Everything we know about Deborah Hutton’s South Coast build

Location

Hutton’s build is located in the South Coast suburb of Wombarra, which is located 20 kilometres north of Wollongong. Hutton has previously shared her love of the area, describing her heart to be “at home here.” In a video posted to Instagram, she says “I’m putting every ounce of my soul constructing and building a home for us to live in a place that makes my heart smile.”

Hutton first purchased the block in in 2021 for an impressive $5.6 million. Located on the cliffside Lawrence Hargrave Drive, the block came with a double-story brick home, which was knocked down to make way for the new property.

In an Instagram post, Hutton shared that “We had such a beautiful experience in that house and it’s a shame we couldn’t have renovated it,” before explaining that the structural elements of the house are “no longer safe.”

“We’re in our little rental now but it was this moment of gratitude for that beautiful little red bricker that we lived in for nearly three years,” she concluded.

Exterior

Designed by Sydney-Based architecture firm, Walter Barda Design, the new build is certainly no beach cottage, with the plans revealing what looks like a sprawling five-storey beachside mansion. Further images revealed a nautical-style black and white exterior with plenty of tropical foliage to provide privacy.

One of the more unique aspects of the new build is that it seems to be split across two distinct interconnecting properties. The first section of the home is positioned on the road level, towering over the neighbouring properties before descending into the second part of the home further down the hillside. The home is being built by Toki Construction.

Interiors

Hutton has shared that her plan for the interiors of the home has evolved during the planning process.

“I started off with a really warm coastal palette. just really simple – neutral,” she said in a video posted to her Instagram.

“It’s evolved over time…and it’s turned into this sort of Anglo-Indian sort of British Colonial feel with lots of greens coming through the palette, which is really interesting for me as that was not something I was every drawn to but i’m loving where it’s going.”

At the beginning of her build journey, Hutton posted a picture of what she envisioned for the interiors, specifically highlighting the ceiling. “Loving the exposed rafters in the ceiling…” Hutton wrote alongside the image on social media.

Before making the move to the South Coast, Hutton lived in a stylish Hamptons inspired beach house in Bronte. She sold the home in 2021 for $9.85 million, after deciding that she wanted a lifestyle change.

“Covid, in many respects, has done a lot of things to a lot of people in terms of the way they think they want to live,” she said. “I don’t have to live in Sydney to work so I’m just wanting to get out of the madness…I’m just ready for a different energy,” Deborah told to Wentworth Courier in 2021.

You can see the home’s full listing on realestate.com.au.

Inside Deborah Hutton’s former Bronte home

We might not know what the inside of Hutton’s new South Coast home will look like but if her former property in Sydney’s Eastern suburbs is anything to go by, we’re in for a treat. Before Hutton decided to sell lovely Bronte beach pad, Home Beautiful caught up with the media personality to talk about her interior design style and renovation tips and tricks. You can read the full interview below.

What was your brief for this home renovation?

“My brief was a timeless, classic house that looked like it been here for some time, so in 30 years it still feels beautiful.”

And what was your style starting point?

“The Hamptons was the original inspiration. And then it was sort of coastal – it was a bit Palm Beach. But I look at the home now and I think it has a Colonial influence, a little of St Barts.”

Have you renovated a home before?

“No, I renovated a bathroom – that’s it! As in, I just retiled something. I’ve never done anything like this before.”

What was the best thing about the building process?

“It was fast, efficient and fabulous! The builders worked six days [a week] and I moved to a rental home next door, so I project managed from right next door.”

How did you find the process of choosing fixtures and finishes?

“Ah look, I enjoyed some if it. I loved [some of] it, I should say! But I found some of it really tedious. There were so many details to consider and it was a bit challenging at times.”

Did you have any must-haves before you started renovating?

“Oh, absolutely! The first must-have was the ceiling detail [in the upper level living room, dining room and kitchen]. I also wanted weatherboard – to me, that is Hamptons, that says beach style.”

You have such beautiful artworks throughout your home – can you tell us a bit about your collection?

“I’ve been collecting for years. I was a bit paranoid when I was moving into this house that I wouldn’t be able to hang all that much – but, funnily enough, I managed to find plenty of wall space. There were only two pieces that didn’t really work and I’ve gifted them away.”

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The old house had seen better days and the garden was completely overgrown – a far cry from the sanctuary the couple dreamt of for themselves and their teenagers, Sebastian and Allegra. However, the coastal locale and mature palm trees on the sprawling 1330-square-metre site clinched the deal, and soon after seeing the property the couple picked up the keys.

I Know What You Did Last Summer filming location

You might recognise this home from the new I Know What You Did Last Summer (2025) film, starring Madelyn Cline, Chase Sui Wonders,
Jennifer Love Hewitt, Freddie Prinze Jr and Sarah Michelle Gellar.

A number of the film’s scenes are filmed in the Northern Beaches property, with the Hamptons-style home being perfectly suited to the coastal style of Southport, where the film is actually set. The home’s recognisable features are easily spotted in the new film, with even the same blue tablecloth as seen in Home Beautiful remaining in the film’s shots.

@allegrastritt

#iknowwhatyoudidlastsummer

♬ original sound – Ellies discord kitten

Teenage resident Allegra Stritt posted a hilarious TikTok after her home appeared in the horror movie. Can’t say we’d be too comfortable popping over for a slumber party there either after seeing some of the slasher scenes in the movie.

“We were immediately drawn to the magnificent existing palms on the site, which in turn had a direct influence on the style and layout of the home’s design.”

Janette

What followed was a three-month design phase and a 12-month knockdown rebuild – an undertaking the couple have tackled countless times over the course of their careers and marriage. “We have built and sold many times since our very first home we built together in our early twenties,” says Janette. “With every home we design and build, we get a feel for what we really enjoy in our homes and what works for us.”

Who lives here?

Alex Stritt, a building designer and builder; his wife Janette, an interior designer, their teenagers, Sebastian and Allegra, and Daisy the Cavoodle.
Where did you splurge? Janette: “The home includes bespoke trims and customised finishes inside and outside to make it unique.”
Favourite pearl of wisdom? “Aspect is a major consideration in design, as is layout and functionality of spaces. An open-plan kitchen/living/dining area with an easy transition to the outdoors is key for everyday living.”
Is this your forever home? “There will no doubt be another design and new build on the cards for us in the future… We can’t wait for the next one.”

For Alex, a sunny aspect and high ceilings were essential. “They add scale, light and airiness to a space and are perfectly suited to coastal homes. An open fireplace is also a must-have for me, not only for their warmth but for the character they bring to a home,” he says.

Janette craved ample storage space, plus a butler’s pantry and generous walk-in robe. “I needed plenty of storage throughout the home, whether it be kitchen cupboards, laundry cabinets or the mudroom – anywhere we can keep items stored away and the house tidy,” she explains. “I love to keep the home neat and in order, which is not always achievable with teenagers, but suitable storage solutions help!”

“We used wide V-groove and large board and batten panels, in keeping with the large scale of the home and referencing its coastal resort aesthetic.”

Janette

This cued a design brief that extended from the front gate to the rear boundary, with Janette taking the interiors under her wing and Alex designing and building the home, cabana and pool. The couple drew on some of their favourite features to blur the boundary between indoors and out: custom glazing, transom windows, French doors and oversized sliding doors that wrap the exterior. “Not only do they add to a home’s aesthetics, they are also fundamental in allowing maximum light to enter a space,” says Janette.

Kitchen

The kitchen is the beating heart of the home, and a classic colour scheme of blue, green, white and wicker welcomes the suburb’s headland greens and sea blues inside. The result is quintessential Hamptons style, which courses through every corner of the 570-square metre abode.

“High ceilings have always been very important to me in the homes I design for our clients as well as for ourselves.”

Alex

In the kitchen, soaring 3.6-metre coffered ceilings are crowned with a skylight that bathes the kitchen in sunlight. The bright backdrop of Dulux Lexicon Quarter on the walls, joinery and trims coordinates with the splashback of white handmade subway tiles from Di Lorenzo Tiles. Behind the rear wall, a butler’s pantry – one of Janette’s must-haves – peeps into the kitchen.

Living and dining

“Where possible, we like to salvage local sandstone blocks from old homes being demolished and reuse them for our fireplace surrounds and garden walls. Not only is this a more sustainable approach, it also adds character and a touch of local history to a new home,” says Janette of the stunning stone that hugs the Jetmaster fireplace. She bathed the walls and trims in Dulux Lexicon Quarter, which complements the crisp Coco Republic sofas.

We love… the outdoor connection

“Custom decorative windows, transoms, French doors and large-scale timber sliding doors are some of our favourite key components we like to include in our designs,” says Janette. The couple drew on these architectural elements in their open-plan living room to let in lashings of light and frame verdant garden views.

Bedroom

“Living by the beach, we are fortunate to be surrounded by the blues of the sea and greens from the coastal shrubs and grasses,” says Janette, who drew this palette into the bedrooms. Flanked with bedside tables from Xavier Furniture, the custom Casa Locale bedhead is plumped with cushions from The Boathouse Home, and Sheridan bedlinen. Janette designed the bespoke lampshades.

Powder room

“Wallpaper was always intended for this space and I wanted to choose a pattern that was fun, while resonating with the rest of the home,” says Janette of the powder room papered in Bethany Linz ‘Bamboo’ in Green from Milton & King.

Laundry

In the laundry a fireclay butler’s sink from Turner Hastings, with walls and trims in Dulux Lexicon Quarter, offsets joinery in Porter’s Paints Newport Blue Half.

Pool and pool house

The transformation of the landscaping was just as radical as the house. “Our vision for the garden was for it to be relaxed with a resort feel, lush and green with a large lawn, hedges and palms growing out from the lawn,” says Janette.

Di Lorenzo Tiles in LA Ice surrounding the pool tone perfectly with the weatherboards painted in Dulux Snowy Mountains Quarter, with Dulux Lexicon Quarter trims. The couple layered the hedging with buxus, viburnum and syzygium resilience, and tufts of mondo grass punctuate the limestone pavers.

The family moved in just in time to enjoy the summer holidays. “It is one of the longest periods we have lived in one of our homes,” says Janette. “We are very grateful to call this house our home; it feels calm and relaxed, while being comforting and uplifting.

Design and building: Stritt Design and Construction, 0416 194 568, stritt.com.au.
Joinery: The Kitchen Maker, (02) 9905 5028, thekitchenmaker.com.au.
Landscaping: Shane Carroll, Scapes and Stone, info@scapesandstone.com.au.

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Drawn to its 280-degree ocean and treetop panoramas, the vivacious couple secured the ’70s fixer-upper in 2019 for $1.7 million. It’s been their biggest renovation project since starring on The Block in 2019 and returning in 2021, when they took home almost $745,000 in prize money as that season’s exuberant winners.

While the auction result of this glamorous three-storey, five-bedroom beachside retreat may not have surpassed the recent sale of a nearby Newport home that fetched $3.93 million, it did reach pass Newport’s median 5-bedroom house price, which is $3.3 million, according to Domain.

“This home has been a true labour of love,” the couple told Homes To Love. “We poured our hearts into reimagining every space, creating a home that is both beautiful and functional — a place to relax, entertain, soak up the incredible ocean views… and to call home.”

Mitch and Mark’s home: the details

Since it’s a fully curated turnkey property, replete with furniture and decor, the lucky buyer can simply move in with their clothes and possibly a CoolCabana for those heady beach days.

The street level comprises the open-plan living, kitchen and dining zone that expands onto a dreamy wraparound deck and barbecue zone, plus a spacious butler’s pantry with a cellar. Between the marble-topped dining table and island bench, Mitch and Mark can easily cook for a dozen people.    

“It’s all been designed around this sweeping view of the ocean, and the outdoor terrace,” Mark said on Instagram. “We spend a lot of time entertaining out here.”

The middle floor features three bedrooms, a laundry and a rock-walled workshop and storeroom. Upping the ante is a main bedroom suite with a glamorous walk-in robe featuring a marble-clad island and a palatial ensuite bathroom sporting a double shower and freestanding bath fit for royalty.    

For multi-generational living or Airbnb-ing requirements, there’s also a self-contained guest apartment with a kitchen, living room, fireplace, bathroom, deck and even a laundry.

Every level enjoys twinkling ocean views, while a sprawling terraced garden by Landscapes by Linton unfurls below the house — doubling as a shortcut to the beach. Determined to bed down the landscaping early so they could enjoy the fruits of their labour, Mitch and Mark helped the gardeners plant and manicure the lush backyard. Mitch even transplanted cuttings from his father’s garden.

We can’t wait to see TV’s most glamorous grandads pop the champagne once again.  

The post Mitch and Mark from The Block have sold their Newport home for $3.7 million 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

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Who lives here?

Georgie, a GP, her husband Ben, an anaesthetist, their twin daughters Edie and Chloe, 15, younger daughter Hattie, 10, and Walter the much-loved Mini Groodle.
Favourite place to enjoy a cuppa? Georgie: “The back deck, looking out to the garden and green surrounds. It’s not only our garden, but all the trees in the neighbourhood that add the colour and texture out the back. It’s enclosed, so we can sit out there even when it’s raining. Or in front of the fireplace during colder months.”
Anything you would do differently? “I joke that we should have installed intercoms in the girls’ rooms because sometimes when we’re cooking and they’re in their rooms, we have to make a ‘Google announcement’ on their speakers to tell them dinner is ready!”

The flat block, the couple hoped, would also make a build relatively straightforward. Georgie and her anaesthetist husband Ben, parents to 15-year-old twins Edie and Chloe, and younger daughter Hattie, 10, had lived in the original house on this property for a couple of years and had clear ideas on what they wanted from the new build.


“The aim was to create a house with our three daughters in mind,” says Georgie, “plus Hamptons style, white weatherboards, and with a modern edge.” The couple were also keen to steer away from the traditional all white coastal interior in favour of a more striking look, with black cabinetry and accents throughout.

When searching online for a builder who would be in tune with their desired aesthetic, Ben found Alex and Janette Stritt of Stritt Design & Construction. “We had a great rapport with Janette and Alex,” recalls Georgie. “It was always really easy working with them.”

The finished design outlined a two-storey, five bedroom family home with an exterior inspired by the original Cape Cod-style home on the property. Inside, the building and design duo delivered the wished-for monochrome scheme, along with clever touches that keep the look from feeling too stark, such as architectural detailing, warming accents of brass and timber, and a stunning reclaimed sandstone fireplace that draws the eye in the open-plan living room.

At the opposite end of the living space is a generous kitchen with a large cooking zone, expansive island and butler’s pantry, which creates an ideal entertainers’ area. “Having three children – and Ben loves cooking, too – we spend a lot of time in the kitchen making lunches and dinners and having friends over,” says Georgie. “It’s a lovely space to be in.”

Another favourite spot is the adjacent outdoor living area, accessed via stacking doors that can be pushed right back to enhance the relaxed, indoor-outdoor flow. This north-facing zone, in turn, opens up to the pretty garden, lawn and re-imagined pool. In the backyard, a guest house is a home away from home for Ben’s parents when they visit from South Australia. The build was underway when the couple decided on this addition, and they love the feature.

“The idea was that Ben’s parents could enjoy this separate space,” says Georgie. “It’s worked really well, and we also thought it might be somewhere the kids could utilise. We had initial reservations about breaking up the symmetry of the backyard, however, Janette convinced us that it would be a feature in itself, and she was right!

The family love the result. “The flow of the house is really nice,” says Georgie. “When you arrive at the front door, you can see all the way through to the pool in the backyard. The high ceilings and light throughout create a sense of space and airiness. The house feels like it was made for our family, which is very special.”

Kitchen

Both Georgie and Ben love to cook, so they chose two Fisher & Paykel electric ovens from Winning Appliances, one with an induction cooktop and the other with gas, for the ultimate culinary versatility. “Double ovens are a great alternative to one large cooker,” says Janette. “Two 90-centimetre ovens side by side work with the large proportions of the kitchen, too. We designed and custom-made one large plaster hood to carry across both ovens, which adds to the impression that it’s one extra-large cooker.”

Living

“It has a lovely, warm atmosphere. It feels very cosy.”

Georgie, homeowner.

With both shelving and walls painted in Dulux Lexicon Quarter blending quietly together, the fireplace becomes the star of the comfortable living zone. Built by Scapes & Stone, it makes use of salvaged sandstone and a reclaimed marine pier for the timber mantel. This beautiful feature, a signature element of Stritt Design & Construction, was a must-have for Georgie.

“It creates a unique warmth and character, and provides a lovely focal point that your eyes are drawn to when entering the hub of the house,” she says. “It is also a nod to the old house, which had a lot of sandstone in its foundations.” The shelves display blue and white pieces from Orient House and ‘Eden’ baskets from French Knot. Oak floorboards in Smoked Brown from Flooring Zone run the length of the open-plan room

Bedroom

In the couple’s first-floor bedroom, Bremworth ‘Samurai’ carpet in Kawa warms the toes on cool mornings. Walls are in Dulux Lexicon Quarter, with custom sheers by Nuevue. The Hudson Furniture ‘Marseille’ rattan bedhead teams with the ‘Chateau’ linen bedcover from In The Sac, and the armchair was a lovely find at an Adelaide antiques store.

Bathroom

“Having those darker joinery pieces, the wallpaper and that deeper element gave a bit more of an urban edge to the project.”

Janette, interior designer

WE LOVE…a statement powder room

The powder room is clad in dramatic ‘Trees’ wallpaper in Deep Petrol by UK illustrator Katie Scott, sourced from Ferm Living.

“Janette encouraged me to go a little bit out my comfort zone in the powder room,” shares Georgie. “It’s a small space, so you can do a lot of exciting things from a style point of view. We thought the black and white wallpaper along with the gold accents felt dark and moody, and different to the rest of the house.”

Laundry

“Even though we love admiring other houses, I think this one really does feel like it’s made for us.”

Georgie, homeowner.

Each family member has their own dedicated space in the neat segue between the laundry and garage, where the Stritts carved out a mudroom.

“We wanted a mudroom coming in from the garage, so the girls could put their school bags there on their way in – although this doesn’t always happen!” says Georgie with a laugh. In a style departure from the rest of the home, the room is a soft, earthy grey – Porter’s Paints Dusty Mule – with ‘Iron Hare’ coat hooks from Yester Home UK providing hanging space. The palette was chosen specifically for the zone.

“The lighter muted hue creates interest and helps differentiate the area from the laundry,” says Janette

Alfresco

The sandstone block half-wall introduces texture to the outdoor zone , which features a BeefEater ‘Signature ProLine’ barbecue, an under-cupboard Whispair extractor and a comfy Lavita Outdoor furniture suite with cushions from Walter G.

Interior design & building: Stritt Design & Construction, stritt.com.au.

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“We really love to stick with classic colours that never go out of fashion”

Homeowner

After the couple and their two teenage daughters had acclimatised in the home for a couple of years, they tweaked the existing footprint to a layout that better suited their lifestyle and needs, simultaneously refreshing the scheme with a classic and neutral aesthetic that evokes an airy calmness. A new bedroom for the couple was a major component of the works. “We wanted to walk into our bedroom and say, ‘Ahh’. That feeling of relaxation and calmness was really important,” explains the homeowner. “And I really wanted a bath overlooking the garden.” Sydney architect Michele McSharry designed a swoon-worthy set up with a freestanding tub, platform-perched and centre stage in the bedroom suite, taking in garden outlooks through the adjacent window while performing double-duty as a visual feature in its own right. The day spa vibe continues on the opposite side of the room, where a large doorless bathroom radiates easy luxury.

“It’s really easy to get swept up with what’s on trend, but we like to stick with the classics. Everything in our home reflects our beachside location”

Homeowner

An upstairs hallway cupboard was cleverly converted into a third bathroom, while a new island bench, total pool refurbishment and landscaping transformed the communal zones into social sweet spots. It is the perfect setting to host their busy daily lives, as well as accommodate the steady stream of Summertime guests, the latter creating the ultimate deadline for the renovation.

“It very much that feeling of escape – like a hotel – that we wanted to feel, every time we went in the bedroom”

Homeowner

The effort was worthwhile, and today hosting is not only easy, but a pleasure. The garden cabana transitions into a second living room or poolside base for the kids, while the deck and pool are permanent crowd-pullers.

Architect: Michele McSharry, Architectus

Builder: Graphite Constructions, @graphiteconstructions

Landscaping: Melaleuca Landscapes, melaleucalandscapes.com.au

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Fortunately a Brisbane family was up to the task of renovating the home, seeing through the dilapidated finishes and poor layout to the home’s original quality.

Who lives here? Amanda, a childcare centre director; her husband Jeff, an electrician; their children Hudson, four, Charlie, 13 months, and Poppy, four months; and dogs Lulu and Lenny.

Location: Inner southern suburbs of Brisbane.

Original property: A four-bedroom 1916 Queenslander, with modern additions.

Renovation time frame: Eighteen months, on and off.

Why this house? Amanda grew up next door, where her parents still live, and, as a child, was intrigued by the house, which had been given numerous “makeovers” in the 1950s and ’60s. 

“When the property came up for sale, we were nervous about the size of the project, but when it didn’t sell at auction, we made an offer and it was accepted,” she says.

“We knew it would be a big job, especially with a baby and both working full-time, but we were excited by the challenge.”

The works: The internal layout was reconfigured to allow for an enlarged kitchen, new bathroom and new main bedroom. The exteriors were totally overhauled, with timber stairs reinstated at the front and a deck added at the back.

The result: “Removing several internal walls has created a much more open-plan feel, with an abundance of natural light throughout,” says Amanda. “Stripping away dated finishes and restoring original features has also given back the home its architectural integrity.”

Favourite aspect of the redesign? “The kitchen – because we chose every element from the drawer handles to the light fittings,” Amanda says. “It’s a favourite place for the family to congregate.”

Major changes included restumping the house, removing exterior bricks from the lower section and replacing them with timber battens in keeping with the home’s era.

The front deck was stripped back, tiles were removed and damaged timber and joists replaced. New timber cladding, balustrades and French doors, along with a set of external butterfly stairs, were added to give the exterior a beautiful new look.

Inside, several internal walls were taken out to create a much more open-plan feel, with the original carpets and sheeting stripped off to reveal beautiful timber floors and vertical joinery.

The layout was reconfigured to allow for a grand, Hamptons style kitchen.

Central to the new layout is a striking kitchen island bench topped with marble found on Gumtree, with beautiful cabinetry and industrial-style pendants.

French doors lead out to the new back deck, transforming the former casual eating area into a light, white dining room.

Philippe Starck for Kartell ‘Louis Ghost’ chairs surround a one-off dining table found at Verandah House, with a vintage sideboard from The Old Boathouse and chandelier from Beacon Lighting create a fascinating mix of old and new.

Removing the internal wall between the living and dining room has given a much more functional layout. 

A ‘Stockholm’ rug from Ikea almost stretches the width of the room and anchors a classic ‘Arianne’ Chesterfield from Early Settler and a pair of wingback chairs found at Botticelli House, while a black timber ‘Riviera’ cabinet from Town & Country Style houses collected treasures.

This serene retreat is a far cry from the original decor. The bedroom is furnished with French provincial-style pieces, including an upholstered bed, found on Ebay and dressed in a ‘Nyponros’ quilt cover from Ikea. 

It is layered in soft grey, blue and taupe tones that co-ordinate beautifully with the bedside lampshades and the walls, painted in Taubmans ‘Cliff Face’. 

A ‘Lorne’ button-back armchair in Natural Linen, from Early Settler and curtains in ‘Waterfall Ruffle’ in Ivory from Urban Outfitters, along with a striking chandelier (try ‘French Provincial’ iron chandelier from Design Chandelier) add the finishing touches.

The nursery features an eclectic mix of vintage furniture, curios and books that complement a timeless palette of grey and white. 

Sheer ruffle curtains not only modulate the natural light, but also add a lovely textural element.

With the existing wash zone demolished in order to extend the kitchen, the original sunroom was divided up and reconfigured to create a new, generously sized bathroom.

A clawfoot bath acts as a central focal point, while timber floors and vintage-style pieces, such as the Early Settler tapware and vanity add warmth. 

The post Before and after: A classic Queenslander transformed appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Moving in with daughter Alessandra, now 12, while Adriana was pregnant with second daughter Caleya, now six, the family immediately embraced a more rural lifestyle, acquiring several ponies to take advantage of the property’s paddocks and horse arena. A dirt bike trail was also established, where Casey could teach the girls to ride in the backyard.

While the family fell in love with the property, a renovation to rejuvenate and repair the 30-plus-year-old house was always on the cards. In preparation, a shed was purpose built where the family could ‘glamp’ on site during the renovation.

Who lives here?

Casey Stoner, a retired two-time MotoGP World Champion; his wife Adriana, a stay-at-home mum and daughters Alessandra, 12, and Caleya, six; Silky Terrier Frankie; Chestnut pony Janie; and bay pony Gucci.
What makes your location idyllic? Adriana: “With Casey still frequently travelling, the size of our acreage is manageable and also conveniently close to town and an airport. We love the space and privacy it provides, too.”
Renovation tip? “It’s all down to the builder. We are very thankful to have been recommended Kai Konstruct to take on the renovation. They exceeded our expectations and were a pleasure to work with every step of the way.”

Engaging the expertise of local company Kai Konstruct, the extensive project began in 2023, with the scope encompassing a redesigned kitchen, updated bathrooms, additional internal stairs, office space and mudroom, as well as reconfigured and extended upper level for a new main bedroom, ensuite and trophy room.

A pool house for guests was also updated, along with the gym. “Virtually everything was changed,” says Adriana, of the new look.

Kitchen

Moving back in December 2023, thrilled with the renovation, Adriana says the house felt brand new. Yet their jubilation was dampened somewhat when, just weeks later, a storm categorised as a tornado tore through their property on Christmas night. “Our builder Tim was amazing, going over and above to come out on Boxing Day to do repairs, and luckily we had generators,” recalls Adriana.

The repercussions continued, with a storm on New Year’s Day flooding the nearby blocked creek and deluging the shed they’d just moved out of. Despite the effects of the weather, the family considers themselves fortunate compared to others impacted by wild summer storms and appreciate their place more than ever.

Designed specifically to suit the way the family congregates and entertains – often around an island bench – the kitchen features both a working island and social island, teamed with bar stools.

“A big butler’s pantry and a gas cooktop were musts,” explains Adriana of the kitchen redesign, which features an impressive Ilve ‘Majestic’ 150cm dual fuel oven in Antique White and Brass – still quite a novelty to use, after almost a year spent without an oven.

Working with Kai Konstruct on the selection of finishes to achieve a modern country feel, the palette was kept simple and sophisticated with Euro Marble Calacatta Oro benchtops, mosaic splashback tiles from Three Balls Red and brass accents such as Hepburn Hardware cabinetry handles, a Blanco kitchen mixer tap and ABI Interiors ‘Elysian’ pot filler.

“It was Casey’s idea for all the major joinery to be blue,” says Adriana. “Yet with so many [shades of] navy, which can look so different in different lights, finding just the right shade was one of the trickiest decisions in the whole house,” she adds. Ultimately opting for Porter’s Paints Yacht Race, they couldn’t be happier with the hue used for all Farmers Doors joinery. Visit Porter’s Paints.

We love… deep blue

Laundry

A real workhorse, the laundry is stylish and incredibly functional with an abundance of storage. Cabinetry in Dulux Vivid White, topped with Marbella benchtops from Stone Ambassador hug two walls, with a charming Farmhouse Sinks fluted sink positioned below the window.

Trophy room

A feature on the upper level is a trophy room. Taking pride of place are his bikes he won two world MotoGP titles on – a Ducati GP7 and Honda RC212V.

Living area

The more formal of the home’s several living spaces, this zone enjoys an indoor-outdoor feel, with its wrap-around glazing and French doors providing views and access to the pool and alfresco areas.

While the existing travertine floor tiles were kept, door frames and walls have been refreshed in Dulux Snowy Mountain Quarter with furnishings that were chosen to reflect the blue of the pool beyond. A Pottery Barn rug and sofas define the sitting area where cushions from Hamptons Style and Provincial Home Living add a dash of pattern to the space.

Dining

In the dining area, a timber bench is paired with a dining table, both from Pottery Barn. Upholstered chairs from the family’s previous home complement the setting as does a ‘Riva’ perforated island pendant in Antique Brass, from Interior Collections, which adds to the home’s modern farmhouse feel.

Main bedroom

A large part of the renovation was reconfiguring and extending the upper level to create a new spacious main bedroom, ensuite and dressing room. The bright, airy feeling is enhanced with lofted ceilings, while curtains from Decorators Workroom diffuse the stream of sunlight when needed.

“We love the modern country look because we feel it’s timeless, warm and inviting.”

Adriana

In the ensuite black matt large format tiles from Three Balls Red provide the foundation for a fluted bath, from ATS Tiles and Bathrooms. The vanity by Farmers Doors in Porters Yacht Race, topped with a slab of Marbella from Stone Ambassador, is paired with twin ‘Stadio Groove’ fluted oval stone basins from ATS Tiles and Bathrooms and ABI Interiors tapware.

Pool and outdoor area

Boasting resort-sized proportions, the existing pool didn’t need any enhancing. Year round, it provides a beautiful water outlook from multiple spots within the house and a lovely alfresco spot to entertain.

“We really love it here,” says Adriana. “We feel very blessed to have ample space where we can enjoy a variety of activities, so much so that on weekends the girls don’t want to leave.”

Builder: Kai Konstruct, 1300 524 284, kaikonstruct.com.au.
Cabinetry: Farmers Doors, 1300 725 151, farmersdoors.com.

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The post The sprawling country home of Adriana and Casey Stoner appeared first on Home Beautiful.

The asking price was a cool $12.7m (or $US8.45m) to purchase her seven-bedroom, six-bathroom holiday haven next to the ocean. It’s set on 1.7 acres in the affluent village of Sagaponack. The area is a go-to for the New York elite, so it’s no wonder it wasn’t available for long. Drew paid $8.2m ($US5.5m) for the house in 2019, so she’s turned a tidy profit. Let’s take a look around…

Inside Drew Barrymore’s Hamptons home

Formerly a 1920s barn, it’s been renovated to exude all of the original character with contemporary comforts. The living room ceiling has exposed beams, with a brick fireplace adding to the rustic charm.

Sloping ceilings become a feature in many parts of the home, with bohemian decor lending a very Drew Barrymore-esque feel to the interiors.

Expanses of windows create endless views of the beautiful gardens in this living area. The home is light and bright with skylights included throughout.

The home has many precious unique details, such as this bedroom with floral walls. The botanical bedspread is a delightful bedding idea, we can’t help but think this might be the space where she dreamed up her cruelty-free make-up brand, Flower Beauty.

This light-filled bedroom opens onto a quaint terrace, with the barn-style home full of touches that recognise the property’s roots.

The raw exposed wood beams are also featured in this bathroom, with white wooden floors for a cosy vibe. There’s plenty of texture to warm up the all-white interiors.

You can just imagine Drew Barrymore putting sunflowers in a vase in this bathroom and looking out into the treetops.

A sun-soaked deck upstairs makes the ultimate alfresco entertaining area for barefoot parties on warm evenings.

Off the deck is a bright sanctuary, ideal for dreaming up new creative projects.

The home is nestled into park-like grounds with a pool, pool house, bocce court and landscaping you’d want to get lost in.

We’ve seen a lot of sensational pools and this is one of the most exquisite.

The lucky new owners of Drew Barrymore’s Hamptons escape are sure to be very pleased with their purchase.

Check out the real estate listing for further details.

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The pair started making cosmetic updates to the modest two-bedroom house almost immediately after purchasing the property. “First, we restored and painted all the dark wooden trims white to lighten the whole place up,” says Catherine, mum to three grown-up sons. “We also replaced the horrid aluminium windows with timber and stained glass windows to replicate the rest of the house.”

Who lives here?

Catherine, an operations coordinator, her husband Simon, who runs a marketing consultancy, and Elsa the Groodle.
Secret to renovation success? Catherine: “Communication is key. We were grateful for regular updates and meetings [with Sunday Homes] to make decisions and changes.”
What’s your favourite space? “Simon loves the balcony because it’s like another room, and the district view gives a real sense of space. I love the open-plan living/kitchen/dining area for its beautiful style.”
Your biggest splurge? “The chandelier over the kitchen island. I saw it on an Instagram account I follow and tracked it down. It’s so glamorous and a little bit unexpected.”

Meanwhile, designer Amy Thackeray and her builder husband Paul, both of Sunday Homes, replaced the kitchen and dining room at the rear with a double-storey extension. “We knew we didn’t want a modern box on the back but something that would stand the test of time,” says Catherine.

The renovated section now has an open-plan zone housing the living area, dining space and kitchen, with a butler’s pantry and powder room upstairs, and a new main bedroom and ensuite downstairs. A standout feature in the open-plan area is the soaring raked ceiling. “We had envisaged having that ‘wow’ factor for the living area, which the vaulted ceiling delivers,” explains Catherine.

Living area

“We made a conscious decision early on not to have a TV in this room,” explains Catherine. “It’s great for conversation to have the sofas facing each other, and when the kids come over we play board games.” A pair of Freedom ‘Addison’ sofas with custom slipcovers and a ‘Stradbroke Bobbin’ coffee table from Abide Interiors sit atop a sisal rug in Oyster from Natural Floorcovering Centres, which helps to anchor the space.

“The raked ceilings create a sense of grandeur,” says Amy. “When you enter the new extension from the bungalow at the front, you really experience the ‘wow’ factor.” V-groove panelling lining the ceiling creates a traditional look and feel, while also helping to connect the new extension with the original part of the home.

We love… high ceilings

Also included in the extension was a large balcony, which connects to the open-plan area through bi-fold doors. “Friends and family gravitate towards the balcony when they come to the house; it’s a very sociable space,” says Catherine. “It’s west-facing, so it gets a lot of sun in the afternoon and we have the most spectacular sunsets in the evening – something we weren’t able to appreciate until the extension was finished.”

Kitchen and dining

Amy followed Catherine’s brief to deliver a timeless look by combining light walls with warm timber pieces and rustic textures. Subtle hints of old-world glamour add personality. The result is a relaxed style that is ambient and welcoming. “It makes us smile and feel calm,” says Catherine. “We love everything.”

The kitchen, with its impressive Falcon ‘Professional+ FXP’ cooker and deep island bench, is an entertainer’s dream. The spectacular light fitting above the island is the ‘Montreal’ long chandelier from Emac & Lawton, while a pair of stools from Modanest sit below. Brick-laid subway tiles from Ammonite Living and a Perrin & Rowe ‘Ionian’ mixer from The English Tapware Company add traditional touches.

“The sense of space is spectacular. It is a bit of a luxury to have such high ceilings, which you can only have if you are not building above.”

Catherine

A monochrome ‘Black Cockatoo’ canvas print by Paul Looyen, from Life Interiors, draws the eye to the dining zone, with its Camargue custom French oak table and Provincial Home Living dining chairs.

Powder room

A quiet moment can be taken to freshen up in the powder room, which features an Astra Walker ‘Rona’ pedestal sink and Brodware ‘Neu England’ tapware.

Main bedroom

The new extension includes an ensuite and main bedroom, both located downstairs at the back of the house. “I love the fact that the bedroom is quiet. It also opens onto the garden via French doors, which is lovely,” says Catherine. Dulux Casper White Quarter adds a warm note to the walls. The ‘Robe’ bedhead in Natural and ‘Montrose’ bedside table are both from Provincial Home Living.

Ensuite

A calming symmetry is achieved in the ensuite with side-by-side ‘Rotterdam’ metal mirrors from The Framing Project.

“I think the calm colour palette is timeless – I am not really into what is ‘fashionable’.”

Catherine

Bathroom

Drawing on the homeowners’ heritage, Amy chose hexagonal mosaics from Ammonite Living for this charming black and white bathroom.

“Catherine and Simon are English, and the tiles in this bathroom are a nod to the traditional English-style homes they grew up with,” she says.

Laundry

Storage abounds in this hardworking laundry, where cabinetry by Luxe Joinery painted in Dulux Lexicon Quarter conceals a built-in hamper and pull-out ironing board. “I also think a hanging rail is a laundry essential,” says Catherine.

Interior Design/build: Sunday Homes, sundayhomes.com.au.
Joinery: Luxe Joinery, @luxejoinery.
Bi-fold doors: Shamrock Joinery, (02) 7251 9079, shamrockjoinery.com.au.

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When this homeowner first laid eyes on the kitchen featured in that perennial Hamptons favourite film, Something’s Gotta Give, she was inspired. A passion for East Coast American style quickly developed – along with a pinning and Instagram habit that saw her immerse herself in classic Hamptons inspiration even further.

So when she and her husband purchased a block of land that was large enough to build the sprawling single-level home they desired, she was able to put all her research into practice.

A plan for the home was soon drafted by Nadine K Designs that encompassed a kitchen at its core: “My interpretation of the quintessential American home is that they’re very much based around the kitchen as the heart of the home,” says the homeowner. Feeling the need to up the East Coast influence even further, she engaged Sydney-based US expat architect Andrew Barnyak, who rejigged the floor plan slightly, added highlight windows to the plan and increased ceiling heights up to six metres in some spots.

Michaela Coulson of Damien Interiors worked with the homeowner to bring her enduring vision, dipped in navy, opal and white, to life. The end result is an American dream come true.

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Custom-made sofas lend a sophisticated aesthetic to the living room, with carefully curated pieces adding decorative punch.

“The house is everything I thought it would be and more”

Homeowner

Shaker-style cabinetry in Dulux White on White forms the crisp and classic backdrop to a trio of. Ell jar pendants from Designer Lights, and a splashback of divine custom opal green marble tiles.

Keeping the palette consistent through the whole home, so living room blues and whites continue through to the main bedroom, create a cohesive look and soothing sanctuary.

A rich bold hue – Dulux Academy Blue – brings a chic dose of drama to the study and makes a fine contrast to the white joinery and the herringbone heritage-look parquetry floor, made from Porter’s Paints engineered oak boards.

Outdoors

The exterior is hard-wearing, fire-resistant Scyon Linea Weatherboard, painted in Dulux Spanish Olive.

The post A classic Hamptons home in the NSW coastal hinterland appeared first on Home Beautiful.

It was a dream start to the knock down and rebuild project that the couple, originally from Melbourne, were about to undertake after living in their single-storey 1950s weatherboard cottage with what Annabel describes as “higgledy-piggledy little rooms”, for more than four years.

Who lives here? Annabel; her partner Thomas; their sons Tristan, 11, and Ciaran, 9; and Darby the Cavoodle. 

Which room do you use the most? Annabel: “The kitchen. It’s a really beautiful kitchen and it’s a big bench, which was very handy during lockdown, because the kids would just perch there doing their homework.”

Any splurges? “The powder room wallpaper was a little splurge. Bree was the one who recommended I do wallpaper there. You can have fun with it and it’s such a small area you don’t have to worry so much about the cost!”

Is there anything you would change? “We don’t have a pool – it would have been nice, but I don’t really mind!”

Annabel commissioned Alice Nichols Landscape Design to create an all-white bower at the front of the home. “I wanted a cross between Sissinghurst Castle’s white garden and a tropical garden,” explains Annabel. Stocked with crepe myrtles, hydrangeas, viburnum and jasmine, and with mini agapanthus lining the pathway, the lush plantings produce white flowers from October right through the summer. “It’s absolutely gorgeous, we have so many comments from people walking past about how much they love it,” adds Annabel. You are then greeted by a powder blue front door, painted in Berger Winter Lake that opens onto a hallway flooded with light courtesy of the full-height void above.

Annabel was pregnant with the couple’s elder son Tristan when she and Thomas first moved to Avalon, on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, back in 2011. The cottage they found then was a far cry from the graceful, family home that now stands in its place, but the pair could see the potential of the block. “It was flat, with a north-facing backyard that backed onto a reserve, and you could walk to the village,” says Annabel. “It had palm trees lining the side which I really loved, having lived in a little terrace house in Melbourne, and I thought ‘Wow, this is just amazing!’. The location really sold it to me.”

After the birth of their younger son, Ciaran, the pair engaged architect Andrew Barnyak to plan their new home. With council approval granted for the two-storey Hamptons-style property, and with the build well underway, Annabel could turn her attention to the fun stuff, with help from interior designer Janette Stritt.

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The spacious kitchen is Annabel’s favourite area. “It’s really a dream kitchen,” she says. “It’s just so practical and works so well. It’s got this beautiful little kitchen nook where the table is. Every morning, I get up and make myself a coffee and then I sit in that nook in the kitchen and just look out of the window. I do that before everyone else in the house wakes up. It’s my little moment to myself before the day starts.” The custom bench seat, made by Stritt Design & Construction, is loaded with comfy cushions from The Classic Outfitter, and paired with chairs from Alfresco Emporium and a French antique dining table found at Moonee Ponds Antiques in Melbourne.

Blackbutt floorboards, given a custom stain to achieve the dark finish Annabel wanted, run throughout the ground floor and form a base for the Shaker-style kitchen, custom built by The Kitchen Maker. For the kitchen island, interior designer Bree Oliver helped Annabel nail the colour of the cabinetry – Porter’s Paints Dusty Mule – and Annabel found the pendants at Emac & Lawton. Pretty Amity tiles in Grey from Teranova form the splashback.

Although a first-time renovator, Annabel had a clear idea of the look she wanted. “I’ve been reading all the interior design magazines for about 30 years, so I’ve always collected ideas, filing things away in scrapbooks and folders, hoping one day I might actually be able to do it myself,” she says.

She chose a lot of the fixtures and fittings herself, such as the lighting and tapware, and sought help from Janette when it came to pinning down some of the colours for the home, and finding tiles for the bathrooms and kitchen. “Annabel and Thomas have a great sense of style and I felt that we were all on the same wavelength right from the beginning,” recalls Janette. “Annabel had a really good idea of what she wanted, so we just helped facilitate that.”

The Cheminées Philippe woodburning fireplace in the living room is the same model Annabel’s parents used to have in their home. “I always loved that fireplace and sitting beside it in winter is so lovely,” she says. “It always brings back a lot of memories from when we used to do the same at my parents’ place.” 

The build progressed smoothly and the four-bedroom home was finished in late 2017. The style is classic Hamptons, with dark timber flooring as a base for light-filled rooms in pale tones with hits of gorgeous greys and ocean blues. There’s a distinct eye for detail inside and out, from the fretwork that crowns the verandah and stunning coffered ceiling in the living room, right through to the extra deep skirting boards throughout. “My mum and dad always said that if you have really deep skirting boards it shows the quality of the house,” explains Annabel. “So that was a bit of their influence!”

The family have loved living in their beautifully designed and built home, but they’ve decided it’s time for a change, and they will soon be moving on to pastures and challenges new. The home will be in the hands of new owners who will surely enjoy it as much as Annabel and her family have done. “It’s just such a beautiful house to live in,” she says. “It’s got a really nice feel to it. It’s quiet and peaceful, you can hear the birds, and it’s just lovely.”

Hamptons-style finishes in the ensuite include a VJ-lined wall and marble-look Fori Romani Grigio Tundra tiles in a herringbone pattern on the floor. Concealing the toilet and shower behind a tiled wall is a clever design trick that lets the Roca ‘Virginia’ freestanding bath take centre stage. A Brodware ‘Neu England’ wall-mounted mixer and hand shower complete the classic look. 

Annabel had some fun with the mud room and laundry decor, opting for a chequerboard floor, made using Dolomite tiles in Ash and Sand, and powder blue cabinetry. “I suppose I took a little bit more of a risk than I normally would in that room, because it didn’t really matter,” she says. “It was the laundry and no-one else but me would really see it!” Adding a bench seat and coat hooks helps the laundry double as a mud room, with space for storing outdoor gear and shoes.

The rear of the home opens onto a wide lawn, ideal for the boys and their pup to run around, and the mature palm trees that helped Annabel fall in love with the block when she first saw it. Although it’s relatively new, the handsome building, with weatherboards painted in Dulux Colorbond Shale Grey and timber trims in Dulux Lexicon Quarter, looks perfectly settled in the garden as well as the broader borrowed landscape. “One thing about the area that we really love is it’s so lush and green,” says Annabel. “I love that, all the trees and the birds.”

Interior design and building: Stritt Design & Construction, 0416 194 568, stritt.com.au
Property styling: Cordony Group, 1300 669 590, cordonygroup.com
Architect: Andrew Barnyak, andrewbarnyak.com
Landscape design: Alice Nichols Landscape Design, @alicenichols_landscapedesign

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Thankfully, after living overseas, most recently in Tennessee in the US, the location close to family and lure of the relaxed Queensland lifestyle got them across the line. Teresa reached out to Lauren Mahoney of Sydney firm Studio Trio, who had worked on a previous home of theirs. As Teresa explains, “I wanted a designer who would collaborate with me and provide guidance and direction.”

Who lives here?

Teresa and Dale, daughter Bennett, 12, and two five-month-old Standard Poodle puppies, Dixie & Darcy.
Where? A two-storey, six-bedroom, five-bathroom home in an inner-city suburb of Brisbane, Qld.
Time frame? Renovations ran over the course of four years, from 2019 until 2023.
The dream? To make an enormous house feel like home, with every room tailored to a small family’s needs and lifestyle.
Approach: Every inch of this home has been renovated with all new fixtures, finishes and furniture.
Must haves: Rooms that work for a family, with breakout spaces, easy-care surfaces and classic, American-inspired interiors.
Wishlist: Soft furnishings featuring colourful prints and shades; cosy living spaces; a well-stocked wine cellar.
Why is this your dream home? “It’s a home that feels like us; it suits our lifestyle. It’s perfect for our little family of three, but is also fun for when we want to have a crowd of friends here,” says Teresa.

Together, the pair gave the whole home an extensive renovation, with every room completely reimagined to reflect the family’s tastes and casual lifestyle. Floors, lighting, paintwork, fixtures, furniture, artworks, window treatments – everything was new and followed Teresa’s favoured American-classic aesthetic, from chrome hardware to Ralph Lauren light fittings and a bold, colourful palette of navy, red and white. “Of all the homes I have worked on over the years, this one is something I personally love and would live in myself,” says Lauren.

A series of breakout spaces means Teresa and Dale can relax upstairs while Bennett hangs out with her friends down below. “It’s now a home we are proud of, that allows us to live how we want,” Teresa adds.

Due to the specific nature of some of her requested light fittings, fabrics or wallpapers, Teresa learnt to be patient. “I would rather delay finishing an area until I could get something I loved, often from the US, than compromise with something that was available ASAP,” she says. An example of this are the artworks in the entrance hall and rumpus, which were commissioned from Kate Roebuck, a Tennessee artist that she and Dale had long admired. “Lauren made the process easy, sending paint and fabric samples to Kate to ensure the paintings suited our home.”

Lessons learnt

Living area

“This is my favourite room,” says Lauren. “The furnishings are cheeky and classic but modern, starting with the Brunschwig & Fils ‘Les Touches’ wallpaper from Elliott Clarke either side of the fireplace, which just makes the space.” She added two ‘Miami’ chairs and an ottoman from Montique Exclusive Furniture with custom covers in Ralph Lauren ‘Eden Roc Stripe’ and ‘La Garoupe’ fabrics from Icon Radford.

Kitchen

The kitchen received a complete makeover, including all new joinery by Wyer + Craw painted Dulux Vivid White and Dulux Madigan for the island. Continuing the crisp white palette, the benchtop perfectly complements a marble mosaic splashback from Elite Bathware & Tiles. A trio of Thomas O’Brien ‘Gale’ pendants from Visual Comfort & Co draw the eye upwards. Even the essentials were given a stylish touch, with a French farmhouse sink from Belfast Sinks and Perrin & Rowe ‘Ionian’ tapware from The English Tapware Company.

“I had definite thoughts about decor and how our family wanted to live. I didn’t want to see someone else’s ‘signature’ or ideas everywhere in my home.”

– Teresa

Main bedroom

In the main bedroom, the bedhead, pelmets and cushions have all been covered in Schumacher ‘Sinhala’ linen in Sky. The lamp from Circle of Light picks up on the same hues.

Teresa says Lauren was an amazing support throughout the renovating process. Colour and pattern were important inclusions for Teresa, with blue and white no-brainer selections. “Then Lauren suggested picking a pop of colour, and there were so many gorgeous deep red Ralph Lauren fabrics, so another decision fell into place,” she shares. Another pearl of wisdom Teresa learnt from Lauren: “Everything in a room should be beautiful, but doesn’t need to shout, ‘Look at me’. It results in rooms that are eye-catching but also restful,” says Teresa.

Interior design tip

Bennett’s bedroom

“Bennett’s bedroom is perfectly pretty,” says Lauren of the space, with its walls papered with ‘Clementine’ wallpaper in Indienne from Sanderson, and the area above the picture rails painted Dulux Blossom Time.

“It’s a family home. As much as it is beautiful, in so many ways it’s also practical. Lauren has helped me create a home that is classically inspired and layered.”

– Teresa

Study

Dale’s study is a pleasure to work in, with the ‘Campaign’ desk and ‘Fullerton’ chair from Xavier Furniture, joinery painted with Dulux Blue Fantastic and the Anna French ‘Kahna’ wallpaper in Red from Thibaut.

Bathroom and powder room

Wyer + Craw made the custom vanity in the bathroom, with joinery in Dulux Terrace White.

Ralph Lauren ‘Marlowe Floral’ wallpaper from Icon Radford features in the powder room, where a Serena & Lily mirror, Chapman & Myers ‘Boston’ loop-arm wall lights from Visual Comfort & Co and an artwork by Kayce Hughes deliver wow moments.

Laundry

Anna French ‘Cairo’ wallpaper, a French farmhouse sink from Belfast Sinks and a Dutch door ensure the laundry is a pleasing space. All joinery is painted Dulux Vivid White.

Outdoor entertaining

“The lower deck barbecue area is such a lovely place to sit,” says Lauren. Blackbutt decking from Queensland Timber Flooring is painted Dulux Vivid White, acting as a fresh base for the Serena & Lily outdoor table, and ‘Portofino’ outdoor chairs from Xavier Furniture.

Pool area

The family relax poolside on Trousdale cast aluminium chaise lounges, with shade provided by Tuuci ‘Ocean Master’ Roman valance umbrellas.

One of the biggest learnings – for both Teresa and Lauren – was that long distance collaborations can most certainly work. “I connected with the best trades in Brisbane and frequently visited the site to measure the spaces and check in with Teresa and her family,” says Lauren. Going above and beyond was all part of the process in creating Teresa’s forever home.

Reflects Lauren, “Dream homes to me are not just about the beautiful things you put inside the home, they’re about the people who live there and the experiences you have together to get to the end game.”

Interior design: Lauren Mahoney, Studio Trio, studiotrio.com.au, @_studio_trio.

Architect: Brad Cross, Jazz Designs, jazzdesigns.com.au.

Builder: Nick Roberts, iBuild Constructions, ibuildqld.com.au.

Joinery and stonework: Wyer + Craw, wyercraw.com.au.

SOURCE BOOK

The post How classic American style revived this Brisbane Queenslander appeared first on Home Beautiful.

“The original home was built in 2012 and was roughly 360 square metres; at that time, the homeowners had just two children,” says Kelly. “Then the family grew. Not wanting to relocate, the homeowners were eventually able to acquire the property next door and sought to consolidate the two lots to build a larger home that met their needs.”

Who lives here?

A couple, who love contemporary art and fashion, and their six children.
Which styles does the wife like? Kelly: “She grew up in Eastern Canada where there are far more historical homes – she has a love of mixing antiques with modern art and accents.”
And her husband? “He is from a multi-generation Vancouver family, and wanted a home with exceptional architectural interior details and high-quality finishes that supported a strong visual narrative.”
How did you marry these styles? “Things were kept light, bright and very layered in the main bedroom, which is furnished in white, linen and different hues of blue. The ceiling detail is a very pale blue that has a gentle reference to the sky blue outside.”

A renovation and extension ensued, delivering the generous proportions the family craved. “Tucked behind a tall Portuguese laurel hedge, the Craftsman-style house is hugged by deep verandahs around three sides, giving it a stately and Southern sensibility,” says Kelly. She created a light, romantic colour scheme outside, while inside she evoked the couple’s relaxed style and love of mixing antiques with modern accents.

As the project progressed over four years, Kelly and her team of trades adapted to the family’s changing needs and sensibilities. “What started as a room to be shared by the two youngest children (a boy and a girl) turned into a room for one with a jungle theme, while the older teens moved from the upper-floor bedrooms to the recreation level, where they’d have their own spaces in close proximity to the ‘hangout’ rooms,” the interior designer shares. “Our role was to stay flexible.”

Kitchen and breakfast nook

Blues, white and natural timber nod to the home’s coastal locale and are reflected in the sunny breakfast nook.

Just a few steps from the breakfast nook is the breathtaking kitchen. “The provincial blue island matches the La Cornue range hood and a butler’s pantry with sultry blue cabinetry, the colour for which was taken from the Moroccan tile selected for the splashback in this space,” says Kelly.

Kelly transformed every corner of the home. Open to the main-floor foyer, the kitchen was extended to include a breakout space. An antique baker’s table offers storage space for a collection of vintage picnic baskets.

Living area

Inspired by the ocean views and nearby yacht club, the designer opted for a coastal colour scheme of white, navy, gold and natural timber hues. “We also wanted to create the presence and substance of a historical home that had been standing for generations,” says Kelly, who personalised nooks with a mix of antique finds and modern treasures.

Upper landing

“We wanted to create a graceful arrival experience on the bedroom level,” says Kelly of the roomy upper landing, which is bathed in natural light. “Here, the table acts as a rotating vignette for seasonal florals and objects.”

“We were compelled by the homeowners’ vision of creating a forever home that would meet their family’s needs now and in generations to come – a legacy home.”

Kelly, interior designer

Main bedroom and dressing room

A jewel-like Currey & Company chandelier (try Cromwell) presides over the couple’s bedroom, which is awash with sea swept colours and frames harbourside views. Kelly layered the room with tactile materials such as sisal, linen and timber.

The home’s materials and colour palette is drawn from seafaring. “We referenced the timeless and practical details and materials of timber sailboats – the sun-kissed wood, the fastened details, the colours of rope, sail and sea,” says Kelly, who opted for shiplap and wall panelling in the entrance, stairwell and common areas. “All these elements inspired our colour scheme and the relaxed coastal feel.”

We love… nautical accents

Brimming with storage is the couple’s luxurious dressing room. “To create the feeling of a historical home, we were very intentional with our use of finishing carpentry throughout,” says Kelly.

Main ensuite

True to nautical style, the upper walls and ceiling of the couple’s ensuite are panelled. The sophisticated Victoria + Albert bathtub is offset by richly veined stonework and brass fittings, including the Hudson Valley Lighting ‘Bruckner’ pendants.

“Throughout the home, the hardware, plumbing and lighting is a mix of unlacquered and aged brass,” says Kelly. “Many of the selections have decorative exposed fasteners, like those you may find on an antique sailboat or historical wooden ship.”

Powder room

Resplendent with blue panelled walls and blonde timber detailing, the powder room is a stately escape.

Alfresco area

Janus et Cie chairs surround a custom outdoor table by Kelly Deck Design, and festoon lights add a magical touch.

Lighthearted and airy, this newly transformed forever home is sailing into a new chapter, with many more memories yet to come.

Interior designer: Kelly Deck Design, kellydeck.com.
Architect: Eric Stine Architect, ericstinearchitect.com.
Building: Ronse Massey, ronsemassey.com.
Landscape design: Paul Sangha Creative, paulsangha.com.

SOURCE BOOK

The post Inspired by Canada’s coastline, this nautical abode is now perfect for its growing family appeared first on Home Beautiful.

For interior designer Lisa Alward’s client, who bought the property in 2020, the home ticked all the major boxes. “He grew up just down the road and, as his parents still lived in the area, he’d been looking for the right property to move closer to them and this was it,” explains Lisa. “The location was perfect, he loved the home’s heritage features and the potential it offered for entertaining and adding his own touch.”

Who lives here?

A Brisbane-based property developer and fund manager.
Best design decision? Lisa: “Increasing the size of the terrace to enhance the indoor/outdoor flow and entertaining space around the pool.”
How do you approach interiors for heritage homes? “I like to pay homage to the home’s history, while incorporating the client’s specific needs, to create functional spaces that are beautiful and timeless.”
What’s your favourite feature? “From the minute you step through the gate, the house and beautiful gardens are revealed and it feels like you’ve entered a serene paradise.”

The bungalow had previously been renovated, yet with a desire to further enhance the home’s size and level of luxury, the owner engaged architect Salvador Farrajota of The Artificial. He was tasked with extending the footprint, adding a cantilevered gym, hot tub, lower-level alfresco area, massage room and sauna. “This home was rich with character appeal, which we needed to balance with the client’s desire to modernise,” says Lisa.

Wonderful Federation features include the terracotta-tiled gable roof, jewel-like leadlight glass, bedroom bay windows and a long central corridor, all of which were retained and enhanced with a fresh palette and decorative elements that paid homage to the home’s era. Lashings of Dulux Natural White and Dulux Lexicon Quarter were used inside and out, original floorboards were sanded and stained a warm brown, and personality was added with wallpaper, artwork and beautiful lighting.

Entry hall

The original timber floorboards came up a treat with a thorough sanding and a fresh coat of warm stain, and the existing leadlight front door was refreshed with Dulux Lexicon Quarter and new hardware. “Adding all brass new window and door hardware was a subtle yet effective way of elevating a luxury feel with a hint of lustre,” says Lisa.

In the hall, a custom ‘Chromatic’ hand-knotted wool runner in Ginger from Halcyon Lake leads the eye to where a Rachel Prince artwork, In the Clouds, takes pride of place. “To help protect the floor in high-traffic areas I specified rugs, which blend subtly with the scheme,” explains Lisa of the newly refreshed timber floors.

Kitchen

As the kitchen’s existing Corian benchtops in Deep Night Sky and white gloss vinyl-wrap joinery were in perfect condition, a major overhaul wasn’t at the top of the agenda. Instead, Lisa updated the space with new Grazia and Co ‘Diiva’ swivel stools, a Timothy Oulton ‘Iceberg’ dining table and ‘Mimi’ dining chairs from Coco Republic.

Living room

The homeowner’s love of the Mediterranean and desire to be surrounded by a sea of blue saw waves of cerulean sweep through the interiors. “A simple yet really effective alteration was switching the living room windows to French doors, which opened the space out to the pool and gave the interior an incredible sparkling blue backdrop that is echoed with turquoise accents in soft furnishings,” explains Lisa.

Inspired by the owner’s love of the Sicilian coastline and the home’s pool, which forms an azure backdrop to the living area, Lisa chanelled a palette of Mediterranean blues. The Armadillo ‘Agra’ rug in Kingfisher is paired with a plump Molmic ‘Hudson’ sofa and custom cushions in Kelly Wearstler ‘Graffito’ fabric in Teal/Pearl.

“The brief was to create an interior with a timeless, elegant aesthetic.”

– Lisa

Main bedroom

Spaces were reconfigured on the upper main level, with a former games room converted into a spacious main bedroom, perfectly positioned to take in city vistas and benefit from a clever reshuffle that allowed for an ensuite, walk-in-robe and office.

“The biggest change with the bedroom was relocating the leadlight doors, which now open to the living area, allowing an unobstructed view to the pool.”

– Lisa

Study

Casamance ‘Gustav’ wallpaper in Sable defines the study within the main suite. Lisa teamed a Barolo desk with a Timothy Oulton ‘Mimi’ dining chair, both from Coco Republic.

Bathroom

The previous owner had recently renovated the first-floor bathroom, so it was easily finished with a Coco Republic ‘Knox’ side table and Aura Home towels in Clay.

Guest bedroom

A velvet bedhead in the guest room is teamed with L&M Home cushions and Coco Republic ‘Amsterdam’ bedsides.

Pool and garden

The large block also lent itself to a complete garden overhaul, with Andrew Munro of Define Landscape Architecture at the helm of the redesign. This involved reimagining dishevelled garden beds to create a cohesive leafy space, layered with a variety of foliage, colours and textures. “A significant undertaking was excavating the front yard to provide the perfect foundation for a large expanse of soft fine-leaf Zoysia that flowed between new paths,” he explains.

The verdant, manicured and low-mow lawn is a focal point that perfectly offsets the home’s white exterior. “As the area can be quite shady, ‘Sir Grange Zoysia’ was chosen as it handles low light well and has a lovely fine blade,” says landscape designer Andrew Munro. “To help establish a strong, healthy root network, we prepared the site with a deep layer of sand under a quality underturf blend.”

We love… lush lawns.

A go-to entertaining area, the pool zone was upgraded with glass fencing and the surrounding travertine from Amber Tiles was extended to increase the outdoor living space. Poolside loungers from Lavita Furniture are scattered with cushions from Provincial Home Living.

Although the project has since evolved, with Lisa sourcing additional furnishings and consulting on subsequent additions, the bulk of the work was finished in time for the homeowner to enjoy Christmas 2021 at his stunning abode – surely the best gift of the season.

Interior design: Bella Vie Interiors, bellavieinteriors.com.
Architect: The Artificial, theartificial.com.au.
Builder: Winacres Property Group, winacrespg.com.au.
Landscaping: Define Landscape Architecture, definela.com.au.

SOURCE BOOK

The post This 1930s Brisbane bungalow is an entertainer’s delight appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Who lives here?

Samantha, founder and designer of Beautiful House, David, who runs an IT company, two of their three adults sons, Aaron and James, plus a plethora of animals.
What makes a great home? Samantha: “Everyone who’s in it, really. I try to create homes that are comfortable and functional.”
Christmas decorating style? “I love traditional decorations with lots of ribbons and bows. I have a neutral colour palette and then I add all my blues and a bit of green.”
How do you spend the summer? “We always spend it at home, in the outdoor living area, catching up with friends and entertaining. I love my garden with hydrangeas and dahlias.”

The vision of big verandahs, window seats and rolling pastures was enough to convince Samantha and her husband David to buy the block and start building their family home for their three sons, Jared, Aaron and James. Although they owned an IT business and didn’t work in construction, they had already built one home together and knew they made a good team.

“We are both hands on,” Samantha shares. “I source products and take on the decor side, putting a storyboard together and going through it with him. He takes on more of a project role.”

They started work in mid-2007 and, after a shockingly smooth 10-month build, moved into their home in May 2008. With six bedrooms, two of which are used as home offices, and three bathrooms, there’s plenty of room for the family of five. The end result is exactly as Samantha imagined when she first looked out on the overgrown paddock.

“There’s this big bench in the middle of the kitchen with a chandelier above, which I love,” she enthuses. “We have these French doors that open up onto the outdoor living space, which has a sitting area full of cushions and we’re surrounded by white hydrangeas in the summer.”

While this effortless blending of interior and exterior zones is perfect for entertaining guests during an Australian Christmas, there’s still plenty of traditional wintry charm inside. “I have a fireplace in the living room where I hang these striped stockings with some beautiful pale blue linen bows. The boys are probably a bit big now but I still put them up,” Samantha says with a laugh.

Kitchen

In-built joinery in the kitchen island is an entertainer’s dream, especially with so much storage for wine bottles, enjoyed by Samantha and David. “I love the country-style kitchen and the large island bench,” says Samantha. “I always have a vase filled with beautiful blooms from my garden. It’s the perfect space for summer entertaining with friends and family, with French doors opening up out to the outdoor living space.” The chandelier above the island is a particularly beloved detail.

Living room

Hamptons style reigns supreme in the living room, with lashings of blue and white as far as the eye can see. The Christmas tree, an artificial one that has been in the family for years, often takes Samantha two days to construct and decorate due to its size. “My colour scheme is shades of pale blue, navy and white,” says Samantha, who decorates the tree with ornaments from Adairs and Provincial Home Living.

Botanical prints from Etsy sit above the ‘Butler’s’ table, also from Provincial Home Living, and complement the tones of the ginger jars within Samantha’s display cabinet, complete with boxwood wreaths from The Doors of Berry with blue bows from Beautiful House attached.

“I’ve made a really lovely space to sit in the living room with a fireplace. I love doing a beautiful Christmas setting for my boys.”

Samantha

Home office

Turning a hand to interior design, decorating and styling was a “natural progression” for Samantha, who works part time at an op shop on the Mornington Peninsula. Interior design was what she loved doing so she created her company, Beautiful House, in 2017. Soon her office filled with soft furnishings, such as fabrics and ribbons.

Main bedroom

Layers of linens create an air of relaxation in Samantha and David’s bedroom. The blue and white striped coverlet and Belgian flax linen coverlet, both from Pottery Barn, are complemented by the cushion covered in Westbury Textiles ‘Indigo Bouquet’ fabric.

“We have these big French doors that open up into the outdoor space that I just love.”

Samantha

Alfresco area

After 15 years in the home, this will be far from the family’s first Christmas as hosts but the holiday is still as special as ever. “I love it,” says Samantha. “It’s about us coming together, having my boys there, celebrating the day.” It’s those simple little pleasures, like sitting on the verandah and watching the pet geese wander around, that create that magical, festive feeling.

While David cooks steak on the barbecue in the alfresco kitchen, Samantha whips up a roast pork, sumptuous seafood and a pavlova for dessert in her country-style kitchen. “My mum does the most amazing Christmas pudding and trifle,” she shares. “We have lunch and then open all the presents.”

“I love preparing a beautiful table that’s simple but full of traditional Christmas food, and enjoying the views of the green paddocks.”

Samantha

After experiencing the bliss that comes with living in your ideal home, Samantha has created her own interior design, decorating and styling business, Beautiful House, so she can help others realise their dreams as well. “I try to create homes that are comfortable and functional to live in,” she says. And that’s certainly what she achieved with her own home, building a charming, timeless and welcoming abode from the cow-filled ground up.

Interior design, build and landscaping: Samantha Johnstone, Beautiful House, beautifulhouse.com.au.

SOURCE BOOK

The post A Hamptons style Christmas on the Mornington Peninsula appeared first on Home Beautiful.

With two adult daughters, Lucy and Bella, and son Orly who’s approaching his teen years, the couple saw potential in the split-level home, despite the dated aesthetics. The home, complete with a self-contained studio, had the space they were after, in a prime waterfront location. Experienced renovators and self-confessed serial movers, the pair relished the challenge of stripping away the home’s ’90s persona in favour of timeless finishes, character furnishings and warm tones – deliberately eschewing trends, which would inevitably date-stamp the home once again. “We did the living area and kitchen first, as it’s where we spend most of our time and, being in the centre of the home, the changes had a domino effect,” Hayley explains.

Who lives here?

Hayley, a stay-at-home mum; husband Terry, a commercial project manager; adult daughters Lucy and Bella and son Orly, 12; Holly a Spoodle; Skipper a Siamese cat, and black cat Salem.
What soft furnishings draw you? Hayley: “I love pattern, particularly florals and most of my curtains and blinds are William Morris.”
Inspiration for your Christmas look? “This year, it’s shades of blue, brown and green. I’ve been increasingly using them throughout the house.”
Favourite Christmas tradition? “One of our trees is a family tree and and has collectable decorations that we started collecting the year we met. We’ve continued the tradition with the kids.”

What followed was a fresh coat of Dulux Snowy Mountain Quarter throughout, new timber flooring on the lower level, updated window furnishings, statement lighting and clever additions such as integrated bench seating and an understairs daybed. Renowned for her DIY projects and decorating, which she shares with her Instagram community via @mumlittleloves, Hayley embraced the power of paint and bold colour throughout to revitalise key furniture pieces and rooms. “Our last house was all white and blue, but here I wanted to do something different so went with varying shades of olive-green downstairs to unite all the living and entertaining areas,” she says. “Upstairs, I played with warm colours for the bedrooms.”

Coupled with an inspired mix of print and pattern, the effect is an entirely different look and feel, which is ever-evolving. “I’m always experimenting with new projects, changing furniture around, adding wallpaper, reupholstering or painting something,” says Hayley. “Using colour on the walls is my favourite way to completely change a space and I find painting relaxing, it’s my happy place.”

Living area

This year will mark the family’s third Christmas in the home and being on the water, with a pool in which to cool off and games room, complete with a bar, pool table and multiple spots to relax, it’s become an annual holiday venue for extended family. As a festive season enthusiast, Hayley is happy to host and goes to town with decorative trimmings which begin at the front door and flow throughout with ledges, walls, multiple trees and the family’s beautifully restored fireplace adorned with festive cheer and stunning floral touches.

“I love doing something different each year and I’ll often begin dreaming up what I’ll do next Christmas, while the current Christmas decorations are still up,” she enthuses. “At the beginning of spring I’ll start looking for ribbons, papers, fabrics in my chosen colour palette or theme, then gradually begin making stockings and DIY touches for the table. At Christmas, I also fill the house with fresh flowers from my incredible local florist That Pretty Market, which has the most amazing selection.”

In the living area, a Sanibel Spruce from Balsam Hill, decorated with ‘Grand Forest’ and ‘Farmhouse’ ornaments (also from Balsam Hill), takes pride of place beside the fireplace, the first thing the couple tackled in this space. This involved removing pink plasterboard surrounds and a marble hearth to reveal original brickwork. Hayley and Terry then created decorative surrounds and added a shiplap backdrop painted in Dulux Olive Leaf.

Kitchen

Not only were the original white 2-pac cabinets and black and blue granite benchtops not to Hayley’s taste, but functionality was also an issue with the existing kitchen. “It was closed off on one side so it was a real bottleneck, and the main bench was split level with a bar height servery which affected usability,” she explains. The solution was to gut the zone, open up one side and install Kaboodle Kitchen cabinetry, topped with solid American Oak benchtops. Marble subway tiles from National Tiles form the backdrop where a Falcon oven is a feature. “I’ve always wanted one as I love the classic look and ability to simultaneously cook separate dishes in the dual ovens,” says Hayley. “On Christmas Day, we have the turkey cooking on one side and the pavlova in the other.”

“I get a tremendous sense of satisfaction from renovating.”

Hayley

Dining room

Hayley loves a layered Christmas table setting, and this year’s festive colour scheme was largely inspired by ‘The Forest’ tablecloth and napkins from Hutch Table Accessories, teamed with plates (also from Hutch Table Accessories), Villeroy & Boch glassware and a ‘Lucille’ vase from Provincial Home Living filled with flowers from That Pretty Market. “I love a ‘more is more’ approach to Christmas table settings,” says Hayley, whose treasure trove of napery and table linen is stored in the Provincial Home Living Coventry Buffet and Hutch, customised with check curtains. Neutral, textural elements, such as the Rustic River Rock Sisal rug from Floorspace Australia.

We love… DIY Christmas decorations

For a coordinated look, Hayley combines bought pieces with handmade touches. “Because I can’t always find what I want to suit my colour palette, it’s often easier to make what I’m after,” she says. “I love using napkins to make bon bons that I fill with socks, lip balms, chocolates, scratchies and bad jokes.

Main bedroom

Much of the renovation involved removing pink details but in the main bedroom Hayley reintroduced pink – albeit in the guise of Dulux Primal in half strength, which is classified as brown.

Orly’s bedroom

The inspiration for Orly’s room, where Holly the Spoodle joins Orly, began with the ‘Bohemian Forest’ wallpaper from Edge Wall Art (in a custom colour). The neutral backdrop is accented with Early Settler furniture and a Koh Metalico mirror.

Lucy’s bedroom

Rooms switch between the kids as often as the walls change colour. Lucy recently laid claim to this room and requested a neutral scheme. “It’s actually the smallest room in the house and while some people think you should use light, bright colours to enhance the sense of space, I like to embrace the cosiness of a compact room, and went with chocolate brown,” explains Hayley of the walls painted in Taubmans Cowhide.

Bella’s bedroom

With the myriad shades of green used downstairs, Hayley combined leftover paint to create the hue for Bella’s bedroom. “Rather than a colour feature wall, I prefer to paint the bedroom in one colour to create an enveloping feel,” says Hayley.

“Rather than follow a particular style or trends, I’ll draw inspiration from a beautiful fabric, cushion or piece of furniture, and create a look from there.”

Hayley

Laundry and mudroom

Previously an uninspired sea of white tiles and laminate cabinetry, the laundry is full of personality and doubles as a mudroom. Kaboodle Kitchen Alpine cabinetry in Kaleo provides a splash of blue, complemented with Kaboodle Kitchen solid American Oak tops, which serve as a bench seat. The floor was transformed with Chicago Brick State Street tiles from National Tiles.

Often a relaxed multi-day celebration, Christmas is generally a sit-down roast turkey and seafood lunch for 20 or so guests, who all bring a plate. With plenty of blow-up mattresses and comfy sofas to go round, most people stay the night and ease into a laid-back Boxing Day grazing on leftovers in between swims and a spin in the family’s boat. “It really is a magical time of the year!” says Hayley. “I love the anticipation, the fairy lights, quality time with family, and the opportunity to go over the top with decorating.”

The post A renovated Gold Coast home’s magical handmade Christmas appeared first on Home Beautiful.

First settling in a riverside suburb of Brisbane, Kerrie more recently purchased an inner-city Queenslander in need of some love and care.

In a recent Instagram post, Kerrie revealed that her home was for sale. “Back in 2016 I bought this home …. and over many years, lovingly renovated almost every corner of it,” the post read. “It’s a tuly magical home.”

In November 2023, the home sold at auction for $2.3 million. AFR reports that the auction resulted in a “record sale for a home of that style without a swimming pool in the area.”

News flash

“I find old Queenslanders so charming,” explains the talented illustrator. “They have these beautiful architectural details you just don’t see anywhere else. They also have high ceilings, which allow in a lot of natural light – especially important to me as an artist.”

When they bought the home, it was painted in shades of brown, inside and out. However, a residence that was structurally sound and only in need of a cosmetic makeover was exactly what Kerrie was after.

“I wanted something I could make my own, without having to do any major renovations,” she says. As a result, the makeover was kept as simple as possible. “Before moving in, we had the entire interior spray-painted white, including all the trims and architraves, and then tackled the rest from there.”

Other changes included a quick kitchen update, which saw the brown benchtops replaced with Caesarstone ‘Calacatta Nuvo’ and the installation of a new Perrin & Rowe ‘Provence Country’ mixer from The English Tapware Company. The home’s existing dark hardwood floors were retained upstairs, while the orange ceramic tiles downstairs were replaced with whitewashed timber laminate.

The one traditional Queenslander feature the house didn’t have was tongue-and-groove walls, which gave Kerrie an opportunity to add Parisian-style moulding. “It was simple moulding bought from Bunnings and painted in a high-gloss white,” she says.

“It was relatively inexpensive, but it really makes an impact.” The interiors are decorated in Kerrie’s signature French-inspired style, mixed with an Australian sensibility. Chandeliers and a high-back ‘Louis’ chair, shipped over from Paris, sit comfortably with more relaxed, family-friendly pieces.

Perhaps the biggest selling point of all was the home had space for a studio. “I’d never had one before,” says Kerrie. “In our last house I painted in the garage, which was sweltering in summer and freezing in winter.” With the living areas and bedrooms all upstairs, almost the entire downstairs is devoted to her illustration studio.

“Walking downstairs into this space is inspiring,” she says. “I think your environment matters when you’re a creative. I also work a lot, so I love that Marcel can come down and join me. He often brings his homework down after school and we work side by side. It’s one of my favourite times of the day.”

What are your tips for incorporating art in interiors?

“It’s important to get the balance right. For example, the pink sofa is very feminine, so it was balanced out with a more graphic piece (‘The Eyes’ by Kerrie Hess). Proportions are important, too, so large works are more suited to rooms with higher ceilings.”

What’s one part of your work that you love?

“I’m the happiest when painting in my studio. Working on original pieces or watercolours that will become prints is my happy place.”

How would you describe your decorating style?

“A mixture of romantic and eclectic.”

Do you have any decorating tips?

“I always think it’s nice to not have too many things but to really look after and cherish the things you do have. And fresh flowers are always a welcome addition.”

What do you love most about the home’s location?

“I love [that] our street is so leafy and quiet, yet we live right in the inner city.”

Is there anything else on your wishlist?

“It’s a subtropical climate, so we’d love to have a pool. Just a small one to sit in and read a book.”

In her own words …

The post Inside the chic Queenslander home of illustrator Kerrie Hess appeared first on Home Beautiful.

During the four-and-a-half years, they’ve lived in this fine Queenslander, which dates back to 1925, interior designer Hayley and her family have given the home a fresh sense of purpose.

The ground level is the domain of Hayley and her husband Lance’s three children, who revel in the casual living space that leads out to the newly installed pool. Meanwhile, Mum and Dad can survey the Brisbane cityscape from their deep, first-floor wraparound balcony where they have created a stunning retreat with knockout city views – a favourite part of the home. 

Who lives here? Hayley, co-director of Porchlight Interiors, her surveyor husband, Lance, and children Kelsey, 23, a graduate architect, Zak, 16, and Abbey, 14.

How would you describe your style? Hayley: “Home. It’s an important word to me – a place where people feel welcome.”

You pushed the envelope with… “The vanity downstairs [page 102] – I had it custom-made locally. It’s so heavy it took two men to get it in!”

What’s your colour crush? “Blue, because it’s very peaceful and calming. We love beach holidays and sunny skies.”

What do you love experimenting with? “With a basic foundation of whites, neutrals and timber, I can layer it with new things – touches of industrial, or an Indian or African piece.”

“When you have teenagers, it’s really great to have two living areas, upstairs and downstairs, that are separated,” says homeowner Hayley, an interior designer, who shares her house with her husband, Lance, and their children Kelsey, Zak, and Abbey. “It’s important that they can have their friends in one area while you have yours in another. If they want to watch movies or play games downstairs, it doesn’t interrupt us spending time with friends upstairs.”

Coming together is just as crucial for the family of five, and it’s in the kitchen that the members of this household invariably meet. When Hayley and Lance bought the home, this was the first space they tackled, ripping out ill-fitting cabinetry and replacing the awkward layout with an open, dynamic design.

Main lounge room

Gentle blues and greens create a serene feel in this zone. All textiles, including the Schumacher fabric used to upholster the armchairs and Westbury linen on the sofa, are sourced through Porchlight Interiors, set off with an oversized copper-rimmed clock from Meizai. On the cushions, a vibrant botanical print by Raoul Textiles of Santa Barbara, US, creates more visual interest, while the herringbone-weave sisal rug provides texture and warmth underfoot. 

Home bar area

As with many Queenslanders, previous owners had raised the house to utilise the ground level, and during this refit installed a bar salvaged from another home of similar heritage. In keeping with the glamorous Californian air of the new pool area it looks onto, the bar received the same treatment as the rest of the interior, painted in Dulux Whisper White for a lighter and fresher feel. The structure was also updated with a high-impact Nero Marquina marble benchtop.

Along with the kitchen/dining room overhaul, Hayley had the home’s interiors painted in fresh Dulux Whisper White and layered textiles and furniture that caught her designer eye. “I typically start with a light, neutral base and add depth into the room with dark accents that anchor the space well,” explains Hayley. “I have a passion for using a lot of sea-foam blue colours for their peaceful quality. I like simple – it’s the way it’s put together that gives it interest.”

Family room

Replacing cream gloss floor tiles with wide engineered French oak boards has made the world of difference to the downstairs living area. This teen chill zone is decidedly grown-up, but the layers of texture keep it feeling relaxed: plump linen-covered sofas and a tactile wool rug do the trick nicely. Furniture, all in chalky whites, includes an Indian hall table, with antique Chinese drum stools from Orient House below. In contrast, a solid Naga coffee table (for similar pieces, browse the range at Stone Pony) floats in the middle to centre the space. 

“We raised a beam that was making the kitchen really small and built right out to the space they had used as a dining room,” reveals Hayley, who also enlarged the room by taking the cabinetry right to the 3.1-metre ceiling. “It has made a very small kitchen quite grand.”

Bookending the space is an integrated study area that fuses the living and kitchen areas, and a built-in seating nook for dining that has the bonus of hidden storage. “Built-in seating is a great way to make a room feel bigger,” comments the interior designer. “We have a lot of different groups of friends who come through this space, and we can sit there for hours. Once you put the food on the table, there’s no need to get up. You can just sit there and enjoy.”

“It was a very small space but with city views, this was the right place for dining. We can now fit 12 people comfortably around the table, and often do!”

Hayley

Dining area

For a stylish dining nook, make sure the built-in seating is standard dining chair height to fit under the table. This includes the finished height once the foam cushions go on top. The backrest cushion needs to be on an angle for added comfort. Romo fabric was chosen to cover the bench seating – which contains discreet storage – offset by Walter G cushions. Throughout this upper level, existing timber floors were given a sultry Black Japan stain. 

Kitchen

A mix of cabinetry not only makes the kitchen feel more relaxed, but responds to key needs in the area. The cooking zone’s high-end brasserie look reflects the family’s passion for food and entertaining. Constructed by Maytain Cabinets, the generous island is painted in Dulux Maraetai Grey and topped with luxe Statuario Venato marble. This striking hub of the home is finished with polished nickel lighting and cabinet pulls from Restoration Hardware in the US (available through Porchlight Interiors).

Bathroom

The downstairs bathroom is the domain of the eldest children, and introduces a hip, industrial vibe. A steel-framed vanity topped with honed Carrara marble sets the scene. Phoenix ‘Vivid Slimline’ tapware in matt black Onix finish, a trough-like ‘Cielo’ basin from Highgrove Bathrooms, ‘Enhance’ wall light brackets from Beacon Lighting and a black-framed mirror complete the look.

“Home is filled with love – somewhere you feel yourself, and enjoy being with family and friends. That’s probably the core of what my interior design is about”

Hayley

Interior designer: Hayley Hayes, Porchlight Interiors, 0423 806 007, porchlightinteriors.com.au
Flooring: Timber Flooring Unlimited, 0414 733 342, timberflooringunlimited.com.au
Kitchen: Maytain Cabinets, (07) 3216 7601, maytain.com.au

SOURCE BOOK

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Another plus: the move allowed Brielle and Andrew, who both work for Andrew’s building company AECB, to pursue their shared passion of renovating homes. “Because we were new to the area, we weren’t sure if Andrew would get work straight away, so we thought this house would give us a project,” explains Brielle. “He ended up getting lots of work, so we had to do it all in our spare time and on weekends.”

Who lives here: Brielle, an interior designer and office manager; Andrew, a builder and their sons.

What prompted the move? Brielle: “We came down from Sydney for a weekend one winter and decided this was where we’d like to live. The area has a lot of charm”

Any renovation must-haves?“We love to eat, cook and entertain, so I wanted a really big island bench in the kitchen; something that would make it easy to mingle with guests, and feel effortless.”

What inspires your style? “I love interior design books. I don’t seem to be able to walk past a bookstore without buying one! I love to display them on our bookshelf like pieces of art.”

Favourite spot in the house? “The front room. You can sit with a cup of tea and look out at the magnolia tree. It’s been here since the 1950s, so we couldn’t bear to get rid of it. In summer it blooms with flowers, and in winter, when its leaves have dropped, it lets in the warm sun.”

Situated on the side of a hill, overlooking the township, the original 1950s-era house was rundown and riddled with asbestos. “We saw it during winter and it looked a bit sad and sorry for itself, like nobody had maintained or loved it since the first owner,” recalls Brielle. “But it had a really nice aspect and huge front windows, plus it was close to town, the local pool and bike tracks. It seemed perfect for us.”

The couple moved in and started work on the landscaping while awaiting council approval. Despite plans to significantly alter and extend the building, Brielle and Andrew chose to live on site with their sons. “We converted the garage into a rumpus room, gym and laundry, and moved into it while we ripped the whole of the upstairs to bits,” explains Brielle.

No space was spared under the new plans. The size, shape and layout of the entrance, lounge and bedrooms were all rejigged to provide a better sense of flow and greater privacy in the front of the house. At the back, two wings were added, one containing a new kitchen and dining area, the other the master bedroom and ensuite.

Here, soaring timber-lined ceilings add character and a sense of grandeur. To maintain some of the home’s original charm, the couple saved the large timber windows, and Andrew, who has his own timber yard, created large panoramic doors for the back of the house. He also custom-built the kitchen, bathroom vanities, garage door,
dining table and the floor-to-ceiling bookshelf in the living room.

“He buys old bridge timbers in bulk and makes things out of them,” explains Brielle. “The dining table is beautiful; it features all the knots and burrs of the timber.”

After two-and-a-half years of busy weekends, Brielle and Andrew were thrilled to finally finish their home. Aesthetically, it’s a blend of coastal, country farmhouse and contemporary styles, an approach reflected in the eclectic mix of furnishings and finishes Brielle has pulled together with panache. Some pieces were bought new, while
others, such as the black-painted Windsor dining chairs, were sourced second-hand.

“I think it works putting unexpected things next to each other,” says Brielle. “It reflects your own personality and past experiences and makes your home so individual.”

Kitchen

The couple loves to entertain, so the kitchen, custom-built by Andrew, centres around a big island bench, paired with rattan bar stools. “When friends come over we all stand around the island bench, chatting over a cheese platter,” says Brielle.

“I also wanted the kids to be able to sit and chat while they do their homework.”

Living room

Winters can be bitter in Bowral, so Andrew and Brielle chose a cosy leather sofa warmed up with cushions from Etsy.

Brielle found the coffee table and black-and-white photo, ‘Central Park’, at Oz Design Furniture. “It brings a really nice atmosphere to the house,” she says. The sisal rug was a clever choice for a family home; “It adds natural texture and is almost impossible to stain!” says Brielle.

Built-in bookshelves

After reworking the living room layout, Brielle thought the side wall seemed a little stark. The solution: custom-made, floor-to-ceiling bookshelves made by her very handy husband. “Andrew built them out of Oregon timber with lining boards on the back, then we painted them white,” says Brielle.

Dining area

The new kitchen and dining space boasts soaring cathedral ceilings and a series of skylights that flood the area with light all year round. The floors are cypress pine stained a rich chocolate brown. “I love the colour – it just really pops against the white,” says Brielle. Andrew crafted the dining table from reclaimed red iron bark bridge timber.

Main bedroom

To create a restful retreat, Brielle kept the furnishings in the master bedroom to a minimum and instead created impact with coastal colours: a stormy grey on the walls and shots of deep blue in artworks and cushions.

Kids’ rooms

Splashes of yellow and turquoise give the eldest boys’ room a mature but light-hearted feel. The graphic-look bedlinen, throw rug and yellow table are all from Adairs.

“I wanted the youngest boys’ room to be fun and capture a bit of their personalities,” says Brielle of the nautical-themed zone. The bed frames were sourced from Dirty Jane’s Emporium and are dressed in boyish tones of red and blue.

The post From unloved 1950s home to complete country charmer appeared first on Home Beautiful.

“I just loved that the house had character,” says Liz, who shares the home with husband Rob and children. “I’ve always loved older homes and their period details. A square box doesn’t have the same appeal to me.” The pair spent four years dreaming and scheming on how to make the most of the home’s assets. “Over that time, I would tear things out of magazines and collect ideas from different sources,” recalls Liz. “I had quite the wish list by the time we came to renovate. Of course renovation budgets needed to be kept, so some of the wish list was put to the side for future dream homes, but everything else was the result of years of planning.”

Who lives here?

Liz, an interior decorator; Rob, an analyst and their two children.

Tips for having a beautiful home with children? Liz: “Storage – you can never have enough. The smaller the child, the more ‘accessories’ they seem to have. If you can manage to hide all the coloured plastic away at the end of the day, you can enjoy your home as an adult.”

What is your favourite part of the home? “I love our open-plan kitchen/dining/lounge because of the natural light and the view to our backyard. The bedroom, as it is such a relaxing and calming space. I also love our children’s rooms as they are the special little spaces.”

What would you bring to the next house? “If and when we move, I would love to take our pendant lights in the hallway. They are the first thing I see and I still love them every day.”

“Before we renovated, the house was a lot more colourful; the front door was red and we had a lot of red accents throughout. Then my husband said he wanted a black door like 10 Downing Street, and that started it – we decided to carry the black elements all the way through.”

Liz

The renovation proceeded with all the joys and perils you would expect of a period home. “As is so often the case with old homes, we hit a lot of curve balls along the way with the renovation,” says Liz.

“The foundations all needed to be redone and there was absolutely no structural support for the upstairs – it was a complete tack-on in the ’50s, so it was lucky it lasted that long. Sadly, a lot of the budget went into things you can’t see.”

Renovation complete, Liz has kitted out the home in contemporary classic furnishings, pieced together over the years. Designer splurges (as the budget allowed) are matched with high-street steals and quirky objects.

Although Liz, through her work, has an eye for the perfect piece, the house is far from a show home; the overwhelming feeling is one of warmth and welcome. “This is where we live – we have friends and their children here all the time,” she says. “We were never going to have a house where you can’t wear shoes inside or eat on the sofa. This is a house to live in, not to look at.”

Living room

The chief focus of the renovation was to replace the existing configuration at the rear – a separate 1950s kitchen, a brick wall and a single door opening to the backyard – with a more modern floor plan, to create an airy and open space for entertaining and where their two young children could play.

As an interior decorator, Liz is well versed in emphasising a room’s best attributes; here, she included plantation shutters, which bounce light around the room to enhance classic furnishings, including a pair of Coco Republic chairs and a coffee table from Temple & Webster.

Kitchen

With structural issues draining the budget, Liz and Rob had little left to spend on their dream space when their builder told them about a solid but dated kitchen he was pulling out elsewhere.

“It had gold hardware and a black benchtop and didn’t fit in at all with the design I had envisaged,” says Liz. “We put on silver hardware and new Caesarstone benchtops with a nice wide profile, and it has worked out perfectly.” Try Gumtree or eBay for similar bargains.

Subway tiles and Shaker-profile cabinets give the kitchen a Hamptonsesque vibe. “I’d describe my design style as timeless,” says Liz. “I don’t like interior fads and things that date quickly.

While I might throw in some new decor pieces here and there, I haven’t really changed anything in six years.” With lots of storage and spacious worktops in Caesarstone Organic White, the kitchen is wonderfully functional. But for the couple, who love to entertain, the most important aspect is its openness to the rest of the space.

The post A terrace transformation brimming with small home renovation ideas appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Embarking on his fourth renovation, Sydney homeowner Peter was planning “more than just a tart up” to this abode, yet ultimately completely transformed it inside and out. “I’ve always loved an old-world heritage style look and wanted to carry that feel right through the house,” he says. As such, new period-style features were integrated into the design to create the sense they’d always been there.

Who lives here?

Peter who works in the construction industry and his dogs, Nara and Suki.

What do you love most about it? Peter: “As a plumber by trade it was really important the bathrooms were a real stand out and Danielle definitely delivered with improved layouts in all the wet areas and beautiful finishes.”

What were your must-haves? “Everywhere possible I had to have some wow-factor. One of my favourite spots is the formal living area, overlooking the garden. It’s a nice, private view.”

Any renovation lessons learnt? “A talented interior designer can change a nice home into a showstopper. Danielle taught me about room proportions and circulation – it’s an artform.”

Engaging the expertise of Danielle Bonello-Dunsford of Danielle Victoria Design Studio, the scope of the project grew as it became apparent a partial refurbishment wouldn’t do the house justice. After all, the home had already undergone various renovations, which had resulted in a disjointed layout and mismatched styles.

A thoughtful reinvention, which introduced character and flow, was vital. “Danielle had the vision and proposed design options that were just too good to refuse,” Peter adds of the extensive changes, which not only enhanced the home’s aesthetics but improved the layout and liveability.

Every space was reimagined, including the entry hallway. Detailed finishes, such as wide skirtings, architraves and wainscoting were sourced from Intrim Mouldings, while grandeur was further added with an ornate arch and intricate corbels from Bailey Interiors.

While the space once led to a bedroom with small windows, it now opens onto a formal dining area, unrecognisable with black steel gridded floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the vast leafy outlook. “It’s such a grand space that greets you as you walk through the front door and is a lovely blend of heritage and modern styles,” reflects Danielle.

Living area

To inject light and volume into the new open-plan kitchen, living and casual dining area, the floor was lowered, the ceiling was lifted and the footprint extended. Keeping the furnishings light to contrast the darker-toned European Oak Smoked Grey floorboards, an ‘Agoura’ rug grounds a sofa and armchairs, all from Coco Republic, along with a ‘Laurent’ coffee table and ‘Bermuda’ armchair both from Wisteria. Feature cushions from Freedom and My House add a touch of blue.

In the kitchen, Astra Walker Tapware in Eco Brass, Hepburn Hardware brass pulls and a stunning pendant (for similar, try ‘Caddo’ from The Montauk Lighting Co) add old-world charm. Nara stands under Leonetto Cappiello’s Bitter Campari poster.

The stairwell also received this luxe appeal. “Peter wanted a very traditional black and white scheme so we added decorative mouldings to the surrounding walls, chose formal turned bolsters and stained the timber treads in Feast Watson Black Japan,” explains Danielle.

Although the project took two years and was far more intensive than he first intended, Peter is thrilled with the result, which seamlessly blends modern Hamptons luxury with historic embellishments. “The challenge when renovating can be where to draw the line, but I’m glad we did it all. It’s now a home I really enjoy living in,” reflects Peter.

Kitchen

A large island is the star of the kitchen, topped in Super White Dolomite from Styled In Stone. The under-bench joinery with decorative mouldings and pillars painted in Dulux Precision is similarly impressive. Stools from Wisteria add to the island’s functionality.

“Everywhere possible, I had to have some wow-factor.”

Peter, homeowner

Dining room

An architrave by Intrim Mouldings is finished in Dulux Vivid White on the archway leading to the dining room. An Emac & Lawton sconce highlights a reproduction of Adrien Moreau’s ‘A 17th-Century Masquerade’.

Floor-to-ceiling black steel gridded windows add contemporary chic.

Gentleman’s room

Previously an unused bedroom, this area has been transformed into one of Peter’s favourite spaces, filled with antique pieces he’s collected. “Entertaining in here is a real treat,” he says.

The new fireplace framed with a carved Carrara marble surround and mantlepiece, evokes the sense that it’s original to the home. Dulux Metalise envelops this room and creates a rich, masculine backdrop.

Gilded glamour balances the dark with an ‘Elizabeth’ wall mirror in Antique Gold from Cafe Lighting & Living, a ‘Zaya’ lamp from Bloomingdales Lighting atop the mantlepiece and a luminous ‘Bette’ gold-leaf chandelier from Cromwell. A custom bronze frame also ensures an artwork by Mark Ramsey pops against the dark walls.

“The darker toned chocolate-coloured flooring was chosen for its rich, elegant appeal.”

Danielle, designer

Study

Peter’s study has a French antique desk from Because Antiques & Interiors.

Main bedroom

This space was furnished with various French antiques from Because Antiques & Interiors and a reproduction of a 1903 artwork, The Wounded Angel by Hugo Simberg, takes pride of place.

We love… high ceilings

A turret roof accentuates the original features. “The builder, Tim Roberts, constructed the turret structure,” says Peter. “It was my design idea based on buildings I admired travelling through France, while still being relevant to Australian period architecture. I had the existing terracotta tile and corrugated tin modified and replaced with imported natural slate.”

Guest bathroom

A Blue Roma Quartzite vanity top from Styled In Stone makes a statement in the guest bathroom.

Laundry

Danielle designed doors in Dulux Sage Monica with inserts for ventilation, and to screen the washing machine and dryer in the laundry. The addition of a toilet means it can also double as a powder room.

Alfresco area

An existing deck was extended and upgraded with new Millboard composite decking, a roof with Velux skylights and a sleek glass balustrade that allows for unobstructed views. The space is furnished with a Harvey Norman table and Bunnings chairs.

Exterior

New Tech Wood composite wall cladding features on the exterior.

Interior design: Danielle Victoria Design Studio, (02) 9960 1901, daniellevictoria.com.au.
Joinery: All Style Joinery, 0402 417 383, allstylejoinery.com.
D.A. submission: Ducray Design and Drafting, (02) 9436 1041.
Builder: Tim Roberts Building, 0412 394 394.

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Hollywood hot couple Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis have announced on Instagram that their Santa Barbara beach house is available for visitors over one weekend in August and, best of all, they plan to welcome guests themselves on arrival!

“I think we should have complete strangers come and stay with us at the beach,” says Kutcher to his wife of eight years on Instagram. “It’s so nice here.” Kunis chuckles but doesn’t disagree that people will love the setting.

Sitting right on the beach and listed as an “Ashton & Mila’s Oceanfront Oasis”, the couple describe the abode as their “home away from home”. The property was listed to host one lucky bidder to soak up the sunshine over the weekend of 19th and 20th of August and enjoy stunning vistas of the Santa Barbara coastline, along with local nature trails, food and shops – all from a base of their fresh and friendly, white-painted seaside cottage.

Following the likes of Gwyneth Paltrow to list their own holiday house on Airbnb, the site reads, “Booking for our guest house opens at 10 a.m. PT on Wednesday, August 16 for a one-night stay for up to four guests on Saturday, August 19.” Whether or not you’re in a position to jump on a plane to California this weekend, we invite you to take a look inside the pretty abode.

The beach house is modestly decorated in true coastal style with whitewashed walls, timber-lined ceilings and a fully equipped kitchen with cute chequerboard floor tiling and benchtops lined with sleek stainless steel to create culinary coastal feasts while taking in the panoramic views.

 The adjacent living and dining room has an inviting open fireplace to ward off winter chills and a snug window seat to escape to with a glass of wine and a good book.

Inside the simple decor features paned windows and natural floorboards and accommodates four guests in two bedrooms and one bathroom.

Cute built-in bunk beds were included with family holidays in mind so are sturdy enough for creating fun sleepover memories.

Timber-lined bathroom is simply decorated with white-washed walls and quaint cottage architectural features.

A generous deck facing the ocean where weathered timber outdoor furniture nestles beneath striped umbrellas beside a generous hot tub that overlooks the Californian coastline. “Steps from the beach, and with beautiful views of the Santa Ynez mountains”, hosts Ashton and Mila share that, “We’ll be there to greet you upon arrival and make sure you have everything you need for a fun-filled stay at the beach.”

Despite its high-profile hosts, the cottage is designed to accommodate a true getaway experience. Photos or videos are not allowed and there is a strict “no parties” policy.

Book the property here on Airbnb.

The post Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis have listed their beach house on Airbnb appeared first on Home Beautiful.

It’s a style that continues to be embraced around the country, forming several distinct but undeniably related, local offshoots: modern Hamptons, coastal Hamptons and colourful Hamptons. The broad appeal of Hamptons style stems from its grand yet relaxed approach to design, and its influence can be spotted everywhere from new builds on the Gold Coast to classic Queenslanders and even inner-city townhouses. 

Step inside 9 of the most popular Hamptons style homes to appear in the pages of Home Beautiful magazine.

1. Opulent yet welcoming Hamptons-style kitchen

Gone are the dark carpet, dark benchtops and dark feature wallpaper that made the interior of this 1980s Melbourne home feel drab and dreary for so long. In their place are light timber floor boards, white paint, natural stone benchtops and pops of pale blue. “We kept the base palette quite neutral and timeless,” says interior designer Melissa Balzan of Melissa Balzan Design.

The kitchen strikes the perfect balance between opulence and intimacy. Marble benchtops and crisp white cabinetry are softened by the addition of a bespoke timber table that nestles into the island bench – an informal space ideal for dining and gathering.

2. Grand Hamptons home entrance

Hamptons style homes exude effortless grandeur. It’s an impression this home in Melbourne’s inner-east makes right from the front door. The chic colour palette of black, white and grey provides a fresh backdrop for the verdant garden. 

“I love a timeless look that doesn’t date,” says homeowner Jody. “[It’s] one of the things I like about the classic Hamptons style – it always looks fresh.”

3. Blue and white Hamptons laundry

Blue and white is a quintessential Hamptons colour palette. In this Gold Coast new build, the laundry channels clean Hamptons style, with patterned blue ‘Cartia’ floor tiles making an impact as soon as you step inside the door. Crisp white cabinetry and touches of brass complete the look.

4. Personality-filled Hamptons style bathroom

This NSW South Coast home now brims with personality, colour and Hamptons style, thanks to a complete renovation led by interior designer Melinda Hartwright. While the entire home is a lesson in melding classic style with fun design, the ensuite is perhaps the most bold. “If there is a chance to use wallpaper in any room, I will grab it,” says Melinda. 

In this room, white and timeless marble make up the timeless base, while Schumacher ‘Edwin Stripe’ wallpaper, brass tapware and geometric floor tiles bring the wow-factor. 

5. Modern Hamptons home exterior

This coastal style home on Sydney’s North Shore makes a striking impression from the outset. While the exterior of the home is painted in Dulux Terrace White, black windows and doors (in Dulux Colorbond Night Sky) create a deep contrast that makes the home’s architectural details – including an arched central doorway – pop. 

Inside, subtle Hamptons influences can be spotted in the sleek shaker cabinetry, oversized furniture, crisp colour palette and VJ panelling. 

6. Queenslander meets Hamptons style

Queenslander homes and Hamptons style go hand in hand. While a Hamptons influence is visible inside and outside of this home, owner Hayley, co-director of Porchlight Interiors says making a home feel welcoming is her greatest source of inspiration. “Home is filled with love – somewhere you feel yourself, and enjoy being with family and friends.”

Large cane outdoor furniture provides a relaxing spot to sit on the verandah and enjoy views of the Brisbane cityscape. Touches of calming, seafoam blue give the space a tranquil quality that immediately makes you feel at ease. 

7. Hamptons and modern coastal style combined

Looking at it today, you’d hardly know that this coastal Hamptons home was once a relic of the 80s, complete with a brown, yellow and maroon interior. Now, a high-raked ceiling soars over the open plan living room, framing views from Burleigh Heads to Surfers Paradise. 

A fresh colour scheme (the home’s walls and ceilings are painted in Dulux Lexicon Quarter), comfortable relaxed furniture, and an oversized wool rug from Miss Amara were crucial to creating a cosy atmosphere in the expansive living area. 

8. Classic Hamptons kitchen

Before a recent renovation, the interior of this six-bedroom mansion in Melbourne’s south-east was quite dark and dated. Homeowner Sue had lived at the property since 1993, and knew it was time to give the home a refresh. “I wanted it to be uplifting, light and airy and make me happy,” she says. 

She enlisted the help of interior designer Melissa Balzan, who brought her vision for a joyful Hamptons interior – featuring a palette of clean whites, blue and shaker panelling – to life. 

9. Hamptons style pool area

Interior designer and TV presenter Natalee Bowen’s Hamptons style home shines like a beacon amongst farmland in Western Australia, especially at night. “You can spot it two to three kilometres away,” she says.

A 160-year-old brick cottage (built by her husband Mark’s family) was restored and extended as part of the recent renovation, which gave the home its instantly recognisable Hamptons style look. “True Hamptons homes are quite extraordinary in scale and I really wanted to emulate that,” says Natalee. 

The post 9 houses that prove Hamptons style is here to stay appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Now based on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, Melinda is formerly of NSW’s Southern Highlands, which is where she met her clients, working on their Bowral home, then a city apartment. She had a firm grip on her clients’ style and had earned their unerring trust. “Having done two other projects with them, they had become more adventurous in their choices. They knew my style and the kind of things I was going to present to them – and I knew how far I could push them,” she says.

Melinda’s brief from the clients was a two-part challenge: first, to add character to the charmless build, and secondly to bring a sense of playfulness. This was to be a place to relax and retreat, entertain and make memories – and the house needed to reflect that. “It’s a weekender for them and they wanted a place that was joyful and fun, relaxed and happy.”

First up was an architectural personality transplant. Melinda diplomatically says the house was “just a bit blancmange”. Less forgiving commentators might have called it stoically serviceable, with its brown brick exterior, shiny floor tiles and lack of whimsy. On the up-side, the location was incomparable, the backyard generous, and the house itself built to take advantage of the views, with living areas located on the upper storey.

The makeover began with a facade facelift, an overhaul designed by Melinda, working with a draughtsman, then carried out by local company Life Home Builders. A forest of view-blocking concrete pillars made major surgery of this process, but with new structural supports, they were removed, and the staggered frontage squared off to create one long verandah upstairs, and space for an extra bedroom downstairs. Brown brick gave way to fibre cement weatherboard cladding, and blank windows were replaced with new panelled windows and French doors.

Inside, the miserly little skirtings were replaced with a wealth of interest: elegantly detailed cornices, architraves and skirtings, new doors and hardware, and VJ panelled ceilings, which epitomise classic coastal style.

Next up was the really fun bit, layering the home with a carefully curated kaleidoscope of colour and pattern. “It’s got a beautiful view with glorious turquoise water, so we wanted the vibrancy of that to be matched by the interiors,” says Melinda.

“We wanted classic interiors, but creative and playful and pretty,” she says. A core palette of coastal blues is expressed through bright cerulean cabinetry, patterned fabrics and wallpapers, offset by crisp whites and touches of sand. Branching out from blue, each bedroom is themed by colour (green, pink, aqua), while the bathrooms are each defined by beautiful wallcoverings, adding warmth – a signature feature of Melinda’s style.

Functionality was always top of mind – this is a beach house, it needed to survive sandy feet, wet swimmers and future grandchildren. With this in mind, Melinda embraced outdoor fabrics, hard-wearing sisal carpet and sand-camouflaging timber floors, plus a striking sand room – the beach version of a mud room.

“It’s not your typical beach house – it’s a little more structured and more formal. But it’s still relaxed and inviting,” says Melinda. Her clients’ reaction is all the endorsement needed, Melinda says. “She said to me, ‘I never really liked going down there. Now I want to go every weekend and never want to leave!’”

Designer Tips

These are Melinda’s insider insights on how to add character to every room.

Where do I begin? “I usually start a room with a statement artwork, a fabulous rug, or amazing hero fabric. Everything else falls into place once the lead character is established. Paint colours come last as there are many to choose from and the focal point is always unique and special.”

How do I make a room feel unique? “If there is a chance to use wallpaper in any room, I will grab it. If you don’t want pattern, you can add glorious texture, interest and depth of colour.”

Can I use wallpaper in a bathroom? “I don’t do tiled walls except in the shower, they are too clinical. If you have good ventilation and water will not be splashed on the paper, then absolutely wallpaper bathrooms.”

How can I start small? “The perfect place to try out bold, patterned wallpaper is the powder room. It’s a small room that can handle big impact, doesn’t cost a lot, and one that you don’t spend lots of time in. Powder rooms can be the jewel of the house.”

How do I mix patterns? “I usually work in a dozen or so fabrics into a good-sized room. Have a nice blend of pattern sizes and beautiful combinations of colours, then the sky’s the limit.”

Any rules for prints? “Go for plainer fabrics on sofas and upholstered items, and play with bolder patterns on cushions and lampshades that can be readily and less expensively changed.”

What are your go-to material combos? “I always try to incorporate a mix of stained timber and white-painted furniture, rattan, glass and some kind of metallic finish in a room. And a touch of black is usually needed somewhere.”

What’s a quick design tip?  “Avoid putting sofas against walls with a lone coffee table wallowing in the middle of the room. Make sure side and coffee tables are only a reach away, so that you can easily put a glass down.”

What’s one big-impact item? “Lamps, lamps, lamps. Overhead lighting is great for making a statement and adding a feature to a room, but when it comes to cosiness, atmosphere and ambience nothing beats simple, soft lamp light.”

Stairs

The orange-stained timber stairs were transformed with white paint, and a Roger Oates ‘Westport’ runner turns them into a statement.

Outdoor Kitchen

A pale green is carried through cabinetry in a calming shade of Dulux Pale Celadon in the barbecue area.

Guest House

Originally a shed, the navy guest house in Dulux Eclipse Blue has maximum impact alongside the all-white house. “Painting the house white worked, because we then had this fabulous splash of brilliant blue on what looks like an American barn,” says Melinda.

SOURCE BOOK

Interiors: Melinda Hartwright, Melinda Hartwright Interiors, melindahartwright.com.

Builder: Life Home Builders, (02) 4234 4830, lifehomebuilders.com.au.

The post A sublime classic coastal property on the NSW South Coast appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Who lives here? Jess, a clinical nurse; James, JT Building Projects residential builder; their children Harry, six, Milly, three; Jess’ parents Louise and Warwick.

What’s your favourite spot? James: “Spending afternoons with the kids in the pool or sitting on the patio couches with Jess and a cold beer.”

What was the biggest splurge? Jess: “The front door. We wanted to do the style of the home justice at the entrance, something special in timber.

Why do you enjoy living here? Jess: “The location – it is central on the Gold Coast but we have so much space and trees around and it’s a great home to bring extended family together.”

With James’ skills as a professional builder and his own construction company, the couple embraced the opportunity to design and create a unique home on the site, which ticked myriad boxes. “Cost-wise, my parents were looking to get rid of their mortgage and we were looking to minimise our cost, so there were benefits in creating a dual-living home for all of us,” explains Jess. With the addition of son Harry and daughter Milly on the way, having grandparents close by was also advantageous.

Key to a successful design was thorough planning to ensure everyone’s needs were met in the immediate and long-term future. “Mum and Dad were downsizing so we worked out how much space they’d need to be self-contained, comfortable and for privacy, our indoor and outdoor living spaces weren’t adjoined,” says Jess. “It allows us to feel separate, but easily come together whenever we choose.”

“I just love blue in any shade as it reminds me of the ocean.”

Jess, homeowner

Finishing touches in the kitchen included a Hamptons Floating Wall Clock from Temple & Webster, a couple of charming ‘Portsea’ exterior wall bracket lights from Beacon Lighting. A commissioned piece of art by local Gold Coast artist Tania Blanchard ties the kitchen with the dining, which can accommodate large extended family get-togethers around the ‘Clerissa’ dining table surrounded by ‘Cafe’ chairs, from The Beach Furniture, anchored with a ‘Chirala’ rug in Silver from Provincial Home Living.

Inspired by overseas travels, the exterior was influenced by the couple’s love of US coastal farmhouse styles, complete with a gable roofline and dormer windows. Inside, the farmhouse style flows through their kitchen, living and dining areas, affectionately referred to as the barn, where VJ panelling and wide timber floorboards are against a backdrop of fresh white walls teamed with soaring ceilings, which flood the space in lots of natural light. 

“Being a carpenter, James has a passion for all things timber which we incorporated wherever possible,” reflects Jess, who enjoyed layering the fresh palette with bold navy-blue accents, decorative feature tiles and pretty pops of pink and green, which echoes the leafy outlook from every window.

An epic build to complete in eight months, James was motivated to expedite the process with the family moving in just before Milly was born in 2019. Over the last three years, the family have enjoyed further tailoring the home with new furniture and art, while Jess’ parents have relished the chance to landscape the sizeable property and spend plenty of time with their grandkids. The internal door, which separates the two dwellings, is like a revolving door for the kids. “Milly likes helping Lolly, my mum, in the kitchen, Harry likes drawing and will take his masterpieces to them to pop up on their walls and my dad loves to take them down to a swing we have,” says Jess. “It truly is our dream home, it has everything we need, the kids need, my parents need and we love it.”

The living area that also serves as a play room, which can be cleverly screened off from the living area with double barn doors. Custom integrated joinery runs along the window and is colour matched to walls in Dulux Lexicon quarter. A large ‘Noor’ traditional rug in Ivory and Blue Distressed from Miss Amara and a mix of Walter G cushions atop the ‘Zara Petite’ modular sofa in Cali Denim from Plush, add a splash of pattern. One of the most recent additions is a ‘Wategos’ coffee table from The Beach Furniture topped with vases from Adairs and Marmoset Found, which hold faux florals from Provincial Home Living and fresh foliage from the garden.

“It’s one of my favourite places to relax, in the bath looking through the window at the setting sun”

Jess, Homeowner

Perfect for their current stage in life and beyond, the couple foresee the kids’ playroom morphing into a study and have already converted a section of the patio into an indoor gym. “Being in the trade, we never feel stuck with what we have and with James’ skills we’ll continue to make changes to keep our home new, fresh looking and fun. It also means we’ll probably be happy here forever,” she adds.

With six people living in the home, it made sense to invest in a modular sofa for when the family came together. Not only does it make it easier to chat, it also offers more flexibility and the option to move sections around when you feel like reinvigorating your space. Plus, the real bonus is that it actually gives you more seats. 

Nautical stripes were added to the main bedroom with a custom, upholstered bench seat and roller blind, made by Jess’ uncle and aunt’s company Elfi’s Curtains, which also made curtains in Cloud Fabric in Mineral from Material World. Layers have been added to the bed with cushions and throws from Sheet Society, Bed Bath N’ Table, Freedom and Walter G. The bedside tables are from Harvey Norman. 

Pretty in ever-so-subtle pink, the ensuite features a strip of ‘Broadwater’ penny round mosaic tiles in Pink Gloss from Tile Cloud above the Caroma ‘Aura’ bath from Harvey Norman, positioned to take in a private leafy outlook by the window. For cohesion with the timber floors in the rest of the home, the Articwood Camel Matt Tile from National Tiles was a perfect solution for a similar look in the wet area. The timber feature rail, wooden mirror from Temple & Webster and a Beacon Lighting ‘Byron’ pendant add to the warm feel. 

A seamless floor plan with minimal level change that simply flows outside to the pool and expansive backyard, is ideal for all. Jess’ parents’ section of the house forms the backdrop to the family’s outdoor lounge area, which overlooks the pool and is furnished with a ‘Rimini’ outdoor coffee table and ‘Bianco’ outdoor chairs and sofa, from Harvey Norman. A robust flooring solution is Terrazzo Grey Tiles from Gold Coast Tile Market.

“We have built something that has everything we want and need as our family grows up. We are very lucky!”

Jess

SOURCE BOOK

Builder: JT Building Projects, 0412 192 585, jtbuildingprojects.com.au.
Drafting and design: Morgan Lee MJL Draft & Design, 0423 320 033.
Pool: Sundollar Pools, (07) 5531 1527, sundollarpools.com.au.

The post A fresh, multi-generational Hamptons home on the Gold Coast appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Who lives here?: Lynne, retired, and husband Glenn, CEO of an insurance company.

What is your favourite space? Lynne: “My kitchen. It gives me so much joy, with its colours, generous scale, abundant light and storage. It’s a pleasure to cook in.”

What would you do differently? “I can’t think of anything. I love every single part of the house. But maybe we will put in a lift when we are old!”

Your top tip for renovators? “Choose your builder carefully and maintain a good relationship with them. Our wonderful builder, Ashley Fletcher of Southern Star Constructions, knew all the best tradies, plumbers and tilers. We got a good vibe from him right from the start.”

But you can have too much of a good thing. “I am an OCD, detail kind of person,” confesses Lynne. So she asked interior designers Heliconia and architects Cradle Design to fashion those diverse strands into this inviting four-bedroom, two-storey retreat.

“Hamptons style in Australia is all about celebrating our coastal lifestyle.

Sally Patterson, Interior Designer

Lynn and husband Glenn bought the property in 2000 for themselves and their then-teenage children. It was occupied by a humble bungalow, to which they added and subtracted – then, in 2020, after their son and daughter had long since left home, they decided to give it a shake-up. “The house needed a major update,” says Lynne. “It was tired and, with its split levels and additions, the flow was poor.”

They asked architects Regan VanderWert-Walsh and Paul Lucas of Cradle Design to design a Hamptons-inspired home. “I’ve been drawn to this look for years,” says Lynne. “I love its blues, whites and greys, its openness and natural light, coffered ceilings, VJ panels and wainscoting.” The old bungalow was a world away from this, with awkward levels, a one-car garage and asbestos issues, so Cradle called in the bulldozer. Now, with its weatherboard cladding, deep eaves and verandahs, sash windows, picket fence and white and blue-grey palette, the handsome result would look totally at home in East Hampton or Montauk.

The entry is flanked by a two-car garage and a study. Past a sitting room, a generous open plan connects to the rear garden. Up the stairs are four bedrooms. Most strikingly, Cradle placed a double-height void in the middle of the house, soaking upstairs and down in natural light. But arguably the biggest change was shifting the kitchen, previously exiled in the dark centre, to the open plan, where it’s part of the action.

For the interiors, Lynne needed help. “I know what I like but I like too many things,” she says. “I saw Heliconia on Instagram and they immediately got what I was talking about.” Sally Paterson, director of Heliconia, combined classic detailing such as in the wainscoting, stair posts and island bench with easy-care finishes and barefoot luxury, to make sure the home felt fresh and contemporary. “There were some stunning architectural elements, such as the high coffered ceilings, so we drew the eye to those with statement chandeliers,” says Sally.

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Hardy materials such as engineered stone, polyurethane joinery, timber flooring, timber wainscoting and porcelain tiles complete the look. “The combination of colours and patterns achieves a sophisticated aesthetic, yet it is robust enough for the grandkids!” says Lynne. “I love the spaciousness. We can spread out when entertaining and it just flows. I also love how I can walk in the front door and see the pool at the back.”

Lynne has developed a love of cooking, too, thanks to her new kitchen. “I spend lots of time here,” she says. “Cooking was a chore but I enjoy it now. Just like the whole house, the kitchen truly inspires me.” And those lovingly collated moodboards are neatly tucked away in the abundant storage throughout the home – for the moment, at least.

Kitchen 

“Before, the kitchen was in the middle of the house, with no light and flow,” says Lynne. “Now, as part of the open-plan design, it’s my favourite room.” ‘Lakehouse’ lights from Custom Lighting and Nicolazzi nickel tapware from Bathroom Collective are straight out of the Hamptons playbook. The island is painted in the same shade as the front door, Dulux Ship’s Officer, offset by cabinets in Dulux Snowy Mountains Quarter. ‘Cape Town’ stools from Wisteria Design add natural texture.

Dining & Living 

Lynne is right at home in the light and airy open-plan space including the dining area. “We chose an extendable table, which opens out to about three metres, as we wanted to fit in the whole family,” she says of the ‘Bridgehampton’ parquetry table from Canalside Interiors. “Ten of us can sit here.” The window seat has storage underneath for kids’ books, toys and Christmas decorations.

The ‘Hawthorn’ bamboo and rattan side table from Searles Homewares acts as an informal bar. The high coffered ceiling – the stud here is 3.1m – is a signature feature of the Hamptons vernacular, with ‘Newport Rustic’ flooring from Havwoods throughout, providing warming timber tones.

Lynne and Glenn’s existing custom ‘Gatty’ modular sofa from Sofas International sits as well in the new living as it did in the former home. The spot near the window is a prized corner for Lynne. “The sheers are really beautiful,” she says. “They create such a lovely light. I love the way it falls on the linen sofa.” The look is complete with an Emac & Lawton ‘Winslow’ lamp from Florabelle Living, and bowl and cushions from Alfresco Emporium.

Laundry 

No more wash-day woes in here, with clever Shakerstyle joinery by Hay & Co delivering plenty of storage, including drawers below the washing machine for dirty clothes. The washing machine and dryer are also mounted at hip level for easy access, while dummy ‘cupboards’ above conceal the dryer exhaust.

In the galley laundry the handcrafted tiles by Tiles by Kate on the floor are a standout feature and complement the Shaws fireclay butler’s sink and Faucet Strommen ‘Cascade’ mixer, both from Bathroom Collective.

Main bedroom & dressing room

Thibaut ‘Pompton Trellis’ wallpaper from Steal The Limelight visually connects the dressing room to the main bedroom, with joinery in Dulux Snowy Mountains Quarter and Bremworth ‘Samurai’ carpet from Ken Sparks Carpets.

“We weren’t sure about having so much of the same wallpaper, but we love it – it’s actually quite subtle.”

Lynne, homeowner

Guest bedrooms and bathrooms

In one of the guest bedrooms is a cane ‘Hamilton’ bedhead from Abide Interiors, a ‘Sorrento’ bedside table from Living Styles and ‘White Coral’ wallpaper from Olive et Oriel. 

A ‘davenport’ candlestick table lamp from Florabelle Living adorns the side table of the guest bedroom below. 

‘Hardie Groove’ VJ lining boards and joinery in Dulux Sea Breeze Half add a coastal feel to the bathroom  while a ‘Zeta’ mirror from Café Lighting & Living sits above Faucet Strommen ‘Cascade’ tapware from Bathroom Collective. The Kado ‘Lussi’ basin is from Reece.

In the downstairs bathroom (below), a Kado ‘Lussi’ basin from Reece tops vanity joinery in Dulux Ship’s Officer.

Deck

Hardy ‘Millboard’ composite decking from Hardware & General looks the part and, claims Glenn, is a breeze to keep clean. A skylight soaks the deck in natural light and, coupled with an ‘Adriatic’ reclaimed teak table from Living by Design and Wisteria Design ‘Henley’ dining chairs from Sydney Design Agency, is another popular spot to while away the hours.

SOURCE BOOK

Interior design: Heliconia, 0404 810 395, heliconia.com.au.
Architect: Cradle Design, (02) 9029 5532, cradledesign.com.au.
Builder: Southern Star Constructions, 0414 281 687, southernstarconstructions.com.au.
Joiner: Hay & Co, (02) 8542 0775, hayandco.com.au.
Landscape design: Space Landscape Designs, (02) 9905 7870, spacedesigns.com.au.

The post A serene Hamptons-inspired dream home on Sydney’s northern beaches appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Who lives here? Rea, a producer/stunt artist; Chris, a director; their young daughters Mila and Chloe; and Cavalier Maltese Cross, Sammy.

What do you love about your home? Rea: “We’ve now got great entertaining spaces, which just flow so well, it’s a really nice social house.”

What’s your best reno tip? “Previously, I choose a shade of white for the house, which threw yellow, so this time around I used a professional colourist who was excellent and advised us on the perfect colour for the walls.”

Anything left on the wish list? “We’re toying with the idea of a pool, but for now we’re really happy the house and yard isn’t a construction site and we can just enjoy it.”

The couple spent a year drafting the ambitious plan, which involved adding a storey to create a parents’ retreat and excavating to carve out space for a lower rumpus level complete with guest bedroom, bathroom and laundry. The home’s existing floor area also expanded, to allow for a flowing layout and spacious bedrooms for the girls. Once the initial plans were approved a dream team was assembled, led by Amy Thackeray of Sunday Homes, who was engaged to design the interior and, with husband Paul, project manage and build essentially a new home. “I think we ended up keeping about one original wall,” jokes Rea. “We were planning to keep more, but window sizes grew and when Amy came on board and presented the idea of lifting the roof in the living area, it was an absolute game changer – the cathedral ceiling with the exposed rafters set the tone for everything else,” she adds.

Tasked to create a modern coastal home that was functional and beautiful, Amy devised a palette that incorporated engineered timber floors, stone features and quality fixtures. Every space was gutted, with the enlarged kitchen swallowing a bedroom, which was converted into a butler’s pantry, while the dark bathroom received light relief with the addition of a skylight and floor-to-ceiling tiles. Even the existing fireplace was replaced and transformed into an incredible focal point surrounded by French cobblestones extending to the ceiling. “I’m originally English, so I love having tactile stone incorporated in the house, it adds a real visual warmth and touch point,” says Rea.

“Adding a beautiful cathedral-style ceiling, has turned the home into a place that’s truly breathtaking”

Rea

With the 11-month project wrapped up just before Christmas 2021, the family were thrilled to move back in and luxuriate in the newfound space they created by extending the home up, out and below. “The whole place just flows so much better now and there’s so many breakout areas we can enjoy,” reflects Rea. “We definitely see ourselves living here a lot longer and continuing to enjoy the area we love so much.”

In the kitchen, selections include a Talostone Calacatta Luxe benchtop and splashback complemented with cabinetry in half-strength Dulux Snowy Mountains and custom oak handles by Sunday Homes. “The new breakfast bar is actually really big and
incredibly well used,” says Rea.

Living Area

The original central floor was enhanced by lifting the roof to form an impressive cathedral ceiling, allowing for expansive high-set windows which draw in views and natural light. Bi-fold doors were also added, enabling seamless flow between indoor and outdoor entertaining areas. Havwoods ‘Allevard’ engineered oak floorboards form the foundation for the pared-back palette, layered with an Armadillo rug, timber coffee table from Beachwood and sofa from MCM House. French cobblestones from Barefoot Living accentuate the soaring ceiling and ensure the Jetmaster fireplace is a focal point. 

Designed from scratch on the upper level, the ensuite features ivory matte porcelain tiles, which flow seamlessly from floor to ceiling, with a divider feature wall and nifty niche adorned in Grey Gloss square tiles, both from Tiles by Kate. Loughlin Furniture’s custom ‘Kellie’ vanity in American Oak Light with a Quantum quartz in Alpine White benchtop suits the relaxed aesthetic.

A retreat all to their very own, Rea and Chris’ bedroom on the new upper floor is a lofty sanctuary. The bedhead and base from Beachwood is layered in linen and cushions from Ivy Lane in soft tones, which evoke a subtle feminine feel. 

“Our house is now more than twice the original size and we really make the most of all the space we’ve gained”

Rea

With so many paint options to consider, selecting just the right shade of white for your interior walls can be hard. Unhappy with past choices, this time Rea enlisted a colourist through Sunday Homes, who determined Dulux Snowy Mountains half would suit the coastal palette. “It works so perfectly in every area of the house,” says Rea.

Outdoors

The deck received a significant makeover in the renovation with a sand, fresh oil, painted balustrades and the addition of an outdoor cook zone by Luxe Joinery, which incorporates a slimline BeefEater Signature Proline barbecue. The French cobblestone that’s used inside the home wraps outside to create a dual-wall feature, where it frames a custom wood outdoor fireplace, all under the cover of a new roof, which includes skylights to ensure plenty of sun still infuses the area. Furnished for comfort and style, the outdoor sofa, chair, rug and coffee table were all sourced through Outer.

“Extending the roof over the deck has made it far more practical for alfresco entertaining and relaxing year-round”

Rea

For avid surfers and skaters Mila (above left) and Chloe (right), a great addition was a custom-built skate ramp. “We often go to the skateparks at the beach, but it’s handy to have a mini one at home for the girls to practise on,” says Rea.

SOURCE BOOK
Interior Design/Build: Sunday Homes, sundayhomes.com.au, @sunday.homes
Joinery: Luxe Joinery, @luxejoinery
Drafting: Blue Sky Building Designs, blueskybuildingdesigns.com.au

The post A growing family renew and expands their beloved beach house appeared first on Home Beautiful.

This is precisely what Courtney and Jayce envisioned when they embarked on a new build on Brisbane’s northside for their young family, which includes two girls, Sierra, eight, and Baylee, four. “I grew up in an old Queenslander on the Sunshine Coast and was nervous about the girls growing up in the city,” says Courtney, “so we decided to create a home with a relaxed holiday vibe and were lucky enough to find a property directly opposite expansive parklands and a brook!”

After meeting with multiple builders, the couple settled on Lee Ambrose from Ambrose Design + Construct. “I wanted to be very involved in the design decisions, so needed someone who would respect my views. We’d worked with a builder previously who barely spoke to me and always deferred to Jayce. In this case, Jayce didn’t want to be involved in any of the design decisions, I was taking the lead, so finding a builder who respected that was imperative.”

Fortuitously, the family rented the house next door throughout the 11-month build, “which meant trades could just pop over if there were any last-minute decisions.”

While the overall vision was for a white coastal-style home, the couple included plenty of personalised touches. “I’ve always had my heart set on a banquette,” says Courtney of the dining nook. The replica Saarinen ‘Tulip’ table is illuminated from above with a ‘Capiz’ chandelier from Freedom.

“This is our forever home. We didn’t build to sell, we built to stay – so we could do a pink bathroom knowing it wouldn’t appeal to everyone, but it didn’t matter, it was just for us.”

Courtney’s advice to those wanting to take the design lead on their own projects, is to allow time for planning. “I spent a year considering the layout and hours and hours researching products and finishes. It’s hard because you just want to get in, but it’s worth getting it right.” Courtney also credits the Three Birds Renovations’ Reno School. “It’s empowering to realise, as women, we do know what we want – and with some knowledge can convey that on-site.”

With good communication and planning, the build ran smoothly and was completed just after the pandemic hit. “Our main vision was for a house that encapsulated indoor-outdoor living – and we were doubly grateful for that during the lockdowns.”

Today, the home’s connection to its alfresco spaces is still one of Courtney’s favourite aspects. “It means the girls can swim as I cook dinner or run around outside as I’m cleaning. It encourages them to spend more time outdoors and less time in front of screens.”

SOURCE BOOK

Building design: Koda Design, (07) 3397 3003, kodadesign.com.au.

Builder: Lee Ambrose, Ambrose Design + Construct, (07) 3325 9141, ambrose.com.au.

Cabinetmaker: Kingswood Cabinets, (07) 3204 0488.

Words: Tahn Scoon

The post A glistening Hamptons new build in northside Brisbane appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Inside, you might expect a palette of restrained blues and neutrals synonymous with Hamptons style – yet what awaits is a kaleidoscope of contrasting colour at every turn. Spaces are drenched in feel-good hues from mint green and teal to Pool Bar blue, layered with a mix of pattern and objects which vie for attention.

“Walking through the door is like I’m coming home to an old friend,” enthuses Kate of the interwar bungalow she has owned for 35 years. “It fills me with so much joy and a wonderful sense of comfort.”

While Kate has always loved colourful interiors, an extensive renovation in 2019 and the opportunity to engage interior designer Anna Spiro prompted her to take it to the next level and beyond. “For years I’d bought fabrics and pieces from Anna’s store and always wanted to work with her,” she says. “When I decided to renovate, I chose to get everything I’d ever wanted. I couldn’t think of a more talented person to create something unique which I’d never tire of.” Kate wholeheartedly embraced Anna’s concepts, even wallpapering the ceiling.

Working initially with an architect, the plan was to maintain the original facade, footprint and beautiful character details such as the ornate plaster ceilings and wide timber floorboards, yet enhance functionality to allow wiggle room with the layout by removing several of the internal walls.

“This is my favourite spot in the house,” says Kate of the library/lounge area awash in shades of blue. A significant change to the space was the addition of custom joinery that hugs several walls and frames doorways. “The walls of books add colour and a wonderful sense of homeliness and comfort, which I just love,” reflects Kate. “Whenever friends stay, they’ll often pull out a book to read and it’s a great conversation room. There’s plenty of cosy spots to sit and chat.”

Treasured pieces Kate had owned for years – including a timber dining table inherited from her parents and an occasional chair adorned with cherry fabric that she bought from Anna’s store two decades earlier – were incorporated into the new scheme, along with select furniture which was repainted or reupholstered.

“I wanted to come home and feel like I’m on holidays,” says Kate. At the top of her wishlist was the addition of “luxuries” like a butler’s pantry and laundry room, plus an ensuite and walk-in robe for the main bedroom.

“This home has many traditional elements that will transcend trends and endure the test of time, like many homes in The Hamptons,” says Anna.

With Anna and her team given full creative freedom, the bathroom and kitchen were also transformed and extensive joinery was designed to complement the era of the home, with swathes of unexpected, yet harmonious textiles, wallpaper and furniture combinations cleverly chosen to ensure there wasn’t a dull corner throughout.

Just like the seamless modifications to the house, the combination of new and old throughout the interior melds effortlessly and makes for a home layered with personality and imbued with memories. “The house has always had a special feel which was further enhanced with the renovation,” reflects Kate.

The main bedroom has seen many iterations. During the 1970s it was a general practice surgery, when the home belonged to a doctor and his family. After Kate bought the house, it became her son’s room, and during the renovation it became the main bedroom with the addition of an ensuite and walk-in robe. French doors were added to its foyer and a Charles Blackman artwork provides a burst of colour.

Three years on, she’s never loved it more. “I get more and more attached to it. It’s such a pretty home, which I can’t imagine wanting to leave.”

SOURCE BOOK

Interior design: Anna Spiro Design, (07) 3254 3000, annaspirodesign.com.au.

Styling: Anna Spiro

The post A Brisbane bungalow decorated in luscious Hamptons colour and pattern appeared first on Home Beautiful.