Buddy and Jesinta Franklin have sold their Mediterranean-style mansion for an undisclosed sum. After purchasing in 2022 for a record $8.75m, the couple listed the showstopping home in July 2024, only to take it off the market. Now, after just 60 days on the market with a new campaign, the young family have kicked a real estate goal and can move on to their next chapter.

NEWS FLASH:

Inside Buddy and Jesinta Franklin’s home

We tour the luxury villa and discover designer Dominee’s original vision for this alluring contemporary dwelling.

Frequent movers Dominee and her family may be, but they weren’t even contemplating calling the removalists when someone knocked on the door of their previous property and asked if they’d consider selling. Serendipitously, a block in the same street but set at a higher elevation – delivering spectacular 180-degree views of the coast – became available, and the decision was made. “It’s quite rare to get this type of view here,” explains Dominee. “We weren’t really ready to move or leave, and I had nothing in my head design-wise yet, but we hit the ground running and pulled it together.”

Who lived here? Dominee, a designer and interior stylist, and her husband Ben, a builder; their daughters Macey, 10, and Willow, eight; plus dogs Chip and Snickers.

Favourite room in this house? Dominee: “I do love the kitchen! And that front lounge room is just absolutely beautiful, so lit with sunshine.”

Anything you would do differently? “After living in this house for more than nine months, there is honestly still nothing that I’ve found that has annoyed me.”

The couple speedily constructed a small guest house on the block to live in while they planned and built their new place. Working around other client projects, the couple’s own build took just over two years, with Dominee using the guest house as a tester for new ideas and finishes she was keen to try on the main, five-bedroom, seven-bathroom home. “Because of the block, we had the opportunity to execute all the elements I’d always wanted in a home,” says Dominee, who worked closely with building designer Reece Keil on the project. “I’ve been able to create things like really big hallways, and built-in linen cupboards which are all concealed up the hallway. People who come to visit don’t even know we’ve got linen cupboards because they’re all hidden!”

It’s a large house – the biggest Dominee and Ben have ever built – so the interior design required careful thought and planning. The kitchen area is balanced with a spectacular island – more curves! – with the working zones hidden away in a full-sized butler’s pantry.

“The kitchen was quite the undertaking,” says Dominee. “That island took three months to make, and it took eight men to carry in the benchtop!” Polytec thermolaminated cabinetry in ‘Estella Oak’ forms a quiet backdrop to the show-stopping half-moon island, which is faced in fluted Super White Dolomite marble tiles sourced through Teranova. The CDK Stone benchtop and its integrated sinks are in the same colour of marble, balanced with brass tapware from Brodware. The sweet wall lights are ‘Duomo Piccolo’ sconces in brass finish from Nightworks Studio.

As a counterpoint to the expanses of concrete, Dominee chose swathes of curtaining to screen the windows, dark timber for the floors, and brass finishes for the lighting, tapware and balustrade that borders the upper hallway. “That bridge actually connects to our bedroom, so I didn’t want it to be black and severe,” she explains. “I thought it had to be brass. It’s aging and patinating absolutely beautifully.”

The whole effect adds up to a space that’s light, bright and tactile. “A lot of people walk in the house and they want to touch everything,” says Dominee. “Barely anyone walks over that bridge without touching the railing, and I love that!”

In the main bedroom a vaulted tunnel separates the bathroom and walk-in wardrobe from the bedroom. “Ben gets up early, so I decided to bring in an element of separation between the bedroom and bathroom,” explains Dominee. “I just don’t want to hear a tap turn on at 5am!” The four-metre custom headboard in an ivory boucle finish is by Create Estate. The side table came from Trit House.

In the ensuite floor-to-ceiling sheers from The Curtain and Blind Company screen the windows behind the circular stone bath from Reece. A Saardé Home ‘Vintage Wash’ bath sheet from Kira & Kira is artfully draped over the bath adding colour and texture to the space while vases of blooms brings the outdoors in.

Warm metal hues, a softer, more mellow look than black, are having a design moment. Dominee has embraced them in this home, opting for elements such as lighting and tapware in a brass finish. “All of our windows are black, but I didn’t want any strong black features inside the home,” she explains. Visit nightworksstudio.com and brodware.com

Outside, Dominee describes the style of the home as “luxury Mediterranean” thanks to its restrained palette, lime-rendered walls, and series of graceful arches. Planters on the upper storey spill trailing plants over the exterior and there’s abundant greenery dotted around the pool. “Plants instantly elevate everything,” she says.

Design/decorating: The Open Home, @theopenhome_
Building: Tidal Constructions, 0408 705 579, tidalconstructions.com
Building designer: Reece Keil, reecekeildesign.com.au
Furniture: Estilo Studio, estilostudio.com.au

SOURCE BOOK:

The post SOLD: A final look inside Buddy and Jesinta Franklin’s coastal paradise as it finds new owners appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Inside Bec Judd’s Arthurs Seat home

Bec unveiled the stunning “country ranch” on social media with interiors by her own design studio, RJ Home. The transformation was shocking, and all completed in a mere 3.5 months. “I just had a very clear vision,” says Bec of the feat. “I wanted to create a modern Australiana bush vibe, that was anchored with stunning stones we hadn’t seen before.” Her signature modern aesthetic is evident throughout, from the stylish interiors to the carefully curated finishes. The three-bedroom, three-bathroom retreat is now a far cry from the modest, uninspiring brick home that once stood in its place.

Outside, the landscaping is just as jaw-dropping as the interiors. Working alongside Nathan Burkett Landscape Architecture and The Melbourne Builder, Bec ensured the property’s natural beauty took centre stage. A sprawling alfresco entertaining area and a circular plunge pool complete the picture, creating a luxurious yet relaxed escape. “Nathan is a brilliant creative,” Bec gushes. “When you give a creative free rein to do whatever they want, you bring the best out of them. And that’s exactly what Nathan did. He’s used the undulating hills and the curves in the property to really dictate his design and you can see that through the circular connecting elements of the garden, from the pool to the central olive tree to the curved out firepit area.”

What were your goals with this renovation?

Bec: “It’s a 70’s flat roof house but I wanted it to have an Australiana bush vibe with, like I said, accents and flair and gorgeous stone. To get that bush vibe we also used a timber veneer all over the joinery which was also layered with a VJ. So lots of texture, lots of layers. I wanted everywhere you looked to feel textural, and to feel like there were elevated design elements throughout.”

Where did you get inspiration from?

“I think I probably got it from me. I just had a very clear vision.”

What were your must-haves?

“A gorgeous huge, modular sofa. The Trit House one from Tolv is absolutely stunning. A big dining table which was anchored by a stunning ‘Bell’ lamp as well. I wanted one big island bench and all of the appliances to be integrated. I hate seeing chords so everything had to be hidden. The kettle, the microwave, the fridge, the air conditioning unit – everything was integrated. The only appliance I left on the bench was the Sanremo ‘Cube’ coffee machine, which we had custom powder coated in River Gum Beige by Dulux. That is a stunning coffee machine and deserved to have pride of place on the kitchen bench.”

What should people ask when designing a holiday home?

“You’ve really got to think about entertaining and where you’ll be spending your time as a family. Will you be having other families and guests visiting? If so, where are they going to sit? What does the family dynamic look like? Where are they going to eat? Where are you going to entertain? Even with the pool, make sure there’s enough room in the pool to accommodate the maximum amount of people you can have staying in the house. It was really getting that flow through the house right, having the bedrooms away from all the entertaining and just kind of thinking about the context in which we would use the house and bringing that to life so it’s all seamless when you’re using the house.”

Favourite material and favourite furniture?

“I went into Signorino and selected their ‘Patagonia’ quartzite which is this incredible lilac, grey and taupe with some gold veining through it, so really beautiful to style with. So I anchored the living spaces with that and then built a beautiful warm, light oak palette around that. We did a thicker farm leg on the island bench to give that country feel. And beautiful oak flooring and of course we accentuated that Australiana bush vibe with gorgeous oak pieces from Trit House, like the Ethnicraft dining table and sideboard.”

What advice would you give to other renovators?

“My number one tip is to make sure you choose from selections that are already in the country if you want to do something quickly. I always choose fixtures, fittings and appliances that are already in the country and I managed to complete this project in about 3.5 months. That was because I went for fixtures, fittings, appliances that were already in stock, in the warehouse, in Victoria.”

The post Influencer Bec Judd more than doubled her money on her Arthurs Seat home sale appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Who lives here?

Jenny, who works in theatre, and her cat, Smeagol.
Favourite things?
Jenny: “My travertine kitchen bench. I love the wave patterns – they’re a neutral in colour, but not in feeling. I love my lighting fixtures – every lighting fixture was chosen to be a theatrical element in that room.”
Where do you spend your time?
“I meal prep on the weekend, so I’ll spend hours in the kitchen with the TV on making food for the week ahead, so it is great to have a big island and tons of bench space. When relaxing, I’ll curl up with Smeagol and read a book.”

From 2011, she moved to New York for a decade. On her return, the terrace looked tired and its granite benches and black bathrooms dated. Its quirks had begun to jar. Another bugbear of the 1980s extension was that the kitchen and main bedroom were not level with the original floors. But least welcome of all the issues was rising damp. Jenny called in architect and interior designer Brooke Aitken of Brooke Aitken Design to help.

In her brief to Brooke and colleague Vivian Ma in 2021, as well as ironing out those quirks Jenny wanted a main bedroom retreat, by turning the main bathroom into a luxurious ensuite. An ensuite and walk-in robe in the second bedroom would become a guest bathroom. The study and attic had to double as guest rooms. “It was really important that I had very comfortable fold-out couches in my study and the attic,” says Jenny. And she specified pops of funky colour throughout.

Generous walls ensure gallery space for Jenny’s artworks. “The family collects art and it’s an integral part of their lives,” says Brooke. “This was an unwritten part of the brief. We have given her an extensive canvas for her art.” Pops of red, Jenny’s favourite colour, are like dabs of paint on that canvas. “We used wild colours in the living room rug, the dining room pendant, the swivel armchair, the courtyard and the powder room,” says Brooke.

“It feels so homely,” says Vivian. “Jenny is surrounded by her much-loved objects and pops of colour.

Kitchen

“It was really important that the home felt welcoming.” Jenny, homeowner.

Dining

Despite being a terrace with no windows along the sides, there is plenty of light flooding into this home owned by Jenny who works in theatre – thanks in part to skylights that allow light to stream down from above. The light’s progress is helped even further by a cutout in the nib wall beside the living and dining area.

Main bedroom and ensuite

WE LOVE…funky wallpaper

Don’t always play it safe if you want decor that sings, as the walls in the main bedroom prove. “The builders weren’t sure about that custom swirly wallpaper from Maak Home and said, ‘Are you sure this is going to work?’” confesses Brooke. But neither she nor Jenny were deterred. “Yes, it was incredibly risky, but it works.”

Instead of being a shared bathroom, this ensuite is now Jenny’s personal space, due to a tweaking of the floor plan.

Study/guest bedroom

The ‘Fire Dreaming’ artwork, by Alison Anderson Nampitjinpa Nelson creates an aura of cosy warmth in the study. A ‘Polly’ desk from Workshopped and Kett ‘Karm’ chair from Cosh
Living sit under a stylish ‘Nelson Saucer Crisscross Bubble’ pendant from Living Edge. The Rill + Stone ‘Summer Blue’ rug, Arte ‘Gioco’ textured wallpaper from Unique Fabrics and ‘Contour Piece’ metal
sculpture from Ferm Living complement the original fireplace. Doors in Dulux Murray Red.

Source book

Architecture & interior design Brooke Aitken Design, brookeaitkendesign.com.au
Builder Sydney Renovation Specialists, 0420 312 141
Joinery Styline Kitchens, stylinekitchens.com.au

Be the first to read this story by subscribing to Home Beautiful magazine.

⁠Have it delivered to your door!

The post An art-filled terrace in Sydney’s Inner West appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Owned by The Block judge Marty Fox and his wife Charlotte, the five-bedroom residence sits on over 1400sqm of meticulously landscaped grounds.

Despite its central location between the prestigious Toorak and Hawksburn villages, this home feels a world away, thanks to its sophisticated design.

Originally two separate homes, the 1890s Victorian property was united into one expansive, single-level sanctuary during a bold renovation helmed by DOME, Castley McCrimmon Architects, and Nathan Burkett Landscape Architecture.

“We bought the home in the middle of the pandemic and, a year later, purchased the smaller house next door and consolidated both into the one property over a quarter of an acre,” Marty told writer Jackie Brygel for Domain. “There’s not another house like it, because you just cannot get this land size so close to the two villages.”

Inside, high ceilings and natural light set the tone for a space that is elegant yet liveable, while Venetian plastered walls create a soft, tonal backdrop.

The three bathrooms are swathed in stone – dramatic Italian rosso and grigio marble instead of traditional tiles.

“There are no tiles in the home – everything is marble slabs.”

Marty Fox

The interiors flow effortlessly outdoors, where a series of French doors open to a private resort-style zone. A heated pool, wellness deck, self-contained gym/cabana, and a pickleball court deliver year-round family fun and entertaining potential.

Then there’s the garden, which Marty describes as a space full of memories and meaning. “My brother got married under this tree,” he shared with Domain, pointing to a vibrant red coral tree among silver birches, jacarandas and gardenias. A four-metre herb garden adds practicality to the beauty, brimming with rosemary, thyme, oregano and more.

It was listed for sale in May 2025 with a price guide of $12-$13 million. They were accepting expressions of interest until June 24, but it appears the home was not sold.

The listing followed the couple’s sale of their Mornington Peninsula cottage, which fetched $2.05 million in October 2024.

The post Tour The Block judge Marty Fox’s jaw-dropping $13m Toorak residence appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Darren and his husband Olivier Duvillard, a cosmetics industry expert, kept their eyes on real estate listings and when this home came up in 2015 they had to see it. “The second my husband and I walked through the front door, we thought, ‘This is our house’,” recalls Darren. Despite it being “very dark and higgledy-piggledy,” they had a good feeling about it.

In late 2024, Darren and Olivier’s stunning home was listed for sale with an auction price guide of $8,500,000. This was dropped by $1 million from the initial price guide of $9,500,000. After several months, the home was taken off the market but reappeared in 2025 in a new campaign with PPD Real Estate that we’re thrilled to say has been successful for this stylish couple – sold on 1st July in a private treaty. While the family of three ponder their next move while travelling in Europe, watch this space for updates.

News flash

Who lives here?

Interior designer Darren Palmer and his husband, Olivier Duvillard, share the home with their teenage son and two dogs, Frankie and Razzie.
What style is your home? Darren: “It’s intentionally minimalistic with a lot of sandy pink tones.”
Biggest benefit of renovating? “We’ve got a lot more space now and it’s a lot more usable.”
Your favourite design choice? “The double-sided fireplace is impressive. It’s in our winter living room, with the study on the other side.”
Did you reuse any elements? “We saved the perfectly stable granny flat on the property from going to landfill and transported it to Hyams Beach to turn it into a holiday home.”

The home was a two-storey building when they moved in – a 1930s California bungalow downstairs with a 2010 addition upstairs. The walls were a “dirty cream colour,” so that was the first thing that had to go. “I hired a spray rig, bought a ton of paint and painted everything white,” he says.

When Darren’s ambassador duties for an appliance brand required him for a photo shoot in his own house, he did a speedy renovation to get it ready. “I did the kitchen, laundry and dining room in two-and-a-half weeks. It was like a real-life [episode of] The Block,” he recalls. He hosted his 40th birthday party there shortly after, with fellow judges Neale Whitaker and Shaynna Blaze on the guest list, so the pressure was on to make the place presentable. “They came in an hour after I’d unpacked boxes!” he recalls.

The high-profile interior designer says his home might have been meeting others’ expectations, but it still didn’t feel right for him. “So in 2018, I started again!” A good 18 months was spent “ticking details over” in his mind, then on paper, before he worked with architect John Deuchrass for the final plans. In 2022, construction company Taste Living began the rebuild.

It’s been upsized from two storeys to three, with a more open-plan design. One of Darren’s favourite spaces is the new “very sexy” kitchen. “I ended up making it probably a metre wider, so we got a much bigger island bench,” he explains. Made from CDK Stone’s Monreale marble with soft pinks and sandy tones, it’s the hero of the space and complements the impressive joinery, which features grooved Kinsman ‘Avalon’ doors in Coastal Oak Woodmatt. “It’s got this lovely coastal feeling to it,” shares Darren.

The home epitomises a Bondi oasis, with four bedrooms plus a study, two lounge areas, a Plungie pool and multiple alfresco zones. Yet just as Darren has finished the transformation, the family has decided it’s time to move on. “This is actually the longest-term house I’ve had in my entire life, except for when I was a child,” says Darren of their home of nine years. “Our teenage son’s lived here most of his life. It’s definitely been a family home.”

While it’s in Darren’s nature to already have his sights set on the next renovation, he also has his hands full with the latest season of Channel Nine’s The Block television series and multiple business ventures, from art and rug ranges to home fragrances and tapware. “To be honest with you, the next project would happily be about a year away from now,” he says with a laugh.

Living area

The walls are painted in warm Dulux Whisper White. On the Monreale marble ledge from CDK Stone is Bush Medicine Leaves by Gloria Petyarre. Nearby is an oceanic work, Rhythm and Blues, by Neil Frazer. On the lounge are Few & Far ‘Noah’ cushions in Burro and Adairs ‘Rosedale’ cushions in Rust.

Dining area

Velux skylights over the staircase let in natural light. Three ‘Orb’ pendants from Lighting Collective in the dining space hang over an En Gold ‘Paradis’ dining table in Fossil Stone, with Design By Them ‘Bobby’ chairs in Ash Solid. The ensemble sits on a Darren Palmer ‘Earth Natural’ rug.

Kitchen

To design the luxurious joinery in the kitchen, Darren worked with Kinsman, selecting ‘Avalon’ doors in Coastal Oak Woodmatt and pairing them with Matt White Knurled Bar handles. These marry well with the Carpet Court ‘Hickory Elegance’ flooring in Beverly Hills. CDK Stone’s Monreale marble makes a show-stopping kitchen island, with Design By Them ‘Bobby’ stools in Ash Solid.

Beacon Lighting’s MFL By Masson ‘Gypsum’ downlights light the island, which houses a Meir ‘Round Paddle Piccola’ kitchen mixer. The benchtop and splashback are Caesarstone ‘Mineral’ in Adamina, with ‘Rome’ wall sconces from Temple & Webster.

Winter living room

This cosy ‘winter’ living room features a Few & Far ‘Bonnie’ chair in Green and MCM House ‘Tonk’ stool in Aged White. The En Gold ‘Paradis’ coffee table in Fossil Stone chimes with a Darren Palmer ‘Zen White’ rug.

Study

The desk in the home office is designed with Kinsman ‘Avalon’ profiles in Coastal Oak Woodmatt. It’s teamed with a Casa Blanco ‘Nobu’ dining chair in Natural Oak Tan Leather.

Main bedroom

For a grand effect in the bedroom, Darren positioned two Lounge Lovers ‘Serenity’ ribbed king bedheads in Cream side by side. They’re a magnificent match for the Wallpaper Direct ‘Fabric Effect’ in Beige on the wall, which has a tactile quality. Demonstrating a clever design hack, a Loughlin Furniture ‘Alura’ full-length mirror in American Oak Light has been mounted horizontally above the bed.

The bed is dressed with Carlotta + Gee’s linen duvet set in Chocolate, which is a delicious contrast to the sandy shades of the Carpet Court ‘Bali’ sheer curtains in Flax. Few & Far ‘Agnes’ table lamps in White stand on RJ Living ‘Peggy’ bedside tables in Oak. A Darren Palmer ‘Travertine Brown’ rug adds textural elegance. ‘Bird of Paradise’ by Joshua Yeldham hangs on the wall, echoing the rusty pink tones seen throughout the home.

“I’ve used sandy pink and beige tones throughout our home, with statement artworks”

Darren Palmer

Ensuite

The vanity in the couple’s ensuite is crafted from CDK Stone Monreale marble. On the wall are Earp Bros square unglazed tiles in Off White Matt, lit by Estilo Living ‘Bartel’ wall lights in White with White Base. A pair of Loughlin Furniture ‘Alura’ mirror cabinets fit neatly above the sinks with Meir x Darren Palmer Lustre Bronze tapware.

Bedroom

In the bedroom, Porter’s Paints Interno Lime Wash in Cinnamon Sugar creates a chic finish. The ‘Zach’ bed frame in Off-White (with In Bed linen), is joined by a ‘Sorrento’ bedside table, both from Lifely, with a Rachel Donath lamp.

“We retained the original ceiling and used a lime wash paint on the walls for a cocooning effect”

Darren Palmer

Alfresco area

The home’s previous poky doors that led out to the patio were replaced with Architectural Window Systems ComfortEDGE Sliding Doors. “They’re floor-to-ceiling with no sills, no frames, nothing visible. You can open them completely without any impediments,” says Darren. “They let all this gorgeous light in and you can look out into the bamboo and palm trees.” In a video on Darren’s Instagram, he shows just how seamless the door design is. They’re a great idea if you’re looking to double your living space.

A significant consideration in the home’s redesign was how to maximise the outside areas. “We have four outdoor spaces now,” explains Darren. “There’s one poolside, a terrace above that, our backyard with a lawn and then another outdoor space outside our son’s bedroom.” Adjacent to the home’s main living area is the terraced alfresco space, which encourages indoor-outdoor living.

An Early Settler ‘Ripple’ curved outdoor dining table in White creates a casual and comfortable place for sharing a meal or enjoying a morning coffee. For more relaxed lounging, the Temple & Webster ‘Venice’ outdoor lounge set and Few & Far ‘Clifton’ coffee table in Red Alicante is just right, grounded by a Darren Palmer ‘Sandridge Ripple’ rug.

Pool

“The biggest surprise is probably the pool area,” shares Darren. “We put the pool in the front yard, which is kind of a strange thing to do really, but it made a lot of sense because we’ve ended up with this pretty massive poolside entertaining area that was unusable dead space before.” Prestige Fencing aluminium tubular fencing in Surfmist runs alongside the Plungie ‘Arena’ 3.5-metre pool in Kona Coast. An Original Parasol Co ‘The Fitzroy’ umbrella offers additional shade during dips, while a TH Brown lounge and foot stool provides a spot to unwind. The Few & Far ‘Odin’ coffee table in Elm Wood functions as a handy bench seat.

Architect: Deuchrass Architects, deuchrassarchitects.com.au.
Builder: Taste Living, tasteliving.com.au.
Interior designer: Darren Palmer, darrenpalmer.com.
Stonemason: Macarthur Marble & Granite using CDK Stone, macarthurmarbleandgranite.com
Landscaping: Ladybug Landscapes, @ladybuglandscapesaustralia.

SOURCE BOOK

Be the first to read this story by subscribing to Home Beautiful magazine.

⁠Have it delivered to your door!

The post Darren Palmer’s freshly renovated Bondi home has sold appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Who lives here?

Interior designer Belinda Dowsett, her husband Charlie, who works in finance, and the couple’s Border Collies, Holly and Poppy.

What’s your design style? Belinda: “My style is timeless and transitional, with international elements, mixing classic and modern. To me, that’s what makes the homes I create feel peaceful, welcoming, comfortable and unique.”

And your favourite styling tip? “Art is the most valuable part of a home and it ties everything together. They don’t have to be pieces that are expensive, but they should be pieces you connect with.”

What’s left to do in this home? “The original laundry hadn’t been touched, so we’re embarking on a beautiful makeover.

When the opportunity arose to purchase a beloved property in Palm Beach from Belinda’s family, the couple couldn’t refuse.

“My mum and dad bought it when our son, who’s now 28, was born. They were in an apartment in Birchgrove and wanted a beautiful family home with lawn for their grandchildren,” recalls Belinda. “While I was in hospital holding my firstborn, Matthew, Mum held up the real estate booklet and said, ‘I don’t know whether I should go to this auction’. I agreed she should leave immediately to go and bid on the house.”

Her mother did just that – and it was soon theirs. For many years, it served as a cherished weekender, later a refuge during Covid and finally, in 2023, it became Belinda and Charlie’s full-time home. “We’ve nearly been there two years,” she says. The home had undergone a renovation 12 years earlier, guided by architect James De Soyres and builder Ryan Stidwill, with Belinda and her interiors-enthusiast mother bringing their skills to the project.

“She’s never worked as an interior designer, but Mum’s very talented with design,” says Belinda. “She used to renovate our houses. That’s how I learnt how you can change homes.”

When the property officially became theirs, Belinda gave it a refresh. “When we took it over two years ago, we did a complete change of decor. The fabric, furniture, rugs, everything was either reused or repurposed or reupholstered.”

Today, antiques and French-inspired pieces sit harmoniously alongside the couple’s treasured art collection. A new layer of sisal carpet now runs up the stairs and through the bedrooms.

“The most important thing I did was change the carpet to a beautiful natural sisal. When that went down, it really brought all of the pieces together,” recalls Belinda.

New window furnishings relaxed the interiors, with curtains and Roman blinds replacing shutters. “I needed to soften it and make it a permanent home.” With six bedrooms, four bathrooms and a gently flowing layout, the home is often full of visitors. “Our two children, Matt and Steph, come and stay with their partners, so it’s a very busy, beautiful, happy home.”

Classic and timeless, this Nantucket-style abode has been made perfect for the present and the many years still to come. “I’m pinching myself,” says Belinda. “I absolutely love it.”

Kitchen

This kitchen was done over 20 years ago and I love it. It’s timeless and so beautiful,” says Belinda. “When we moved in, all we did was put in a new sink and tap, and repainted to match the existing colour. Mum mixed this with the painters and they called it Cynthea cream.”

WE LOVE…displaying dinnerware

Rather than hide everything in cabinets, Belinda puts her prettiest crockery out for all to see. “I love displaying the beautiful things that I have,” she says. “I put all of our best china out because I think, why else would you have it, if not to show it?” For tableware, browse davidjones.com.

The splashback and island benchtop tiles were added during a previous renovation more than two decades ago (for similar tiles, try ‘Garden Blanc Green Corners’ handpainted tiles from Aeria Country Floors). The blue tiled border ties in perfectly with the Corningware and vintage items displayed on the shelves.

“We have the kitchen in the centre of the home, which is always important, and we’ve taken out walls to let the light in,” says Belinda. “I specialise in doing kitchens for people, but I am leaving ours as it is. It’s so beautiful that I don’t want to renovate it.” One of the minor updates she did undertake was furnishing the windows, installing soft, sheer Roman unlined blinds (for similar, try Luxaflex).

Dining

A vintage rug covers the Crema Marfil marble floor tiles, with a pre-loved dining table and chairs that Belinda sourced and hand-painted. The cushions are upholstered in Colefax and Fowler ‘Minack Check’ in Pale Blue.

The blue cabinet is an antique piece the couple have owned for years, with Villeroy & Boch crockery displayed on the open shelves.

Living room

“This is a beautiful antique oak chest of drawers I have had for many years,” shares Belinda of the tallboy behind the striped sofas. Above it hangs a French painting of port city Le Havre, which was purchased in an antiques shop in Amsterdam when the couple lived there. The room is given depth and soul with vintage and pre-loved pieces, such as the chequered red lamps and side table.

Piles of coffee table books and magazines enhance the lived-in feeling that’s been created in the cosy living area.

Hallway

Framing picturesque views of the garden and entertaining area, the hallway leading to the kitchen is lined with windows. “It creates this lovely vista just outside. There’s a beautiful rose that you can see blossoming,” says Belinda. Custom shades dress up the Visual Comfort & Co sconces.

Bedrooms

One of the bedrooms has cushions in an archived Colefax and Fowler fabric (for similar, try ‘Finch Toile’ in Buttercup), paired with handembroidered sheets and a lamp from Pigott’s Store.Store. The side table is from Pepperwhites by Tara Dennis; the framed artwork was a find at Lydie du Bray Antiques.

I love styling beds and do lots of layers. It’s only complete when the elements feel balanced and harmonious.

Belinda

Hand-embroidered sheets from Letto Bello Linen team with curtains featuring Sanderson ‘Harebells & Violets’ fabric in Lemon/Teal, which also appears on the cushions. Belinda’s parents gave her the painting above the bed depicting a French scene.

Balcony access for this bedroom is framed with curtains in a Sanderson fabric.

Jewellery and pretty trinkets are displayed on an Aerin tray.

Another bedroom features cushions covered in Colefax and Fowler ‘Wyndham’ in Pale Blue. The embroidered sheets are from Isla Design, layered with green-trimmed Pigott’s Store bedding and a bedspread from Ivy Lane

Belinda had lamp shades made from a soft green wallpaper and a bright green trim for this bedroom. This lamp stands on a pre-loved side table.

A window seat creates a moment in one of the bedrooms, which was built into the attic space, with a cushion covered in Colefax and Fowler fabric.

Study

The office features watercolour paintings of flora and a kookaburra painted by Belinda, who holds an art history degree. The artwork on the bottom-right of the wall is from her grandmother, while the antique flower artwork was from Lydie du Bray Antiques. These surround a Visual Comfort & Co light with a custom Colefax and Fowler fabric lampshade. The table and chairs were used for dining in the couple’s previous city terrace and repurposed here.

Bathrooms

The home boasts two main bedrooms, one of which is flanked by an ensuite with postcard-perfect views. A classic grey-veined marble covers the floor and vanity top, and surrounds the Kaldewei bath. Soft Roman unlined blinds similar to those used elsewhere in the house bring whimsy to the space, filtering the natural light and offering privacy.

Above a mirror built into the joinery, the wall lights are ‘Siena Single Sconces’ from Visual Comfort & Co. The same custom Cynthea cream paint colour from the kitchen was used in this ensuite. Tapware is from the Brodware ‘Neu England’ range and enhances the traditional look.

Double sinks and striking marble make a statement in the ensuite, with a Visual Comfort & Co wall light.

Alfresco

The pool was added around eight years ago. “It was an incredible addition to the house, in the perfect location,” says Belinda. It runs alongside an outdoor dining area with a large, tile-topped concrete table.

“It hasn’t moved for more than twenty years.” Belinda welcomed two new yellow umbrellas from Original Parasol Co to “lift” the area with a bright pop of colour.

Interior design BM Interiors, bminteriors.com.au.
Architect James de Soyres & Associates, jdesa.com.au.
Builder RW Stidwill Constructions, rwstidwill.com.au.

Source Book

The post A Nantucket style home in Palm Beach comes with a family legacy appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Who lives here?

Gary and Pauline, both 70, both business owners.

Were there any specific details you requested? Gary: “We wanted a roomy house on a small lot of land, so doublestorey and a good lift was essential.”

Were there any surprises? “It was during Covid so we were always expecting surprises but everything was well documented and overall nothing disrupted the build.”

The couple, both business owners, sought a home that would carry them gracefully into their next chapter. Enter Studio Tom, the interior designers behind the project, who brought the couple’s vision for a “Scandi inspired, sophisticated industrial warehouse interior” to life with a deep appreciation for craftmanship.

“The architectural layout was established within a larger development, featuring boutique warehouse-inspired structures,” explains Robbie Peirce, interior designer at Studio Tom. “It was all about honouring that context while creating a home that felt personal and refined.”

The two-year build, carried out through Covid by master builder Greg Luke and architecture firm Sense of Space, was remarkably smooth, thanks to meticulous planning. “The house was purpose-built,” Gary notes. “We knew we wanted a lift to be integrated from the outset, not added later.”

Stepping inside, you’re immediately embraced by tactile surfaces that elevate the industrial palette to something unexpectedly romantic. Light, often a challenge in compact homes, was addressed with a custom staircase that rises through a double-height void, drawing daylight deep into the home’s core.

Throughout, custom joinery in natural timber veneers, stainless steel and honed stone speak to the couple’s desire for materials that are not only beautiful but enduring. In the bathrooms, tactile porcelain tiles lend depth and character, while the bar is elevated with intricate Japanese mosaics – one of designer Robbie’s favourite moments in the home for its artistry.

But ask resident Gary to name the true heart of the home, and his answer is immediate. “The outdoor walled courtyard with the open fireplace,” he says. “We sit there before or after dinner during autumn and spring.” Enclosed yet open to the skies, it’s a space where the industrial edge of brick and steel softens under flickering firelight, inviting conversation long into the evening. It’s the kind of space that shows how perfectly the house suits them. “It’s exactly what we wanted,” Gary reflects. “We wouldn’t change a thing.”

Dining

Designed for downsizers Gary and Pauline, this striking residence in Victoria is industrial yet sophisticated. “Upon entry, residents are enveloped in timber and limewashed brick,” shares interior designer Robbie Peirce from Studio Tom. Flush-pointed brickwork, finished in a natural Porter’s Paints limewash, rises up the east wall. Timber shiplap lining boards – sourced responsibly – wrap the main internal volume of the home, their earthy warmth offsetting polished concrete floors.

The dining space features a Christopher Blank table, custom-made from Tasmanian hydrowood. This is paired with Grazia & Co ‘Diiva’ chairs to tie in with the style of the ‘Diiva’ kitchen stools.

Kitchen

The ground floor is designed for function and flow, featuring a generous kitchen with a walk-in pantry and dining area, all seamlessly connected to an alfresco courtyard. Sleek stainless steel benchtops bring a modern edge, beautifully balanced by the George Fethers & Co ‘Lignapal’ timber veneer island base in Oak Crown. Overhead, the sculptural ‘Highline’ pendant by Archier from Rakumba creates a distinguished focal point, its clean lines echoed by the black Grazia & Co ‘Diiva’ no back stools. Premium appliances, including Miele ovens and an Asko cooktop, along with Brodware ‘Yokato’ tapware, complete the space.

We love…stainless steel

In keeping with the raw, industrial appeal of the warehouse aesthetic, stainless steel has been chosen for the kitchen benchtops, offering both durability and a sleek, reflective quality. The design embraces symmetry, with the back bench and custom-made Qasair rangehood creating visual alignment. The rangehood reinforces the kitchen’s streamlined look while providing powerful ventilation.

The warmth of responsibly sourced timber shiplap offsets the concrete slab flooring.

Robbie, interior designer

Living

A cosy living space is situated on the first floor, at the top of the stairs. Here, Jardan ‘Lola’ armchairs and a ‘Nook’ sofa are set beside an Ortal standalone fireplace. A custom Christopher Blank coffee table sits on an Armadillo ‘Odessa’ rug. Extra natural light is filtered into this area through clerestory windows and exposed timber trusses.

Grazia & Co ‘Harvey’ armchairs in the living room can swivel towards the fireplace or television. Savage Design ‘Maddox’ shelving creates a custom display unit.

The bar area sits behind the living zone and features Grazia & Co ‘Diiva’ upholstered stools with backs. Tiles are Artedomus ‘Yuki Border’ Japanese mosaic tiles and the benchtop is Taj Mahal quartzite.

Cabinetry in the bar is George Fethers & Co ‘Lignapal’ timber veneer in Oak Crown. Snelling Studio ‘Arch’ wall lights feature.

Japanese mosaics add a distinctive touch to the bar area on the first floor.

Robbie

Bedroom

Upstairs in the main building are two bedrooms – each with walk-in robes and ensuites – designed to soak up the landscape of the Macedon Ranges.

One of the bedrooms features a solid oak bench seat with upholstered cushion. The Astro Lighting ‘Fuse’ wall light offers bedside illumination.

At the bedside in one of the bedrooms is a custom metal bedside table. This room has Bremworth ‘Samurai’ wool carpet on the floor.

Studio

In a building adjoining the main home is a studio with a study and its own bedroom and bathroom.

Bathroom

The adjoining ensuite features a custom formed bath, made with Monolith porcelain homogeneous tiles. A skylight helps bring in natural light through high-level windows.

Custom cabinets in George Fethers & Co ‘Lignapal’ veneer Oak White Wash are paired with a marble benchtop and splashback. The hardware is from Brodware, with a ‘Yokato’ tap at the Astra Walker sinks. Custom cabinet mirrors have integrated LED lighting.

The separate studio has its own bathroom, which features the same elements as used throughout the home and other bathrooms.

Exterior

On the facade, recycled red bricks, timeworn and full of soul, form the foundation of two structures connected by the garage. The main home stands alongside the studio with the pitched roof. Double-glazed windows are carefully positioned to invite natural light and cross ventilation, while ensuring privacy amid the bustle beyond.

Interior design Robbie Peirce, Studio Tom, studiotom.com.au.
Architecture Original design by Centrum Architects, centrumarchitects.com.au; Customised by Sense of Space, sosarchitects.com.au.

Source book

The post A warehouse-inspired retreat in the Macedon Ranges appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Perched in a prime location with views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the home had enviable bones – but its dated 1980s interiors, complete with bold teal walls, were crying out for a refresh.

Jane moved in with her husband and their two children in mid-2023. About a year later, in August 2024, she revealed on Instagram that a renovation was underway: “Building the home of our dreams!” she shared.

With the expertise of interior designer Crystal Bailey, builder Andrew Croft of Croft Built, and custom furniture makers Fform, the home has undergone a major transformation. Sneak peeks through social media reveal a shift from a jumble of styles and clashing colours to a calm, cohesive neutral oasis.

Not only have the interiors been modernised, but the exterior has also received a significant update. Croft Built shared the details: “We recently completed an extensive refresh for our good friends in Birchgrove, Sydney,” they said. The team revamped the outdoor area with over 100m² of concrete, Turkish marble pavers, low-maintenance turf, refreshed stairs and jetty, plus new paint and lighting throughout.

The fashion power player famously started her business in 2010 while living at home with her parents as a twentysomething. At the time, Jane pretended to head to her corporate job every day (which she had actually quit) but instead hit the cafe or library to get the fashion store up and running.

The new career move was only revealed to her family once Jane found success – and success it sure has found. More than a decade on, Showpo brings in more than $100 million per year.

The self-proclaimed @thelazyceo on Instagram and TikTok has shared the journey with her ample social media following, including life with her husband James Waldie, who formerly worked at Uber and is now CFO at Showpo, and their two young children.

The family moved on up from their Balmain home which sold in October 2023 for $3.2m.

Inside Jane Lu’s waterfront Birchgrove mansion pre-renovation

The Birchgrove property is quite the upgrade from the family’s former Balmain home. Their new pad is in prime position, backing onto the water with views of Sydney Harbour and the Harbour Bridge.

The three-bedroom, three-bathroom house was built in the late 1980s and designed to get loads of natural light via floor-to-ceiling windows and French doors.

The lower level contains an open-plan living room, dining area and kitchen space which opens onto the outdoor patio. Upstairs are bedrooms which can be reached via a statement walkway.

The glass atrium gives an expansive feeling and allows the knockout view to be captured from every angle. We can see Jane Lu having the other sharks over for a beverage or two here.

The money shot is at the back in the alfresco area… there’s just a casual view of the Harbour Bridge. Can you imagine the New Year’s Eve experience? We know whose house we’d be crashing if we were Jane’s mates. Beyond the perfect patio setting is the manicured garden, charming boat house and impressive personal pontoon.

The pontoon has to be the cherry on the top of the cake of this property. When Jane’s not at Showpo head office we imagine she’d be right here. Nothing like spending the day on the Harbour, then pulling in to park your boat in your very own backyard.

The Sydney Harbour skyline is the kind of setting the Showpo CEO would never tire of. Now that’s a view worthy of a Shark Tank judge… and a not-so-lazy CEO.

Jane Lu’s net worth is now said to be around $55 million. Not bad for the corporate-world dropout.

The post Showpo CEO Jane Lu’s $14m waterfront mansion makeover appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Building a Spanish Mission-style home

Tracey quickly began drawing up plans and set about exploring concepts with builders in 2022. “We tried to go through a stock standard builder at the beginning to keep costs down, but they just kept coming back with things I didn’t like. In the end, we went with a custom builder and got them to design a basic concept that faced out to the park,” she says. “The design had the feeling of what I liked, so we ran with that and made alterations and changes, added in the detail and put in the archways because I wanted that European-style outlook.”
Tracey wove in elements from the Spanish Mission-style homes she loved in Los Angeles and the classical buildings that had captivated her on travels through France and Italy. The trick was to do it in a subtle, site-sensitive way so the new build blended beautifully with the Brisbane bushland. “I knew I wanted the home to have that Mediterranean kind of look, but I think you have to design for where you are as well,” she explains. As such, Dulux White Exchange Half makes for a fresh facade with Colorbond roofing in Monument.

Who lives here?

Tracey Leeson, interior designer and co-founder of Porch Light Interiors, her husband Darren, an engineer, and their grown-up sons, Oscar, Cooper and Hunter.
Favourite spaces to relax at home? Tracey: “I love the main living room and our bedroom. Darren built himself a beautiful workshop in the garage because he loves to do woodworking projects in his spare time. He’s always tinkering with something and enjoys building cabinets or making things for me, like beautiful picture frames.”
What are your weekend rituals? “We love cooking together, playing board games and having family or friends over. Darren is an avid gardener and we make fresh pesto with basil from our garden.”

Inside the design process

With the Spanish Mission-style form decided, Tracey turned to the interiors. “I wanted three-metre ceilings downstairs and for all the areas to feel really elevated. I also wanted lots of classic windows, natural light and as many natural fibres and materials as possible,” she says. Despite their oldest son, Oscar, living out of home at the time, Tracey made sure he, Cooper and Hunter each had their own rooms, plus a living area to host friends. For Darren, she carved out an office and carpentry workshop for his hobby.

By day, Tracey poured her attention into her clients’ homes, working alongside her sister Hayley Hayes and their Porch Light Interiors team. And by night, she drew up plans for her own home, often working late into the evenings. “By the end, it was a pretty busy time,” she admits. “I was making a million decisions and had a bit of decision fatigue, and that’s where having the team was so helpful – their perspective reinspired me to look at the project through fresh eyes and get back on track.”
In true sister act style, Tracey credits Hayley with stepping forward when she yearned to take a step back. “I relied on her with the furnishings; she helped me pull all the fabrics together,” she says. “We work really well together – we have similar ideas and different strengths.”

Tour the Spanish Mission-style home

The family is now enjoying the fruits of this labour of love. Even Oscar moved back after the build. For Tracey, being both designer and client sweetened the result. She now gets to walk through the rooms of her reveries, experiencing them, at last, in a home of her own.

Entrance

An antique console from Watertiger greets the family at the entry. It holds an old mirror, a vintage artwork from Dirty Janes in Bowral, NSW, and a vase from a second-hand store in Singapore.

Kitchen

“I wanted good quality lighting, but nothing over the top. These are quite simple pieces, yet they bring in beautiful metal and are neutral”

Tracey, homeowner and designer

A symphony of symmetry is at play in the kitchen, where slender windows drench the space with natural light. The arched rangehood is finished with Dulux Venetian Plaster in Alpine Resort, which harmonises with the custom stools and beige bejmat tiles on the splashback from Stone3. Below them, the Miele induction cooktop from Harvey Norman is almost invisible, inset within the Carrara marble benchtop from Brisbane Granite & Marble. Tracey shipped the Quoizel ‘Leona’ pendants from Lighting Direct in the US. “They’re bold, but also quite simple,” she says of the design. “I didn’t want anything too glitzy, it wasn’t the right house for that.”

Contrasting tones unfold in the family’s kitchen, where the island is defined in deep Porter’s Paints Highlands. The remaining joinery is in Porter’s Paints Washed Linen and has a slim Shaker profile, with knobs and pulls from Hepburn Hardware. Tracey lined the layout with “a million drawers” and ample cupboards for plenty of storage space, plus open shelving in the butler’s pantry. “I still have some kitchen drawers with nothing in them, so I’m pretty excited about that,” she shares. “It means I can buy new things when I’m travelling, as I have room to put everything away when I get home.” Tracey opted for a Raw Brass finish on the ‘Molise’ mixer from Designer Tapware Co and bought all the kitchen appliances, from the Bosch wall ovens to the Fisher & Paykel fridge, at Harvey Norman.

We love… stylish storage

Rather than designing the butler’s pantry as a solely utilitarian space, Tracey uses it to display vignettes with function. “I wanted to keep the kitchen as clutter-free as possible, so having a butler’s pantry is a great way to store everything,” she says. “It’s nice having open shelves that you look through to, where I can display larger pretty objects.” The often tricky-to-store stand mixer charms from its shelf and Tracy resisted the urge to stack big platters, arranging them artfully instead.

Dining area

“I have always loved block-print fabrics and wallpapers,” shares Tracey, who chose ‘Jangal’ by Virginia Kraft to paper a wall in the dining area. “The colour of this was perfect with the green leaf pattern in a paisley shape and the soft, creamy background.” Long dinner parties unfold here, so Tracey added custom seat cushions in a Tejido Textiles fabric to the vintage dining chairs. She also used a Westbury Textiles linen on the banquette. The old pedestal dining table was revived with a coat of Feast Watson ‘Black Japan’ stain.

Living room

In the main living area, Tracey customised the L-shaped sofa in a Westbury Textiles linen. She added cushions in her favourite fabrics: ‘Chiltern’ from Fermoie and ‘Rumeli’ from Penny Morrison. “I already owned the armchairs and had them recovered in Tejido Textiles fabric,” she says. These are joined by cushions in a Lisa Fine Textiles ‘Yasmina’ print. Tracey placed an antique drum stool from Orient House between them, as a resting spot for cups of tea. “Darren and I use this space often and entertain friends here,” she says. The leather coffee table is from Boyd Blue. It is placed atop a rug from Silk Road Handmade Rugs. The urn is from Tracey’s mother-in-law.

Main bedroom

“Hayley gave me the confidence to say ‘Yes, that’s going to work’,” says Tracey of her sister. She helped select the fabrics and window treatments, including blockout curtains and blinds in Mokum linen in the couple’s bedroom. Hayley’s Cavoodle pooch, Maple, gives her paw stamp of approval to the armchair, upholstered in Cloth & Print Co fabric.

Family bathroom

In the family bathroom, the Carrara marble-topped vanity finished in Dulux Dollar offers plenty of storage. Tracey created chequerboard flooring with ‘Maku Light’ and ‘Maku Dark’ tiles from Groove Tile & Stone. For a similar mirror, try Middle of Nowhere ‘Pierre’ mirror.

“I think every space needs a little green to connect it to the outside world; green ‘earths’ your interior spaces”

Tracey, homeowner and designer

Hunter’s bedroom

A Mayvn Interiors bedhead, Roman blind in Mokum linen and a vintage cushion cosy up Hunter’s bedroom

“I love the Spanish Mission-style homes in LA and we’ve travelled to Italy and France, so it’s a combination of those classic styles from places I love”

Tracey, homeowner and designer

Spanish Mission-style alfresco

“I love the sense of calm,” says Tracey of the arch-framed terrace. “One thing that really draws me to this space is that looking out at greenery, you feel your blood pressure lowering – it’s that connection to nature. It’s beautiful and quiet, and we’ve seen a koala just wandering across the park and up the gum trees.” The arches were positioned just so to frame painterly parkland views. With its breezy connection between indoors and out, the sheltered terrace acts as another living space. Tracey outfitted the area with furniture and seating from Alboo and Lincoln Brooks. These pieces are topped with a mix of cushions in fabrics by Kathryn M Ireland, Walter G and vintage Suzani. A sisal area rug brings comfort underfoot on balmy Brisbane days.

Interior design: Porch Light Interiors, porchlightinteriors.com.au.

Building designer: Elevate Design Studio, elevatedesignstudio.com.au.

Builder: LanCon, lanconqld.com.

Source book

Be the first to read this story by subscribing to Home Beautiful magazine.

⁠Have it delivered to your door!

The post Spanish Mission-style finds a home in Brisbane with this new build appeared first on Home Beautiful.

The big renovation

The Fahds continued to live in the house for a couple more years before considering a head-to-toe update. “Renovating the main bathroom made us realise, ‘Oh, okay, if we do this on a larger scale, we are not going to be able to do it ourselves,” recalls Sarah Marie. “We’ve got work, we’ve got the kids [son Lyon joined the family in 2023]. That’s why we engaged Priscilla, our interior designer.”

Priscilla Elasi, founder and director of Studio Priscilla, says she embarked on “a timeless, contemporary interior that would age gracefully – avoiding transient design trends”. The aesthetic? Modern with subtle French influences. “We did this through Shaker and moulding joinery, herringbone tiles, timber flooring and aged brass hardware,” explains Priscilla. “These elements were carefully curated to feel refined, yet current.”

Architect Sam Russo from Habitat Housing designed a sympathetic extension with an open-plan living space, a concealed laundry and pantry, and a master suite with a walk-in robe and ensuite.

Who lives here?

Sarah Marie and Matty Fahd, cast members of reality television show, Gogglebox, and their sons, Malik, five, and Lyon, two. Rounding out the family is English bulldog, Bane, whom Sarah Marie describes as “a menace”.

Any problems during the renovation? None, according to Sarah Marie. “Our builders were incredible, and Priscilla would be on site all the time, checking every detail. Our architect was a really good communicator, as well. Having people who know what they’re doing and communicate well with each other allowed us to enjoy the process. We were never overly stressed or anxious.”
Any specific renovation requests? To avoid sharp joinery corners for the safety of the couple’s children, explains Priscilla. “We incorporated soft curves on the kitchen island bench and ensured the fireplace design had no sharp edges.”
What do the kids love about the house? “There’s a lot of playing Batman, jumping on the couch and running down the halls,” says Sarah Marie. “They love playing under the sprinkler in the yard, as well.”

Living

Sarah Marie and Matty’s 1960s brick house has been sensitively brought into the 2020s. This is most evident in the living space, where – you guessed it – the couple, along with friend Jad Nehmetallah, record hilarious Gogglebox commentary.

“The extension’s open-plan layout replaced the separate kitchen and living areas, making the space more conducive to hosting,” says Priscilla. The Fahds coveted loads of natural light, “but we wanted it to feel homely, comfortable and not sterile,” says Sarah Marie. “I love the high ceilings.”

Kitchen

A lot of thought was put into both the ‘macro’ details and the finer features of the kitchen, living and dining areas. Practicality was always top of mind. Sam drafted roof lines to allow as much light in as possible – the ceiling soars to more than five metres – while Sarah Marie worked with Priscilla on seamless kitchen surfaces.

“I don’t like having too many handles on cupboards sticking out,” she says. “Because I bump my legs on things all the time! I didn’t want anything that’s impractical in any way. I wanted storage, and timeless finishes. We didn’t want specific features that date over time.” Dark ‘Ravenswood’ joinery by New Age Veneers no doubt disguises the kids’ sticky fingerprints, too.

A Scotch aficionado, Matty loves to entertain and on his wish list was a hidden bar. Even if their guests abstain from drinking, the bar, featuring Verde Alpi marble, sets the tone. “Once that’s open, it means, ‘People are coming! It’s on, it’s entertaining time’,” says Sarah Marie.

Hidden bar

Dining

Ensuite bathroom

“The renovation and extension introduced a master suite with a walk-in robe and main ensuite,” shares Priscilla. Green Verde Alpi marble and Florentine walnut joinery complement each other perfectly. Warm, aged brass Astra Walker tapware punctuates the dreamy sanctuary.

Neutral limestone wall tiles don’t detract from the showstopping herringbone floor tiles by Design Tiles, which also incorporate Verde Alpi marble. “Natural stone has a timeless quality that elevates the overall design,” says Priscilla.

Now the house is complete, Sarah Marie and Matty can simply kick back and watch more TV. And entertain us in the process.

Bedroom

Interior design: Studio Priscilla, studiopriscilla.com

Architecture: Habitat Housing, habitathousing.com.au

Builder: EXM Projects, exmprojects.com.au 

Source book

The post Tour the renovated Sydney home of Gogglebox’s Sarah Marie and Matty appeared first on Home Beautiful.

“The size of the home was what we were looking for, but we felt the interiors needed a refresh,” says Leah. “However, when looking to renovate previous homes, we discovered interior design was not either of our strengths.” To usher in the warm ambience that they love in a layered modern house, the couple tasked interior designer Lily Cumberland with its transformation, which then unfolded over several years and staged phases.

Who lives here?

Leah, Trent and the couple’s three-year-old Toy Poodle, Lottie.
What was your approach to furnishings?
Leah: “Moving from a small apartment, we didn’t have enough furniture to fill the space, so we had to start afresh to achieve the consistency in look and feel that we wanted throughout the house.”
Favourite weekend rituals?
“We enjoy having friends over on the weekends. A lot of them love heading downstairs to select a wine from the new wine storage area! When not entertaining, we like reading and soaking up the sun on our daybed.”
Any flow-on effects from the redesign?
“The level of finishes means that it takes a fancy hotel room a lot more to impress!”

The modern house renovation

Starting at the ground floor, moving to the first level then finishing with the under-house zone and studio, Lily gutted and reimagined the entire interior from 2018 to 2024. “The main goal was clear: we needed to shift the space from feeling like a cold, commercial office building to something that was warm, welcoming, and truly felt like home,” she says. And just like that, the warm modern house makeover began.

Out went the generic square-tiled flooring as well as the heavy stainless steel balustrade (“it didn’t exactly make the space feel warm or inviting,” says Lily). And in came a chorus of natural materials, organic shapes and colour. “Trent and Leah were open to incorporating pink tones throughout – something I was absolutely thrilled about since it’s one of my favourite colours,” she says. Finally, Lily demolished walls for better flow in the kitchen, relocated the laundry, carved out new breakout rooms and storage spaces, and even redesigned the main ensuite to frame iconic views of the Anzac Bridge.

“We’ve always admired homes that have thoughtfully mixed textures and colours, and wanted to achieve that here”

Leah

To Leah and Trent’s delight, they can now entertain, work from home and relax in style, both indoors and out. However, the best part is that for the first time since they picked up the keys, their house finally feels like home.

Foyer

Nestled between the new gym, garage and cellar is the lower-ground foyer, where both a Coco Republic console and sconces add drama to the ‘Scarpa’ floor tiles from Surface Gallery.

Dining area

A Tappeti ‘Faded Neon’ rug in Fog grounds Coco Republic chairs as well as a Zuster ‘Stella’ table in Coal Oak in the dining area. Lily also decorated the soaring atrium with an original artwork by Charmaine Pwerle.

Living room

“We wanted a blend of modern and classic,” says Leah. A custom Tappeti rug and Coco Republic coffee table strike a colourful chord in the living area beside Arthur G ‘Mondo’ sofas and a ‘Lunar’ armchair. The James Said ‘Astro’ bookshelf and Timothy Oulton ‘Light Wheel’ pendants add an edgy twist to the room, which bathes in filtered light from Mokum ‘Kensho’ sheers in Oyster.

Studio

Monochrome appears throughout the scheme of this modern house. “Trent and Leah had some truly striking, bold art pieces,” says Lily. Works from Coco Republic hang in the studio, and tie in with the couple’s old vintage sofa plus its new counterpart and marble coffee table, both Coco Republic. The rug is Tappeti.

Studio ensuite

All bathrooms in this modern house were redesigned, even the ensuite in the studio. Here, Coco Republic lighting, Carrara marble wall mosaics from Surface Gallery, an ‘Issy’ shaving cabinet from Reece and Parisi basin complete the look.

Kitchen

Smartstone benchtops, Eveneer cabinetry from Elton Group and Coco Republic bar stools were all essential ingredients in the kitchen scheme for Lily.

Butler’s pantry

Hidden off the kitchen is the butler’s pantry, which has upper joinery in Resene Foggy Grey as well as lower V-groove cupboards in Resene Alabaster.

Main bedroom

One of Lily’s favourite features is the run of Mokum ‘Handloom’ curtains in Silk that river through the main bedroom. “There was a bit of hesitation from Trent and Leah about this choice, but I’m so glad they trusted me,” she shares, “the curtains bring an incredible texture.” The 1.8-metre Arteriors mirror from Boyd Blue is another standout. “It wasn’t just a challenge to get it into the space, it was a whole ordeal to hang! But it completely transformed the room, balancing the asymmetrical pitch of the vaulted ceiling, and it reflects the city skyline views from both sides of the bedroom.” Lamps from Boyd Blue team with a tactile area rug from Tappeti to warm up the space.

Walk-in robe

It wouldn’t be a modern house without a spacious walk-in robe. Mokum ‘Handloom’ curtains in Silk lend an ethereal element to the couple’s walk-in robe.

Ensuite

Metallic accents in the Brodware ‘City Plus’ tapware in Roma Bronze and sculptural pendants from Coco Republic both introduce an air of opulence to Leah and Trent’s ensuite. Joinery in warm-toned Polytec Ravine in Natural Oak harmonises beautifully, while the Apaiser ‘Sapphire’ bath and ‘Sentosa’ basin, both from Candana, act as subtle palette cleansers. “One of the standout features was the Viola marble in the bathrooms – that really took the space to the next level and brings an element of luxury,” says Lily. “The stunning veining and rich red tones make a bold statement and instantly elevate the entire room. It’s one of those materials that feels timeless and adds such depth and character.”

We love… balanced budgets

“We splurged on marble in the various bathrooms as well as certain joinery, lighting fixtures and luxury curtains for the primary bedroom,” shares Leah. “Lily helped us find a mix of affordable tiling in certain areas to offset the cost of the marble.” Viola marble slabs from Surface Gallery star in the vanity and ledge in the couple’s ensuite, while larger, more budget-friendly ‘Aspect’ tiles in White and Carrara ‘Stack’ mosaics clad the remaining space in style.

Alfresco

“We are able to work from home a lot more comfortably than we were used to, which gives us a lot more flexibility in how we manage work and life,” says Leah. “We also enjoy the main floor and outside terraces, which allows for easy entertaining from the butler’s pantry to the kitchen, through to our outside terrace.” Sited above the redesigned studio, the outdoor terrace is bedecked with comfortable alfresco finds from Globe West as well as Coco Republic. Beyond the lush border of greenery and charming rooftop views glints the Sydney skyline, which glows golden at sunset.

Interior design: Lily Cumberland Interior Design, lilycumberland.com.

Builder: Fulcrum Building, fulcrumbuilding.com.au.

Source book

Be the first to read this story by subscribing to Home Beautiful magazine.

⁠Have it delivered to your door!

The post A modern house with heart and soul in Sydney’s Inner West appeared first on Home Beautiful.

“Ryan had found 20 acres that he insisted we drive by to take a look, even though it was way out of our price range,” recalls Danielle of their property search. “I humoured him and while we were making our way back to the ring road, we drove through this area. It was beautiful. I said to Ryan, ‘Why not here?’. We finally knew where we wanted to be.”

Who lives here?

Danielle, an IT consultant, Ryan, a chemical plant technician, his daughters Bonnie, 16, twins Charlotte and Rose, 14, and the couple’s kids Sully, seven, and Edie, five.

Which areas get the most use? Danielle: “The sitting room is where you’ll find Ryan playing the piano or bass guitar with the fire going. The girls love spending time in there lying by the fire on cold evenings, and Sully and Charlotte often play chess there. The kitchen/dining/living area is always alive with activity – it’s never still.”
Favourite room? “My bedroom is like a luxury hotel; I feel spoilt being able to go to sleep in such a beautiful room.
Best building tip? “Don’t underestimate the length of time it can take to plan and get approval. We naively thought we’d be in our new home in mid-2022 and we eventually moved in during mid-2023.”

A search for suitable houses came to naught, so the couple turned their sights to the sole parcel of land in the area for sale– a steeply sloped site that Danielle says “scared off” other buyers with its gradient. Undeterred, they forged ahead in late 2020 and enlisted architect Gary McFarlane and builder McInnes Homes to design and build their dream home.

Initially, Danielle seized the opportunity of working with a blank canvas to channel the style she loved – a handsome, not-quite-Hamptons aesthetic. However, when faced with the sheer scale of selections, let alone layering different fabrics and finishes, the allure soon wore off.

“Trying to pick every single fixture and fitting ourselves was not only going to be extremely time consuming, but also daunting and risky,” she says. “I felt we were either going to end up with a completely white home, because it was safe, or that I would make some bad choices. I needed help!”

The help in question arrived with the experienced eye of interior designer Katherine Lillie, who immediately understood the “masculine Hamptons” aesthetic Danielle envisaged. “The images I sent Katherine as inspiration were mostly navy or green and brass,” she says. “I recall saying in my initial email, ‘Some of it may seem a bit out there’.”

The palette was set in the kitchen after Danielle spotted the colour that now cloaks the cabinetry and the quartzite slab that graces the benchtops. “When I saw it, I didn’t look at another piece,” she says. “As we walked past this piece, it jumped out at me and I was immediately in love with it. I had to have it!”

Hinting at Hamptons style, wainscoting and wall panelling followed, which Katherine dressed in moody blues, a forest of greens and splashes of pattern, to the delight of the family who moved into their new sanctuary in mid-2023. “We love everything about our finished home, the result has been better than we ever expected,” shares Danielle.

Kitchen

Starting with the kitchen, we chose a dark colour palette that exudes sophistication and has an edge of vibrant, moody atmosphere,” says Katherine. “The cabinetry paint colour, Porter’s Paints French Slate, influenced our selection of fabrics, unique tiles and fittings for the rest of the house.” The palette is reflected in stormy Copacabana quartzite benchtops from Gladstones Granite & Marble and underscored by engineered oak floors in Silky Grey from Victorian Designer Floors.

“We spend much of our time in the kitchen and laundry, so made key design decisions to support us in being able to multitask,” says Danielle. “We wanted to ensure we could cook dinner and get the washing done at the same time.” To facilitate this, the kitchen and laundry are linked via the butler’s pantry, which is tucked behind the kitchen splashback and decorated with an Alison Percy artwork that peeps out from the entrance.

Katherine chose ‘Meca’ tiles in Snow from Perini to keep the splashback neutral. On the island, a Perrin & Rowe ‘Phoenician’ mixer from The English Tapware Company echoes the brass Kelly Wearstler pendants above, sourced from The Montauk Lighting Co. The Roman blinds from The Awning and Blind Co are in Nettex ‘Soho’ fabric in Smoke.

Living room

The colours in the kitchen flow into the formal living room (this page & opposite), where a Coco Republic sofa and occasional chairs are resplendent around a cluster of Globe West coffee tables. The cushions from Canvas + Sasson pick up hues in the artwork from Cafe Lighting & Living. “Our goal was to create a timeless residence suitable for a large family, characterised by a masculine, dark and moody atmosphere,” says Katherine of the palette.

“We wanted the home to have a classic and timeless feel, but also contemporary at the same time.”

Danielle, homeowner.

Bedrooms

Thibaut ‘Lewis’ fabric in Charcoal and Bluestone stars on the couple’s bedhead, joined by cushions covered in a Katherine Lillie Interiors textile and Warwick ‘Plush’ fabrics in Vine and Navy. Cafe Lighting & Living ‘Candace’ stools offer a perch at the foot of the bed, while a woollen ‘Magic’ rug in Storm from The Rug Collection is warm underfoot on chilly Melbourne mornings.

“Edie loves her bedroom, she calls it her princess room,” says Danielle of her daughter’s sweet space. Thibaut ‘Chatelain’ wallpaper in Pink unites the colours in the bespoke bedhead, upholstered in Métaphores ‘Atlas’ in Opale, and the wainscoting in Porter’s Paints Pretty in Pink. The bedlinen and lamp base are from Canvas + Sasson and the framed ‘Pink Sweet Pea’ print is from Narissa Perks.

“When it came to the children’s bedrooms, we embraced a more playful and individualised approach,” says Katherine, who wanted each room to “set a scene and a story”.

Bathrooms

A good blend makes sure things don’t feel too stuffy and formal,” says Danielle of the balance between classic and contemporary styles in the main ensuite. The space is warmed by brass Hepburn Hardware handles, Perrin & Rowe tapware and sconces from The Montauk Lighting Co. For cohesion with the kitchen, the vanity is Copacabana quartzite.

WE LOVE…mingling motifs

Mixed motifs abound in the main ensuite, with elongated ‘Long Oct’ Carrara marble floor tiles from Perini and walls veiled in the touchme texture of herringbone marble mosaics (for similar, try ‘Castro White’ tiles from National Tiles). By keeping the tones similar yet varying the tile patterns, Katherine infused the bathroom with tactile interest. For details, visit nationaltiles.com.au and perini.com.au.

“Danielle’s aim was to infuse the home with depth and character…it led us to experiment with patterns and go all out on the finishes.”

Katherine, interior designer.

Mudroom and laundry

The family’s five children have ample storage in the mudroom. Painted in Dulux Sapphire Stone and fitted with joinery in Polytec Oxford, the banquette adds a plush touch with Thibaut ‘Cornelia’ fabric in Navy.

“We focused on practical things like having spaces for school bags, a drying cupboard in the laundry and built-in laundry baskets,” says Danielle of the busy washing zone. Surrounded by plenty of concealed joinery in Polytec Polar White, the Fisher & Paykel washer and dryer from Harvey Norman withstand the constant use with ease and a long benchtop ensures there’s plenty of room to tackle the folding.

Interior design Katherine Lillie Interiors, katherinelillieinteriors.com.au
Architect Gary McFarlane & Associates Architects, 0408 396 011
Builder McInnes Homes, mcinneshomes.com.au

Source Book

Be the first to read this story by subscribing to Home Beautiful magazine.

⁠Have it delivered to your door!

The post A bold blue new build becomes home to a blended family of seven appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Soaring windows, doors and skylights infuse a natural glow, while beautiful joinery ensures the essentials of family life are catered for, but cleverly concealed where possible. “It ticks a lot of boxes,” muses Ashley. “We definitely want to stay here a while.”

The dream journey

Who? Ashley, design and interior consultant; husband Chad who owns Submerge Plumbing & Gas and their children, Asta, 6, and Maya, 3.
Where? Mediterranean inspired, new build set across four levels in inner city Brisbane.
Time frame? Design took approximately six months, the build 12 months and the project was completed November 2024.
The dream? “To create a family home with personalised luxurious touches where every day felt like a holiday,” says Ashley.
Approach? A knock down rebuild which made the most of the 620sqm block and city views.
Must-haves? A statement kitchen, a resort-style pool area, bold styling pieces with hints of colour and city views.
Wishlist? Central indoor outdoor entertaining and living area, an abundance of natural stone, original art and unique light fittings.
Why is this your dream home? “It has a holiday feel, with everything we need and want,” says Ashley

Best advice

“Over the years, I have created a personalised budgeting spreadsheet in Excel that I consistently use which helps me stay organised and on track throughout the entire construction process,” says Ashley. The couple also know where they’ll splurge and where they can save. “We’ve found considerable investment should be directed toward the kitchen and bathrooms. These spaces are central to the home’s functionality and comfort. High-quality fixtures and fittings in these areas not only enhance the overall finish but can also contribute to the property’s value,” says Ashley.

Landscaping is an area they can save. “During the build Chad was hands-on wherever possible, building garden beds, retaining walls, constructing fencing, laying turf and painting,” says Ashley. Engaging a qualified builder, experienced in the type of build you’re embarking on is also essential. “You need to have confidence your builder has the expertise and a network of trades who can achieve the level of finish and architectural details you’re after,” says Ashley, “so look at their past work, ask the questions and ensure you have good communication from the start,” says Ashley.

Realising the dream

“The quality of natural light in a home makes a huge difference to how it feels, so it was really important to capture as much of it as possible and enhance the sense of connectivity to the outdoors,” explains Ashley. This was achieved with custom three-metre-high glass doors, soaring arched windows, a vast double front door and Velux skylights that infuse the home with a natural warm glow.

It was also important to create an outdoor haven. Living in Queensland’s tropical climate, Ashley has found their favourite place to spend time is outside, in the pool and alfresco area. “We live outside, particularly in summer, so the design centred on ensuring the kitchen and living zones overlooked the pool and flowed seamlessly to the alfresco area,” she says. “It feels like you’re on holiday when you eat outside around the pool and can jump in to cool off whenever you want.”

Lessons learnt

Experienced in new builds, Ashley and Chad have accumulated a wealth of knowledge with each step of the building and design process. “One of the biggest things we’ve learnt is patience in the process and the importance of devoting time to the planning,” says Ashley.

“Creating a home that functions well takes time, and working out as many of the details ahead of the build can save headaches down the track. It’s really beneficial in the planning stage to get renders of key spaces like the kitchen, ensuite and outdoor area to ensure it works functionally and aesthetically.”

Kitchen

Beautifully simple with sweeping curves and cloud-like lighting, the kitchen provides wow-factor. The centrepiece is the White Onyx stone island. “It has always been my dream to splurge on stone to create unique, custom-designed vanities and a show-stopping kitchen island,” says Ashley, who designed the sculptural onyx slabs with scalloped edging and went in search of the perfect stone. “We couldn’t find what we were after locally so sourced the White and Wooden Onyx and custom stonemason detailing overseas and had it sent in a container, which arrived six weeks before install.”

“Creatively, I was able to do a lot of things I’d always wanted to. It was a dream to custom-design the onyx surfaces, which give the kitchen and bathrooms a unique look.”

Ashley, homeowner.

The same White Onyx that is on the island in the kitchen runs up the back wall. Gentle curves abound, from the shape of the joinery to the carefully selected ‘Caroline Double’ pendants from About Space Lighting, to the stool from Bohteak. In keeping with the warm tones throughout the house, Brushed Copper tapware from ABI Interiors was chosen for all the wet areas.

“With a new build there’s often ample room for creativity when incorporating unique features into the home”

Ashley, homeowner.

A dry bar complete with a Vintec wine fridge, adds a sense of luxury. Shelves within the nook also provide a place for display. Natural tones inspired the scheme with Dulux Natural White on the walls, joinery in Polytec Boston Oak, and oak flooring, from Awesome Timber Floors.

Dining

When dining inside, the family take a seat in Bohteak chairs and gather around a table from Life Interiors. Ashley designed the ruffle pendant and chose the ‘Pare’ artwork by Bec Talbot to complement the home’s tones.

Living

Decadently spacious, there’s plenty of room for the family to relax on a Future Classics Furniture curved sofa which wraps around a striking marble coffee table from Bova Gallery, which anchors a Miss Amara rug. A ‘Luna’ floor lamp from Byron Hanging Chairs adds to the home’s sculptural, gallery-like appeal. Side table from Vorsen.

Bedroom

A panel in Polytec Boston Oak in the main bedroom frames the bedhead from RJ Living. Another custom addition are the onyx bedside tables. The palette evokes a warm glow, from the bedlinen and cushions from Pillow Talk and Weave Home and RJ Living ottoman, to the walls where a Coco Flip ‘Pinch’ wall sconce and an artwork, ‘Down to Earth’ by Emily Wood from Gioia Wall Art, pair perfectly.

Bathrooms

Floor-to-ceiling tiles from Amber Tiles envelop the ensuite, with the eyes drawn to the feature custom Polytec Boston Oak vanity topped in Wooden Onyx bordered with hand-scalloped edging. Rachel Donath mirrors accent the wall, punctuated with Brushed Brass tapware from ABI Interiors. A bath from Caroma sits alongside a tactile wall adorned in zellige tiles from Amber Tiles.

A vanity in Taj Mahal quartzite makes a statement below an RJ Living mirror that sits on wall tiles from Amber Tiles.

Laundry

“The laundry design was intentionally kept simple and elegant to create a clean and aesthetically pleasing environment,” explains Ashley. “The laundry chute was non-negotiable and a must-have in all multi level homes. We also felt full-height cabinets opposite the bench were important to maximise storage,” she adds.

The dreamy palette includes custom Polytec Boston Oak joinery, a Caesarstone Marbannova benchtop, complemented with travertine finger tiles from Amber Tiles and an ABI Interiors Brushed Brass tap.

“Be confident in your selections and don’t let someone tell you it can’t be done. Often with a little perseverance there will be a way.”

Ashley, home owner.

Outdoors

We wanted to create a warm and sun-filled home for our young family and called the house Solara which means ‘Of the Sun’,” says Ashley. For an added resort-style feel, tiles spell out Solara at the base of the pool bordered by a tropical garden bed. The pool side chairs are from Zaneti, with a matching custom umbrella by Original Parasol Co.

“I love the elevated outlook over the beautiful pool and gardens and connection between the indoor and outdoor living zones,” reflects Ashley. Opting for a green scheme, an Early Settler outdoor dining setting runs alongside the outdoor kitchen, while the outdoor living area is furnished with sofas from MCM House and a P & R Styling coffee table. An artwork titled ‘Frutti Di Mare & Aperol Spritz’ by Ekaterina Zagorska, from Gioia Wall Art, completes the scene.

Design & interior consultant Sage & Cove Interiors, 0422 832 171, @sage.and.cove
Drafting ReziCad, (07) 3363 8188, rezicad.com. Builder CHS Building, 0417 629 396, @chsbuilding
Joinery KVW Cabinets, 0422 744 788, kvwcabinets.com.au

Hanging garden, CCL Cacti @ccl_cacti

Source book

Be the first to read this story by subscribing to Home Beautiful magazine.

⁠Have it delivered to your door!

The post A dazzling Mediterranean-inspired new build in Brisbane appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Who lives here?

Ann and her husband Tim, who are both lawyers, with their children Wesley, 12, and Meredith, nine.
Favourite space? Ann: “I actually really like the outside. I appreciate the form of the house from the outside, its materials. As far as the inside goes, from the kitchen you can look to the east and see the treetops. I really like that.”
Weekend ritual? Both: “Chaos.” Tim: “That’s just this stage of life.”
How would you describe your style? Tim: “Simple but elegant tones and materials. We like using items that have quite a natural feel and reflect the natural beauty that surrounds the house. Ann: “Beautiful but not flashy.

This ability to blend into the environment was of the utmost importance to the couple. “I have a desire to try and tread lightly on the earth,” shares Ann. “If we’re going to design a home and put such an imprint on the ground, then we need to do it wisely.”

The property had previously housed a 1970s build in a state of disrepair, complete with asbestos. Instead of renovating, the pair decided to work with architect Ben Callery to create a new build aligned with their values. The brief called for an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area. Ethically sourced materials made with durability were also key, as was a focus on a more timeless approach to style.

The land itself was a logistical concern. The property had a steep slope, which would make the use of concrete slabs costly. Instead, Ben elevated the L-shaped home on a lightweight structure with joists, stumps and bearers. Local materials, such as silvertop ash cladding, create a conversation with the land that continues in the interiors. The project finished in 2021 and while work has just started on the garden, the family love the home. “I notice each day that it’s beautiful,” says Ann. “I appreciate the colour of the tapware, the tiles and how that echoes the outside.”

Kitchen

A simple palette of white, green and timber creates a serene scene in the open-plan kitchen and dining area. As the family don’t often entertain, they wanted a large, open-plan space to suit multiple functions rather than a formal dining room.

“I can be making dinner while the kids do their homework at the kitchen bench,” explains Ann. Blackbutt veneer cabinetry by Luna Joinery provides overhead storage and open shelving. The timber tones are reflected in the flooring, which was reclaimed from another house. For cohesion, the same Artedomus tiles that feature in the living room decorate the island sides.

We love…handpainted tiles

The kitchen splashback is a standout feature. Inax ‘Yuki Border’ tiles in White from Artedomus perfectly complement the Dulux Natural White of the walls and ceilings throughout the home. But these tiles are special for another reason.

“They’re a delightful hand-painted Japanese tile, which I think are classic enough to look good forever,” says Ann. Ben agrees, saying, “It adds an international flavour that works in our local environment”. For more information, visit Artedomus.

Touches of black and white create contrast in the kitchen. Timber lining boards comprise the ceiling, finished in Dulux Natural White, which was also used on the blackbutt veneer underbench joinery. This finish pairs well with the ‘Pegasi’ curved sink mixer in Matte Black from Faucet Strommen.

Living

“The fireplace gives a real heart of the home feel,” says Ben of the Nectre N60 with naked black sides. Green Inax ‘Arcaico Border ARC3’ tiles from Artedomus protect the wall, while blackbutt shelves provide space for the family’s books.

“It’s essentially the room of requirement,” says Ann of the secondary living zone, and Tim agrees. “On any given day it can be used for a whole range of things,” he says. The space has Ann’ s drafting desk for her garden designer studies. It is also filled with items used for hobbies, such as Ann’s sewing supplies and Tim’s piano. There’s even a built-in window seat for the children to curl up on and read a book.

“The wood reflects the gum tress surrounding the house, so the inside has a conversation with the outside.”

Tim, homeowner

Bedroom

In the main bedroom, ‘Enna’ wall lights in Matte Black from Ecc are placed on either side of the bed, in the Silvertop Ash-dressed board and batten bedhead from Radial Timber. Layers of neutral tones with splashes of blue decorate the bed.

Bathroom

Warming accents of brass add a luxe feel to the palette. ‘Bella’ round mirrors from Life Interiors create a circular motif repeated by the vessel basins in Moss from New Form Concreting. Hardware in Raw Brushed Brass from Faucet Strommen’s ‘Pegasi’ range complements the Antique Brass of the ‘Pebble 1’ wall sconces from Beacon Lighting. Inax ‘Arcaico Border’ tiles in Green from Artedomus grace the walls.

Many of the materials in the ensuite were used in the main bathroom, including blackbutt cabinetry from Luna Joinery and the ‘Pegasi’ slide shower in Raw Brushed Brass from Faucet Strommen.

However, white takes centrestage with the Artedomus ‘Fiandre’ tiles in Urban White and the Kado ‘Lussi’ bath from Reece.

Deck

A sliding door from Rylock Windows & Doors leads to the side deck, where Ann sometimes enjoys a cup of coffee.

The deck draws you out among the treetops and Ann loves tending to her plants there. While this area faces the street, it was cleverly designed to ensure privacy. “You’re sitting there in the sun with a breeze passing through the slats,” shares Ben. “You feel you’re in nature but overcoming the constraint of having the street there.”

Interior design: Ben Callery Architects, bencallery.com.au
Builder: Truewood Constructions, truewood.com.au
Joinery: Luna Joinery, lunajoinery.com.au

Source Book

Be the first to read this story by subscribing to Home Beautiful magazine.

⁠Have it delivered to your door!

The post A nature-inspired home on the outskirts of Melbourne appeared first on Home Beautiful.

The floor plan of the five-bedroom abode was enlarged to include an open-plan kitchen and living room, with a butler’s pantry and wine cellar. “The wine cellar was my husband’s idea. He’s always had an interest in good wines,” shares Jill. “The entire project was based around a big cellar we could sit in and entertain up to eight guests.”

As the house is set on a sand dune, digging out the cellar turned into a three-month expedition. Once the walls were reinforced, it could be imbued with old-world charm, including stonework and space for more than 1500 bottles. “Designing this space was no small task,” says Lysandra. “We had to consider how to maintain the optimal temperature for the wine and accommodate the extensive collection.”

Exposed beams, natural stone benchtops and gold glimmers combine for a home that’s comfortable and commanding. “We’re thrilled that our investment in this project has not only created a beautiful space for our family to share but also increased our home’s value substantially,” says Jill.

Who lives here?

Jill, a nurse, her husband Craig, a criminal defence lawyer, and their Groodle, Billie.

Biggest lesson learnt? Jill: “That things don’t always go to plan. We learnt to compromise and be flexible when it came to issues of the build.”
Any ideas Alisa and Lysandra had that you’re happy you went with? “Introducing VJ panelling on the walls and ceiling in the living room, as well as installing black curtain rods, when I thought they might be too much.”
Favourite piece of furniture? “The imported American occasional chairs [in the living room] that came out from the States and took eight months to get here. They’re stylish and comfortable and have the most intricate timber detail that I adore.”

Living room

“Despite the expansive extension, the home retains a cosiness and warmth that makes it truly inviting,” says Lysandra Fraser, director of Alisa & Lysandra Interiors alongside her sister and co-director Alisa Ayres. The ceiling beams were stained to match the Nature’s Oak flooring in Denali. Over the living space hangs a ‘Darlana’ chandelier from Visual Comfort & Co. Mokum ‘O’Keeffe’ fabric curtains in Sand cover arched windows. An Indah Island ‘Brunhild’ console in Oak stands behind the lounge.

“I love the thoughtful detail in the fireplace mantel to hide our sound system and wires.”

Jill, homeowner

The Escea gas fireplace is framed by Polar Ice marble from CDK Stone with a timber mantel and Bodega Freeform stone wall cladding from Eco Outdoor. The banquette cushions are covered with Zepel fabric in Fawn and lit by ‘Dean’ picture lights in Natural Brass from The Montauk Lighting Co. Two ‘Lincoln’ chairs from Boyd Blue face a pair of ‘Plantation’ coffee tables in Antique Brown from Dianna-Lynn Decor and a Natuzzi lounge.

We love… a big island

With a large extended family, the island had to be made to suit. “The kitchen bench is 4.2 metres in length, so there’s plenty of room to spread out and enjoy,” says Jill. “We spend the majority of our time in the kitchen and family room, whether we’re sitting reading a book in the sunshine or prepping for a dinner party.”

Kitchen

The large kitchen features Polar Ice marble from CDK Stone on the benchtops and splashback. Hanging in the centre are ‘Darlana’ lanterns in Gilded Iron from The Montauk Lighting Co. These tie in with the Perrin & Rowe pot filler and sink mixer with white porcelain lever taps from The English Tapware Company. A row of Black Mango ‘Manor Oak’ counter stools surround the island.

Butler’s pantry

To the side of the kitchen is the butler’s pantry, with EasyCraft ‘EasyRegency’ 150 wall panelling paired with Polytec ‘Notaio’ Walnut shelves. The stool was pre-existing and artwork is an op-shop find. A Zip HydroTap offers instant cold, sparkling and hot water.

Dining

A pair of pendants from The Montauk Lighting Co adorn the dining space, where the couple’s table is surrounded by Black Mango ‘Manor Oak’ dining chairs on a rug from Alisa and Lysandra’s collection.

Wine cellar

The custom glass gas-strut door in the floor leads down to the wine cellar, paved with ‘San Selmo’ Classico Limewash bricks from Austral Bricks. The cellar wall features Bodega Freeform stone wall cladding from Eco Outdoor, alongside a Koala Living ‘Belfast’ bar table, illuminated by a row of Lighting Collective ‘Country Style’ pendants in Black. Wine storage was built by Portsch Classic Furniture.

“The wine cellar is such a standout element and we were determined to get it just right.”

Lysandra, designer

Laundry/mudroom

Designed for cleaning clothes and kicking off shoes, the laundry-meets-mudroom also contains a dog washing station in the corner with a portrait of the couple’s pooch. Beaumont Tiles ‘Atmosphere’ tiles run along the wall and splashback. Cabinetry colour is Dulux Narrow Neck, fitted with Mayfair Collection Touch Handles in Brushed Brass and a ‘Maddox’ hanging rail in Brass from Savage Design.

“Alisa and Lysandra encouraged us to feature lighting to create the right ambience in each area.”

Jill, homeowner

Powder room

Located off the laundry is the powder room, styled with body products by Alisa and Lysandra’s brand, Al.ive. A ‘Bjorn’ arch mirror from Middle of Nowhere and ‘Calais’ wall lights in Brass from About Space Lighting are set on ‘Swedish Tree’ wallpaper by Colefax and Fowler, above a Roca ‘Inspira’ round basin and Milli ‘Pure’ tap and handles from Reece.

Alfresco area

“The expansive outdoor entertaining area is complete with an outdoor kitchen and a pool – an entertainer’s dream!” says Lysandra. The backyard was redesigned, working with the existing pool, and executed by LCS Landscapes. The space is tiled with Marshet Limestone in Light Nougat from Tumbled. Bench seating was built by the project’s builder, Bellevue Building Concepts. “I cannot stress enough the importance of finding the right builder,” says homeowner Jill. “His work and commitment to the project, along with Alisa and Lysandra, made this project a pleasure.”

The undercover space features the couple’s outdoor table that’s large enough to host big gatherings, alongside a fully-equipped kitchen. The area also features a built-in Escea outdoor fireplace kitchen from the EK Series for an alfresco cooking experience that’s communal, while also keeping the area cosy in the cooler months.

Design: Alisa & Lysandra Interiors, alisaandlysandra.com.au.
Building design: MF Building Design, mfbuildingdesign.com.
Builder: Bellevue Building Concepts, bellevueconcepts.com.au.
Joinery: Portsch Classic Furniture, @portschcf.
Electrical: Glenelg Electrical, glenelgelectrical.com.au.
Landscaping: LCS Landscapes, lcslandscapes.com.au.

Source Book

Be the first to read this story by subscribing to Home Beautiful magazine.

⁠Have it delivered to your door!

The post A farmhouse-style home by Alisa and Lysandra celebrates warm textures appeared first on Home Beautiful.

The online attention brought more than 500 people to the auction with the successful buyer purchasing the property for $3.75 million. However, after just one month of living there, the buyer sold the property to the Hewitts, who snapped it up for $4.305 million in 2021.

The couple decided to move on from their Palm Springs-style oasis in October 2024, when it was listed for $5.1 million. According to Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty agent Carol Carter, who led the property’s sale, there was plenty of interest in the luxury home.

“We have had a massive number of inquiries from interstate, a lot out of Sydney and Melbourne, and there has been quite a lot of local interest,” she told realestate.com.au.

By January 2025, the property has officially secured a buyer, selling for $200,000 under the listing price at $4.9 million, according to realestate.com.au.

See inside Bec and Lleyton Hewitt’s breezy Burleigh Heads home

Located on Deodar Drive, just 400 metres from the beach on the Gold Coast, the property’s beachside location is one of the home’s biggest drawcards, but according to the property’s real estate agent, Carol Carter, the Hewitts simply didn’t have the time to make the most of it.

With dramatic cavity glass stacker doors and bi-folds, the home’s effortless indoor-outdoor living design makes the most of the location’s sunny weather and is ideal for both everyday family living and entertaining.

At the heart of the home, a modern kitchen seamlessly connects to the outdoors. With three ovens, stone benchtops, an integrated fridge and freezer, butler’s pantry, two wine fridges and a wine cellar, it’s the perfect entertaining space.

The open-plan living and dining also open onto the garden and cosy flued fireplace for the few colder months of the year.

There are also three bedrooms with ensuites, including the main bedroom with built-in seating and a dressing room, as well as a ground floor bedroom, office and powder room.

While the interior’s Santorini Clay stone feature walls and American Oak timber floors are certainly part of the home’s architectural attraction, there’s no competing with the property’s outdoor space with it’s glass-framed pool and glamorous sunken fireplace.

You can see the full listing on realestate.com.au

The post The sale price of Lleyton and Bec Hewitt’s viral Burleigh Heads beach pad, revealed appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Who lives here?

Elissa, an artist and graphic designer, her husband Robert, who owns a management consulting firm, their sons Arlo, seven, and Beau, six, plus Buska the Labradoodle, aged 15.

What’s your design philosophy?
Elissa: “I love minimal and bold solutions with textures and patterns providing visual interest; Scandinavian design for its clean lines and simplicity; and the philosophy of Wabi Sabi, as things that aren’t perfect can be beautiful in their character. Rob freely admits he doesn’t have an eye for design, but has a honed ability to think about functionality. This created the perfect combo for us.”

Favourite weekend rituals?
At home, we enjoy going mountain biking and entertaining family and friends. We often spend time at the family farm, just outside Canberra, where the boys love riding motorbikes with their dad, and making pottery or painting with me.”

Design is in her DNA, so the creative process was collaborative, with architect Paul Tilse and his firm’s interior designer, Vanessa Hawes, at the helm of creating the modern barn house – a homage to the humble Australian shed. Elissa’s father, an engineer, influenced the palette with his love of “robust and raw materials,” which shines through in the concrete.

A conversation with her mother and the couple’s builder resulted in the fun peek-a-boo porthole windows at the facade. And her brother, Justin Northrop, an architect and director of Technē studio, conjured up some curves when the couple asked him to cast his eye over their plans. “He came back with some hand-drawn scribbles over our elevations and suggesting some bold, sculptural shapes,” recalls Elissa.

“He said, ‘It’s a huge black barn, it can handle being messed with’. We enjoyed adding in these extra surprises – you can take the process too seriously and it’s nice to have things that put a smile on your face.”

Some of the most striking interior elements are the finishes. “Elissa had a vision for the colour palette that she wanted throughout the house; it was initially black, white and gold, which is present in the home,
but we evolved this together to add elements of warm grey and pale timber,” says Vanessa.

But most important was the durability and comfort factor; after all, this is a family home. “We didn’t want any part of the house and materials to be precious, so everyone would feel at home and be relaxed,” says Elissa, who now enjoys exactly that.

Kitchen

“A monochrome colour scheme and lack of adornment sparked our imagination, as we were interested in the materials that could be used,” says Elissa. The brass Axolotl finish in the kitchen joins cabinetry in Dulux Colorbond Monument, polished concrete flooring and curved benchtops by Mitchell Bink Concrete Design. Paul Tilse Architects + Interiors designed both inside and out, with styling by Tilly Roberts.

A slim ‘Highline’ pendant in Satin Waxed Brass by Archier illuminates the social island bench. The wall of integrated Fisher & Paykel ovens makes entertaining loved ones a breeze, as does the butler’s pantry, which is hidden to one side of the kitchen.

Dining

A Beeline Design ‘Ridge Oval’ dining table in Black continues the colour scheme, while Mattiazzi ‘Leva’ chairs from Miko Designs are a light contrast.

Living

Glosswood timber lining boards in Satin Driftwood in the soaring living area draw the gaze to vistas at either end of the room. “Rob was attracted by the views, which include iconic Canberra landmarks – Parliament House and Black Mountain – but more importantly, the expansive views to the Brindabella Mountains, which offer up spectacular sunsets,” says Elissa of her husband’s first impression and favourite feature.

WE LOVE…bold sightlines

“The living room is my personal favourite, with the high timber-lined raked ceiling and triangular highlight windows,” shares architect Paul Tilse of the space he loves most, framed with AWS ‘Thermal Heart’ glazing. “Glass doors open onto a terrace with views to the Brindabellas one way, and with floor-to-ceiling glazing on the north-east looking towards the pool and garden on the other side.”

Bedroom

“It really felt like a dream project from start to finish.”

Elissa.

Bathroom

In Elissa and Robert’s ensuite, large floor and wall tiles team with smaller mosaics in the shower, both from Tile Republic. Heated Astra Walker towel rails ward off the chilly Canberra winters near a vintage stool from Watertiger.

“Our love of Australian design and products had us referencing the humble shed in its simple form and durable materials.”

Elissa

“I took a brush and some [Dulux Colorbond] Monument paint and let the lines wind their way all over the boys’ toilet,” shares Elissa. “I enjoyed adding a sense of play but didn’t want it to look too young, so kept it dark grey to match the rest of the home’s colour scheme.”

Outdoors

Paul and Vanessa zoned the outdoor areas to include a pool, fire pit, terraces and playfully framed gardens. “The overarching vision for the landscape was ‘Canberra coastal’, creating lots of zones of interest for family to explore different spaces, either together or alone when desired,” says Vanessa.

Interior design & architecture: Paul Tilse Architects + Interiors, paultilsearchitects.com.au
Joinery: Created Bespoke Joinery, createdjoinery.com.au
Builder: Brother Projects, brotherprojects.com.au
Landscaping: Restyle Landscapes, restylelandscapes.com.au

SOURCE BOOK

The post A vacant block is turned into this family’s dream modern barn house appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Space was the primary motivation behind their move to this enchanted spot. They loved their location, in the Sunshine Coast suburb of Bli Bli. But with four children and an increasing menagerie of pets, they were bursting at the seams of their home. “We needed more space, and we wanted the kids to be able to enjoy the outdoors a little bit more,” says Janelle. Finding an existing home that met their needs was a challenge. After looking for two years, it became clear that building from scratch might be the best way to tick every one of their boxes.

This three-and-a-half-acre property, straddling developed land and raw bush, popped up as a private sale. When Janelle went to check it out, it was love at first sight. “I stood in the place where our house is now and looked down over our land and heard the birds and wildlife, saw the dam glistening and thought, ‘This is it’. It was beautiful.”

“I wanted to have as many windows as possible, and a beautiful sky-high ceiling with sky lights.”

Janelle, homeowner

Who lives here?

Janelle and Mark, founders of home design showroom QEBS; three of their four children, Lara, 20, Charlotte, 12, and Harry, 10; and a menagerie of animals, including Luna the German Shepherd and Winston the Border Collie.

What is your favourite space?

Janelle: “The kitchen and lounge room, the heart of the home, a space to come together and reconnect as a family.”

Can you describe your interior style?

“Mediterranean coastal, a light, neutral palette, earthy hues, textures and linens, grounded with pops of lush greenery.”

Best budget buy?

“The beautiful $25 bougainvillea, which is very much a trademark of Bask el Sol now.”

The Mediterranean coastal style build

Janelle and Mark already had knowledge of the building process thanks to their business, QEBS, a home design and building showroom specialising in kitchens, bathrooms and flooring. Added to this was the advantage of working with a trusted crew, as they enlisted close friends Dall Designer Homes to drive the home from concept to completion. “We worked alongside them to come up with the build and they oversaw it. Then we put in the fixtures and the kitchen,” says Janelle.

Janelle had a coherent vision from the outset. “The look and the energy we wanted was coastal because we love that aesthetic. But then I love the Mediterranean and Europe as places I’ve always been inspired by, so we wanted to bring that in with a European farmhouse vibe, using the reclaimed timber, terracotta and travertine tiles, arches and render,” says Janelle.

An abundance of texture brings warmth and incomparable character to the new build. There is truly something to admire in every visual frame. Having been persuaded to hire out the home as a location for photo shoots, Janelle says it’s been wonderful to see the joy their carefully crafted space can bring. “It’s been a beautiful little thing for our home, sharing it with people who have been able to use it to create beautiful images.”

Entrance

Patterned tiles from Jatana Interiors flow from outside to in. These clearly define the entrance of the home, which is simply furnished with a console from Impreshens. The urn, which feels plucked from antiquity, is from Rosemount Nursery.

Living area

Creating a cosy nook within the vast double-height expanse of the main living, dining and kitchen area was a must. Janelle grouped a matching pair of Oz Design sofas around a Miss Amara rug and coffee table from Alabaster Trader. The corner of the space has its own defining character with pops of green. These come in the form of a painting by Jai Vasicek and lush fiddle leaf fig.

Dining

The vast kitchen, dining and living area leaves plenty of room for a banquet-sized dining table. This was a necessity for the family, with their four children. The dining table and chairs are both from Eclectic Style in Noosa. A large table deserves a large centrepiece and this huge vase from Clo Studios fits the bill.

We love… surfaces that patina with age

A sense of character and timeless charm can be hard to come by in a brand new build. Age-worn surfaces achieved this, from the reclaimed timber in the kitchen to the antique Indian doors to the media room. This media room is positioned above the kitchen and the doors are sourced from Alabaster Trader. “It was always the plan to create a lived-in look with textures. Like it’s not a new build – we walked straight into a home,” says Janelle.

Kitchen

The kitchen Janelle designed is strikingly straightforward. “It’s a very simple layout, there’s nothing too fancy,” says Janelle. “We don’t have any tapware in the main kitchen, I kept everything tucked away in the butler’s pantry. The island bench is purely for entertaining – I wanted to have nothing hindering it.” Streamlined surfaces form a clean backdrop for reclaimed timber shelving and patterned tiles from Jatana Interiors. The tactile charm of rattan is repeated in bar stools from Eclectic Style and pendants from Raw Sunshine Coast.

Main bedroom

A framed print from Bed Threads ties together the colours of the bedlinen in the main bedroom. These include cushions from H&M, and timber furnishings, such as the Clo Studios bedside table and bench from Alabaster Trader. A ‘Mila’ lamp from Paola & Joy adds soft curves.

Ensuite

The terracotta tiles, which are from Jatana Interiors, bring texture and warmth to the ensuite. This is complemented by timber touches in a stool from Lounge Lovers and pendant lighting from Facebook Marketplace.

Alfresco dining

The home’s outdoor living spaces are at the front of the building. The entrance tiles from Jatana Interiors match the bougainvillea. These flow outside to inside, from the alfresco area into the entranceway.

“We wanted to make something unique, that we felt would be a beautiful home for us.”

Janelle, homeowner

Pool house

With its wide arches, the pool house is a striking feature within the garden, but also an extra living area. “It’s a beautiful spot to relax and unwind,” says Janelle. A large sweep of travertine tiles from Slate & Stone defines the patio area.

Pool

The home is angled for stunning views. The pool takes centre stage and is framed by a dense green backdrop of native bush. The timeless simplicity of creamy travertine and bright blue water sets a Mediterranean resort scene. Patinaed urns and luxuriously comfy loungers from Freedom furnish the space.

SOURCEBOOK

Design and construction: Dall Designer Homes, 1300 362 084, www.dalldesignerhomes.com.au
Kitchen, bathroom and finishes: QEBS Design & Build, www.qebs.com.au

The post Tour a Mediterranean coastal style home on the Sunshine Coast appeared first on Home Beautiful.

During an annual beach-break from their cattle property, a five-hour drive away on Queensland’s western Darling Downs, the couple kept an eye on the Coast real estate market, hoping to snap up their own beach place. Finally in 2022, they did with this idyllic penthouse apartment. While the coveted location was hard to beat, the penthouse needed a refresh so the couple enlisted the expertise of interior designer Sophie Hendry of Coco Interiors to imbue a “special feel,” which she delivered in spades.

Who holidays here?

Kylie and Simon, cattle farmers from Queensland’s western Darling Downs region.

What was integral to the renovation?

Kylie: “We used local trades, suppliers and businesses for nearly everything during the renovation. We felt it was important to support and collaborate with the local people.”

Holiday ritual?

“We love walking on the beach.”

Favourite piece in the apartment?

“The custom couch by Cover Story Home; it’s special because we had it made with our sons in mind, with an extra deep seat for comfort.”

Anything you’d still like to add to the home?

“I’m an artist so I would like a painting I’ve created to grace the walls.”

The penthouse renovation

Although the initial plan was to simply update furnishings, the scope grew and grew. “The bathroom cabinetry was dated and deteriorating, the kitchen layout lacked functionality, the laundry setup needed improving so it quickly became apparent it was worthwhile overhauling the entire interior,” says Sophie, who also project managed the renovation. The brief for the penthouse apartments new look was a light and bright feel, in an ocean palette of blues, greens and also aquas layered with texture. The couple were also after “something unique” which Sophie embraced wholeheartedly, designing bespoke joinery, tracking down incredible mother of pearl-like artisan tiles, which create delight throughout, coupled with statement lighting and carefully curated, custom upholstered furnishings.

In addition to aesthetics, functionality was also addressed with custom solutions which maximised the available space of the penthouse and overcame constraints presented by angled walls. “A key change was removing the walk-in wardrobe and bath in the main bedroom which really opened up the space and enhanced the natural light in the ensuite,” explains Sophie. “The kitchen design was also altered to create more usable bench space and storage, with better connectivity to the dining and living zones.”

The rooftop terrace

As is the case with many renovations, improvements inside additionally inspired a knock-on effect outside. The team extended the beautiful new travertine floors upstairs to the rooftop terrace. Here, retiled entertaining areas also transformed to create a luxurious getaway. “It’s become a fabulous entertaining space and as you ascend the stairs and are greeted by the ocean, it feels like you’re floating somewhere in the Mediterranean,” muses Sophie, of the idyllic zone that has been updated with a new outdoor kitchen, refurbished spa and dreamy zones furnished for alfresco dining and reclining.

To accommodate visiting friends and larger family get-togethers, an ‘Adele’ extendable table from Outdoor Elegance, paired with Uniqwa Collections dining chairs and a James Said ‘Lomax’ outdoor setting provides relaxed comfort for casual meals. An umbrella from the Original Parasol Co adds a Palm Beach-inspired pop of pink, complemented by a potted bougainvillea. Two Tectona sunloungers from Classic With A Twist are positioned under the shade of the umbrella, in prime position to enjoy the stunning views in style.

With the finishing touches completed late 2023, Kylie and Simon celebrated with a week-long holiday, joined by their four adult sons, daughters in-law and grandchildren who stayed nearby and visited for rooftop barbecues and dips in the spa. For Kylie, it still seems surreal to have realised their dream of owning a place in their favourite beach location. “We’ve been visiting Mooloolaba for so long I’ve been asked numerous times, when we’re staying, if I’m a local and I guess we are a little bit more now we have a place here.”

The living room

Opening up the layout and creating more connectivity between the kitchen, dining and living areas was of the utmost importance. A palette of blues, whites and greys carries through this open-plan space in the penthouse apartment.

“I adore the tropical interiors of Palm Beach and felt the apartment would suit this glamorous aesthetic”

Sophie Hendry, interior designer

Another key requirement in the living area was for a deep sofa which could accommodate the couple’s tall sons. Sophie designed a custom piece to suit and had it upholstered by Cover Story Home in Warwick ‘Husk’ fabric teamed with custom cushions in subtle ocean hues.

The kitchen

With a smorgasbord of restaurants to choose from on the esplanade below, the kitchen hasn’t had a rigorous workout yet, although it’s enhanced functionality and good looks are appreciated beyond measure. “It’s absolutely beautiful,” says Kylie. “The tiles are really special and I love the stone benchtop,” she says of the amazing slab of Crystallo Purity Brazilian Quartzite from Verona Stone. “For the integrated fridge and freezer we created a rebate in the door, which allowed us to inlay the stone to create the illusion of the benchtop continuing through,” explains Sophie.

Incredible Italian hand-glazed tiles across the splashback underscored by blue cabinetry in Dulux Sea Cliff Half also add to the luxurious, subtle coastal feel, as do glimmers of brushed brass accented with door hardware from Passio Interiors, a Brodware mixer from Harvey Norman Commercial and a pair of Eddie Glass Pendants from Coco Republic.

We love… wow-factor tiles

The kitchen splashback tiles not only draw the eye, but compel you to reach out and touch the hand-glazed finish. “I literally dreamt about a mother of pearl tile with a lustrous sheen like the inside of a seashell,” recalls Sophie of the design inspiration for a unique backdrop for the kitchen. “When I discovered the gorgeous range of Italian hand-glazed terracotta tiles by Cotto Etrusco, I knew the Star/Cross pattern in the Madreperla finish was perfect and, because the range is customisable, we chose a mix of gloss, matte and satin. The satin has a pretty pearly finish, and the gloss has a show-stopping oil-slick effect when it hits the light.”

The dining area

Sophie had an Abide Interiors ‘Newport’ table custom limewashed by A Davine Finish in the dining zone and paired it with ‘April’ chairs from Style My Home. “As the penthouse can cop strong winds, we opted for a fixed rod style chandelier above the dining table to prevent swaying,” explains Sophie of the elegant Ralph Lauren ‘Allen’ Large Tiered Chandelier.

“I love the new travertine flooring. it’s made a massive difference throughout”

Kylie, homeowner

The main bedroom

The main bedroom has a view of the ocean, so shades of blues were reflected in the soft furnishing selections. These include the ‘Paulig’ rug from Art of Rugs, bedlinen from Adairs and Luxe and Beau, as well as the custom cushions and bedhead designed by Coco Interiors, upholstered in Ashley Wilde Designs ‘Spa’ fabric.

The interplay of glimmering finishes and recurring geometric motifs also creates a wonderful cohesive feel throughout the penthouse. The Thibault Portier Beaded Pearl wallpaper references the subtle octagonal Palm Beach inspired shapes which feature across joinery. These are coupled with the sheen reflected in the hand glazed tiles. “The wallpaper’s silvery beads shine like jewellery when they hit the morning light,” says Sophie, of the dazzling effect.

“The apartment was lacking in storage. I loved that Sophie was able to come up with creative solutions and incorporate it in unexpected ways,” says Kylie. The Sleeping Giant Gas Strut lift bed base is one example, where extra linen and blankets can be subtly stowed.

In the corner of the main bedroom, a Louis Wing Chair from Xavier Furniture provides a sophisticated splash of pattern. This seating also helps to delineate the bedroom from the ensuite beyond.

The ensuite bathroom

Crystallo Purity Brazilian Quartzite from Verona Stone envelops the vanity top in the ensuite. Brodware ‘Winslow’ wall spout sourced from Harvey Norman Commercial accentuates the stone. A custom mirror by Glazier enhances the sense of space.

The shower zone is highlighted with a wall of Cotto Etrusco Star/Cross tiles in Cielo Gloss finish. These were sourced from Elite Bathware & Tiles.

The guest bedroom

Custom cushions in the guest bedroom by Cover Story Home sit atop Sheridan ‘Reilly’ coverlets in Atlantic from Myer.

SOURCEBOOK

Interior design & project management: Coco Interiors, www.cocointeriors.com.au
Kitchen & custom joinery: Serrata Joinery, www.serratajoinery.com.au
Tiling: Paul McGuire Bespoke Tiling, @pm_bespoke_tiling
Stone sealing: www.prestige-stone.com.au

The post Step inside this penthouse apartment with must-see ocean views appeared first on Home Beautiful.

The property, which is located at 2/89b Eloora Road, Long Jetty, NSW 2261, has since been sold for $2.64 million. This means that both homes in the duplex have now been sold. You can see the other Bay Builds property here.

News Flash

But how do you keep things interesting when you’ve completed over 30 renovations together? The answer is simple: you tackle two renovations at once. The challenge started in 2021, when a block of land a few hundred metres from the beach on the Central Coast of NSW was put on the market. “It had an old shack on it,” explains Kara, “an old doctor’s surgery that had been abandoned years earlier.”

Who lives here?

Full-time renovators Kyal and Kara, their son Ziya, seven, and daughter Vada, six, and Lorikeet, Skye.
What is your interior style? Kara: “Layered, textured and coastal.”
Favourite piece of furniture? “I’m really loving the living room couch from Globe West. I love the curved shape and the beautiful, light fabric with a slight speckle.”
What does home mean to you? “Home means a safe place. It’s a retreat from the rest of the world that expresses your own personality.”
Your top renovating tip? “Work out your goals, whether you’re renovating to live in the home or as an investment. This will dictate your budget. Then prioritise what’s important.”

After purchasing the property, they demolished the old dwelling and drew up plans for duplexes with a difference. “We didn’t want to build two homes that were cookie cutters,” says Kara. “We thought, ‘Let’s have fun and play on the fact that they’re different’.” Although the layouts are a mirror image, the interiors are stark contrasts. The brief for the first house was light, bright and French-inspired, while the second house called for a moodier palette of darker tones with a coastal Spanish resort feel.

But with the carefully laid plans complete, Kyal and Kara faced a roadblock they’d never previously experienced: they had to wait more than 12 months to get approval from council. “We learnt to allow a much longer timeframe when you’re doing a duplex and having town planner involvement,” shares Kara. In November 2022, slabs finally hit the ground and the build began.

The couple work like a well-oiled machine, with Kyal focusing on construction while Kara puts together finishes, materials and colour palettes. By May of 2024, both duplexes were complete.

Living area

Each individual home has three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a media room and an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area that leads out to a backyard and pool. It’s this communal area that Kara believes suits her family’s lifestyle best, especially the orientation of the kitchen island. “It’s a controversial topic, but I love having a sink in the island if it looks out to the yard,” she says.

Kitchen

While this home is breezy and sun-drenched, befitting its coastal location, the deep tones offer a sophistication that grounds the space. The palette was a step away from their usual style, yet a return to the couple’s roots.

“When we did The Block 10 years ago, we were given an industrial apartment. That was a dark house,” says Kara. “I think with this house, a lot of it is our style but with a darker twist.”

“Warm and sophisticated” was the goal in the open-plan kitchen. Shaker-style joinery on the island painted in Taubmans Time Capsule offers a light base beside pantry doors, which are rich with Loughlin Furniture’s American Aged Oak.

Striking natural stone makes an impact on the benchtops and range hood, which feature Cosentino’s ‘Vancouver’ quartzite.

“We had our stonemason curve the range hood stone, which is one of my favourite things in the whole house,” shares Kara. “So much workmanship went into that.” Edstein installed all the quartzite in the kitchen, including the benchtops and curved range hood cladding, which perfectly complements the softly rounded edge of the arched niche that it’s positioned within. For more, visit Edstein.

We love… precious stone

Dining

‘Mila’ pendants from Uniqwa feature hand-woven palm leaves for texture, contrasted against the dark Walnut tones of the Globe West ‘Tolv’ dining chairs.

Cellar

“You can’t use normal glass for a wine room because it will fog up and drip with condensation,” explains Kara. Thermal Insulated Glass Products solved this issue, while Stone Style ‘Cathago’ cladding lends to the cellar’s underground feel.

Staircase

An internal garden is positioned beneath the ‘Helical’ Enzie staircase, which is bathed in natural light by floor-to-ceiling glazing from Wideline Windows & Doors. Finished in microcement, the soft curves of the stairs sweep upward, creating a sense of movement.

Powder room

Drama fills the powder room, with its curvaceous ‘Rockpool’ Middle of Nowhere mirror, Nood Co ‘Trough’ basin in Clay, and ‘Oxid Textured’ tiles in Lava from Beaumont Tiles.

Main bedroom

The primary room epitomises the Spanish coastal resort vibe Kara wanted. She opted for dual window coverings from DIY Blinds, layering ‘Allusion’ curtains in Linen over roller blinds.

Adding contrast is a dark Globe West ‘Vittoria Retreat’ bedhead, Snooze bedsides and Hale Mercantile Co bedlinen. A Miss Amara ‘Takha’ rug and framed Tapa barkcloth from Papua New Guinea, available at K&K Homewares, complete the scheme.

Ensuite and walk-in robe

The couple chose Beaumont Tiles ‘Channelle’ travertine mosaics in Brown to partition the shower in their ensuite.

The walk-in robe gets a textured touch thanks to The Dharma Door’s ‘Amua’ wall hanging, available via K&K Homewares.

Second bedroom

The curved motif continues in the second bedroom, with the twisting shape of McMullin & Co bedsides and the ‘Amara Scalloped’ bedhead in Coffee Bean by Halvorsen Interiors. This deep hue is carried through to the Black ‘Totana’ wall light from Lighterior.

Main bathroom

Large ‘Rock Salt’ tiles in Danish Smoke cover the bathroom walls and floor, while smaller ‘Tetra Pavilion’ tiles in Sesame Gloss, both from Beaumont Tiles, create a feature behind the vanity.

Joinery in Loughlin Furniture’s American Aged Oak grounds the luxe Dekton basin in Grigio from Cosentino. Brass accents offer a warm touch, with Beaumont Tiles ‘Misha’ hardware in Brushed Copper and Nightworks Studio ‘Duomo Piccolo Stem’ sconces in Whiskey Brass.

Alfresco

You can’t emulate a European-inspired lifestyle without a gorgeous outdoor area. Millboard Limed Oak decking leads to the round pool by Backyard Retreats, finished in Cemher Microcement ‘Micropool’. “I love the tiered walkway up to the pool,” shares Kara.

In the barbecue area, Stone Style ‘Tunisian Pearl Sandblasted’ crazy pavers offer tactile flooring, while the ‘Lucia Curve’ dining table and ‘Granada Scoop’ chairs, both from Globe West, invite long, alfresco meals. “We’re so proud of this home,” says Kara. “It’s just beautiful.”

While the couple’s personal lives have changed since their time on The Block, with the addition of their son Ziya, seven, and daughter Vada, six, their ability to make a home beautiful remains. “I don’t think our teamwork has changed over the years,” reflects Kara. “We’ve learnt to trust each other more.”

Interior design: Kara Demmrich, kyalandkara.com.
Building: Diverse Design & Construct, diverseconstruct.com.
Joinery: Beachside Kitchens, beachsidekitchens.com.au, and Loughlin Furniture, loughlinfurniture.com.au.
Landscape design: Landart, landart.com.au.

SOURCE BOOK

See the real estate listing for this home here and check out the other half of the duplex here.

The post The Block’s Kyal and Kara’s enchanting Spanish-style abode has sold for $2.64 million appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Who lives here?

A busy couple with their three teenage daughters and two dogs. They enlisted interior designers Sarah and Heather from Oak & Orange to create their dream home.

The biggest challenge with this project?
Sarah: “The home’s corner block location presented the challenge of two distinct facades. Installing a beautiful fence around the perimeter enhanced the home’s privacy and minimised noise from the roadside.”
Tips for making a good first impression?
Heather: “The smaller the facade, the fewer materials and colours you should select. Don’t overcomplicate it.”
What’s your favourite space?
Sarah: “The kitchen. I adore its minimalist design and striking palette.”
Heather: “The living and dining offer a sense of grandeur as you walk down the hallway, enhanced by the high ceilings.”

This aesthetic begins at the facade, where vertical wall cladding, glazing bars on the windows and cross detailing nod to that classic barn look. Exterior walls painted a crisp Taubmans Alpine Snow are offset by charcoal Colorbond Monument roofing and gutters, while a modular fibre-cement composite wall provides privacy around the side.

“Being a corner block, we wanted to ensure that both street frontages looked as impressive as each other, and the modular wall certainly helped us achieve a beautiful finish,” says Sarah.

The black and white colour palette and barn-style details carry through into the interiors, where wide timber floorboards add warmth and upholstered furniture, rugs and cushions bring the comfort factor.

“The glazing bars add architectural interest and tie in perfectly with the American barn style,” says interior designer Heather.

The bedrooms are a tactile haven of boucle bedheads, thick carpets and textured blinds, while the bathrooms feature crisp white joinery, tiled accent walls and chrome fittings. “All of these elements blend to create a space that genuinely feels like a home,” adds Sarah.

Functionality was another important consideration, and Heather and Sarah worked some clever extras into the design. Understair storage optimises unused space, while a mudroom behind doors is fitted with open shelving and a bench with storage underneath.

There’s a home office hidden by a white sliding barn door, a walk-in linen cupboard and pantry, a handy laundry chute connecting the two floors and an upstairs living space that doubles as a teenagers’ retreat.

To the rear, large picture windows provide a glorious connection between the open-plan kitchen, dining and living space and the alfresco entertaining area, complete with a pool and fire pit.

“It’s a relatively small space, but we managed to incorporate room to relax, swim and entertain, as well as a grassed area for the family’s fur babies,” says Heather.

It’s a home that ticks all the boxes for the family.

“It’s beautiful and just what we dreamt it would be,” they say. “It feels very resort-like with the pool seen from the heart of the home, and we love having people over. But that said, it’s also our sanctuary to escape the hustle and bustle of our busy lives.”

Kitchen

Featuring the same classic light and dark palette as the exterior, the kitchen includes Caesarstone Alpine Mist benchtops, MFL by Masson ‘Bianco’ ribbed conical pendants from Beacon Lighting, a chrome mixer from Reece and black ‘T-Pull’ handles from Lo & Co.

A butler’s pantry offers overflow storage and Abide Interiors ‘Zen’ stools add farmhouse texture. The oven and cooktop blends seamlessly with the kitchen colour scheme, while the generous width makes entertaining crowds a breeze. For similar, try the Electrolux ‘90-centimetre Ultimate Taste 900’ freestanding electric oven with induction cooktop in Dark Stainless Steel from Harvey Norman.

“The kitchen feels like the heart of the home, where style and function meet in perfect harmony.”

Sarah, interior designer.

Heather and Sarah thought long and hard about the staircase, as it can be seen from the kitchen, dining and living spaces. They opted for Victorian ash timber treads to match the vinyl flooring, and a balustrade in Dulux Colorbond Monument.

This finish was also used on the roof and gutter of the facade, enhancing the sense of continuity and cohesion as you move throughout the home.

Living area

A calming scene unfolds in the living space, with a timber ‘Narul’ coffee table from Barefoot Gypsy and ‘Ocea’ armchairs from Abide Interiors. The ‘Issho’ console in Smoked Oak and ‘Fleur’ ottoman, both from King, add to the striking features alongside art prints from Urban Road.

A Miss Amara ‘Tilos’ rug creates a layer of softness and texture underfoot, while helping zone the chill-out area in the open-plan space. Complementary light grey tones abound, with a modular ‘Concerto’ sofa
covered in Bronte Natural fabric and a curvaceous ‘Crescent’ ottoman, both from King Living.

Heather and Sarah incorporated a 3.6-metre-high ceiling in the living area for a sense of grandeur.

“The chandelier from Light In The Box and thoughtful styling creates a warm and inviting atmosphere that beckons you to linger and relax for hours,” shares Heather.

A window overlooks the garden with glazing bars to match the front facade, cohesively welcoming the facade’s farmhouse charm into the interior.

Bedrooms

Each room in this home features a careful selection of timber furniture and upholstered pieces to evoke warmth, and the couple’s bedroom is no exception. Mixed textures bring life to the space with its ‘Stockholm’ bedhead from Adairs, timber bedsides from Barefoot Gypsy, and Miss Amara ‘Leilani’ rug and ‘Zalla’ quilt cover from Bambury. ‘Bella’ lamps from Paola And Joy and cushions from Baya Living add extra layers of detail.

Panelled walls painted in Taubmans Crisp White introduce quintessential country flavour, while ‘Byng’ carpet in Wheat and block-out blinds, both sourced from Andersens, soften the overall effect.

One of the home’s tranquil bedrooms features a ‘Ginnie’ boucle bedhead from Luxo Living, ‘Rasha’ side table from Life Interiors, Paola And Joy ‘Mila’ lamp, and cushions and throws from Baya.

Bathrooms

Mixed black and chrome fixtures from Reece keep things sleek in the bathrooms, where sconces from Beacon Lighting, Kado Lux basins and ‘Trinity’ mirrors from Future Glass are key inclusions.

Laundry

Home to fresh white Shaker cabinetry, the laundry is finished with ‘Marlow’ splashback tiles from ColorTile and a sink and mixer from Reece.

Outdoors

The round ‘Colorado’ table and chairs from Bask Outdoor Living are the perfect fit for the square undercover entertaining space. Large-format floor tiles from ColorTile are a cool choice underfoot, while the Beacon Lighting fan circulates air with sculptural flair.

‘Sonata’ outdoor sofa from Freedom and ‘Kumi’ pots from Green Image Lifestyle set an idyllic scene in the pool area, where a ‘Vogue Wall’ modular fence from Modular Walls forms a bold backdrop.

Interior design: Oak & Orange, oakandorange.com.au

Builder: Better Built Homes, betterbuilthomes.com.au

Source Book

The post An American barn-style build in the Hawkesbury Valley appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Designed by the pair in collaboration with Etchells Building Design and built by their own company Diverse Design & Construct, each three-bedroom place is a mirror image of the other. Located 500 metres from the beach, they’re hot commodities.

While the layout of each home is the same, the styles are different. “House 1 leans into a light, refined, French-inspired elegant interior scheme,” says Kara. “House 2 is moody and rustic. Warm micro-cement, aged American Oak and Vancouver natural stone deliver a coastal Spanish interior.”

In the September issue of Home Beautiful, we hung out with Kyal and Kara and took a tour of House 2. Below, browse through House 1, which has a lucky new owner.

From the front to the back, there’s a theme of curves and organic finishes.

To achieve the curves in the kitchen and bedrooms, Kyal and Kara used Gyprock Flexible. The 6.5 mm thick plasterboard sheets have an enhanced gypsum core, which is designed to bend and enables builders to easily create curved walls and ceilings and add visual interest to a space.

“I love the part of the building process when we’re putting up the Gyprock, as it’s when the fun part of the building starts,” says Kara.

“We’ve used curves as a design element and we wanted to add that architectural feature in the master bedrooms,” says Kyal. “The curved wall that leads from the entrance of the bedroom really softens the look of the space and feels luxurious, and has made it one of our favourite rooms.”

The crowning glory of both homes is the outdoor area, featuring a round plunge pool, lush greenery and stone details.

Fresh green has been used in the landscaping and outdoor decor.

For all the details, head to RealEstate.com.au.

The post Kyal and Kara’s Bay Builds project has sold for $2.67 million appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Whether it’s making chicken soup for his son, Harry, or whipping up a grand final feast for his mates – the National Rugby League, of course, for this bush-to-Blacktown, Sydney-raised boy – cooking here is all about pleasure. “I find cooking at home really therapeutic, easy and relaxing,” says Matt. “I love cooking at home.”

Concrete walls and floors capture a contemporary vibe that is both chic and functional. “I love concrete,” says Matt. “I find it warm – the floors are all heated – and in summer it’s a little bit cool.”

“I travel every week – there’s not a week that goes by that I’m not on a plane – but home is my home. I love it. It’s my little escapism.”

Matt Moran

And who wouldn’t, when you have a kitchen like this to come home to? Taking centre stage in the Tzannes-designed three-level property he shares with his novelist wife, Sarah, Harry and 18-year-old daughter Amelia, is what can only be described as a beast of a cooking zone. “I built the house around the kitchen,” says the The Great Australian Bake Off and Family Food Fight judge. Just look at the specs of the kitchen, which carries all the hallmarks of its owner’s trade: a massive commercial extraction system; vast stainless-steel work benches; an ECM benchtop coffee machine that wouldn’t look out of place in a Bondi cafe; four ovens plus microwave; a formidable Lacanche five-burner stovetop; and the – wait for it – purpose-built two-metre by three-metre coolroom. “I often come home at night with boxes of food and, rather than unpack them, I put them straight in there and worry about them the next day,” he says.

But it’s the 4.5-metre concrete island bench that truly takes the breath away. “It’s one solid piece,” says Matt of the deliciously raw feature, poured free-form on site. “It’s all solid concrete.”It’s also built for performance, which is exactly how Matt likes it. “When we’re entertaining, there are four or five people hanging around that front bench and watching me cook, or helping me out a bit – I have a lot of chef friends that come over – so I’m still part of the entertainment, which is really important,” says the hardworking chef.

‘To me, regardless of who you are, I think your kitchen is a real showpiece,” says Matt. “The most important thing for me is that it’s actually part of the room.”

Matt Moran

In Matt and Sarah’s stunning open-plan living space – the beating heart of the home – a modern yet warm, sophisticated style is on show. Concrete floors and walls are softened by sumptuous tallowwood accents and joinery. Sophisticated Danish design with a mid-century tilt flows elegantly beside treasured family photos, striking artworks and a mix of books that hints at the creative couple who live here. “It’s not prissy, it’s not white linen,” says Matt of the raw but inviting and urbane look of the home, which took more than two years to build. “That’s not the way we live. Every space in the house is used.”

“It’s a little bit industrial but warm, and it doesn’t feel too grown-up or too serious”~ Matt

Living room

“This is my chair, this is my spot,” says Matt, taking prime position in the open-plan living area. The chef was given the much-loved Eames as a birthday present – “I’ve wanted one for years” – and winds down here after a workday that sees him come home anytime from nine to midnight. “The older it gets, the more comfortable it gets,” he says. “But just lately I’ve noticed more and more people sitting in it.” The prized piece makes a stylish match to the family-sized lounge, imported from Italy (Jardan’s ‘Hudson’ sofa has a similarly slouchy feel). A glass-topped coffee table continues the clean lines of the interiors, designed by Matt with architect Jonathan Evans from Sydney-based firm Tzannes.

Matt Moran’s cookbook

Matt’s book, Australian Food – Coast And Country, $49.99, Murdoch Books, is available at David Jones. Matt says this collection of recipes combines his great food loves. “I live on the coast and I’m from the country, so it’s got all those beautiful dishes using ingredients you have on the coast and then the food I like to cook when I’m on the farm,” he explains.

The post Chef Matt Moran invites us into his seaside Sydney home appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Taking their time to perfect the design, Nicola and Lachie leased the house for a year, while working with building designer Bianca Gemmill of BCG Building Design to create the right balance of indoor/outdoor living and streamlined functionality.

Husband-and-wife team Nash Building + Interiors also came on board, with builder Clint and interior designer Kellie able to distil the couple’s love of natural, earthy materials into a timeless palette.

“Originally, we were considering terracotta pavers and concrete, which had a bit of a Mediterranean feel, yet when Kellie introduced timber and crazy pavers we loved the concept and everything fell into place from there,” says Nicola.

The minimalist, muted scheme features limestone, travertine, hand-trowelled microcement walls and hardwood timber decking.

During the process, the couple welcomed daughter Marloe and have since celebrated the arrival of one year-old Rudy.

“There’s been a bit of room reshuffling, and there are now more toys around the place than ever, but the layout works well for us,” says Nicola.

A serene set-up, even when heavily sprinkled with toys, the home functions just as the couple had hoped. “On the weekends, apart from a trip to the beach, we feel we don’t need to leave.”

Who lives here?

Nicola, who describes her style as “minimalist and timeless”; her husband Lachie, an AFL player for the Gold Coast Suns; their kids Marloe, three, and Rudy, one; and Hazel the Australian Shepherd.

Best decision you made?

Nicola: “To buy and build in this area. We just love that we can ride and walk to the beach and our favourite cafes.”

Did you have any splurges?

“Nothing was too crazy. We nearly did a marble benchtop in the kitchen, but decided to opt for a more family-friendly low-maintenance engineered stone.”

What’s left on your to-do list?

We’re slowly chipping away adding more furnishings, but with two young kids, we’re not in a rush.”

Kitchen

“It’s such a practical space with so much storage, and I love that it flows right around behind to the butler’s pantry,” says Nicola of her kitchen.

Oak cabinetry was the starting point for the palette, followed by ‘Pronto’ engineered oak floors in Parchment from Marques Flooring. ‘Green Bananas and Apricots’ by Emma Gale adds artistic flavour.

A lovely addition alongside the kitchen is a bespoke window seat with integrated storage, where the couple sit and read with the kids or chat while the cooking takes place.

In keeping with the muted textile of the Globe Interiors blind, the seat by JCF Designs is upholstered in Warwick Fabric ‘Chambray’ in Oatmeal, and brightened by Bonnie and Neil cushions.

Benchtops in Caesarstone Adamina pair beautifully with tonal Moroccan ‘Zellige’ tiles in Lily by Vulcano Clay, which add a subtle patchwork effect across the splashback.

“We love the mix of materials throughout. The timber, VJ panelling, microcement, stone, limestone and handmade ceramic tiles,” shares Nicola.

Living and dining

Seamlessly connected to the kitchen and dining spaces, the living area is a snug hub bordered by a modular Trit House sofa, where Hazel comfort-tests the Bonnie and Neil cushions.

Above the Kira & Kira coffee table and custom jute rug from International Floorcoverings Australia are portraits of Lachie, Marloe and Hazel by Sabine Bannard.

Paired with James Lane chairs, the Empire Home timber dining table is a memento from the couple’s time in Western Australia, after a stint living there while Lachie played for the Fremantle Dockers.

Integrated shelves provide additional opportunities for display in the main living space and help keep breakable items out of reach of tiny hands.

Nearby hang framed photographs by Sabine Bannard of Nicola, Marloe and Hazel, who gets comfy on the Trit House sofa.

“We really love the home we’ve created and see ourselves here for the foreseeable future.”

Nicola, homeowner

A Yolan Eke artwork from Kira & Kira offers colour cues in the separate sitting area, which opens onto the garden and basks in warm afternoon sun.

Opting for a textural mix of furnishings, a pair of ‘French Modernist’ armchairs in woven water hyacinth from Larkwood Furniture accompanies the timber coffee table from Kira & Kira. The relaxing corner is illuminated by a floor lamp sourced at MCM House, atop a wool rug from GlobeWest.

Main bedroom

The couple’s bedroom is luxe with Dunlin ‘Narrow Rattan’ sconces, a Jardan bed and Halcyon Lake ‘Heathers’ carpet in Parchment. Sheer curtains from Globe Interiors diffuse early morning sun on the rare days the homeowners get a sleep in.

“The place came together fluidly based on the brief for a neutral colour scheme.”

Kellie, interior designer

Bathrooms

The kids love splashing in the ‘Naga’ bath from BNK Bathrooms & Kitchens in the couple’s ensuite, where microcement by Kustomcote skims the bench seat and vanity.

“The microcement really appealed, as I love the look and there’s no grout to clean,” says Nicola.

The flooring is Eco Outdoor ‘Arbon’ tumbled limestone, with Ragno ‘Mélange’ wall tiles in Beige from Three Balls Red. With a neutral foundation, colour is easily added and changed with towels, like these Turkish Cotton ones from Adairs.

Outdoors

Too good not to reuse, the existing pool was simply updated with new pebblecrete, Eco Outdoor ‘Scala’ travertine crazy paving, a modern fence and a cabana that provides a shady retreat within the splash zone.

To one side, silvery olive trees enhance the Mediterranean feel.

Stacking doors link the kitchen with the outdoor dining area – one of the family’s favourite spots to unwind near the pool and backyard.

“Being in the garden and growing produce really is Lachie’s passion,” says Nicola. “There are always greens and a seasonal mix of vegies, which we pick fresh and cook with daily – it means we rarely need to buy any.”

Interior design & building: Nash Building + Interiors, nashbuildingandinteriors.com.au
Building design: BCG Building Design, bcgbuildingdesign.com.au
Joinery: Smart Joinery, smartjoinery.com.au
Landscaping: JSW Landscapes & Design, jswlandscapes.com.au, and Nash Building + Interiors

SOURCE BOOK

The post Inside an AFL player’s contemporary family home on the Gold Coast appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Delicate fretwork on the exterior sets the grand tone, while inside high ceilings, sweeping arches and classic cornices honour the heritage of the build. Moving through the family home, Bec’s love of bold decor and moody tones is apparent, alongside luxe accents of brass and marble.

Bec Judd shares the secrets to her stylish yet functional home

To celebrate her latest design collaboration with Trit House, we spoke to Bec Judd herself for all the juicy renovation details, her relaxing family rituals, plus the decor items that all of her friends are rushing off to buy.

What is your decorating style?

Bec: “You’ll see from fashion or interior design, I’m not vanilla. I don’t want to blend in, I don’t do black and white. I always love colour, flair, being a little bit extra. There’s a lot of art in every room and I’ll pull a colour out of that and use accents of that in my styling to really pull the room together. My study has a bit of a green theme. My good room has lots of pink through that and in the artwork. I pulled that through the decorator items, the sofas, the chairs. I would say it’s modern with a traditional heart. Lots of colour but not overbearing clashing colour, sophisticated use of colour.”

What’s the best piece of furniture you’ve ever bought for your home?

“Probably our outdoor furniture. We invested in really purpose-built outdoor furniture. They were built to withstand the harsh Australian weather. They have lasted and lasted and lasted. I think they’re six years old and they still look perfect. That’s my advice if you are buying outdoor furniture. Make sure it was created and designed with the Australian sun and conditions in mind.” 

What’s your favourite place to relax in your home?

“The alfresco area, overlooking the pool and backyard. There are beautiful trees, greenery and tall hedges. We’ve got these pink outdoor armchairs and it’s such a nice vista out amongst the garden. My dog loves to sleep there as well because the afternoon sun shines in and warms up the pavers. You’ll always find me outside with him.”

Where do you like to spend quality time as a family?

“There are two places in our home where we get really good quality time because we’re not on devices and we’re all engaged with each other. One is our integrated spa in our pool. We heat it up to 40 degrees in winter and we have a hot spa together as a family every single night. It’s almost how the kids bathe because it’s magnesium. So we jump in every night as a family and really enjoy that time. We’ve done it since the kids were babies. The other thing is we’ve got the infrared sauna and that’s really great as well. So we’ll pop in there, take board games in there, we’ve got Netflix and spotify in the sauna. And of course we get the benefits of infrared rays.”

What’s your top tip for entertaining friends and family?

“Just create nice spaces where people are happy, feel comfortable and mill around. The island bench in the kitchen is always a good one. I like having our big arched French doors open so it lets the light in. We’ve got lots of family, lots of small kids, so they can just come inside and outside and there’s really nice flow. From the vantage points in our house, we overlook the yard, the pool and can see what everyone’s doing. It’s a really nice connected space. Another tip is have the ice machine on, have the fridge stocked and always have beautiful cheese and crackers ready to go.” 

How did you create your dreamy walk-in wardrobe?

“It’s all about a good use of space and making sure it’s functional. You see all these beautiful walk-in robes and when they’re photographed they’re super styled. In reality, wardrobes don’t look like that. People shove lots of clothes in there. We don’t have the time to colour code them, we don’t have these perfect little shelves with perfect lines of bags and shoes lined up. I’m practical. I think you can have some beautiful joinery that hides what lies within and then just have a small area for display that you know you can keep on top of whether it’s jewellery, fragrance or candles. You can put the rest of it away. Make sure you have a beautiful mirror and some lighting as well.”  

How did the collaboration with Trit House come about?

“I’ve been working with Trit House for probably ten years now and I’ve used their beautiful furniture and decorator items in many of my projects in that time. My home is full of Trit pieces. They are so incredible and special and make all of the spaces really chic and elevated. For me, this Tiramisu marble collection stands out. It’s so bold, it’s unique, there’s so much variation and colour in it but in a really gorgeous, tonal way. And the sharp design edges as well with the side table and the mirror just give it an extra, elevated edge. They’re just really cool pieces.”

The collection features a console, coffee table and side table all made from Tiramisu marble. Why this type of marble?

“I am swooning over this stone so hard. It’s so dreamy. The colour is just incredible and hard to explain. There’s a warmth to it, a variation. There’s browns, golds, maroons, deep cherry reds and a dark grape. Whenever guests walk into our home and walk past the console everybody stops me and asks me about it. I’ve sold many consoles to friends just from them visiting my house. I love doing things that haven’t been done before and I hadn’t seen this stone before. To be the first one to really use it was special to me. I think it’s what makes the collection really stand out.” 

You’ve got quite a modern home. How do these pieces fit into that?

“I’ve got a modern home with heritage elements. The beauty in these pieces is they really do fit a modern home or a heritage home. For example, one of my girlfriends has this beautiful apartment in Bondi, overlooking the beach. She’s got two consoles joined together. It really suits the modern beachy aesthetic. In my house, I’ve got them near arches, big tall high ceilings, chevron parquetry floor. It’s more of a heritage vibe and it works really well. Then I’ve got another girlfriend who’s got an Edwardian house and the coffee table looks incredible in her house. I’m lucky they are a design that’s really versatile and suits any architectural, interior element or style.”

How do you style your coffee table?

“I pushed the smaller one and the taller one together. My kids actually use them for crafting. We do a lot of food on our coffee table so teas, chocolate, cheese platters. If we’re not eating off it, the kids are crafting on it. I’m not the sort of person to have a styled coffee table because my kids will just swipe all of that off. So it’s not one of those coffee tables styled with books or candles. It’s just not practical in my house. Coffee tables provide a really functional use in my home that also happens to look so incredibly amazing.”

Do you have a favourite armchair?

“My ‘Ro’ chair by Fritz Hansen. It’s pink, it’s in my pink room and it’s got such a nice wavy curve to the back of it. It’s a statement, striking piece and it’s also in my favourite colour.”

Bec Judd’s expert shelf styling tips

A large artwork by Jasmine Mansbridge takes pride of place in the living room and the shelves which appear next to it have been styled to highlight the hues in the art. “On the top shelf I have two maroon coloured arches, then a pink terrazzo staircase book end,” Bec shares. The next shelf down features a vase from Trit House and a framed photograph of Bec and Chris on their wedding day. “I have a range of books in warm tones then a gorgeous Greg Natale book end,” adds Bec. A nude toned vase from Trit House features on the second last shelf while the bottom shelf is given a bright burst with orange hydrangeas. “Then I have photos with my husband and my daughter, Billie,” says Bec. Cohesive, meaningful and chic: the perfect combo!

Shop the Bec Judd and Trit House collection

01

Tiramisu Coffee Table

from $3,340, Trit House

Best for: Living room decor.

Beautiful on its own, or nestled together as a pair like Bec Judd has done, the Tiramisu Coffee Table is truly one of a kind. The rich tones of the veining on the marble create a dramatic pattern that will ensure this item is the showstopping centrepiece to your space. While the countertop is a generously-sized round slab of marble, the trio of legs underneath have hexagonal shapes, broken up with swathes of brass, for contrast and sophisticiation.

Sizes: Small: 75cm (D) x 43cm (H); large: 100cm (D) x 34cm (H).

Colours: Travertine/Onyx Stone.

Materials: Tiramisu marble and brushed brass.

Key features:

• Round shape
• Three legs
• Polished marble
• Unique veining
• Artistry

Shop Now

02

Tiramisu Floor Mirror and Side Table

$2,300, Trit House

Best for: Two items in one.

This freestanding mirror and side table look absolutely gorgeous beside one another. Display oft-used jewellery on the polished brass and mirror top of the side table so that you can accessories in front of the full length mirror in a move that is both convenient and stylish. The continued use of brass and mirror ties the two pieces together, while ridged edging along the base of the side table adds visual interest.

Sizes: Mirror: 60cm (W) x 190cm (H); Side table: 44.5cm (D) x 76.5cm (H).

Colours: Travertine/Onyx Stone.

Materials: Glass mirror, tiramisu marble, polished brass top, brushed brass base.

Key features:

• Polished marble
• Two-in-one
• Glass
• Brushed and polished brass
• Full length and free standing

Shop Now

03

Tiramisu Side Table

$1,360, Trit House

Best for: Big impact in a compact size.

This side table is shorter than the one sold alongside the full length mirror, making it more suitable for use in the living room. Place this gorgeous item at the end of your couch, as Bec Judd has, to display decorative objets and enjoy drinks (placed atop a coaster to prevent damage to the marble, of course!). The bold veining of the tiramisu marble adds glamour to your decor, while ridged edges and a brass base create an edgy appeal.

Sizes: 45cm (D) x 45cm (H).

Colours: Travertine/Onyx Stone.

Materials: Tiramisu marble and brushed brass.

Key features:

• Round top
• Thick base
• Polished marble
• Unique veining
• Artistry
• Ridged edge

Shop Now

04

Tiramisu Console

$2,830, Trit House

Best for: Creating a stunning first impression.

Make an impact the second your guests walk through the front door with the Tiramisu Console. Perfectly designed for placement in hallways, the console can be decorated with beloved items and practical additions such as keys (stored in a beautiful trinket dish, of course). Compromised of generous portions of solid marble, with swipes of brushed brass along the bottom of the legs, this is a piece of furniture that makes a style statement.

Sizes: 160cm (W) x 40cm (D) x 80cm (H).

Colours: Travertine/Onyx Stone.

Materials: Tiramisu marble and brushed brass.

Key features:

• Oval top
• Brushed brass base
• Polished marble
• Unique veining
• Artistry
• Ridged edge

Shop Now

The post Step inside Bec Judd’s edgy home makeover appeared first on Home Beautiful.

He’s technically right. Our newest homes are more than double what they were 60 years ago. McCloud argues that the many massive Australian homes that defy their environmental surroundings are coming at the expense of more exciting architecture, as well as a more affordable and well-built housing supply.

Our antipodean sibling received a much better report card. “The architecture is different in New Zealand,” McCloud told The Guardian. New Zealand “treads lightly, there’s an awareness of the difficulty of building and getting materials, but Australia says, ‘Hey c’mon, we’ve got the planet, let’s mine it, let’s build with it, let’s sell it, let’s create wealth’,” he says, unflatteringly.

Build smaller buildings to connect the larger houses, creating a kind of “connective tissue” in the suburban sprawl, suggests McCloud. “How can we stitch stuff into gaps that are smaller and a bit more responsive and which revitalise?”

He points to the “yimby” mantra, or “yes in my back yard”, and says it might be a solution to Australia’s dire shortage of homes. He suggests terraces and infill development that “revitalises what are otherwise becoming very expensive suburbs”.

Is this Brit right about our big-is-better house ideals? Home Beautiful called on our local experts to shed light on our apparent grandiose tendencies.

Is Australian architecture compromised by size?

Television’s The Block is on the pulse when it comes to what Aussies want right now, housing-wise. Julian Brenchley, architect from The Block, disagrees with McCloud’s take of our national architecture. “I believe there are some unique and exciting homes of all sizes happening in Australia right now,” he says, pointing to the Adam Haddow SJB Terrace in Surry Hills as an example. The 69 sq metre home on a 30 sq metre footprint – which is only 3.2 metres deep from front to back wall – won 2023’s new houses awards in NSW.

“There are exemplary larger exciting architectural homes that are championing sustainable design by including full off-grid energy systems as an offset to the environmental cost. It is just these kinds of sustainable initiatives in larger homes that will trickle down to smaller houses as the infrastructure costs reduce,” says Brenchley.

Do Australians need big houses?

Advocates for tiny houses and smaller homes argue that while space may be tight, there’s plenty of good to be found in smaller-space living, including the costs. There are plenty of homewares hacks and ideas out there to make even tiny homes feel much bigger.

In many family homes, much of the space internally is used rarely. In 2019-2020, the ABS found that 77 per cent of households in Australia had at least one bedroom spare.

Rick Simmons, owner and Project and Design Manager at One Up Building, who won the Master Builders Association Young Builder of the Year Award in 2019, says for many Australians homes need to be bigger than they were in the past. He says more of us are “adding home offices, gyms, retreats and all sorts of living areas to balance the growing family needs”.

The cost of living means grown-up kids are less likely to leave home – talk about failure to launch! Instead, parents and even grandparents are upsizing – creating multi-generational living spaces –  in a bid to accommodate them. “Children are not racing out the door to live independently,” he says.

Children are also spending less time outdoors, and more time in their rooms with their toys or their screens, so many Australian children are given their own bedroom which also serves as their private living quarters. Once upon a time, children were sent outside after breakfast and told to return only for meal times, if at all, until bedtime. More activities have been atomised into people’s homes – the cinema, pools, and more recently even schooling

There has been an increase in demand for self-contained secondary accommodation either within the home or as a separate dwelling, says Janette Stritt, interior designer at Stritt Design and Construction.

“As lifestyles have changed and people are working from home more post-Covid, this has also seen an increase in the demand for home offices. The size of new homes needing to accommodate these additional rooms have as a result increased, the house size becoming relative to its occupants and their lifestyle needs,” she says.

Do so-called McMansions serve a purpose?

According to Julian Brenchley, the often-maligned McMansion can serve a purpose for many Australians. A source of demand for large houses is often an economic necessity and the cultural dynamics of living with relatives, in-laws, friends, older children and other human combinations.

The resultant houses can be large, serve a real purpose and solve very real housing needs and issues, he says.

“Beyond the status symbol often attributed to the biggest house in the street, and far from the lens of the cringing cultural elite (who all live in sustainable matchboxes apparently), one of the predominant attitudes leaning towards housing solutions that demand a large house include multi-family and multi-generational living.”

The McMansion is an easy target in the debate on housing wastage, says Brenchley, “but the reality is deeper and far more complex”.

Are Australian houses too big?

McCloud isn’t wrong, our houses are getting bigger. Our reference points of small and big have shifted dramatically over the last 100 years. In 1960, new homes measured about 100 sq metres on average. By 1984, the average reached 162 sq metres. Now new Australian homes are close to 230 sq metres.

They’re not at their peak size, though. In 1993-94, new houses averaged 189 sq metres, and less than 10 years later, in 2002-03, they averaged 228 sq metres. Five years later, they were a whopping 246 sq metres, the largest they have been. We’ve calmed down a little, and new houses dropped to 238 sq metres in 2012-13 and then again in 2021-22 to 232 sq metres.

What is the average house size in Australia?

The average new dwelling house size in Australia is now close to 230 sq metres, more than double what it was in the 1960s, according to Australian Bureau of Statistics research based on Building Activity Survey data released in 2022.

Other residential dwellings, including apartments and units, have a considerably smaller average floor area at 137 sq metres. The average house size in Australia has not shifted dramatically, but when it comes to new homes, there’s an upward trajectory that concerns big-home critics like McCloud. Which state has the biggest homes? The answer might surprise. Australia’s various states and territories vary wildly when it comes to size. The ACT has the biggest new homes, over 18 sq metres larger on average than Victoria, which has the second largest houses. The smallest new houses in Australia can be found in Tasmania, where the average new house is 218 sq metres, according to the ABS. New townhouses in Tasmania are only 97 sq metres, tiny compared to Western Australia’s 193 sq metre and the NT’s 198 sq metre townhouses.

How many square metres is the average three-bedroom house in Australia?

Australian houses are some of the largest in the world, much bigger than their European counterparts – which often measure 30-45 sq metres. In the United States, an average home is 245 sq metres, making it the second largest in the world.

The most common Australian home layout, three bedrooms, is on average around 175 sq metres. This fluctuates slightly and many three-bedroom homes will be above or smaller than the national average. The average three-bedroom home can usually be found on a block size of 474 square metres.

The next big thing in Australia house design

The Block’s Julian Brenchley believes Australians are already on the path to creating homes that are responsive to the environment, as well as the needs of the people who live within these abodes. He argues that the sheer cost of building will lead us, ultimately, to building more smaller houses.

“The many factors that play into the creation of a thoughtful house include a better understanding of what is needed, as opposed to a trophy house. And the very real issue of affordability will, by virtue of economics, create smaller houses,” he says.

But he defends the big house as well, saying they can be both thoughtful and affordable, as long as they are also sustainable.“Imagine designing and building a house of any size, provided it’s sustainable with scalable environmental design inclusions, then why not?”

The post Are we building Australian houses too big? appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Con and Fran purchased their Melbourne apartment off the plan and had already tweaked the layout. “We felt we could create more spaciousness and light by linking the family room with the dining and living areas,” says Fran.

With the home’s open-plan potential freshly unlocked, they turned to Melissa for the finishing flourishes. “Fran was deciding what furniture pieces she loved and what she wanted to change,” says Melissa.

Who lives here?

Fran and her husband Con, who work in hospitality and are passionate travellers.
What was your vision for the interior? Fran: “To make it a comfortable family home as well as creating a classic design style with layers of decoration.”
Which rooms get the most use? “We use the kitchen and family room extensively for family and friends. My husband uses the study as a working office and to hold business meetings.”
What are your favourite features? “We love the design of the living room with the separate study area. It’s a very inviting, north-facing space to enjoy with family and friends. And we love the dark joinery and wall lights in the study, which create a moody and intimate club-like atmosphere.”

Part-decoration, part-curation, the project focused as much on rehoming the couple’s existing decor as it did on sourcing new pieces. Both Fran and Melissa envisaged a sophisticated space with lashings of refined grandeur, and both were inspired by the interiors of American designer Suzanne Kasler.

“We wanted every space to be different, but still work in harmony with each other and flow from area to area,” says Melissa. She used a palette of blue, white and timber against washes of beige and grey for cohesion, while delineating different zones by varying the shades and saturation.

In the rooms that remain dim for most of the day, Melissa took a cocooning and somewhat counterintuitive approach – which initially had Con and Fran unconvinced – with winning results. “The rooms that did not receive as much natural light were made darker,” says Melissa. “It worked beautifully and one of my favourite rooms is the study, which was papered in a dark grasscloth and layered with dark fabrics. We also used wall lights, feature lights and lamps throughout the apartment to create mood and ambience.”

Kitchen

A pair of Miele ovens are teamed with a microwave and steam oven to make light work of hosting Con and Fran’s big family. “My clients often have their grandchildren to stay, so we were mindful of the fabrics we used in the family room and on the kitchen stools,” explains Melissa. “These not only needed to be practical and hardwearing, but also look smart.”

Dining area

Fran and Con knocked through the wall that separates the living space and dining area, and linked the rooms with sliding doors. “We purchased the dining room rug from Behruz Studio after seeing it in the showroom – it was perfect and married the traditional formal sitting room beautifully with the more relaxed living area,” she says of the open-plan zones. A John Robinson artwork now overlooks the finely edged dining table by Raymond Henry.

“I wanted to create a layered, refined home, incorporating existing pieces collected over time by my clients.”

Melissa

Sitting area

“The large rug in this room was new and custom-made for the space by Whitecliffe Imports to set the tone,” says Melissa of the formal sitting area. She incorporated the home’s existing chandelier, along with Fran and Con’s antique mirror and Louis chairs.

Melissa used a rich grasspaper from Ascraft at one end of the formal sitting area. Fran and Con already owned the chest of drawers and lamp base, which was refreshed with a custom shade in silk ikat fabric from Tigger Hall Design.

“When purchasing new pieces, not only did we try to find items we loved, they also needed to have longevity.”

Melissa

Main bedroom

“It took a while to find the perfect bedhead fabric and textiles for the accessories,” she says of the couple’s bedroom. “We visited every fabric house numerous times before it all went ‘click!’”

The textiles palette includes Nina Campbell ‘Bintan’ in 05 on the bedhead and Jim Thompson silk from Milgate for the curtains.

Guest bedrooms

To bring strokes of character and colour to the second guest bedroom, Melissa upholstered the custom bedhead in Galbraith & Paul ‘Lattice’ fabric in Marine on Cream Linen.

With their lyrical Manuel Canovas ‘Nina’ print in Cardinal, the curtains are showstoppers. Melissa repeated the fabric in a cushion on the couple’s armchair, which she recovered with an Ian Mankin textile from Domestic Textile Corporation.

‘Banyan’ in Charcoal Blue on Oyster from Bennison Fabrics is stunning in the other guest bedroom with Yves Delorme linen.

Alfresco area

“My clients enjoy staying at the Firmdale Hotels, which are beautifully curated and layered,” says Melissa of the Kit Kemp-designed venues. “It was this same feeling we wanted to achieve within the apartment.” The hotel-worthy style inside extends to the alfresco area, where a broad, sheltered terrace is flanked by camellias in vessels from Kellock Pots and Planters.

Melissa bathed the alfresco area with layers of lighting sources, from the romance of candlelight, courtesy of a trio of hurricanes, to the stately lantern pendant overhead. For a similar pendant, try EF Chapman ‘Darlana’ outdoor lantern from The Montauk Lighting Co. For an extra wash of illumination, the interior lights brighten the terrace.

We love… layered lighting

Given the opportunity again, Melissa would go even further. “In retrospect, I would have added more layers and wallpaper – maybe on our next project together!” adding, “I love this apartment and am very proud of how it turned out.”

Interior decoration: Melissa Balzan Design, melissabalzandesign.com.
Interior design: Andrea Zidziunas, caisson.com.au.
Builder: Davies Henderson, davieshenderson.com.au.

SOURCE BOOK

---

More home tours

Previous

A French provincial dream home is for sale on Sydney’s Lower North Shore

How a lucky find turned an empty block into a majestic family home

How classic American style revived this Brisbane Queenslander

Next

The post The elegant transformation of a newly built apartment in Melbourne appeared first on Home Beautiful.

“With my understanding of snow life – days spent on the slopes and evenings spent at home – I knew having five tall people in a tiny apartment was going
to be a challenge. Careful consideration had to be given to the layout, the storage, and how everyone would integrate with the space,” explains Kate about the project.

With dated finishes and low ceilings, the apartment was ripe for reinvention, so Kate went ahead with a full gut and refit, replacing every element. Priority one was making smart use of every inch. “During the ski season, we head up every few weeks with our youngest child who is 15 years old, and often we take his friends. Our eldest ones tend to head up there themselves and enjoy time when school and university permit,” says the homeowner.

With an often-full house, the second bedroom needed to work incredibly hard, so Kate designed bunk beds that stretch the length of the room to sleep four full-size adults.

Kitchen

The family are keen travellers, who love a quirky yet luxurious boutique hotel. “We wanted it to feel like we were overseas in a dark and moody chalet,” the homeowner shares. Kate answered this call in typically bold KWD style, with a saturated colour palette of deep blue and mustard, and spaces that are drenched in colour.

The honey-toned ceiling brings cocooning warmth to the kitchen, without visually lowering it. The cabinetry (in Dulux Prestige Blue) allows plenty of room to move around a marble-topped island bench, which turns the space into the social centre of the home.

“We knew we had to look at the apartment differently, and to be creative with the layout and play with the illusion of space and height.”

Kate Walker, interior designer

The look is a balance of comfort and luxury, but the true success of the design is in its usability. “By looking outside of the standard response to kitchen, dining and living design flow, we were able to amplify the usability of the space, increase the circulation, and find a way for five very tall people to be able to congregate and live harmoniously in a small, but perfectly formed, alpine apartment,” says Kate.

Living room

Shades of navy and blue-black are brightened with brass accents in a look that’s pure luxury, while a complex gold hue has been taken from walls to ceilings in the main living space, creating a visually warming space to recline once the snow-sodden boots have been shed.

Kate describes the custom-designed wool and silk rug as “artwork for the floor”, and with the other textures in the apartment – cushions plus throws in a basket from Inartisan – the living area is a cosy space to hunker down in while snow falls outside.

Main bedroom

“With the masculine feel throughout the apartment, tailored to the four male occupants, we wanted to introduce a touch of femininity to the master bedroom with some unexpected, beautiful florals,” says Kate.

Embracing one or two hero hues and swathing a space with them creates rooms that are just right for snuggling up in. “We didn’t want to design a space that was too literal in its alpine flavour,” says Kate of the mustard and rich blue used. “These saturated colours are not normally associated with an alpine environment, but they are so warm and inviting. The mustard almost glows.” Visit Porter’s Paints.

We love… colourful spaces

Bathroom

The single bathroom was another challenge, needing to work for multiple people, all heading out or coming back from the ski slopes.

“We designed a three-way bathroom, so three people can be getting ready at the same time. One person can be showering privately, one person can be brushing their teeth at the vanity, and one person can be in the separate powder room,” says Kate. “We prioritised face-height storage, like hotel storage, understanding that the apartment is a weekender/holiday home so permanent storage wasn’t necessary.”

“The highlight of the apartment is definitely the materiality. The natural stone is magnificent, as is the custom joinery.”

Kate Walker, interior designer

Bunk room

The challenge of sleeping a houseful of grown adults (the homeowners’ three sons are all over six-foot tall!) was ingeniously solved with custom-sized bunk beds and mattresses that stretch the full length of the bedroom.

Interior Designer: KWD, katewalkerdesign.com.au, (03) 5974 1800.

SOURCE BOOK

---

More home tours

Previous

Inside a luxurious alpine apartment cocooned in colour

An idyllic outdoor renovation complete with a garden and pool pavilion

How a lucky find turned an empty block into a majestic family home

Next

The post A cramped apartment redesigned as a luxurious mountain retreat appeared first on Home Beautiful.

At the time, the land was occupied by a 1930s Arts and Crafts building that had been unsympathetically converted into four units. Jess and Ed had the vision of demolishing the rundown structure to build their desired home, but they needed the ultimate A-team to help them achieve it.

Who lives here?

Jess Jones, owner of Fertility Nutrition Australia, her husband Ed, owner of Tas Trucks, their daughter, Hazel, aged three, and Border Collies, Frankie and Nate.
Describe your home’s aesthetic. Jess: “Consistently modern and neutral with a few splashes of colour.”
Your favourite space? “The pink lounge room, overlooking the back garden, which looks amazing at night with the lighting under the trees.”
Best investment? “The hydronic heating was a big cost, but it adds so much warmth to the concrete flooring.”
What’s your top tip? “Call in the professionals! We could not have achieved such an amazing home without our designers and builders.”

Architect Joanna Churchill drew up the functional floor plan. Spread over two storeys, the main living spaces are downstairs and the sleeping quarters are upstairs. Building firm 3D Construction and Developments was tasked with bringing the vision to life. Then, interior designer Emma Heidke of Symmetrie Design + Styling Studio helped curate the remaining fixtures, finishes and furniture.

Kitchen and dining

The resulting interior begins with a minimalist base – salt and pepper concrete floors and crisp white walls, offset by the black and oak joinery and brick feature walls.

Thick woollen rugs soften the concrete in the living spaces, while honeycomb blinds and sheer curtains diffuse the light and bring privacy, insulation and warmth in those brisk Tassie winters. Furniture selections follow the elegant theme, with the occasional statement piece to add personality.

“We went with a matte finish on the floors to keep it looking as natural as possible,” says Emma. Smoked mirror splashbacks and Abodo timber in the kitchen help break up the palette.

In the dining area, meals are enjoyed at the Jardan ‘Cooper’ table on oak ‘McKenzie’ chairs. Muuto ‘Ambit’ pendants from Huset are above.

Slender handmade Petersen ‘Kolumba’ clay bricks were used inside and out, acting as a striking feature in the open-plan kitchen, living and dining spaces. “We were adamant we wanted to use them and are so happy with the look and contrast they provide to the black timber and white walls,” says Jess. For more bricks, visit Robertson’s.

We love… exposed bricks

Living rooms

Movie nights take place in the main living space, which is heated by a Seguin ‘Super 9’ fireplace in winter. Grey Jardan ‘Nook’ sofas and an Armadillo ‘Andes’ rug in Parchment maximise the room’s comfort factor, while the Jardan ‘Otis’ side table and coffee table display decorative items.

In the second living room, a custom artwork by Junko Go ties in perfectly with the ‘Wilfred’ sofa from Jardan.

Main bedroom

Jess and Ed’s bedroom is elevated within the leafy canopy of a neighbour’s tree and enjoys views of the mountains. A grey Heatherly Designs bedhead lends a calming element, with bedlinen from Bed Threads, Globe West ‘Benjamin Ripple’ bedsides and a Muuto ‘Grain’ pendant from Huset adding extra layers.

“We never dreamed of being able to create such a beautifully designed home that feels like our sanctuary.”

Jess, homeowner

Main bathroom

A handy American Oak veneer cabinet is set within the bathroom, wall-tiled with ‘Barcelona’ tiles from Beaumont Tiles. The family can relax in the deep Kado ‘Lux’ oval bathtub from Reece, with a ‘Vivid Slimline’ floor mixer from Phoenix Tapware in easy reach.

“I see the home as an elegant, soft industrial statement, with considered, minimalist interiors and just the right amount of industrial expression.”

Emma Heidke, interior designer

Pool

The breezy scheme and carefully selected decor ensure the home is both a space for entertaining and a sanctuary when the family want to close themselves off from the outside world. Whether they’re by the pool, doing puzzles in the playroom, sitting around the kitchen island sharing stories or enjoying casual meals at the dining table together, this new home ticks all of Jess and Ed’s boxes.

“It feels inviting, spacious and luxurious. It’s the first house that I’ve come home to after a holiday and actually felt happy and content being back home,” says Jess.

Architect: Churchill Architects, churchillarchitects.com.au.
Interior design: Symmetrie Interior Design + Styling Studio, symmetrie.com.au.

Builder: 3D Construction and Developments, 0499 909 276.
Joiner: Taswood Joinery, taswoodjoinery.com.au.
Landscaper: All About Gardens, allaboutgardenstas.com.au.

SOURCE BOOK

---

More home tours

Previous

This Melbourne passive home is a sustainable triumph

Simple yet luxurious touches complete this modern family kitchen

7 modern home design styles for 2024

Brought to you by James Hardie

Next

The post A timber masterpiece, this modern family home ticks all the right boxes appeared first on Home Beautiful.

“I think the audience will be genuinely surprised that my house is not white and bright and light and airy,” Erin shared on Instagram. “It is a little bit of a step away from that classic Three Birds look.”

Where is Erin’s wonderfully made-over home? It’s located on a sprawling block in a leafy suburb in The Hills District of New South Wales. having started out as a tired 1990s brick home with a terracotta tile roof, it’s been transformed into a welcoming urban farmhouse.

Erin shares the home with her husband Nathan Cayless, a former professional rugby league footballer and now NRL coach with the Parramatta Eels, and their three children.

It’s the latest in a line-up of extraordinary home renos for the Three Birds Renovations trio. Others in the mix have included co-founders Bonnie Hindmarsh’s dream home and Lana Taylor’s forever home. At this point they’re pros at flipping homes, and Lana is joining the new Channel 7 series Dream Home as a judge in 2024.

True to the Three Birds’ style, Erin’s Urban Farmhouse is full of incredible interior ideas. It has five bedrooms, a kitchen and butler’s pantry, a dining room, a main living room and a family lounge, a study, laundry, main bathroom and three ensuites.

Outdoors is an expansive entertaining zone and landscaped gardens, complete with a pool, tennis court and atrium.

We take a tour of the dreamy family home and get expert tips to emulate the organic interior style.

Inside Erin’s urban farmhouse

It’s hard to believe this beautiful exterior was once anything but. The dated tiles have been replaced with a fresh roof, gutters and fascia in ‘Basalt’ from Lysaght.

Cladding from James Hardie in Dulux ‘Grey Port’ complements the lush surrounds. Black Stegbar windows contrast beautifully.

Main living area

The main living room in Erin’s urban farmhouse is light-filled and open plan, while still feeling cosy. Stone cladding from Artisan Exterior and the Lopi fireplace creates a focal point, with barn-style doors adding a rustic touch.

The key to Erin’s farmhouse aesthetic, says Sydney Rose – stylist for Miss Amara rugs – is that it mixes and matches modern and traditional furnishings and fabrications.

“For this property, Miss Amara’s Vanni rug was styled in the main living area,” says Sydney. “Opting for curved shapes adds balance to a space and is a great twist on a classic rectangle rug that we typically see styled in living spaces.”

Kitchen & living area

The open-plan living area and kitchen embraces earthy details such as a vase, chopping board and mortar and pestle from The Voyage Home.

“Lending itself to the laidback Australian sensibility, the urban farmhouse style utilises a neutral colour palette,” says Sydney. It blends natural materials and layered textures.

The once-tiny back porch was expanded to an impressive 5.5 x 12 metres, providing plenty of space for living, dining, and a fully equipped built-in kitchen for barbeque enthusiasts.

“This was the biggest structural part of this renovation but worth every cent as we love to entertain and plan to spend most of our time out here,” says Erin.

Family lounge room

The second lounge space is everything you’d want in a relaxing zone. The calming sage Dulux ‘Still’ on the walls and ceiling evokes a serene atmosphere. “It’s the perfect shade to bring a beautiful and bold personality to this space,” the Three Birds Renovations team shared on Instagram.

Their top tip for choosing paint shades? “Do not select your paint colour until you’ve sampled a few shades in your space!”

Study

The home office is a place where Erin can go for some quiet time to get things done. It features a window seat and Luxaflex curtains that pull across when it’s not in use.

“Window coverings not only help to create privacy, but also play a significant role in the overall aesthetics of a room,” says Erin. “It is important to consider window treatments early in the planning stage, ensuring they complement the rest of your interior décor.”

Bedrooms

The main bedroom is a serene dream, with walk-in-robes and an ensuite. It’s painted in Dulux ‘Buff It’ with EC Carpets making it soft underfoot.

In Erin and Nathan’s eldest daughter Mia’s bedroom, peachy shades and pretty details abound. A shell artwork from Olive et Oriel sets the tone above the bed, with a Create Estate bedhead and bed linen from Society of Wanderers.

Mia has a built-in desk in her bedroom. The chair and mirror from Alba Atelier add character, while the walls and ceiling are Dulux ‘Buff It Half’.

This boisterous bedroom will stand the test of time for a boy who’s growing up fast. The ceiling detail by IntrimGroup painted in Dulux ‘Blue Metal’ is an inspiring twist on a traditional feature wall.

The mattress, bed base, bedside tables and ottoman are from Freedom, with bedding from I Love Linen. The bench seat fabric is from The Society Inc. Artwork from Olive et Oriel adds a little oomph to the space and picks up the rustic hues in the Clo Studios lamp.

The youngest in the family, Marli, has a bedroom that is fun and playful. It features bedside tables from Black Salt Co and artwork by Jai Vasicek.

Mia has a beautiful study space with desk by Carrera By Design and desk handles by Lo & Co Interiors. Boucle 4304 carpet in Ovie from EC Carpets covers the floor.

Main bathroom

Just like the rest of the house, the main bathroom is full of neutrals, but is warm rather than stark. It features tiles from Tile Cloud, with a bath, vanity, basin and tapware from Reece Bathrooms.

A round Freedom mirror is a lovely feature, next to a Lighting Collective wall light. A white stool from MCM house is a place to pop products while you soak.

Alfresco entertaining area

“Creating a weatherproof outdoor space was a top priority for our family, but figuring out how to achieve that seemed daunting. The range of Luxaflex external awnings provided the perfect solution, allowing us to enjoy our outdoor entertaining area in any weather,” says Erin.

“This alfresco area gets a lot of westerly sun and, in addition to protecting from this, these awnings maintain wind and rain protection as well as light control and privacy all year round.”

The Three Birds Renovations team really have outdone themselves with this wonderfully warm home. We can’t wait to see what they have in store next!

Shop Erin’s urban farmhouse

01

‘Calvin’ occasional chair

$799, Freedom

Best for: Statement seating

The wide seat and broad back make it incredibly comfortable. Upholstered with a textured durable fabric in a creamy white, it will suit any style of home. Perfect for styling up an empty corner or for additional seating in any space. It’s versatile and timeless.

Sizes: 77cm width, 71cm depth, 75cm height, 12.8kg

Colours: Sky Natural

Materials: Seat upholstered with a textured durable fabric with powder coated metal fame

Key features:

• Armless design
• Wide rectangular seat
• Broad back

Shop Now

02

‘Vanni’ curved wool rug in Solid Cream

$711.55 for 230cm x 160cm (usually $749), Miss Amara

Best for: Stylish zoning

A contemporary alternative to the traditional rectangle rug, this asymmetrical bean shape rug adds some luxe to a space. Handmade in India by skilled artisans, it’s modern bohemian meets glam.

Sizes: 230cm x 160cm; 280cm x 190cm; 330cm x 240cm

Colours: Ivory cream

Materials: Super soft 12mm weave of 90 per cent wool and 10 per cent viscose, with cotton backing

Key features:

• Handcrafted
• Made from wool
• Ivory cream

Shop Now

03

‘Monty’ leather swivel chair

$2199, Freedom

Best for: A touch of luxury

This occasional chair is oversized with a plump back and seat cushions. It has a large, round pedestal base that lets you twist and twirl. The low back is ideal for lounging, with a swivel base for flexibility.

Sizes: 89cm width, 115ccm depth, 74.5cm height, 38kg

Colours: Camel

Materials: Leather upholstery with timber and metal structure

Key features:

• Large, round pedestal base
• Oversized and roomy
• Hand dyed camel coloured leather

Shop Now

04

French flax linen sheet set in Clay

$325, I Love Linen

Best for: A good night’s sleep.

Made from European Flax grown in France and stonewashed for softness, this linen bedding set is deluxe. It won’t pill and only gets softer with time. The Clay shade is warm and inviting, complementing neutral interiors or working well with complementary shades.

Sizes: Single, King Single, Double, Queen, King

Colours: Beige Gingham, Blush, Charcoal Gingham, Clay, Clay Gingham, Creme

Materials: 100 per cent pure French Flax linen

Key features:

• 1 x flat sheet with hemstich border (sign of good quality)
• 1 x fitted sheet with sturdy elastic (to assist with fit)
• 2 x pillowcases with deep envelope closures (Single and King Single receive 1 x pillowcase)

Shop Now

05

Ecoya French Pear Hand and Body Wash

$29.95 , Ecoya

Best for: An elevated bathroom.

This hand and body wash not only looks divine, but smells good too. It has a rich and sophisticated scent with crisp tree-ripened Queensland pear, vanilla and clove. It’s designed to gently wash and cleanse your skin.

Sizes: 450ml.

Colours: French Pear

Materials: Botanical base of macadamia, coconut and almond oils with vitamin E

Key features:

• Fragrance top notes of pear, lemon and orange
• A nourishing gentle hand and body wash
• Free from parabens, propylene glycol, silicone and artificial colours.

Shop Now

Other Three Birds Renovations features

Previous

Three Birds Renovations turn a dingy shack into a Hamptons haven

The Three Birds’ latest renovation! Front formal lounge room, laundry and study

The Three Birds’ latest renovation! We reveal the stunning backyard.

Next

The post Explore Erin’s “not white and bright” farmhouse by Three Birds Renovations appeared first on Home Beautiful.