants are jewel-toned perennials
includingAgastache‘Sweet Lili’andSalvia nemorosa‘Amethyst’.
There are Mexican beauties here, too, including American agave
(Agave americana) with its sword-like spikes, and Mexican lily
(Beschorneria yuccoides). “I use Mexican lily in all my gardens,”
says Kathleen. “It’s low maintenance, you never have to water it
and it looks awesome when it flowers.”
Three years ago, Kathleen built a timber-clad design studio,
which enjoys prime mountain views. There’s also a thriving
vegetable patch where her children each look after a section and
“grow whatever they want to eat”. Two years ago, she installed
a28x10-metrebillabong,encircledbybasaltbouldersandaquatic
grasses. “The billabong is the most loved feature of the garden,”
she says. “The kids swim in it, and it attracts an amazing variety
of wildlife.” Apart from being a magnet for humans and animals,
the billabong also collects storm water, working in conjunction
with a 22,000-litre rainwater tank. The property also has a
recycled-water system that treats black- and greywater before
feeding it back into the garden.
Thisisaplacethatthrumswithlifeandhappiness.ToKathleen’s
delight, many of the plants are now self-seeding. “The beauty of
self-seeding is that when the new plants pop up, they’re already
acclimatised and they’re tough little survivors.” #
Kathleen Murphy Landscape Design; kmldesign.com.au.
H G gardens

S I M PL Y L OV E L Y
rden requested a
“low-maintenance, unfussy entertaining space”. The
result is clean, sophisticated and warmly inviting.
STO RY Elizabeth Wilson | P HOTOG R A P H Y Nicholas Watt
Stretching to the sky, tall rows of clumping bamboo (Bambusa textilis ‘Fusca’) screen this
Sydney garden from surrounding apartment blocks. The new garden, designed by
Rebecca Colechin at Garden Life, is understated and elegant, with a focus on user-
friendly entertaining spaces and hardy plants. Seti sofa and armchairs and Chunky
coffee table, all Robert Plumb. Gosford Bluff sandstone pavers, Gosford Quarries.
Cunjevoi lily (Alocasia brisbanensis) is planted in a terracotta pot from Garden Life.
H G gardens
B ookstore owner anna Low is a lover of literature and an oracle

for those seeking recommendations on the latest in fiction and
fact. she could tell you about every new garden-related title on
This wall is a masterstroke that helps to tame the bold trunks of the
effusive bamboo and provides additional seating when needed.
“Using the three different floor materials helps draw the eye away
the market, but gardening per se is not her thing. nor is it her partner from the house, and transitions you through the various zones of the
stephen’s. “We’re terrible gardeners,” anna admits. garden,” says rebecca. The simplicity of the layout and the earthy
The couple and their twin sons rory and Louis, 17, moved materials palette were designed to work in perfect harmony with the
into their home in the inner-sydney suburb of redfern five years aesthetics of the home. “The renovated section at the rear of the
ago. The home, a georgian terrace, was freshly renovated with a house is pared back and slick in its finishes, so the garden had to
light-filled contemporary extension at the rear. Its design had the speak to that,” says rebecca. “We continued the clean lines in the
potential for a strong inside-outside connection... but anna and layout of the garden, but we softened them with the natural materials
stephen felt a disconnect. The outdoor space didn’t feel inviting such as sandstone, limestone, bricks and crushed granite. These
and they didn’t relate to it – physically or stylistically – at all. “The materials ground the space, making sure it’s warm and inviting.”
garden was fussy. It had a lawn and a pond, which was a mosquito rebecca retained the existing clumping bamboo (Bambusa textilis
trap, and it was high maintenance,” says anna, who runs the Potts ‘Fusca’) for much-needed screening and to create a lovely green
Point Bookshop. “We wanted it to be beautiful to look at and more backdrop for the new garden, but she thinned it out and installed
user-friendly, with plants we couldn’t kill.” The one element they an automated irrigation system. “Bamboo is a thirsty plant and an
loved was the existing bamboo, which was planted in dense thickets automated irrigation system is a must for thirsty plants in hot sydney
to screen out neighbouring apartment blocks. summers. We opted for a smart irrigation
as keen home cooks who love hosting system that complies with the ongoing
leisurely meals, anna and stephen wanted water restrictions.”
“This little garden is
to turn the space into a welcoming outdoor When it came to selecting additional
a simple, pared-back
living area that was conducive to easy alfresco space, but it exudes such plants, rebecca chose an “unfussy” mix of
dining. They turned to sydney landscape warmth at the same time” lush tropical and native plants perfect for the
design company garden Life for a solution. Rebecca Colechin, lead designer,
shady conditions, careful to “not introduce
“The desire for comfortable, unfussy Garden Life
too many species or follow any strict rules”.
spaces for entertaining was at the forefront of near the lounging area, she planted a trio of
the design,” says garden Life’s lead designer banksias (Banksia integrifolia) underplanted
rebecca Colechin. “They’re a busy family, so with strappy walking iris (Neomarica caerulea)
the focus was on making it as low-maintenance as possible.” and a thick bed of hardy Plectranthus ciliatus. along the side
rebecca’s first task was to divide the 12.5x6.8-metre garden into boundary, at the base of the bamboo, she planted true cardamom
a series of functional spaces. extending off the house, she installed a (Elettaria cardamomum), a lush tropical plant that releases a
level paved area using oversized 50x100cm sandstone pavers, laid in beautiful scent when the leaves are brushed.
a stack bond pattern. “We introduced this sandstone sitting area at anna and stephen couldn’t be happier with their non-gardeners’
the same level as the rear living room, rather than stepping down, so garden. They love the tones and textures of the sandstone and
it has a better connection to the back of the house,” rebecca says. gravel, and feel comforted by the lush, self-sufficient greenery all
This roomy lounging zone now houses an outdoor sofa where the around them. “We use these spaces all the time,” says anna. “We
whole family gravitates to sit, read and chat. often sit and read in the sitting area, and the dining zone is perfect
From the sitting area, there is a small step down into the garden. for when we’re cooking on the barbecue or have friends over for
at this point, rebecca installed deep, lush garden beds on both cheese and wine.”
boundary walls and created a transitional ‘floor’ of limestone bricks, Most of all, they love the gravitational pull of their outdoors space,
laid in a stretcher bond pattern, with dwarf mondo grass and marvel at how they can manage to lose themselves there. “even
(Ophiopogon japonicus ‘nana’) growing in between. though we’re in the heart of the city, we can feel a million miles from
This leads to the dining zone which is sits in a bed of crunchy anywhere, listening to the rustling sounds of the bamboo.” #
gravel framed by a beautiful low sandstone retaining wall/bench. Garden Life, St Peters, NSW; gardenlife.com.au.
Purple-leaved plectranthus (Plectranthus ciliatus). OPPOSITE, TOP LEFT AND BOTTOM LEFT The dining table is set into the rear corner of the
garden, where the ‘floor’ is compacted Deco Granite brown gravel from Australian Native Landscapes. Bronte dining table and bench seat, Eco
Outdoor. “We wanted a garden with texture and colour,” says Anna. The plant palette, a mix of tropical and native species, includes coastal banksia
(Banksia integrifolia), walking iris (Neomarica caerulea) and Plectranthus ciliatus. OPPOSITE TOP RIGHT The sandstone retaining wall helps frame the
garden, tame the bamboo and serve as extra seating. “We love the sandstone wall,” says Anna. “It doubles as a bench, making the space more
versatile.” OPPOSITE BOTTOM RIGHT Bamboo is underplanted with true cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum). For Where to Buy, see page 192.

H G GARDENS
FOR M A L L E S S ON
When an architect bought an old schoolhouse in country Victoria,
he relished the task of reviving a treasured piece of local history.
STO RY Richard Allen | P H OTO GR A P H Y Kimbal Baker
Extensive hedging – stretching for more than a kilometre –
helps to delineate different zones in this garden owned and
designed by architect Graham Fisher. Here, the old school
building is framed by a parterre garden and a ‘pear avenue’
of 28 Callery pears (Pyrus calleryana ‘Chanticleer’).
A rchitect Graham Fisher already had a weekender at

Daylesford, 100 kilometres north-west of Melbourne,
when a decommissioned primary school at nearby
Kingston came up for sale in 2008. But he couldn’t help
himself and bought the old building, constructed in the 1870s,
along with its hectare of land. He has spent 12 enjoyable years
building a garden that has slowly and pleasingly matured
before his eyes, aided by the region’s fertile volcanic soil.
Graham concedes the school was “pretty bleak” when he
bought it. A drought was in full swing, the summer sun radiated
off the asphalt playground and the hot north winds blew in
like something out of Dante’s Inferno. But he would not be
deterred. He found a photo of the schoolhouse, taken in 1906,
in the Victorian State Library, and used it as a source to return
the building’s exterior to its original splendour – restoring the
northern gables and reinstating the heritage colour scheme.
In the winter of 2010, Graham planted 70 new trees and
dug a bore to ensure the trees would always have sufficient
water. That September the area flooded, and two wet summers
followed, so the bore was not needed for several years.
Graham recently opened the garden and schoolhouse to
the public, an event attended by many of the school’s former
students. “They told fabulous stories of their schooldays
and were delighted to see the old sycamore tree they called
‘the helicopter tree’ because of the way the seeds spun as
they fell,” Graham says. “Some people arrived thinking
that the community had lost a school, but left, I think,
realising the community had gained a garden.” >

Graham says his training as an architect gave him the
confidence to plan the garden. “I had designed a few
gardens over the years as part of housing projects, so
it was not a totally new experience. I surveyed the land,
planned the garden, planted hedges to create different
spaces and took advice from a variety of people.” He
sourced plants from local suppliers whenever possible,
including two specialist nurseries, Lambley Nursery at
nearby Ascot and Frogmore Gardens in the Central
Highlands. Many mature trees came from a tree sale at
Chandpara, near Tylden. Mature trees already on the
site include an Aleppo pine (Pinus halepensis) and a
Himalayan cedar (Cedrus deodara).
Graham reinterpreted many recurring themes of traditional
Western garden design, creating a wilderness garden, a
parterre garden, a woodland garden and a pear avenue.
“I am a traditionalist and a classicist, and like the idea of
formality,” he says. “I like different areas that do different
things. The garden forms a frame or setting for the building,
while the building acts as a focal point. Hedges help to
differentiate areas and also keep the wind out.”
The garden has been designed with the changing seasons
in mind. “Many deciduous trees and plants have been
chosen to ensure a dramatic autumn,” says Graham.
They include pin oaks, crepe myrtles (Lagerstroemia spp.),
liquidambars and Manchurian pears (Pyrus ussuriensis).
“Summer is hot and usually
“The garden forms a frame or setting for the building, while the parched, so the use of bore
building acts as a focal point.” Graham Fisher, owner water is essential. I think spring
brings out the best in my garden.
We have very cold winters, so
when things start to warm up there is an explosion of life,
colour and flowers.”
The largest challenge for Graham is trimming the
1.2 kilometres of hedges – mainly Chilean myrtle (Luma
apiculata) and box leaf privet (Ligustrum undulatum).
Hawthorn hedges (Crataegus monogyna) reach heights
of 5 metres, requiring a cherry picker to trim. “Mercifully,
these do not need to be trimmed during winter, which gives
me a holiday from that arduous task,” Graham says. #
This is an edited extract from The Garden State: Inside
Victoria’s Private Gardens by Richard Allen with
photography by Kimbal Baker, $80, Thames & Hudson.
TOP The wilderness garden with native grasses, white waratah (Telopea speciosissima)
and bower wattle (Acacia cognata). LEFT Spectacular flowerheads of Pride of Madeira
(Echium candicans), interspersed with lavender. OPPOSITE TOP The entrance
to the woodland garden with hawthorn hedging (Crataegus monogyna), Mediterranean
spurge (Euphorbia characias subsp. wulfenii) and Corsican hellebore (Helleborus
argutifolius). OPPOSITE BOTTOM The ginkgo grove featuring rows of ginkgo
trees (Ginkgo biloba) with topiaried box (Buxus spp.) and thick ribbons of flowering
arum lilies (Zantedeschia spp.).

gardens H G
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H&G
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Living
A getaway at Acre of Roses
will help you get set for
a bright new year. Turn
the page for more.
Photograph by Mikkel Vang.
ESCAPE THE EVERYDAY AND SOOTHE THE SOUL

H G living
Rose
H AV E N
With so much beauty on our doorstep, travel restrictions are no
impediment to getting away from it all. Sibella Court heads to
victoria’s Macedon Ranges for a rejuvenating farmstay.
P H OTO GR A P H Y Mikkel Vang

Opened in September 2020, The Potting Shed is
the newest accommodation option at Acre of
Roses, a working flower farm and wellness
retreat. The corrugated-iron cladding came from
co-owner Rob Roy’s personal salvage yard.
OPPOSITE Sibella Court (left) with Sandy
McKinley, proprietor of Acre of Roses.
DESIGN notes
“The kitchens are absolutely the heart and soul of the accommodation at
Acre of Roses,” says Sandy. In The Miner’s Cottage (this page), the cabinets
are from Kaboodle Kitchen with custom panelling and a bespoke spotted-
gum bench. The Havsen sink, from Ikea, is paired with a Perrin & Rowe tap
from The English Tapware Company. The shelving and coffee trolley are
Rob’s handiwork. In The Potting Shed (opposite), the inline kitchenette is
fully equipped for whipping up whatever takes your fancy.
LIVING H G
MERINGUE KISSES
3 eggwhites, at room temperature
Pinch cream of tartar
Photography by Marnie Hawson (The Miner’s Cottage) and Are Media Digital Library (meringues).
¾ cup (175g) caster sugar
C
½ tsp vanilla extract or essence
ome spring, the air at Acre of Roses is heavy with scent. The 1 Preheat oven to 140˚C (120˚C fan). Line two
lush garden beds are filled with jonquils, daphne, hellebores, baking trays with baking paper.
forget-me-nots, peonies and blue hyacinths. And that’s just 2 Place eggwhites and a pinch of salt in a large
along the drive. Closer to the The Miner’s Cottage, an 1860s clean, dry glass or metal bowl. Using an electric
residence on the property, are rows and rows of gloriously mixer, whisk eggwhites to soft peaks. Add cream
fragrant heritage roses. Forty or so varieties are in bloom, of tartar followed by sugar, one spoonful at a
the wonderfully named ‘Full Sail’ and ‘Lion’s Rose’ cultivars among them. time, ensuring sugar has dissolved before adding
Acre of Roses is both working flower farm and an upscale holiday retreat. the next spoonful. Once all sugar is incorporated,
Located in Trentham, near Daylesford in Victoria, it offers visitors a total add vanilla and beat at high speed for a further
sensory experience. Beautifully renovated by owners Sandy McKinley and 3 minutes or until mixture is stiff and glossy.
her husband Rob Roy, The Miner’s Cottage is a luxurious yet laidback 3 Place mixture in a piping bag and pipe about
sanctuary with a wellness twist. From well-stocked pantry to cosy open-air two tablespoonfuls of mixture onto baking
theatre and optional chef-prepared meals and spa packages, the design paper. (If you don’t have a piping bag, use a
and details are curated in such a way that everything you might need is at clean, dry metal spoon to make tall mounds
hand, freeing you to soak up the tranquillity of the surroundings. of about two tablespoonfuls each.) Reduce
The latest addition at Acre of Roses is a self-contained studio cottage oven temperature to 120˚C (100˚C fan).
knownasThePottingShed.Enchantingandintimate,itfeelslikesomething 4 Bake 15-20 minutes, then turn oven off and
from a storybook – the perfect place for cocooning. Outside the french leave to cool completely with door slightly ajar.
doors is an abundant vegetable garden that guests can harvest for their Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place
dinner (or to take home). What more could you want from a getaway? > for up to 1 week.
ABOVE LEFT The Potting Shed’s cute kitchenette is painted Porter’s Paints Daintree. Concrete benchtop and vintage kitchenware. ABOVE RIGHT
Meringue kisses are always a crowd-pleaser. OPPOSITE The Miner’s Cottage kitchen includes a dedicated coffee station. La Scala ‘Butterfly’ coffee
machine. Vintage artworks. For similar pendant light, try Barn Light Australia. Dishwasher, Bosch. Wall painted Porter’s Paints Blue Spruce.
CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEFT Sandy and
Rob’s dog Keegan, a soft-coated wheaten
terrier, greets visitors to The Miner’s Cottage.
A neighbourhood dairy cow. Sibella and
Sandy walk the well-trodden drive. An antique
cabinet is ideal for storage in The Potting
Shed; the tone pavers are original. Sibella
gathers leafy greens from the garden.
Signage for the potager.
living H G
5 M I N U T E S W I T H S A N DY McK I N L E Y
A L L T H I N G S R E G I O N A L A N D S E A S O N A L A R E C L O S E TO T H E AC R E O F R O S E S O W N E R ’ S H E A RT.
Telll us about the guest Cottagehasagalleylayout,sobenchspace THINGS to do

accommodation at Acre of Roses. is limited. The solution was to repurpose > OUTDOORS Follow the Daylesford-
Rob and I designed it together, with one of Rob’s old saw benches into a trolley Macedon Flower Farm Trail and visit all
guidance from interior decorator Belle for a dedicated coffee bar. of the lovely little working flower farms in
Hemming of Belle Bright Projects. We What are your favourite kitchen tools the area. Also highly recommended is the
wanted an eclectic Hamptons-meets- and ingredients? Domino Rail Trail, an easy 6-kilometre
country feel. The Miner’s Cottage has two My KitchenAid standmixer – owning one (each way) track that follows a disused
stretch of railway between Trentham
guestrooms – The Chinoiserie Room and was a childhood dream. My ingredient of and lyonville. The starting point is the
TheFornasettiRoom–pluskitchen/dining/ choice has to be fresh eggs. We don’t yet old Trentham station (now the Tourist
livingroom,anopen-aircinemaandacedar haveourownbroodbutwearesurrounded infomation Centre) and cuts through the
hottub.ThePottingShedissimilarinstyle by friends who do and are happy to share. Wombat State Forest on the way to
butsmaller,withastudio-apartmentlayout. The Daylesford-Macedon region is lyonville. Trentham Falls, one of the
It was important to us to have spaces blessedwithhighrainfallandrichvolcanic longest single-drop waterfalls in victoria,
is just 2.5 kilometres away. Or you could
with plenty of natural light, easy flow and soil, both of which contribute to the pack a picnic for Hanging Rock, about
flexibility. Sticking to budget was critical, incredible quality of the local produce. We 30 minutes’ drive from Acre of Roses.
so we used Kaboodle Kitchen cabinetry in are spoilt for choice when it comes to
> WINING AND DINING The Daylesford-
The Miner’s Cottage, personalising it with providores, which offer everything from Macedon region is a magnet for some
custom panelling and reclaimed spotted- award-winningpoultryandbeeftoheirloom of Australia’s best chefs including Alla
gum benchtops made by local craftsman vegetables, truffles and regional wines. Wolf-Tasker and Annie Smithers. When
Henry Johnson. We opted for timber SomeofourfavouritesareTheFermentary in Trentham, lunch at du Fermier
(anniesmithers.com.au) is a must. Also
Photograph by Marnie Hawson (The Miner’s Cottage). For Where to Buy, see page 192.
joinery and concrete benchtops in The for seasonal kombucha and kefir; Red
Potting Shed – it looks smart and is very Beard Historic Bakery for wood-fired highly recommended are The Plough
at Trentham (theplough.com.au) and
durable.Iwouldsaythatthe kitchen/living sourdough;TrenthamFieldsforspicesand Atelier Chocolat (atelierchocolat.com.au)
area is the heart of The Miner’s Cottage. AtelierChocolatforperhapsthebest bread if you fancy something sweet. There are a
There’s a bay window nook by the dining and chocolate outside France. number of excellent wineries to visit in the
table, which is a favourite spot for guests Who do you usually cook for? region. For a truly memorable visit, indulge
to sit and contemplate the world. Friends. I love hearty help-yourself dishes in a Train, Wine & Dine package from
What are your interior essentials? forcasualgatherings.Spaghettiwithslow-
Passing Clouds (passingclouds.com.au).
Offered on Sundays only, a steam train
Good natural light. It creates a positive cooked meatballs, coq au vin, and chicken takes you directly from Daylesford Markets
environment and wards off the blues in risotto are part of my repertoire. I do a lot to the winery, where you will enjoy a
the depths of winter. Following that, of baking and preserving too – the process four-course meal with matched wines.
warmth,comfortandstylearethepriorities. ismeditativeforme.Mycinammonoysters Hanging Rock Winery (hangingrock.
Whereveryouare,thesurroundingsshould [a traditional New Zealand treat made com.au) is as well known for its prime beef
as its award-winning wines.
feelinviting–somewheretoenjoyspending from spiced sponge cake] are always a hit.
time on your own or in company. What’s a favourite memory of life on > SPECIAL EVENTS The Macedon Ranges
In terms of style, our vision was for a your farm? villages of lancefield, Woodend, Kyneton
characterful space thatwas alsolight, airy The time it snowed on Christmas Day –
and Malmsbury all host monthly farmers’
markets, supplemented by the fortnightly
and functional. Wherever possible, we such are the weather extremes in this Farmers’ Market Online (mrsg.org.au).
used recycled or salvaged materials – this region! That was in 2006. My dad had The Gathering of the Goddesses festival
played a big part in the overall renovation. flown in from New Zealand that morning (thegatheringofthegoddesses.com.au) is
Durability was important too. and was helping me prepare a baked ham held annually in March.
Funnily enough, finding a place for the for dinner. The house was filled with a For more information about Acre of Roses
La Scala coffee machine caused the most sweet-spicy aroma that I always associate or to book your stay at the property, go to
consternation! The kitchen in The Miner’s with the festive season. # acreofroses.com.au.

H G StockiStS
W H E R E T O BU Y
Locate your nearest stockist by contacting the following suppliers.
A Academy Tiles+Surfaces (02) 9436 Choices Flooring choicesflooring.com.au Fibonacci Stone 1300 342 662; Kvadrat Maharam (02) 9212 4277;
3566; academytiles.com.au Coco Republic 1300 000 220; fibonaccistone.com.au kvadratmaharam.com
ACS Designer Bathrooms 1300 201 451; cocorepublic.com.au Fielders fielders.com.au L La Maison (02) 9698 8860;
www.acsupplies.com.au Comax Australia (07) 3356 0328; Fin Designs findesignsjoinery.com lamaison.net.au
Acton & Rumble Interiors comaxaustralia.com.au Finnish Design Shop finnishdesignshop.com La Scala, available from Streamline
actonrumble.com.au Corian 1800 267 426; corian.com.au Floormania 1300 964 879; Supplies streamlinesupplies.com.au
Add Wow Interiors addwowinteriors.com.au Cosh Living (03) 9281 1999; floormania.com.au Laminex 132 136; laminex.com.au
Aesop www.aesop.com.au coshliving.com.au Floors Natural (08) 6460 7396; Leader Bathrooms & Kitchens
Affordable Flooring and Decking Côté Maison (02) 9698 4449; floorsnatural.com.au (02) 9958 0236; leader.sydney
(02) 4997 4456; affordableflooring.com.au cotemaison.com.au Fornasetti wallpaper, available from Libertine Parfumerie (03) 9661 1258;
AG Design ag-design.com.au Country Road 1800 801 911; Radford (03) 9818 7799; libertineparfumerie.com.au
Alex and Trahanas alexandtrahanas.com countryroad.com.au radfordfurnishings.com Living Edge 1300 132 154; livingedge.com.au
Alfresco Emporium (02) 9919 0601; Criteria (03) 9421 2636; Fred International (02) 9310 3263; Loewe loewe.com
alfrescoemporium.com.au criteriacollection.com.au fredinternational.com.au Loom Rugs (03) 9510 3040; loomrugs.com
Amazon amazon.com.au Cromwell (03) 9510 5294; Freedom 1300 135 588; freedom.com.au Lucy Montgomery lucymontgomery.com
Amber Tiles 1300 362 241; ambertiles.com.au cromwellaustralia.com.au G Garden Life (02) 9517 3633; Luxe Walls 1300 588 526; luxewalls.com.au
Angelucci 20th Century (03) 9415 8001; Cult 1300 768 626; cultdesign.com.au gardenlife.com.au Luxury Chandeliers (02) 9328 0333;
angelucci.net.au Cultiver cultiver.com Gessato shop.gessato.com luxurychandeliers.sydney
Anibou (02) 9319 0655; anibou.com.au Curatorial+Co curatorialandco.com Gitani Stone (02) 9838 8880; M .M Contemporary (02) 9328 0922;
Anna Vasily annavasily.com.au D Dash & Albert wintonhouse.com.au www.gitanistone.com mcontemp.com
Antique Print and Map Room Dedece (02) 9360 2722; dedece.com.au Globe West 1800 722 366; globewest.com.au M Interiors m-interiors.com.au
antiqueprintmaproom.com Design Nation (02) 9699 8577; Gosford Quarries (02) 9810 7555 Magins Design 1300 495 032;
AP Shutters & Blinds (03) 9818 1133; designnation.com.au Graceville Imports (07) 3268 2678; maginslighting.com.au
ap-shutters.com Designer Boys Collections pots.net.au Maison Balzac 1300 342 662;
Apparatus apparatusstudio.com designerboyscollections.com Grazia & Co (03) 9589 4398; www.maisonbalzac.com
Armadillo (02) 9698 4043; Designer Rugs 1300 802 561; graziaandco.com.au Maison Living www.maisonliving.com.au
armadillo-co.com designerrugs.com.au Greenhouse Interiors Manyara Home (02) 9997 4462;
ARP Design Studio arpdesignstudio.com Designers Guild designersguild.net.au greenhouseinteriors.com.au www.manyarahome.com.au
B Bang & Olufsen bang-olufsen.com Designstuff designstuff.com.au Greg Natale gregnatale.com Marble Basin Hub (02) 9316 9171;
Barefoot Living (02) 9976 6324; Di Lorenzo Tiles (02) 8818 2950; H Hardtofind hardtofind.com.au marblebasinhub.com.au
barefootliving.com.au dilorenzo.com.au Harvey Norman 1300 464 278; Mark Davis Furniture (07) 3875 1222;
Barn Light Australia (03) 8743 5500; Diane Bergeron dianebergeron.com harveynorman.com.au markdavisfurniture.com.au
barnlight.com.au Dinosaur Designs (02) 9698 3500; Havwoods International 1300 428 966; Mark Tuckey (03) 9419 3418;
Bathe 1300 133 320; bathe.net.au dinosaurdesigns.com.au havwoods.com.au marktuckey.com.au
Becker Minty (02) 8356 9999; District (08) 9388 1855; district.com.au Hay (02) 9358 0855; hayshop.com.au Marshall marshallheadphones.com
beckerminty.com Domayne domayne.com.au Heatherly Design (03) 5772 2089; MCM House (02) 9698 4511; mcmhouse.com
Bisanna Tiles (02) 9310 2500; Domo (03) 9277 8888; domo.com.au heatherlydesign.com.au McMullin & Co www.mcmullinandco.com
bisanna.com.au Domus Textiles (02) 9380 6577; Homebody homebody.com.au Mecca Cosmetica 1800 007 844;
Bloomingdales Lighting (02) 8345 6888; domustextiles.com.au House of Orange (03) 9500 9991; mecca.com.au
bloomingdales.com.au Dorf 131 416; www.dorf.com.au houseoforange.com.au Melinda Hartwright Interiors
BoConcept (02) 8090 4438; Dulux 132 525; dulux.com.au Hub Furniture (03) 9652 1222; melindahartwright.com
boconcept.com.au Dunlin (02) 9907 4825; dunlinhome.com.au hubfurniture.com.au Menu, available from Designstuff
Bosch Home Appliances 1300 368 339; Durie Design jamiedurie.com Huset (03) 8609 1443; www.huset.com.au (03) 9592 2960; designstuff.com.au
bosch-home.com.au Dyson 1800 239 766; www.dyson.com.au I Iittala iittala.com.au Michael Commerford Gallery
Bose 1800 023 367; www.bose.com.au E Earp Bros (02) 4925 4550; earp.com.au Ikea (02) 8020 6641; ikea.com.au 0405 624 290; mcgart.com.au
Bragg & Co braggandco.com.au Eckersley Garden Architecture Ilve 1300 694 583; ilve.com.au Michael Reid Clay michaelreidclay.com.au
Brodware (02) 9421 8200; brodware.com.au (03) 9421 5537; www.e-ga.com.au In Bed inbedstore.com Miele 1300 464 353; shop.miele.com.au
Bvlgari www.bulgari.com Eco Outdoor 1300 131 413; Inigo Jones & Co inigojones.com.au Mobilia (08) 9284 5599; mobilia.com.au
C Caesarstone 1300 119 119; ecooutdoor.com.au In-Teria (03) 6239 9651; interia.com.au Moda Piera modapiera.com
caesarstone.com.au Elliott Clarke Textiles 1300 355 468; International Floorcoverings Modern Times (03) 9913 8598;
Cafe Lighting & Living (02) 9756 0863; elliottclarke.com.au 1800 339 379; interfloors.com.au moderntimes.com.au
cafelighting.com.au Emac & Lawton (02) 9517 4455; ISM Objects 1300 888 646; Mokum mokumtextiles.com
Camerich (02) 9699 1088; camerich.com.au emac-lawton.com.au ismobjects.com.au Mondopiero mondopiero.com.au
Candana (02) 9389 8631; candana.com.au Escea Fireplaces escea.com/au James Dunlop Textiles Mud Australia mudaustralia.com
Casa by Studio Kate studiokate.com.au Euroluce (02) 9356 9900; euroluce.com.au jamesdunloptextiles.com Myaree Ceramics (08) 9330 3611;
Casa Mia (02) 9773 1144; casa-mia.com.au European Ceramics (08) 6240 0100; James Hardie jameshardie.com.au myareeceramics.com.au
Casser Maison @cassermaison europeanceramics.com.au James Said jamessaid.com.au Myer 1800 811 611; myer.com.au
Catalano Interiors caralanointeriors.com.au Eveneer 1300 133 481; eltongroup.com Janus et Cie janusetcie.com N Navurban (02) 9457 9622;
CCSS ccss.shop F Fanuli (02) 9908 2660; fanuli.com.au Jardan (03) 8581 4988; jardan.com.au newageveneers.com.au
CDK Stone (03) 8552 6000; Feltex Carpets 1300 130 239; feltex.com Jasmine and Will 1300 078 378; Nicco Joinery (02) 9758 0898;
cdkstone.com.au Fenton & Fenton (03) 9533 2323; www.jasmineandwill.com www.niccojoinery.com.au
Cemintel cemintel.com.au fentonandfenton.com.au K Kaboodle Kitchen kaboodle.com.au O Officeworks 1300 633 423;
Chapman Joiners (07) 3353 0255; Few & Far (02) 4441 8244; King 1300 546 438; kingliving.com.au officeworks.com.au
chapmanjoiners.com.au fewandfar.com.au Koskela (02) 9280 0999; koskela.com.au Oliver Thom oliverthom.com.au
Olsen Gallery (02) 9327 3922; olsengallery.com Solis Products solisproducts.com
Opsis Designs (02) 8054 6079; Sony 1300 137 669; www.sony.com.au
opsisdesigns.com.au Sophie Davies sophiedavies.com.au
Orient Curio orientcurio.com.au Space (02) 8339 7588; spacefurniture.com.au
Orient House (02) 9660 3895; Spence & Lyda (02) 9212 6747;
orienthouse.com.au spenceandlyda.com.au
Outdoor Elegance outdoorelegance.com.au Stadium Goods stadiumgoods.com
Oz Design Furniture 1300 721 942; Stegbar 1800 681 168; stegbar.com.au
ozdesignfurniture.com.au Studio ALM (02) 9363 1459; studioalm.com
P Palmer & Penn (02) 9328 4800; Studio Cavit (02) 8018 8259; studiocavit.com
palmerandpenn.com.au Studio Henry Wilson henrywilson.com.au
Palmers Glass (02) 9808 1344; Studio WM studiowm.com
palmersglass.com.au Stylecraft (02) 9355 0000; stylecraft.com.au
Papaya (02) 9386 9980; papaya.com.au T Tait (03) 9419 7484; madebytait.com.au
Perrin & Rowe, available from The English Tamsin Johnson tamsinjohnson.com
Tapware Company englishtapware.com.au Tara Dennis Store taradennisstore.com
Perryman Carpets (02) 9327 3910; Teranova (02) 9386 0063; teranova.com.au
perrymancarpets.com The Country Trader (02) 9698 4661;
Pierre Augustin Rose pierreaugustinrose.com www.thecountrytrader.com.au
Poho Flowers (02) 9331 4333; The Daily Edited thedailyedited.com
pohoflowers.com.au The English Tapware Company 1300 016 181;
Poliform (02) 8339 7570; englishtapware.com.au
poliformaustralia.com.au The Montauk Lighting Co
Polyflor polyflor.com.au montauklighting.com TOP SHELF From left Pearl
Porter’s Paints 1800 656 664; The Plant Society theplantsociety.com.au
porterspaints.com The Rug Collection (03) 8555 3584;
vase, $260, Dinosaur Designs.
Provincial Home Living 1300 732 258; therugcollection.com.au Lexon ‘Miami’ ultrasonic
provincialhomeliving.com.au The Rug Establishment therugest.com Weathertex 1800 040 080; diffuser, $129, Designstuff.
R Rakumba Lighting 1300 784 748; The Textile Company 1300 852 994; weathertex.com.au Apothecary body lotion,
rakumba.com textilecompany.com.au Webforge (08) 9361 8933; $155, Austin Austin hand
Ralph Lauren Home, available from Radford The Vault Sydney thevaultsydney.com www.webforge.com.au soap, $43, and Apothecary
(03) 9818 7799; radfordfurnishings.com Thimble and Co thimbleandco.com.au West Elm 1800 239 516; body oil, $100, all Oliver
Real Flame (03) 8706 2000; realflame.com.au Thomas Lentini thomaslentinistudio.com westelm.com.au Thom. MIDDLE SHELF
Reece 1800 032 566; reece.com.au Thonet 1800 800 777; thonet.com.au Westbury Textiles (02) 9380 6644; From left Albatross bath
Resene 1800 738 383; resene.com.au Tigger Hall Design (03) 9510 2255; westburytextiles.com
Robert Plumb (02) 9316 9066; tiggerhall.com
towels, $99 each, Hardtofind.
Wharfedale wharfedale.com.au
robertplumb.com.au Tongue N Groove Flooring (02) 9699 1131; Whitecliffe Imports (02) 8595 1111; Horn vase, $280, Dinosaur
Rogerseller (03) 9429 8888; tngflooring.com.au www.whitecliffe.com.au Designs. KB23 bluetooth
rogerseller.com.au Top3 by Design 1300 867 333; top3.com.au Winning Appliances (02) 8767 2301; speaker, $148, Sony. Shaving
Ruby Star Traders shoprubystar.com.au U Unique Fabrics 1800 145 855; winningappliances.com.au kit bag, $90, Hardtofind.
S Salt&Pepper 1800 246 987; uniquefabrics.com Wisteria Design (07) 3255 2233; BOTTOM SHELF From
saltandpepper.com.au Urban Cabinets urbancabinets.com.au wisteriadesign.com.au left Studiopepe magnifying
Sam the Paving Man (02) 9642 5666; Urban Road 0408 345 488; WJ Building (02) 9939 8920; mirror, $1100, Oliver Thom.
samthepavingman.com.au urbanroad.com.au wjbuilding.com.au Ridge footed platter, $70,
Sarah Ellison sarahellison.com.au Utopia Art Sydney (02) 9319 6437; Woodpecker Flooring
Shelta (02) 8863 0400; www.shelta.com.au utopiaartsydney.com.au
Globe West. Karite body oil,
woodpeckerflooring.com.au
Sheridan 1800 625 516; sheridan.com.au Utopia Goods (02) 9699 9710; Wynstan 1800 157 622; wynstan.com.au $69/100ml, BDK Parfums
Sikkens 1300 745 536; tenaru.com.au utopiagoods.com X Xavier Furniture (07) 3806 5370; ‘Pas Ce Soir’ eau de parfum,
Simon Johnson (02) 8244 8255; V Victoria Carpets 1800 136 040; xavierfurniture.com.au $299/100ml, Penhaligon’s
simonjohnson.com victoriacarpets.com.au Y Your Display Gallery ‘Empressa’ EDP, $349/100ml,
Skheme (02) 8755 2300; www.skheme.com V-Zug (03) 9832 7500; vzug.com/au yourdisplaygallery.com.au Trudon Parfums ‘Medie’
Smeg (02) 8667 4888; smeg.com.au W Warwick Fabrics 1300 787 888; Z Zepel Fabrics 1800 651 510; EDP, $299/100ml, all
SNB Stone www.snb-stone.com warwick.com.au zepelfabrics.com Libertine Parfumerie.
Soane soane.co.uk Water Tiger watertiger.com.au Ziegler & Brown zieglerandbrown.com.au
Sofa Studio (02) 9439 8195; Waterford Crystal 1300 852 022; Zip 1800 424 344; zipwater.com
www.sofastudio.com.au waterfordcrystal.com.au Zuster (03) 9427 7188; zuster.com.au
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H G the creative type
Lucy Montgomery
This Sydney interior architect and stylist recently expanded her
portfolio to include a signature collection of lamps, cushions and fabric.
PH OTO GR A P H Y Anson Smart
Hair and make-up by Samantha Powell. For Where to Buy, see page 192.

My family owned pubs, so I spent a lot of time in hotels growing up. We even lived
in one for five years. My favourite was an 1860s Italianate government building that
my parents converted into a beautiful upmarket hotel. I spent countless hours there
before and after school, and I remember being in awe of the transformation – I loved
how the aesthetic, spatial and material choices shaped the experience of the space.
Every day in my working life is totally different! I can be out and about sourcing
furniture and accessories or meeting with clients, on set for a photo shoot or popping
in to the workshops where our artisans work on our collection.
When I’m solo, I like to work in silence without any distractions because the rest of
the time I am working on the go, often with my one-year-old daughter Grace in tow.
The biggest challenge of my career? Having a baby as well as my own business meant
that I didn’t really take much leave from work. When Grace was first born, she came
with me almost everywhere so I learnt how to multitask very quickly!
Launching my own homewares range, Lucy Montgomery Collection, has been
my biggest accomplishment to date. The collection comprises table lamps, mirrors,
plinths and hooks, plus a range of cushions and textiles. Each piece is handcrafted in
Sydney and I’m so proud to support local artisans and tradespeople.
Achieving work/life balance can be tricky. My work is very diverse and multifaceted
so there are always various things on the go – private clients, collection development, “Things that work well
and look beautiful
social media, photoshoots – but time for my husband, Sam, and Grace are important
to me too. Juggling everything means I have learnt to dedicate my time wisely. We
have strict no-phone policies at meal times and on family outings.
What nourishes my creativity? Design, always! I love pieces crafted using traditional elevate the everyday.”
techniques and natural materials, or taking a functional object and making it feel like
an artwork. Things that work well and look beautiful elevate the everyday.
I’ve always admired the work of artists Alberto Giacometti and Pablo Picasso.
In the Australian design scene, I’m loving the work of interior designers including
Phoebe Nicol, AP Design, Tamsin Johnson and Handelsmann+Khaw. All of these
designers mix old and new so well. Italian interior designer Nicolò Castellini Baldissera
is another favourite. His book Inside Tangier is an ongoing reference for my collection
– it’s an interesting glimpse into the homes of the eccentric inhabitants of Tangier in
Morocco, a white-walled city that is at the crossroads of Africa and Europe.
My favourite fashion piece is my PJ Femme linen suit (pictured). It’s my staple. For
a more casual look I pair the blazer with a white tee and jeans.
My idea of a luxurious interior is one that is cool, collected and beautifully curated.
Classic and refined but with a little personal twist.
My mood boards consistently feature landmark Mediterranean hotels such as Le
Sirenuse [in Positano, Italy] and traditional Mediterranean ceramics. My collection
of lamps, mirrors and hooks are handmade in plaster, which has a beautiful, chalky
patina. The silhouettes hark back to the earthenware of antiquity, but I have tried to
interpret that style in a modern way. I always think about what I would like to have in
my own home. Perhaps some smaller accessories are on the cards!
I often circuit Sydney’s inner east when sourcing for clients and shoots. Happily,
that part of town has a plethora of fabulous eateries too. I love Room 10 for coffee,
Fratelli Paradiso for pasta and Bistro Rex for steak frites. Sam and I are about to move
to North Bondi and I’m looking forward to exploring a new neighbourhood! #
Lucy Montgomery; lucymontgomery.com.
LUCY’S FAVOURITE THINGS Right, from top Fringed cushions, all Lucy Montgomery
Collection. Inside Tangier book by Nicolò Castellini Baldissera. Le Sirenuse wall mirror,
Lucy Montgomery Collection. Balloon bag, Loewe. Daisy hanging light, Soane. Byredo
‘Gypsy Water’ eau de parfum, available from Mecca. Palais Royal FrouFrou sofa, Pierre
Augustin Rose. OPPOSITE Lucy with a sample of her collection.

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Beautiful simplicity.

Tested in some of Australia’s harshest conditions,

Visit COLORBOND.COM/MATT or call 1800 702 764

Lantern House, Victoria, by Timmins+Whyte Architects. Photography by Peter Bennetts.

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terrace was a labour of love for

Photograph by Robert Walsh.

Tanya Buchanan, Editor in chief

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ART & STYLE

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A H A R MON IOUS HOME I had never read the magazine before,

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731-733 HIGH STREET ARMADALE VIC 3143 | +61 3 9510 4561 | C L A S S I C W I T H A T W I S T. C O M . A U

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“WE TACKLED OUR RENOVATION

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“I LOOK FOR THINGS THAT ARE

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ENSUITE Custom vanity, Leader Bathrooms and Kitchens. Victoria+Albert ‘Toulouse’

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Stylist’s assistants Kate Lincoln and Tess Thyregod.

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Sleek, understated design makes integration easy.

THIS PAGE Clockwise from

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THIS PAGE Clockwise from top

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‘I ntegration’ has long been a buzzword in

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For chair details,

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Smart, sophisticated and timeless, shutters sit easily in both contemporary

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Adding elegance and functionality, window furnishings provide

Sheer S-wave curtains in Abaca Charcoal with wand control,

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Sheer S-wave curtains in Abaca

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Plantation shutters, Wynstan. Australian

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Personal items Personal belongings

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“I was petrified of driving a

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EFFORTLESS, BEAUTIFUL LIVING

Sign the petition to help make

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STREET ENTRANCE The landscaping at this NSW South Coast home is

Mid-Century style meets modern, eco-friendly design at this

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