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Renovation sensation

APRIL

Cover stories 23 Australian homes forever 100+ pages of classic, timeless spaces 35 Let there be light Shades for every mood 69 Contemporary Australian style: Elegant, natural and modern

People 23 Art And Soul The home of Sydney architect Richard Archer is the antithesis of minimalism.

192 The Creative Type Founders of Shibori textile studio, Karen Davis and Pepa Martin.

Decorating

Photograph by Derek Swalwell.

35 Into The Lights Lamps, sconces and pendants for every room.

48 On Trend Earthy hues.

51 Shining Stars Expert advice on using and choosing lighting.

55 9 By Design Cushions.

66 9 By Design Table lamps.

Houses 70 Evolution Theory A glass footbridge is just part of the bold reimagining of this 1880s Melbourne residence.

86 Big Hearted A clever extension honours the original 1870s cottage while making it thoroughly modern.

96 All For One A grand Sydney home is given a graceful makeover.

Gardens 174 Lawn & Order Open space and no-fuss plantings were the key to creating a peaceful family garden.

180 Perfect Harmony Traditional at the front and modern at the rear: this garden reflects the narrative of the newly renovated home.

187 Blaze Of Glory A tribute to autumn’s star performers.

For our readers 10 Subscribe to H&G this month and enjoy home delivery of your favourite magazine!

20 Your H&G Readers’ letters.

188 Where To Buy Seen something you like? Find your nearest stockist here.

189 Privacy Notice

On our cover This kitchen is part of a transformed heritage home by Julia Sullivan of Caswell. For the full story see page 96.

Photograph by Pablo Veiga.

Photograph by Derek Swalwell. Artwork by Richard Dunlop.

108 Talking Points All the furnishings tell a story in this forever home.

120 Earth Song An eco-conscious home on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula has been designed to feel at one with the landscape.

132 Two Become One When the neighbouring property came up for sale, the owners seized the chance to double their happiness.

140 Balancing Act The renovation of this heritage home blends clean lines and decorative flourishes.

152 Life On Display Perched in the Adelaide Hills, this home radiates the creativity of its owners.

162 Next Level Relaxed and casual living were the priority for this new build in its blessed beachside location.

Available through Interior Designers, Decorators and selected stockists Call us on 07 3806 5370 www.xavierfurniture.com.au

EDITOR’S LETTER H G

Photograph by Kristina Soljo.

T “We showcase a selection of houses that represent the CONTEMPORARY Australian aesthetic.”

he Australian House & Garden team doesn’t often get time to go on team outings – the deadlines come around quickly, and there are many moving parts in each issue. We made a fabulous exception just before Christmas, spending a wonderfully creative afternoon at a shibori workshop in Sydney, hosted by Karen Davis and Pepa Martin, the dynamic and very talented founders of textiles studio, Shibori.

The word inspirational gets thrown around a lot these days, sometimes prematurely, but these women really have done the hard yards together. They have forged a strong friendship, a successful business and teaching practice and myriad commercial collaborations. Perhaps most importantly, they have worked together to accommodate Pepa having MS. Pepa acknowledges that the autoimmune condition has been her life’s biggest challenge, and it has impacted not only her world but also Karen’s. Together they have overcome the hurdles and continue to have an abundance of creative dreams on the horizon, including dressing a whole building or yacht in shibori! That level of resilience, achievement and ambition really is inspiring! See page 192.

Speaking of doing the hard yards, none of us wants to wait to have the perfect home, the ideal mate, the dream career, and the other essentials we have on our life ledger.

We all want it now, now, now. So it is very refreshing when we can feature a residence that has evolved with a family over 30 years (page 96). The owners bought the grand old house three decades ago raising their children there, and it was the base for busy lives and careers. It is only now that they have grandchildren running around that they took the time to work out what they wanted in the home and how it would suit their changing needs. As a serial renovator, I really admire that this one beautiful property was able to take them on such a long journey and is now polished and fresh for their next chapter. In South Australia, owners Louise and Ken turned to Williams Burton Leopardi to transform an unremarkable 1980s abode. While Louise’s beautiful collection of art and Mid-Century furniture built part of the brief, their priorities “revolved around comfort, food and company”, she says. It’s a simple, well-considered wish list and one that’s delivered with oodles of style – see page 152.

In each issue, we aim to showcase a diverse selection of houses that represent the contemporary Australian aesthetic – one that is elegant, natural and modern. We hope that you find some that resonate with your individual style and way of living on the following pages.

Tanya Buchanan, Editor-in-Chief TOP PICKS

FEAST

Cast-iron cookware in Bamboo Green, from $340/ round casserole, Le Creuset; lecreuset.com.au.

DISPLAY

Urna blown-glass vase by Carina Seth Andersson, $389, Marimekko; marimekko.com.

SCENT

Maison Crivelli ‘Hibiscus Mahajád’ perfume extract, $349/100ml, Libertine Parfumerie; libertineparfumerie.com.au.

RELAX

Cascata polyethylene fixed sunlounger, $2720, Janus et Cie; janusetcie.com.

SHADE

Zip awning in Outlook Shale Grey (4x2m), $2591, Wynstan; wynstan.com.au.

On sale now Fresh Contemporary Australian Renovations

EDITORIAL Editor in chief Tanya Buchanan Deputy editor Elizabeth Wilson Chief copy editor Sarah Pickette Senior content/production editor Tamarah Pienaar Homes group coordinator Annika Baker ART & ST YLE Creative direction Antonietta Panuccio and Shayne Burton Interiors editor Kate Nixon Designer/stylist Sophie Wilson Prepress specialist Matus Kundrat CONTRIBUTORS

Caroline Cameron, Stephen Crafti, Willem-Dirk du Toit, Tom Ferguson, Marnie Hawson, Maree Homer, Will Horner, Tammy Huynh, Natalie James, Alana Landsberry, Georgia Madden, Shannon McGrath, Mel Orr, Chris Pearson, Prue Ruscoe, Anson Smart, Dan F. Stapleton, Derek Swalwell, Saffron Sylvester, Pablo Veiga ADVERTISING & PRODUCTION Group category manager Rhyl Heavener (02) 8114 9420 Advertising production manager Kate Orsborn (02) 9282 8364 Brand executive Amelia Paterson (02) 9282 8038 Sales director, agency and direct – NSW, Victoria, SA & WA

Karen Holmes (02) 9282 8733

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Creative and inspiring spaces from Australia’s top ARCHITECTS & INTERIOR DESIGNERS

Victoria head of direct sales Demi Martelo (03) 9823 6368 Queensland head of sales Judy Taylor (07) 3101 6636 Production controller Sally Jefferys Advertising production controller Dominic Roy (02) 9282 8691 Senior event manager Cate Gazal (02) 8226 9342 M A R K E T I N G & C I R C U L AT I O N Marketing director Louise Cankett Circulation and insights manager Nicole Pearson Data and distribution manager Joshua Blanshard Subscriptions campaign manager Jesvin Vincent Marketing enquiries homes@aremedia.com.au A R E M E D IA C O R P O R AT E Chief executive officer Jane Huxley Finance director Marena Paul Group publisher – homes Shane Sutton Director of sales Andrew Cook Customer director Sally Eagle Business manager Georgina Bromfield Syndications syndication@aremedia.com.au New Zealand enquiries +61 2 9282 8505 SUBSCRIPTION SALES & ENQUIRIES

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Published by Are Media Pty Ltd (ABN 053 273 546), 54 Park Street, Sydney, NSW 2000. The trademark AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN is the property of Are Media Pty Ltd and is used under licence. © 2022.

All rights reserved. Prepress by SBM. Printed by Ovato, 8 Priddle Street, Warwick Farm, NSW 2170. National distribution by Are Direct; (02) 9972 8800. ISSN 0004-931X. No material may be reproduced in part or in whole without written consent from the copyright holders. Are Media does not accept responsibility for damage to or loss of freelance material submitted for publication. Allow several weeks for acceptance or return. For enquiries regarding subscriptions, call 136 116 Monday-Friday 8am-6pm AEST, email magshop@magshop.com.au or mail letters to: Australian House & Garden, Reply Paid 3508, Sydney, NSW 2001 or subscribe online at magshop.com.au/hg. Subscription rate*: Australia $105.60 (one year, 12 issues); NZ A$120 (one year, 12 issues); other countries A$180 (one year, 12 issues). All overseas subscriptions sent air speed. *Recommended price, Australian House & Garden.

H G LETTERS

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YOUR H&G ‘Precious cargo has arrived’ was the text message my husband sent me while he was out doing our weekly grocery shopping. A picture of February’s H&G was attached.

I love him so much – after 37 years of marriage, he always knows exactly what I need. I curled up on the lounge with a cuppa and enjoyed an afternoon of complete relaxation as I turned each page.

Lynda Bonson, Fannie Bay, NT All I wanted was new cushions for my family living space, but an almighty (and rather overwhelming) search gave me nothing but donuts. Feeling somewhat deflated, I picked up the latest issue of H&G on the way home and sat down to relax with a cup of tea and my favourite magazine. With my own decorating issue at the back of my mind, I observed each room through that lens, particularly noting the way cushions were styled. That reignited my inspiration and helped me imagine some of the pieces I’d seen during my search arranged similarly in my space. Design dilemma solved! Thank you, H&G. Liane Simpson, Oatley, NSW FA MILY TIES

I do love my parents but they are very sociable people and our house is always full of people coming and going – not ideal since I am beginning a study-heavy course this year. I asked my grandmother if I could move in with her, and she has made me most welcome. Together, we went through her (extensive) library of

H&Gs and have had a great time decorating my new room. It is wonderful to have my own space. Not to mention a bit of peace and quiet!

Achilles Mavros, Sale, Victoria COLL ECTOR’S IT E MS

The sun beams down on me as I dip into a state of bliss reading the latest issue of H&G. Each page is filled with inspiration – I’ve even started keeping a list of all my favourite products, plants, and brands, so I too can fill my home with love and comfort. Thank you, H&G. I appreciate the journey each page brings.

Charlotte Parkes, Port Kennedy, WA

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

Pinterest

CU R ATOR S INC

H&G always sparks a frenzy of ideas to refurbish, renovate and even build.

However, once retired one needs to be sensible with money. One achievable, inspiring aspect is the way items are displayed. Being more creative with whatever already exists, adding a detail, touch of paint or creating reflections is fun.

Thanks for all the beautiful, simple ideas!

Roma Adams, Magill, SA

W RIT E IN TO W IN The author of each letter published receives $50.

Our favourite also wins a prize.

This month, Lynda Bonson of Fannie Bay, NT, receives a Sevilla Moderna tub chair in Midnight Denim, valued at $379, from Living by Design; livingbydesign.net.au. Email your letter to H&G@aremedia.com.au or post to Your H&G, PO Box 4088, Sydney, NSW 1028. Please include your full name and address to be considered for publication.

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The posts that made your month Facebookers pined for an invitation to Chyka Keebaugh’s weekender, a Federation property won hearts on Insta, while a ‘modern homestead’ kitchen had Pinners planning their own makeover projects.

Facebook facebook.com/ australianhouseandgarden Highlights from each issue plus links to tours of our favourite homes.

Instagram @houseandgarden View the most inspirational images of the month from H&G headquarters and out and about.

Pinterest pinterest.com.au/ houseandgardenau Picture-perfect images from our pages and sensational products to covet.

Letters may be edited for length and clarity.

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A R M A D I LLO - C O.C O M

AT HOME WITH H G Owner and architect Richard Archer in his double-height living room, surrounded by books, treasures and mirrors – just a few of his favourite things. Sofa, The Country Trader. Meridiani Bongo coffee tables and Baker Furniture ‘Casanova’ floor lamp by Jacques Garcia, all Studio Cavit. Antique gilded mirror, Paul Kenny Antiques. Rug, Whitecliffe Imports. The antique jardiniere is a family heirloom.

ART AND SOUL An exuberant celebration of maximalism, Sydney architect Richard Archer’s terrace is brimming with special finds that reflect moments in an enchanted life.

STORY Chris Pearson | STY L IN G Sophie Wilson | P H OTO GR A PHY Alana Landsberry

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

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The living area looks directly into a secluded courtyard. Minotti ‘Russell’ lounge chairs, Dedece. Meridiani Bongo coffee tables, Studio Cavit. Koppel vase, Georg Jensen. The Georgian secretaire is a family heirloom. Ballet, Opéra de Paris artwork by JR. OPPOSITE TOP Artwork by JR. Keith Murray Wedgwood vase, Alan Landis Antiques. Tribal mask, Orient House.

OPPOSITE BOTTOM Every corner delivers a surprise, such as this wall adorned in Jab ‘Anstoetz Preciosa’ silk from Unique Fabrics, to the right of the fireplace. Simone Fraser urn, Sabbia Gallery. Casanova floor lamp, Studio Cavit. Teatro Nacional de Sao Carlos Lisboa III artwork by Candida Höfer.

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AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

AT HOME WITH H G

M

any architects worship minimalism and its simple, uncluttered aesthetic – Richard Archer included – but in his own home in inner-city Sydney, he has left it at the door.

Within this urban hideaway, he celebrates maximalism to the... er... max, and is quite unapologetic about it. The always surprising results are an exuberant expression of his personality and all that he loves and values.

“I am most certainly no minimalist when it comes to my own style,” he says. “In fact, I am inspired far more by [19th-century English Neoclassical architect] Sir John Soane than [contemporary Minimalist architect] John Pawson.” He even conjures up Versailles when asked to describe what makes this house unique. “‘Reflection’ is an obvious word to describe my home – it’s like a small Hall of Mirrors.” Very small, because his three-level house totals just 110 square metres.

When he found the terrace – one of a row of 20 – in 2010, it was in “a sorry state”. It clutched a cliff, with the street entry and all three bedrooms on the upper level.

Then you went down “a ladder” to the lower ground, almost a subterranean grotto with poky 2.2-metre-high ceilings and just one window serving all the living areas.

But, with an architect’s keen eye, he could see how to turn the 1880 building into an inner-city oasis. “It was incredibly private. You don’t look into each other’s yards.

And it has an anonymous front, offering no hint of what lies behind. After living in apartments, I realised terrace houses give me the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of the city and close off the world when desired to create a special space for myself.”

His aim? “To bring in the light and create natural airflow.” In a dramatic transformation over six months in 2012, Richard gutted the house, boldly sacrificing a bedroom to insert a double-height void and courtyard in the middle to let in the fresh air and light (a new attic bedroom redressed the balance).

“I love double-height spaces. This brings light into what is otherwise an almost subterranean space, which I love, as it is very private, and ensures cool breezes flow through the interconnecting zones,” he says. With the soaring ceilings and skylights above, he can also see how the sun moves through the living area, and myriad mirrors – he’s unsure exactly how many – amplify the effect.

“I am obsessed with the reflectivity and refraction of light, as it enables spaces to take on an otherness that challenges the confines of space and perspective. >

Like Richard, Jimmy the whippet is totally at home in this eclectic urban sanctuary.

Custom rug, Designer Rugs. OPPOSITE TOP LEFT A Thonet ‘Longreach’ sofa from Anibou stars in the cosy library. Decca Home coffee table, Studio Cavit. Fragment of Hermes sculpture bought in Paris. Man Boy #1 artwork by Tamara Dean, Olsen Gallery. OPPOSITE TOP RIGHT In the dining area beside the kitchen, Élitis ‘Panama Dandy’ wallpaper, Seneca Textiles. Palace of Versailles II photograph by Felix Forest.

Verner Panton chairs, Space. Tulip dining table by Eero Saarinen, Dedece.

OPPOSITE BOTTOM RIGHT Featuring a Japanese maple in a large orange planter pot from Garden Life, this courtyard creates an instant calm. OPPOSITE BOTTOM LEFT Dark colours make the kitchen recessive. Joinery by SJV Joinery, finished in Dulux Luck. Stainless-steel benchtop. Splashback tiles, Earp Bros. >

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

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H G AT HOME WITH

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AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

“THIS IS AN OASIS. THE PIECES TELL THE STORY OF MY LIFE AND GIVE ME PEACE.” Richard Archer, owner

The compact study/guestroom at the front of the house includes a custom day bed from My Workroom. Table and 19th-century cast hands from The Country Trader. Royer 4 sculpture by Lenton Parr and Kangaroo Suite lithographs by Garry Shead, Australian Galleries. Michael Aram Thorn Collection bowl, Studio Cavit. Irish linen curtain from Studio LW, tie-back from Castle Trimmings. Wall painted Dulux Luck. OPPOSITE, TOP LEFT Stairs carpeted in Ninth Island wool carpet from Victoria Carpets. Wall painted Dulux Luck. Artworks (clockwise from top right) Hippies in Central Park by Richard Archer; Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein postcards; If I Knew You Were Coming by Kym Druitt (rolling pin); Mt Pleasant home by WM Lawry; New Yorker magazine cover. OPPOSITE, TOP RIGHT AND BOTTOM RIGHT Jimmy the whippet in one of his favourite spots – the main bedroom. Bedhead in Rogers & Goffigon fabric, made by My Workroom. Table lamp, Contents International Design. Vase, The Country Trader.

Bedhead wall upholstered in Osborne & Little ‘Caresse’, Domus Textiles. Other walls in Élitis ‘Panama Dandy’ wallpaper, Seneca Textiles. Genuine Contradictions collage by Tilo Kaiser.

Antique foot sculpture bought in Paris. OPPOSITE, BOTTOM LEFT A 1938 police mug shot of Frank Sinatra takes pride of place on the attic bedroom’s gallery wall. 19th-century lithographs, The Country Trader; student design for National Art Gallery of NZ by Richard Archer. >

H G AT HOME WITH

“WITH THE REFLECTIONS, YOU GET TO SEE OBJECTS IN DIFFERENT WAYS AND FROM DIFFERENT ANGLES.” Richard Archer, owner

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AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

With the reflections, you get to see objects in different ways and from different angles.”

Within those lofty spaces, Richard has created a gallery to house his treasures, which are in constant rotation.

“There’s no external view here, so this is my way of creating a changing landscape,” he says.

This self-confessed bowerbird has amassed eclectic collections including mid-century tin toys, contemporary photography, 19th-century busts, large-scale ceramics, “too many art books”, glassware by LA-based Robert Kuo and African masks. “They all reflect my desire to arrange seemingly disparate items together in ‘conversation’,” he says. “I love creating assemblages of colour and movement, playing things off against each other.” Richard will happily place a cheap postcard in a frame next to original artwork, a photographic print beside a metal action figure or an Australian ceramic. “This is an oasis of all that I consider beautiful. The pieces tell the story of my life and give me peace,” he explains.

His impromptu art gallery features a simple backdrop of timber floors, upholstered and papered walls, and mirrors to “make the place sparkle”, while shelves of books lend texture as a counterpoint to the sheen. “It’s warm and calming – no hot colours, just white and celadon and dark tones in the kitchen to make it recessive.” As well as shapes, textures and colours, Richard plays with scale, including both generous-sized furniture and artworks. “Over-scale pieces really give a small space oomph,” he says.

Richard spends most of his time in the library, the kitchen and the courtyard, but that central void resonates most. “I love the sweeping volume. It’s unexpected, but it really works, offering a variety of vistas, especially when viewed from that entry level above.”

For Richard, this home is his refuge. “I tried minimalism for five minutes. But I love the joy of colour, movement and the interplay of objects of different eras and styles.

I can enjoy a collection that reflects my love of light, art and beauty. Being my own client is such fun.” > Archer Design, Surry Hills, NSW; (02) 9698 9754 or archerdesign.com.au.

TOP Fragment of Apollo, a bust bought in Paris, overlooks the

void from the main bedroom on the entry level. Osborne & Little ‘Caresse’ fabric (on bedhead wall), Domus Textiles. Joinery by SJV Joinery. Wall in Dulux Tranquil Retreat. RIGHT Antique Indian screen, over-wall mirror, and pots, all Orient House. Male Reveal II sculpture by Tom Corbin, Studio Cavit. Carrara marble plinth, Granite & Marble Works. OPPOSITE The bird’s eye view from the upper entry level takes in the mirrored void and living area below. A pair of 1940s Amazing Man tin action figures adorns the mantel. Crystal bowl, Becker Minty. Baker Furniture ‘Le Lion’ side table, Studio Cavit. Candleholders, Artecnica.

H G AT HOME WITH

LIFE & ST YLE From Manhattan to Mozart, a few of Richard Archer’s first and favourite things.

1

2 3

“MY FAVOURITE COLOUR? CELADON. IS THERE A MORE CALMING TONE?”

4

6

FIRST HOME? A Minimalist (yes!) apartment designed by

Engelen Moore. It was a tiny blank slate that, due to great planning and detailing, had an aesthetic that responded well to just a bit of layering…

FAVOURITE DESTINATION? New York (4)! Home to many dear friends, it is a city I simply never tire of visiting. My blood pumps faster as I approach Manhattan, as it inspires me professionally and culturally.

FAVOURITE RESTAURANT? China Doll in Sydney’s Woolloomooloo. Its idyllic waterside setting and perfect blend of Asian and Australian flavours never disappoint.

SIGNATURE DISH? Does opening another bottle of Bollinger (6) count? Oh, I guess I do make a rather tasty plum and rosemary tart.

DREAM CAR? A Jaguar E-Type (8).

FAVOURITE PLANT? The New Zealand pohutukawa tree (2), a symbol of summer days by the beach enjoyed since childhood, and (hopefully) again this Christmas.

DESERT ISLAND DISC? Mozart’s Ave Verum Corpus.

As pure an example of humanity’s capacity to approach perfection that one is ever likely to encounter.

FAVOURITE MOVIE Gosford Park by Robert Altman (1).

Such a fine example of quintessentially English understated

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AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

8 humour. A film that encapsulates a time, style and spirit of place – and the one-liners are cuttingly hilarious.

MOST INSPIRING DESIGNER? I am a huge fan of French designer Hervé Van der Straeten, who is famed for his jewellery, furniture and lighting (5). I have been privileged to specify some of his amazing pieces in our recent projects.

WHEN NOT DESIGNING, I... am a passionate reader, walker and concert-goer.

GO-TO FASHION ITEM? My black Canali jacket (7).

I am generally a T-shirt and jeans kind of guy, so, by adding a really well-tailored jacket, those basics are elevated enough to take me anywhere.

BEST DECORATING FIND? My Anderson and Low photograph of the Chinese Olympic headquarters in Beijing.

I encountered this stunning work – called Endure – in a gallery in Bangkok and it hit me in the solar plexus. I knew I had to have it and have never regretted that decision.

NEXT MAJOR PURCHASE? One of photographic artist Luke Shadbolt’s moody seascapes (3). A really large one.

I COULD NEVER LIVE WITHOUT... Tracing paper, a scale ruler and a fine-tip black pen. Every project begins with my freehand sketch planning. I am always excited by the initial steps, as a project comes to life from a blank page. #

Maelstrom 6 by Luke Shadbolt (3) courtesy of Michael Reid Gallery.

Photography from Alamy (1, 2, 8) & Getty Images (4).

5

7

Styling by Sophie Wilson. Photograph by Alana Landsberry.

McMullin & Co. Original BTC ‘Fin’ bone china hanging lamp, $918, and ‘Hatton 2’ pendant, $788, both Dunlin. Easton ‘Dome’ table lamp, $300, Globe West. Fortune Alabaster table lamp, $975, Coco Republic. LEDlux ‘Lennox’ dimmable table lamp with USB port, $249, Beacon Lighting. B79L Palm Tree table lamp, $1570, Contents International Design. Otto travertine table lamp, from $425, Coco Republic. ACCESSORIES From left Wall painted Eggshell Acrylic in Haloumi, $135/4L, Porter’s Paints.

Ruth wicker chair, $729, McMullin & Co. Cubix emerald marble dining table, from $3595, Coco Republic. Kennedy ‘Ribbed’ ottoman, $820, Globe West. Maximo Textured porcelain floor tiles (450x450mm), $44.05/m², Beaumont Tiles.

EXPL ORE THE POSSIBILITIES OF L OVELY LIGHTING

D e c or at i ng

LIGHTING Clockwise from far left Percy metal floor lamp, $489,

H G DECORATING

Into the

L IG H T S Whether you’re looking for a dramatic statement piece or a subtle glow, there’s a lot to love about these shining examples.

Stylist’s assistants Kate Lincoln, Nonci Nyoni & Pavarne Lambert.

STY LI N G Sophie Wilson P H OTO GRA PH Y Alana Landsberry

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LIGHTING From left Monroe brass 10-light

chandelier, $1995, and Bowie 1 Light jute pendant, $189, both Beacon Lighting. Oi Soi Oi silk pendant light, $525, and Parasol rope pendant light, $320, both Tigmi Trading.

ACCESSORIES Shadow Palms by Bethany Linz wall mural, $197/9mx61.5cm, Milton & King.

Bristol French oak dining table, $6195, Coco Republic. Sara dining chairs with polyester upholstery, $730 each, Globe West. Roger terracotta vessel, $429, McMullin & Co. Potted faux areca palm, $149.95, Provincial Home Living. Antique brass planter, from $65, Garden Life. Bart terracotta vessel, $349, McMullin & Co. Dassin wool rug in Ivory Grey (300x240cm), $2750, Hali. Herringbone flooring in White Smoked, $110/m², Royal Oak Floors. ON TABLE From left Lauren stoneware platter, $59.95, Provincial Home Living. Jacqueline vase #12, $199, Lotus vase #1, $229, and Lotus vase #4, $229, all Elso Collective. Flowers from Mr Flamboyant.

Bretagne ceramic soup bowls, $13.95 each, Provincial Home Living. Nigel terracotta fruit bowl, $129, McMullin & Co. Vintage French Rosaline Champagne glasses, $240/set of 4, Love After Love. >

H G DECORATING

LIGHTING From left Aerin ‘Sommerard’ brass floor lamp, $1730, Laura

Kincade. Bell Flower paper light shade, $72, Hardtofind. Disderot 1013 table lamp in Black, $2098, Dunlin. Garnet paper light shade, $108, and Logan paper light shade, $109, both Hardtofind. Iyah sandstone table lamp, $935, Coco Republic. Cassia Crystal glass and brass table lamp, $279, Early Settler.

Easton ‘Orb’ table lamp, $290, Globe West. Smith LED table lamp with USB port, $209, Beacon Lighting. ACCESSORIES Clockwise from left Wallpaper Republic ‘Sinharaja’ wallpaper, $374/2x 10m rolls, Milton & King. Wall painted Eggshell Acrylic in Mariner, $135/4L, Porter’s Paints. Isabella desk with fluted-glass panels, $2995, Coco Republic. Flowers, Mr Flamboyant.

Bobby vessel, $229, McMullin & Co. Dane dining chair, $635, Globe West.

Scalloped jute runner in Blue (350x80cm), $799, Tigmi Trading. Herringbone flooring in White Smoked, $110/m², Royal Oak Floors. >

TIMBER, GLASS, METAL, FABRIC... THERE’S A LIGHT FITTING TO MATCH EVERY AESTHETIC. 38 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

H G DECORATING

For product details, see page 43. >

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Since 1999

Feelgood design

wallpaperdirect.com Make your home your own Sanderson / Morris / Scion

H G DECORATING A BEAUTIFUL, GLOWING LIGHT IS LIKE A PIECE OF JEWELLERY FOR THE ROOM. LIGHTING From left Ralph Lauren Home ‘Anette’ brass single wall sconce, $869, The Montauk Lighting Co. Percy metal table lamp, $379,

McMullin & Co. Ralph Lauren Home ‘Benton’ brass and leather double library sconce, $1639, The Montauk Lighting Co. Rattan sconce, $468, Dunlin. ACCESSORIES Beatrix bedhead with linen upholstery, $1199.20/queen, and Audrey teak bedside table, $629, McMullin & Co. Jacqueline vase #2, $199, Elso Collective. Scallop marble tray, $130, Love After Love. Walls and ceiling painted Eggshell Acrylic in English Rose, $135/4L, Porter’s Paints. ON BED From left Linen pillowcases in Pencil Stripes and Optic White, both $80/pair, flat sheet in Optic White, $180/queen, quilt cover in Cloud, $270/queen, and quilt cover in Natural Stripes, $285/queen, all Carlotta+Gee. Lurex bag by Caterina Bertini, $335, Love After Love.

FROM PAGE 40, LIGHTING From left Inartisan ‘Alitia’ jute light shade, $229, Hardtofind. Vintage Crown Devon urn lamp with Napoleon shade, $620, and Art Deco cloud-glass lamp, $980, both Love After Love. Banks table lamp by Thomas O’Brien, $1130, Laura Kincade. ACCESSORIES Wallpaper Republic ‘Sinharaja’ wallpaper, $374/2x 10m rolls, Milton & King. Tamegroute pedestal bowl, $90, Love After Love. Flowers, Mr Flamboyant. Habitat Nami vase, $895, Janus et Cie. Swan console with marble top, $2515, Contents International Design. >

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H G DECORATING LIGHTING Clockwise from bottom left Cane table lamp, $495, Tigmi Trading. Aerin ‘Hampton’ wall light, $759, The Montauk Lighting Co.

Abby 1 brass pendant light, $259, and Bowie 1 Squat jute pendant light, $229, both Beacon Lighting. 18th-century table lamp, $3800, Parterre.

Twister table lamp, $1250, Sophie Davies. ACCESSORIES From left Twister side table, $1495, Sophie Davies. Flowers, Mr Flamboyant. Shadow Palms by Bethany Linz wall mural, $197/9mx61.5cm, Milton & King. Eggshell Acrylic paint in Haloumi, $135/4L, Porter’s Paints. Linen flat sheet in Natural Stripes (used as drape), $195/queen, pillowcases in Pencil Stripes and Optic White, both $80/pair, flat sheet in Optic White, $180/queen, and quilt cover in Cloud, $270/queen, all Carlotta+Gee. Bliss Tencel rug in Blush (270x180cm), $1920, Hali. Forbes console, $349, Provincial Home Living.

Forgotten Treasures vessel, $350, Green House Interiors. Tamegroute pedestal bowl, $115, and Scallop marble tray, $200, both Love After Love.

Maximo Textured porcelain floor tiles (450x450mm), $44.05/m², Beaumont Tiles. >

A PENDANT LIGHT IS ONE OF THE FIRST THINGS YOU SEE WHEN YOU WALK INTO A ROOM: IT CAN ADD A SENSE OF DRAMA OR POISE – OR BOTH. 44 |

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A different way to do walls.

Introducing Surround by Laminex — a modern range of decorative wall panels.

Transform your home with a range of easy-to-install MDF wall panels, available in classic and contemporary profiles. Surround by Laminex will add warmth and texture to any space — simply install and paint to complete your look.

Available through leading hardware retailers surroundbylaminex.com.au

FURNITURE

HOMEWARES

globewest.com.au

H G DECORATING LIGHTING From left Norwest wall light in

Aged Brass, $279, and Broadbeach 1 wall light, $149, both Beacon Lighting. Redditch wall light, $89, Early Settler. LEDLux ‘Lorne’ pendant light, $329, Beacon Lighting. Jardan lantern, $169.95, and Antique lantern, $149.95, both Provincial Home Living. ACCESSORIES From left Indian Summer by Bethany Linz wallpaper mural, $197/9mx61.5cm, Milton & King.

Flowers, Mr Flamboyant. Timor vessel, $875, Parterre. Dracaena draco plant, $125, and Dagar terracotta planter, from $495, both Garden Life. Antique French bistro table, $3200, Parterre. Sea Fan bowl, $650, Janus et Cie. Potted faux areca palm, $149.95, Provincial Home Living.

Schefflera amate plant, $40, and antique brass planters, from $65 each, Garden Life.

Eggshell Acrylic paint in French Green, $135/4L, Porter’s Paints. Maximo Textured porcelain floor tiles (450x450mm), $44.05/m², Beaumont Tiles.

For Where to Buy, see page 188. #

MULTIPLE LIGHTING SOURCES ARE IMPORTANT IN OUTDOOR SPACES TOO, HELPING TO EASE THE SWITCH FROM DINING TO LOUNGING. AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

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E A RT H Y HU E S Soothing and soulful, this palette is a natural design choice.

1 Quiet Vintage kuba cloth cushion cover, $335, Tigmi Trading; tigmitrading.com. 2 Italian wall mirror, $2850, The Vault Sydney; thevaultsydney.com. 3 Pebble Stone glass vase, $14.95, Bed Bath N’ Table. 4 Blue Plate ceramic plate by Bruce Nuske, $880, JamFactory; shop.jamfactory.com.au. 5 DS-266 recliner by De Sede, from $11,850, Domo; domo.com.au. 6 L’Objet x Haas Brothers ‘Mojave’ teacup and saucer sets, $560/pair, MatchesFashion; matchesfashion.com/au. 7 Koku dining table by Norm Architects for Fogia, POA, Fred International; fredinternational.com.au. 8 Zachary Frankel x Emily Gillis ‘Croissant’ handle, $180, Zachary Frankel; zacharyfrankel.com. 9 Harlequin vase

by Sharon Muir, $175, JamFactory; shop.jamfactory.com.au. 10 Table lamp, POA, Sarah Nedovic Gaunt; sarahnedovicgaunt.com.

1 Kerman 2 wool rug (300x240cm), $3900, Hali; hali.com.au. 12 Austin Proper Hotel interior by Kelly Wearstler; kellywearstler.com. #

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Produced by Saffron Sylvester. Photograph by The Ingalls (12).

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Ask an expert

SHIN ING STA RS When it comes to interiors, lighting plays a bigger role than you might think, writes Kate Nixon.

PHOTOG R A P H Y Maree Homer

Project design by Studio Kate. Styling by Kate Nixon.

A table lamp is not just a source of illumination. It can form a sculptural element too, with both the base and shade adding shape and texture to a living room tableau. Wall sculpture by Tracey Deep.

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H G DECORATING Source book About Space Extensive range of decorative and architectural fixtures. www.aboutspace.net.au ● The Montauk Lighting Co A line-up of the who’s who in lighting from the US. montauklightingco.com ● Fanuli Italian lighting with purpose and pedigree. www.fanuli.com.au ● Articolo Lighting Australian designed and made, internationally recognised lighting design studio. articololighting.com ● In Good Company A huge range of designer lines, including the lovely Workstead collection. ingoodcompany.com.au ● Est Lighting Fabulous options to suit every space. estlighting.com.au ●

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powerful decorating tool, lighting has an innate ability to affect mood; get it wrong, and it can impact the overall success of an interior. A layered approach is key, combining overhead, accent and task lighting to create flexible solutions and ambience appropriate to the time of day and task at hand. Perimeter lighting in the form of decorative wall sconces or architectural style fittings along the edge of the ceiling or recessed into pelmets creates a gentle wash of light on walls, curtains and art, drawing the eye out and expanding the space. Sculptural pendants centre a room and define key areas such as the dining table, kitchen island bench, bedside tables or a statement bath. Table and floor lamps next to seating create conversation corners or quiet reading nooks – have fun with the shades and remember to hide the seams!

Fresh ideas & easy updates Transform an awkward corner with a sculptural floor lamp in a complementary style and finish to the surrounding interior. ● Light key artworks with decorative wall sconces or ceilingmounted spotlights. ● Consider motion-sensor strip lighting under bathroom vanities.

It’s much gentler on the eyes for nocturnal visits. ●

Install or retrofit dimmers to set the ambient mood and adjust the amount of light as required according to the season, time of day and use of space. ● Don’t forget your bulbs. For a warm, inviting feel opt for bulbs with a colour temperature of 2700-3000 kelvins (also known as warm white). The higher the colour temperature range, the bluer (or ‘cooler’), the light. # ●

Glow getters Lovely lighting options for ceilings, walls and brightening dark corners.

Project design by Studio Kate. Styling by Kate Nixon.

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1 Mirela jute pendant light, $119.60, Domayne; domayne.com.au. 2 Aura wall sconce by Barbara Barry, $649, The Montauk Lighting Co; montauklightingco.com. 3 Glaze floor lamp, $3100, Casa by Kate Nixon; katenixon.com. 4 Foscarini ‘Birdie’ floor lamp by Ludovica & Roberto Palomba, $790, Space; spacefurniture.com.au. 5 Mika table lamp, $369, McMullin & Co; mcmullinandco.com. ABOVE RIGHT H&G’s interiors editor and lighting aficionado, Kate Nixon.

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9 by design

Produced by Shayne Burton.

C USHIONS

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1 Zanzibar Diamond Weave recycled-cotton cushion in Clay, $59.95, Bed Bath N’ Table; bedbathntable.com.au. 2 Adara cotton-linen cushion in Oatmeal, $145, Coco Republic; cocorepublic.com.au. 3 Luca linen cushion, $160, Jardan; jardan.com.au. 4 Palm linen-polyester cushion in Dusty Olive, $59.95, Freedom; freedom.com.au. 5 Kartell ‘Houndstooth’ outdoor cushion by Piero Lissoni, $235, Space; spacefurniture.com.au.

6 Cove ‘Weave’ acrylic-linen-cotton-polyester cushion in Paprika, $115, Globe West; globewest.com.au. 7 Australian House & Garden ‘Coorabell’ raffia-cotton cushion, $69.95, Myer; myer.com.au. 8 Houston fabric cushion, $106, King; kingliving.com.au. 9 K3 by Kenzo Takada ‘Kori 121’

polyester cushion, $405, Spence & Lyda; spenceandlyda.com.au. #

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H G DECORATING

9 by design

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1 Barton table lamp, $299, Harvey Norman; harveynorman.com.au. 2 Balla table lamp, $580, King; kingliving.com.au. 3 Easton ‘Canopy’ table lamp, $370, Globe West; globewest.com.au. 4 Madras Link ‘Andes’ table lamp, $330, Myer; myer.com.au. 5 Saint Germain table lamp, $975, Coco Republic; cocorepublic.com.au. 6 Phoenix table lamp, $395, Domo; domo.com.au. 7 Arancini Jr table lamp by Moda Piera, from $1195, Fanuli; fanuli.com.au. 8 Foscarini ‘Rituals 1’ table lamp by Ludovica & Roberto Palomba, $910, Space; spacefurniture.com.au.

9 Ulla table lamp, $249, Freedom; freedom.com.au. #

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Produced by Shayne Burton.

TA BL E L A M PS

HARVEY NORMAN PRESENTS

THE

E A S T E R

blend blit z purée

Feast Create a delicious Easter menu with the latest kitchen appliances f rom Harvey Norman

SMEG BLENDER – PASTEL BLUE (BLF01PBAU), $299.

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THE DOUBLE-PANE HEAT-RESISTANT FRONT WINDOW AND INSULATED HEAT CHAMBER ENSURE A HOT INTERIOR BUT COOL EXTERIOR SURFACE

NAPOLITANA PIZZA FIND THE RECIPE AT HN.COM.AU/RECIPES

Transport guests to Italy. The Breville Pizzaiolo Benchtop Oven makes it easy to cook woodfired pizza everyone will love.

The compact countertop oven can reach temperatures of 400°C with specific heating settings to ensure an even, classic char finish. The design replicates the heat of a traditional brick oven so the base maintains perfect crispness, the crust develops a signature ‘leopard spot’ and convective heat ensures perfectly melted and baked toppings. Buon appetito.

BREVILLE THE SMART OVEN PIZZAIOLO BENCHTOP OVEN (BPZ820BSS), $999.

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If you haven’t yet succumbed to the mouth-wateringly healthy results from an air fryer, now is the time. The new Tefal Easy Fry & Grill Air Fryer also offers dual functionality to make it a hard-working kitchen essential. With high-quality design and features, it offers superior performance compared to budget air fryers. Features include adjustable temperature control, die-cast aluminium grill for tender meat and vegetables, plus a built-in timer to manage cooking times.

TEFAL EASY FRY & GRILL AIR FRYER (EY5058), $349.

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slice dice blend knead

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FOREQUARTER OF LAMB WITH CHICKPEA CREAM AND FENNEL & CUCUMBER SALAD FIND THE RECIPE AT HN.COM.AU/RECIPES

Preparing and cooking for a large Easter celebration is easier with the KitchenAid 13-Cup Food Processor. Generous capacity allows for large quantities of ingredients while the convenient 3-in-1 wide mouth feed tube and hinged lid let you add more ingredients while working.

Comes with a multi-purpose blade, dicing kit, dough blade, and reversible fine and medium shredding discs.

KITCHENAID 13-CUP FOOD PROCESSOR – BLACK MATTE (5KFP1319ABM), $449.

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light work OF THESE HOT CROSS BUNS THANKS TO THE SMEG HAND MIXER WITH A DEDICATED DOUGH HOOK

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Prepare a huge range of recipes handily with the retro-styled Smeg Hand Mixer.

Featuring nine different speeds and an LED display on the handle to show the settings and timing, it’s easy to control your output and mix quickly and thoroughly.

Comes with a pair of whisks, aluminium flat beaters and dough hooks to allow diverse preparation options. An intuitive automatic smooth-start option also helps to reduce splatter as you begin mixing.

SMEG HAND MIXER – PASTEL BLUE (HMF01PBAU), $209.

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whip whisk knead

grind ext r act froth

Sweet

FINALE

Barista-style coffee IS READY TO SERVE WITH DESSERT THANKS TO THE JURA E8 AUTOMATIC COFFEE MACHINE

CHOCOLATE AND HAZELNUT CAKE WITH ESPRESSO GANACHE FIND THE RECIPE AT HN.COM.AU/RECIPES

As we spend more and more time at home, preparing quality coffee for you and your guests is more important than ever. The Swiss-made Jura E8 offers flawless grinding, state-of-the-art brewing technology and feather-light milk foaming as well as an enviable range of automated features to make 17 different coffee types. This unit also includes a handy automated milk cleaning system.

JURA E8 DARK INOX COFFEE MACHINE (E8INOX), $2390.

Jura milk jug is sold separately.

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Photograph by Derek Swalwell.

T H O U G H T F U L L Y C R A F T E D A N D P E R S O N A L I S E D S PA C E S

Hou se s

Every element of this Melbourne home – including this staircase with custom curved balustrade – is artfully designed, creating moments of surprise and wonderment. The artwork, The Orchid Collector, is by Richard Dunlop through James Makin Gallery. See more of this cleverly detailed home over the page.

H G HOUSES

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LANEWAY Architects Erica Tsuda and Maximilian Cooke from Matt Gibson Architecture+Design, the firm responsible for this project, appreciate the home from the rear laneway. Romero bricks from Brickworks painted Dulux Natural White. REAR PAVILION The accommodation pod at the rear includes a rooftop garden featuring Lomandra ‘Nyalla’ and prostrate rosemary, which spills over the edge. Cladding, decking and bench seat in blackbutt from Urban Salvage. The timber door leads to the garage.

EVOLUTION THEORY Step beyond the threshold of this 1800s terrace and enter a world of wonder, complete with character-filled rooms, serene courtyards and a glass footbridge.

STO RY Georgia Madden | PH OTOG RA PHY Derek Swalwell

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box on the back would have been the obvious approach for extending this fairly narrow Victorian-era terrace in trendy inner Melbourne. But architect Matt Gibson is not one for the well-trodden path. “The house has a fascinating and very colourful history, as does the area it’s in. As a practice, we love exploring the past and using these stories to create the next chapter in a building’s life,” he says.

“Most recently it had been used as student accommodation, with five tiny bedrooms running off a long, dark hallway – not exactly conducive to a family home. Originally, the property had a separate dwelling out the back, but that had been demolished at some point. In a sense, our design >

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HOUSES H G LIVING The central courtyard, landscaped by Robyn Barlow

Design, almost feels like part of the living room. The footbridge connecting the bedrooms above features a glass floor so it can be enjoyed from upstairs too. Jord sofa, Fred International. Lampadaire Trois Bras Pivotants floor lamp, Cult Design. B&B Italia ‘Metropolitan’ swivel armchair, Space. Halo coffee table, Something Beginning With. Beam side table, Apato. Nobsa (under coffee table) and Nudo (under ottoman) rugs, Halcyon Lake Rugs & Carpets.

Custom curtains in Zimmer+Rohde ‘Tiago’, made by Clearview Sun Control. KITCHEN Concrete island bench, Concrete by Keenan Harris. Marble splashback, Xtreme Marble. Diiva bar stools, Grazia & Co. Cooktop and oven, Sub-Zero. HydroTap Mini, Zip. Joinery finished in Eveneer Ravenna, Elton Group. Blackbutt flooring (throughout).

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DINING Pendant light, Volker Haug. Lowe Furniture ‘Shima’ dining table, Hub Furniture.

Gubi ‘Beetle’ chairs with custom upholstery, Cult Design. COURTYARD “The owners wanted the courtyards to feel very much part of the house,” says landscape architect Robyn Barlow. “They wanted to wander around barefoot, hear running water and have soothing views from every room. I think we achieved that.” >

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“Our design aimed to restore the essence of the 1800s residence while updating it for modern living.” MATT GIBSON, ARCHITECT

H G HOUSES

looked to restore the essence of the 1800s residence while also updating it for modern living,” says Matt.

The result is a series of three distinct mews-like structures connected by landscaped courtyards, with living spaces on the lower levels and accommodation above – a design concept that ticked every box for the owners and won acclaim for the practice at the 2021 Victorian Architecture Awards. “We wanted to create a family home with a substantial central courtyard, which we were prepared to give up living space for,” says the owner, who lives here with her husband, toddler and newborn baby.

The heritage part of the dwelling was retained and restored, with the additional pavilions built from bricks salvaged from the demolition of the rear wing. “Reusing the bricks ensured the patina of the new buildings looks very much like the original building – the bricks are a bit battered and bruised, which we liked,” says Matt.

At the heart of the design is a tranquil central courtyard, complete with fishpond and built-in seating made from stacked bluestone – a material that is ubiquitous in this part of Melbourne. It offers the sense of escape the owners were after. “It’s incredibly quiet and peaceful – trams clatter down the road nearby, but you don’t hear a thing,” adds Matt.

This paved courtyard connects the heritage part of the home with the second pavilion, which contains the kitchen/dining/living area on the ground floor and two bedrooms and a family bathroom above. To maintain light and airflow in the central courtyard – and eliminate the need for a second staircase – Matt designed a glass bridge that connects the main bedroom, located in the first pavilion, with the second and third bedrooms.

The second pavilion flows into a more casual, blackbuttclad courtyard – a favourite spot for alfresco dining.

Sliding pocket doors on both courtyards allow the kitchen, living and dining areas to spill into each other when open, or to be closed off in winter to create a cosy feel.

Since the home is just 5.5 metres wide, a galley-style kitchen was a natural choice, says Matt. A robust concrete island provides space for cooking prep, while a ribbed joinery unit on one side conceals a timber-lined powder room and oodles of storage. In contrast to the rich, earthy tones and black steel of the walkways and window frames, the dining room exudes a quiet calm with white joinery, walls and delicate detailing, including a custom >

SITTING ROOM Spill #2 artwork by Andrew Browne (above fireplace) and Moving Forward painting by Euan McLeod

(above sofa). Arflex ‘Marenco’ sofa, Poliform. Gervasoni ‘Inout 44’ stool, Anibou. Harvey swivel armchairs, Grazia & Co. CC-Tapis ‘Ultimate Bliss’ rug, Loom Rugs. Studio Henry Wilson ‘Surface Sconce’ lamp and Objects of Free Use sculpture

by Anna Varendorff, both Hub Furniture. Candleholder #1 and Geo #1 and Geo #2 sculptures, all by Jaime Hayón for Fritz Hansen, Cult Design. Brick sculpture by Kristina Dam Studio, and Ferm Living ‘Muses Clio’ vases, Designstuff.

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THE PALETTE Dulux Dark Door (sitting room)

Dulux Frontier Fort (stairwell)

STAIRWELL “Stairs take up a lot of space, so the aim of the pod design was to minimise their inclusion,” says Matt. Wall painted Dulux Frontier Fort. Custom balustrade. POWDER ROOM Blackbutt wall cladding. Custom pedestal basin, Concrete by Keenan Harris. Custom tapware, shelf, mirror and towel hook by Wood Melbourne. Pendant light, Volker Haug. BEDROOM Left and opposite Artwork this page by Yurpiya Lionel, Outstation Gallery.

Artwork opposite by unknown artist. Moroso ‘Mathilda’ chair, Hub Furniture. Nau ‘Nest’ side tables and ‘Aran’ bed, Cult Design.

Trizo21 ‘Austere’ solitaire light, Great Dane. Agra rug, Armadillo.

Walls painted Dulux Natural White. >

Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.

Dulux Lyttelton (main bedroom)

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THE LAYOUT

First floor

Bath Bath

Studio

Bed

Bed

Bridge

Bed

Courtyard

Dining

Roof garden

Garage

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Courtyard

Ground floor Entry

Living Sitting Kitchen

HOUSES H G

pendant light by Melbourne design studio, Volker Haug.

“All the colours in the house are a nod to the Victorian era, from the deep navy of the sitting room to the nude tone [Dulux Frontier Fort] in the stairwell and dining area,” says Matt.

The gentle feel carries through upstairs to the bedrooms and bathrooms, which feature a palette of soft greys, off-whites and mid-tone timbers. Slender arched windows in the bedrooms feature steel blinkers that have been individually designed to provide the perfect balance of light, views and privacy. Meanwhile, considered touches, such as the painted-brick wall in the main ensuite and a window deliberately retained to overlook the filigree of the original balcony, are designed to keep the history of the home alive.

At the rear of the block, the third pavilion contains separate accommodation and the garage; laneway access gives the couple’s visitors privacy and independence.

“Our parents visit often so we wanted the home to be able to accommodate multigenerational living,” says the owner. The building’s hit-and-miss brickwork speaks to the intricate detailing of the local architecture and provides snippets of views across the city as you move from one level to another.

“This project is one of our favourites,” says Matt of the renovated home. “It looks truly at home in its setting and yet has all these interesting and unexpected things happening behind the walls.” And best of all, it’s the inviting, character-filled residence the owners had been > dreaming of – and more.

Matt Gibson Architecture+Design, Collingwood, Victoria; (03) 9419 6677 or mattgibson.com.au.

Warwick Constructions, Hawthorn East, Victoria; warwickconstructions.com.au.

DAUGHTER’S ROOM Top Pacha chair by Pierre Paulin, Nau

‘Nest’ tables, and Panthella table light by Verner Panton, all Cult Design. Custom rug by Matt Gibson Architecture+Design, made by Designer Rugs. GUESTROOM Right The bespoke joinery is finished in a custom colour. Atollo 239 table lamp

by Vico Magistretti for Oluce, Euroluce. MAIN BEDROOM Opposite Gubi ‘Bat’ lounge chair and ‘Multi-lite’ pendant, Cult Design. Matter Made ‘Affordances’ table, Criteria.

Custom bedside table and bedhead. Earth wall lights, Anchor Ceramics. Custom rug, Loom Rugs. Douglas fir floorboards, Dinesen. Walls painted Dulux Lyttelton.

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MAIN ENSUITE This page Unusually, the main ensuite is located

at the front of the house and is connected to the original balcony.

Privacy was preserved by the inclusion of the vanity wall – the walk-in shower and toilet are tucked behind it. The vanity top, splashback and floor tiles are travertine. Tapware, Astra Walker.

Monroe mosaic wall tiles, Perini. Apparatus Studio ‘Trapeze 2’ wall light, Criteria. Mosman bath, Apaiser. COURTYARD Visitors, including Matt’s own daughter Matilda, are always drawn to the courtyards. The bluestone pavers were tailored for the space and the offcuts used to create the edging around the pond. “We wanted the seating around the pond to be very organic – almost like a cliff face. The contrast is what makes it,” says Matt. >

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“It’s incredibly quiet and peaceful – trams clatter down the road nearby but you don’t hear a thing.”

MATT GIBSON, ARCHITECT

BRIDGE This image and below left The floor of the bridge linking the bedrooms is glass for light

flow. The Victorian ash joists under the bridge mimic the timber detailing on the walkway on the side. STREET ENTRANCE The home’s exterior is painted Bristol Licorice, the front door is painted Dulux Green Paw Paw. Tessellated tiles, Olde English Tiles Australia.

THIS IS THE LIFE

With a fabulous home in an ideal location, it’s little wonder this family rarely strays far. “I walk everywhere,” says one of the owners. “Everything is so accessible.” A warm day at home will see “both courtyards fully open, the barbecue on and friends around. With a toddler, it’s safe to say there will probably be Lego building in the living room at some point too,” she says.

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THE SOURCE Bold, eclectic accessories are the perfect fit for a home that dares to be different.

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Produced by Saffron Sylvester.

10 1 Surface Sconce table lamp, $1840, Studio Henry Wilson. 2 B9 planter by Studio Ciao, $1865, Something Beginning With. 3 Cotton Flowers and Fairies artwork by Amy Wright, $2640, Modern Times.

4 Agape ‘Memory’ wall-mounted basin set, POA, Artedomus. 5 Gervasoni ‘Inout 44’ stool by Paola Navone, $970, Anibou. 6 Trapeze 2 wall light by Gabriel Hendifar, from $3200, Criteria.

7 Ormaie Paris ‘Marque-Page’ eau de parfum, $455/100ml, Libertine Parfumerie. 8 Muse 2-seater sofa, $2995, Sarah Ellison. 9 Caesarstone surface in Shitake, $700-$900/m² (installed), Caesarstone.

10 Halo coffee table, from $1165, Something Beginning With. For Where to Buy, see page 188. # AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

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H G HOUSES FACADE The spruced-up heritage facade gives little

hint of the light and modern spaces beyond. Bijmat Sand porch tiles, Earp Bros. HALL The light-filled hallway features revitalised original arches and mouldings.

Limited-edition print by Annelie Vandendael, Studio Gallery.

Conehome Arch pendant, Laal. Sesame engineered-timber floorboards, Made by Storey (throughout).

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BIG HE A RT E D Thanks to an inspired renovation, this little cottage in inner Melbourne is brimming with ingenious design features that deliver huge impact.

STORY Chris Pearson | ST Y LI N G Mikayla Rose | P H OTOGR A PH Y Dylan James

G

ood things come in small packages, as Stephanie Lombardi, the new owner of this 1870s semi in Melbourne’s inner north, has discovered. When she found the freshly renovated cottage on the internet, all the hard work had been done by interior designer Mikayla Rose of Heartly, who had packed the home full of smart design features.

“As soon as I walked in, I could feel the beautiful soul and energy that Mikyala created, its warmth, its light-filled spaces and openness,” says Stephanie. “With its practicality and attention to detail, it had a strong sense of serenity and calmness. Every aspect of the makeover felt perfect.”

For Mikayla, it was a chance to explore her creativity without any parameters set by clients. “I love working for clients, but wanted a project where I had the design freedom to really make the site work hard to deliver a highly practical and beautiful building,” says the designer, who bought the rundown cottage in 2019.

She had been quick to see its potential. Apart from the proverbial good bones, it’s located in a peaceful patch of the inner city, with the road closed to through-traffic and a tree-lined nature strip running along the centre. “It must be one of the most beautiful streets in Melbourne,” says Mikayla.

On a site of only 100 square metres, the original two-storey cottage had a typical terrace layout consisting of three small bedrooms off a long hallway.

But, atypically, it had a laneway to one side. “That right of way allows >

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“SPATIAL PLANNING WAS CRITICAL. EVERY CENTIMETRE HAS BEEN UTILISED.” Mikayla Rose, interior designer

DINING The built-in seating is both a space saver and an irresistible place to linger. Bench seats finished in Laminex PureGrain

Oyster Grey. Custom leather cushion in Ascona leather, Pelle Leathers. Custom dining table, Joel Elliott Furniture. Maggie chairs, Jardan. Artwork by Belynda Henry. Code Charlie Tango pendant, Nightworks Studio. Curtains in Mokum Kanso Stonewash, Life By Shades. KITCHEN Drawers are neatly concealed behind hinged doors for a crisp finish. Mair vase, Country Road. Evenex veneer joinery in Deep Grain Oak, Elton Group. Perla Argenta marble benchtops and splashback in Yohen Border YBI tiles, Artedomus. Yokato kitchen mixer, Brodware. Appliances, Fisher & Paykel. Hoop Deep downlights, Dusk Down Up wall sconce and 75 Caliber surface can lights, all Est Lighting. Easy VJ 100 ceiling cladding, Easycraft.

LIVING A void with a skylight directly above the living area ensures the space is bathed in natural light. Artwork by Kerry Armstrong, Studio Gallery. Wilfred sofa and knot ornament, both Jardan. Cushions, Adairs. Raft stools, Great Dane (discontinued). Bowl, Dinosaur Designs. Artwork in hallway by Kirra Jamison.

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light to enter on three sides, a feature most inner-city terraces do not enjoy,” says Mikayla. But a fiddly layout wasted that valuable light. The living room at the end of the hallway was separated from the courtyard by the kitchen and bathroom in a clumsy extension, the former connected to the outside through just one set of french doors. Meanwhile, the surfaces looked tired and dated. Mikayla’s plan? “To reimagine the unique cottage as a serene three-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home, with the original building linked to a double-storey extension by an internal bridge.” And to honour the building’s heritage in the process.

That awkward addition was demolished and the home extended at the rear to create an open-plan space on the lower level. An original window on the upper floor was cut down, its brick lintel retained, to fashion an entry to the new structure across an internal bridge linking old and new. This bridge also produced a void for a skylight to illuminate the spaces below.

A bedroom was sacrificed – amazingly, the original house had four postage-stamp-sized bedrooms, including one upstairs – to accommodate a shower room, powder room, mud room, laundry and feature shelving.

A ladder-and-rail system accesses elevated storage that utilises space at ceiling level. The kitchen features crisp timber joinery concealing integrated appliances, discreet inner drawers and a comprehensive pantry. Meanwhile, built-in seating in the dining area – with handy storage underneath – is dual purpose. “With the steel bifolds open, the dining space is completely connected to the courtyard and the seat becomes both indoor and outdoor,” she says.

The materials palette, kept to a minimum to ensure continuity and “a feeling of calm”, includes oak joinery and flooring, a rendered original brick wall and a V-groove ceiling in the living room. “It is a nod to the original tongue-and-groove ceiling,” says Mikayla. “The open-plan space is beautifully layered, with textured surfaces such as this and the brickwork adding visual interest to pared-back neutrals.”

But there is a little quirk we don’t see, also preserved for posterity.

“When we removed the lath and plaster from the old brick walls, we discovered ornate stencilling on the brickwork,” says Mikayla. “We had to cover it to fulfil the design, but it is still there, safely preserved under the new linings.” The makeover also revealed a bricked-in archway, now preserved as part of the rendered wall in the living area. “I love how the original brick external wall is now an internal historic feature of the home,” she says. “There are so many things I love about this place, including the bridge and the view of the sky from the living area below. And the mud room works really hard to deliver the practicality required of modern-day living, including loads of storage in spaces that would normally be underutilised. Then there’s the indoor/outdoor built-in seating, with its sweet little marble plinth and, of course, storage within the bench itself…”

All that storage was a major drawcard for Stephanie, who includes it in a long list of her favourite aspects. “But I especially love how the historical facade has been woven into the new elements,” she says. “You > can feel the story of the cottage as you move through it.”

Heartly, Abbotsford, Victoria; 0447 006 449 or heartly.com.au.

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HOUSES H G THE PALETTE Dulux Natural White Quarter (interior, throughout)

Dulux Black (front door)

HALL Top left A sliding door to the laundry is a great space saver in the compact hallway. LANDING Top right Side table from Bloomingdales.

Perla Argento marble tiles, Artedomus. WALK-IN WARDROBE Above right Shelves in Evenex Deep Grain Oak, Elton Group. Wardrobes in PureGrain Tornado, Laminex. Leather pulls, MadeMeasure. Curtains, Life by Shades. MAIN ENSUITE Above left Nuances floor tiles and Inax ‘Sugie Hanten’ tiles, Artedomus. Yokato tapware, Brodware. Custom vanity with Perla Argento benchtop and splashback. MAIN BEDROOM Feltex Chatsworth carpet, Godfrey Hirst Carpets. Limited-edition print by Annelie Vandendael, Studio Gallery. Nook bed, Jardan. Muuto ‘Around’ side table, Living Edge. Swedish Ninja ‘Oh My’ mini glass sculpture, The Cool Hunter. Dane vase, Country Road. >

Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.

Porter’s Paints Calm Green

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“YOU CAN FEEL THE STORY OF THE COTTAGE AS YOU MOVE THROUGH IT.” Stephanie Lombardi, owner

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EXTERIOR Charred timber cladding

from Eco Timber is the perfect complement to the streamlined rear of the building.

THIS IS THE LIFE

Having just moved in, Stephanie has been quick to make her new home her own. “I love having coffee on the bench seat around my dining table as the light streams in,” she says.

“When the steel doors are open, I simply swing my legs around and the bench seats become an outdoor lounge. And I sit with my back up against the wall, stretched out along the seat!”

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THE SOURCE Contemporary pieces with a nod to tradition help create calm and comfort.

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Produced by Saffron Sylvester.

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1 Lola James Harper ‘The Woody Office of Daddy’ candle, $79, Libertine Parfumerie. 2 Luca occasional chair, $1995, Coco Republic. 3 Articolo Lighting ‘Indi XL’ double pendant light, $7095, Est Lighting.

4 Australian House & Garden ‘Newrybar’ breakfast cushion, $59.95, Myer. 5 Lemonade borosilicate glass tumblers, $99/set of 4, Maison Balzac. 6 Platino Wide Board engineered-oak flooring, from $113.85/m², Choices Flooring. 7 When the boat comes in artwork by Tanith Kershaw, $5000, Ninbella.

8 Australian House & Garden ‘Norco’ throw, $79.95, Myer. 9 Oberon ‘Eclipse’ coffee table with marble

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top, $3105, Globe West. For Where to Buy, see page 188. #

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A L L FOR ON E To achieve a coherent renovation that would please three generations, a Sydney couple turned to an interior designer who knew their home almost as well as they did.

STO RY Dan F Stapleton | ST Y LI N G Chloë McCarthy | P H OTOGR APHY Pablo Veiga

HOUSES H G PORTICO An artwork by

Sophie Cape welcomes visitors into the home. The weathered metal chair has been in the family for decades. Pendant light, Dunlin. The stained glass and tessellated tiles are original. EXTERIOR The house is painted Murobond Raw Earth 200%, with trims and fence in Dulux Lexicon Quarter. A band of Dulux Monument defines the separate levels; the same colour was chosen for the Colorbond guttering.

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LIVING Coffee table, side table and

sofa, all Coco Republic. Paintings

by Morgan Stokes (abstract) and Grace Cossington Smith (still life); sculptures by Caroline Duffy (left), John Born (middle) and Luca Wearne (right). Dish ceiling light, Anna Charlesworth. Serge Mouille ceiling light, Cult Design. ClassiCon ‘Euvera’ rocking chair, Anibou.

Vintage Turkish rug, Cadrys.

Banquette, Bober Furniture. Hearth tiles, Surface Gallery. Walls painted Dulux Silver Tea Set.

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lice and David had lived in their grand old house on Sydney’s leafy North Shore for three decades without once thinking about renovating. Then, in 2018, a particularly rainy week changed everything.“We realised the gutters needed replacing,” recalls David, a surgeon.

“Once the scaffolding was up, we thought we might as well paint the exterior too. That quickly led to a decision to paint indoors.”

With the interior in play, the couple decided to embark on a more extensive makeover. For years, while raising their three children there, they had been too busy to worry about the freestanding Victorian property’s quirks. But those issues were becoming harder to ignore.

“Before we bought it, the house functioned as three apartments,” says Alice. “All the internal doors were different.” The historical subdivision also meant there were more rooms than the family ever needed and a lack of natural light. “A particularly honest friend once told me: ‘It’s a >

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ENHANCING THE SENSE OF LIGHT AND SPACE WAS A TOP PRIORITY.

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lovely home, but walking through the front door is underwhelming because the inside is so dim’, says David. “He was right.”

With grandchildren on the way, Alice and David were anxious to make the home feel more inviting. Luckily, they already had an interior designer on speed dial: Julia Sullivan, director of Caswell, is a longtime friend of the family. “I spent what feels like my whole childhood in that house, so I already knew the layout and understood the issues,” says Julia. By the time the trio had finished brainstorming, the project had grown to encompass a refurb of the whole property, inside and out.

As well as the aesthetic updates, some structural changes, including moving or removing walls, extending the rear dining room and replacing the creaky old staircase for a more streamlined design, were on the agenda.

But all three agreed that extracting every last fixture and fitting would be a step too far. “There were so many beautiful heritage elements that we wanted to retain, like the pressed-metal ceilings,” says Julia. “We landed on the idea of a contemporary interior featuring new materials that highlighted and complemented those original elements.”

Enhancing the sense of light and space was a top priority. Some adjustments were straightforward: in the front living room, for example, Julia > SUNROOM Top A painting by Sidney Nolan brings colour and warmth to the Scandi-influenced space. Custom window seat, Bober Furniture.

Vintage rug, Cadrys. Coffee tables near window seat, Anibou. Alpaca throw, In Bed. Judd sofa, MCM House. Foscarini ‘Buds 2’ lamp, Space. Black crow sculpture by Karlien Van Rooyen. STAIRWELL A simple box frame on the Sophie Cape artwork pairs neatly with the custom steel-framed doors

by Built by MK. Vintage runner, Cadrys. KITCHEN Baltic White marble benchtops and splashback, Surface Gallery. Joinery, Bober Furniture. Articolo Lighting sconce, Domi. DINING Dining table, MCM House. Brooklyn dining chairs, Jardan. Leila rug, Armadillo. Pendant light, Enlightened Living.

Articolo Lighting sconce, Domi. Steel sculpture by Caroline Duffy. Vase, Kerryn Levy. Malawi chairs, MCM House (in sunroom).

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BEDROOM This page The handsome

bedside table is a family heirloom.

Foscarini ‘Buds 2’ table lamp, Space.

Wall sculpture by Caroline Duffy.

Vintage rug, Cadrys. Curtains, Simple Studio. MAIN ENSUITE Opposite, top left Vanity in Baltic White and Dogal Dark Grey marble, Surface Gallery.

Tapware, Brodware. Hand towel, Oliver Thom. MAIN BEDROOM Opposite, top right and bottom left

Drawing by Clemens Krauss, Dominik Mersch Gallery. Bedlinen and carafe, In Bed. Eileen Gray bedside table, Anibou. Table lamp by Mario Nanni, VBO Australia. Neutrals 02 rug, Cadrys. Allegra armchairs, Coco Republic. Custom pendant light, Urban Lighting. Curtains, Simple Studio. MAIN BATHROOM Opposite, bottom right Wall tiles and vanity benchtop, Surface Gallery. Kado ‘Lussi’ bath, Reece. Sconce, Anchor Ceramics. Towel, Oliver Thom.

reupholstered a dull banquette in powder blue and swapped red carpet and heavy curtains for blonde-timber floorboards and sheer blinds.

More light fixtures were installed, including spotlights for the couple’s art collection, which includes works by Grace Cossington Smith and Sidney Nolan. “A lot of the lighting is quite striking and modern, which creates a nice juxtaposition with the pressed-metal ceilings,” says Julia.

For the new joinery, Julia selected a soft-grey marble – a material that both updates the interior but wouldn’t jar with the home’s heritage. “It has a slightly warm, country feel to it, but the way we’ve used it as joinery is clean and contemporary,” she says.

The rear of the house is ideal for multigenerational get-togethers, with wide doors between the indoor dining area and deck, and plenty of comfortable seating with shade. “That back area is a lot more conducive to young kids running around now, whereas the front of the home is more grown-up,” says Julia. “It gives Alice and David distinct spaces for different entertaining occasions.”

The couple praise Julia for opening up the residence – and for gently pushing them out of their comfort zone. “We wouldn’t have been brave enough to buy that incredible curved sofa in the front room ourselves, or to position it like that, but it works beautifully,” says Alice.

David admits he and Alice were hesitant at times. “We were a bit scared of some of Julia’s suggested changes because we had such a fixed idea of what this home was,” he says. “But now it’s done, we totally get it. We can’t believe it took us this long.” >

THE PALETTE Dulux Silver Tea Set (living room)

Murobond Raw Earth 200% (exterior)

Dulux Monument (exterior detail)

Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.

Caswell, Woollahra, NSW; 0414 420 267 or caswell-group.com.

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THE LAYOUT Sunroom TV room

Pool

Sitting

Dining

Kitchen Study

Bath

Entry

Laundry

Pantry

Ground floor Bed

First floor

Bed Bed Bed

Dressing

Bath

Bath

Bath

Bed

“WE WERE HESITANT ABOUT MAKING CHANGES BECAUSE WE HAD SUCH A FIXED IDEA ABOUT WHAT THIS HOUSE WAS. NOW THAT IT’S DONE, WE CAN’T BELIEVE WE WAITED SO LONG.” David, owner

HOUSES H G Hayfield sofas, armchairs and Wyndham paving, all Eco Outdoor.

Tallowwood decking, Built by MK. Manetti x Interno terracotta table and stools, Artedomus.

White tables, Anibou.

Tablecloth, In Bed. Towel, Oliver Thom. >

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THIS IS THE LIFE

Pre-renovation, Alice and David seldom entertained in the front living room. “Normally, we kept it closed off,” says Alice. “It was just too dark and stuffy.”

Now, it’s a favourite spot for hosting drinks with friends. The newly raised deck, meanwhile, is a popular dining spot.

“It has a lovely garden aspect,” says David. “It’s just a gorgeous place to spend time.”

FRONT GARDEN The landscaping,

also overseen by Julia, features a mix of hardy, low-maintenance plants.

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THE SOURCE Introducing elements of the ‘new’ while honouring the past produces a graceful balance.

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1 Cubi marbled-ceramic ice bucket by Tina Vaia, $400, MatchesFashion. 2 Felix ‘Arc’ 3-seater sofa, $6340, Globe West. 3 ClassiCon ‘E 1027’ adjustable table by Eileen Gray, $2240, Anibou. 4 Yves wool-nylon carpet, $168/m², Designer Rugs. 5 Who Is Elijah ‘His | Her’ eau de parfum, $145/100ml, Libertine Parfumerie. 6 Santa Fe Modern: Contemporary Design in the High Desert book by Helen Thompson, $75, Booktopia. 7 Foscarini ‘Buds 2’ table lamp by Rodolfo Dordoni, $1850, Space. 8 Eureka awning in Docril 184 Paprika (2x2m), $4997, Wynstan. 9 Middle of Nowhere ‘Bjorn’ wall mirror, $430, Life Interiors. 10 Ida armchair,

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$699, McMullin & Co. For Where to Buy, see page 188. #

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TALKING POINTS

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A natural palette and layers of thoughtful details add to the story of this forever home.

STO RY Elizabeth Wilson | ST YLI N G Kate Nixon PH OTOG RA P HY Maree Homer

Designers Kate Nixon and Roberta Gallo of Studio Kate have furnished this house with sophisticated pieces to add texture and touchpoints that complement the existing joinery and finishes by TKD Architects. Cabinetry in Eveneer timber veneer, Elton Group. Benchtop is honed bedonia, Artedomus. Spun pendent light by LifeSpaceJourney, Workshopped. Palecek ‘Fritz’ counter stools, Boyd Blue. Splashback tiles, Onsite Supply+Design.

Foliage, Mandalay Flowers. Accessories, Casa by Kate Nixon.

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H G HOUSES

DINING The dining table was the first hero piece purchased for the home. “We love cooking and family gatherings, so it was all-important,” says the owner. They chose the Mellow table by Bartoli Design from Fanuli. Otway armchairs with leather upholstery, Cosh Living. Tree Shadow wall sculpture by Tracey Deep. Accessories, Casa by Kate Nixon. VJ panelling painted Porter’s Paints French Blue. FAMILY ROOM Opposite Modular sofa, upholstered in Westbury Textiles ‘Santo Domingo’ fabric and Chloe Fossilised Clam coffee table, both Boyd Blue. Hendrix chair, McMullin & Co. Ottoman, Cosh Living. Cushions, Pony Rider. Carved shield (on wall), Orient House. Side table, Horgans. Outdoor setting, Harbour 1976.

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B

efore they found this beachside home in Sydney’s east, the owners had spent five years property hunting in the area. “All the real-estate agents knew us – they called us the ‘Goldilocks couple’,” says the owner.

The reason for their lengthy search was that they were actually quite happy in their previous residence.

But with three growing children, two businesses operating from home and the need to accommodate visiting family, they could foresee the need for more space. They wanted to wait for the right thing to come along – and that day arrived in late 2019 when they walked into this home on a terraced hillside shaded by a lovely old Moreton Bay fig, just a short stroll from the sand and breakers.

“I fell in love straight away,” says the owner. And there is much to love. Originally a three-storey Federation home in the Arts and Crafts style, it had been extensively renovated by TKD Architects about 10 years ago with a redesigned attic level, the addition of a lower-ground floor – linking to the garden and pool – and new joinery and finishes throughout.

It ticked all the boxes in terms of location, views, connection to history, and a mix of old and new. All importantly, it had four bedrooms on one level (“that’s

so hard to find,” says the owner), a deal maker for this family of five. They also loved its dark floorboards, the garden vistas and the way it steered towards moodier hues rather than a beachy aesthetic. “The house is a blend of our personalities. I grew up in India, in the mountains. My husband grew up in Queensland, near the surf. It represents us both – earth and sea,” says the owner.

To mark this new chapter, they decided to part with their old furniture, but they needed guidance on furnishing their new home. “Our previous furniture was fine when we had young children but here, we were ready for some special pieces, to do justice to the building.” They turned to designer Kate Nixon of Studio Kate, whose work they had followed and admired. Before they’d even settled on the property, the couple took Kate through the house, where they identified areas for repainting and fine tuning, and discussed furnishings for each space.

“The brief was for understated elegance,” says the owner. “I didn’t want anything to feel precious, but it had to be special”. After taking five years to find their home, she didn’t mind waiting to find the right pieces: “I wasn’t in a rush. I wanted the furnishings to reflect our backgrounds, suit the beautiful architecture and to tell a story,” the owner says. >

“The owners wanted the house to feel warm and layered, with pieces that reflected them.” KATE NIXON, DESIGNER

HOUSES H G LIVING Joinery in Eveneer ‘Essential Metro’ veneer, Elton Group. Fireplace in honed bedonia

stone from Artedomus. Keely modular sofa and Jesse ‘Puck’ occasional table, Fanuli.

Palecek ‘Duval’ lounge chairs and ‘Fritz’ ottoman, both Boyd Blue. Tribal Carved Drum coffee table, Ruby Star Traders. Custom window seat, Studio Kate. Tree Spirit wall sculpture

by Tracey Deep. Vino side table and shelf accessories, Casa by Kate Nixon. India Velvet Silk Earth rug, Cadrys. Heaviness is Sweet artwork by Mark Hislop, Wagner Contemporary. >

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STAIRWELL Metal locker, The Little Kidz Closet. Pouf, McMullin & Co. Artwork by owners’ daughter. FOYER Top right Mirror, Boyd Blue. Cushions and roman blind, Studio Kate. Baskets, Casa by Kate Nixon. MAIN BEDROOM Bottom, left and right Bed and bedside table, Fanuli. Christian Lacroix ‘Croisette Nacre’ wallpaper, Radford. Cushions, Studio Kate.

Agra rug, Armadillo. Stools, Boyd Blue. Pendant light by Siemon & Salazar. Floor lamp, Spence & Lyda. Lounge chair, Domo. Artwork by Rita Pedulla. MAIN ENSUITE Apaiser ‘Haven’ bath, Rogerseller. Fontainebleau stone wall and floor tiles, Nefiko Marble. VJ panelling painted Porter’s Paints Bastion.

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“This is their forever home and they wanted everything to be special.” KATE NIXON, DESIGNER

THIS IS THE LIFE

The owners were very mindful of making ethcical and sustainable choices in furnishing and decorating their home.

“I’m passionate about supporting artisans and knowing the provenence of things,” says the owner. “We were grateful to be able to choose quality, sustainably made pieces by Australian companies and ethical makers overseas.” >

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THE LAYOUT Living Bed

Study

Bed Dining

Library

Bath Entry level

Garage

Porter’s Paints Bastion (main ensuite)

Porter’s Paints French Blue (dining )

Porter’s Paints Popcorn (main walls)

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Entry

Dressing

Bed Office

Bed

Bath Bath

Living

Courtyard Laundry

Level two

THE PALETTE

Pool

Bed

Kitchen Entry

Garden

Bath

Attic retreat

Level one

Lower ground

Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.

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In response to the owners’ request for an earthy palette, Kate and project designer Roberta Gallo focused on decorative layers in muted, nature-derived hues against a backdrop of white walls. Pale olive green recurs throughout (VJ panelling and upholstery) supplemented by tones of oatmeal, charcoal, tan and terracotta. “The earthy palette has longevity while eclectic pieces add uniqueness,” says Kate.

They furnished every room from scratch including rugs, upholstered seating, light fittings, window treatments, artworks, beds and bedding. “We introduced lots of texture through the upholstered pieces, woven elements and carved details,” says Kate. “Wherever possible we added tactile elements to soften the hard surfaces. And there is customisation in the furniture selection: when we couldn’t find the right piece, we had it made.” Wallpaper is used to great effect, including in the main bedroom suite where the design evokes a charcoal drawing of palm trees, echoing the landscape outside.

Treasured objects collected during the owners’ travels are showcased throughout. And the owner’s Indian heritage is referenced in subtle ways, such as a carved coffee table in the living room, or a footstool with woven feet in the parents’ bedroom.

And all of the rugs in the house were hand-woven and ethically produced in India. “These little details are talking points and add to the story of the home,” says Kate.

Every room flows visually to the next and there is a cohesion of materiality and colour across the home’s four levels. “It’s a testament to the power of decorating,” says Kate. For the owners, it’s much more than that. “It’s a beautiful space to come home to and be in. We couldn’t have asked for more,” says the owner. “We’re so happy and blessed to be able to create memories here. We enjoyed the journey to get > here and it truly feels like home.”

Studio Kate, Rushcutters Bay, NSW; (02) 9363 4318 or katenixon.com/studio.

GUESTROOM Above left Vintage wall lamp, 1stDibs. Custom bedhead, valance and blind, all Studio Kate. Side table and bench, Boyd Blue. Rug, Armadillo. Quilt cover, Cultiver. Cushion and throws, Casa by Kate Nixon. STUDY NOOK Otway armchair, Cosh Living. Table lamp, Cult Design. Pinboard, blinds and throw, all Casa by Kate Nixon. DAUGHTER’S ROOM Opposite Window seat upholstery and curtains, Studio Kate. Bedhead and cushions, McMullin & Co. Quilt cover, Cultiver.

Bed cushion and throw, Casa by Kate Nixon. Lamp, West Elm. Rug, Bayliss. The artworks are prints from The New Yorker.

SON’S BEDROOM Top left Cole & Son ‘Macchine Volanti’ wallpaper, Radford. Custom bedhead, Studio Kate. Quilt cover, Cultiver. Trunk and throw, Casa by Kate Nixon. Egg chair, Cocolea. GROUND-FLOOR POWDER ROOM Top right and bottom left This level is built around a sandstone boulder. Hanging rope mirror, Boyd Blue. Baskets, Inartisan. Vessel and towels, Casa by Kate Nixon. ATTIC RETREAT Chairs and side table, Globe West. Ottoman, McMullin & Co. Floor lamp, West Elm. Custom cushions, all Casa by Kate Nixon. Baskets, Inartisan. Artwork by June Trevaks.

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1

THE SOURCE Earthy tones, textured elements and personalised details combine to create soothing interiors that feel like home.

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3

5

4

7 6 10 9 8 1 Leo table lamp, $279, McMullin & Co. 2 Arteriors ‘Kade’ accent table, $2385, Casa by Kate Nixon.

3 Palecek ‘Antilles’ vessel, $1255, Casa by Kate Nixon. 4 Images To Words. For Those Ideas Which Are artwork

by Chanel Tobler, $2400 (framed), Michael Reid Northern Beaches. 5 Arteriors ‘Iberis’ hanging mirror, $2985, Casa by Kate Nixon. 6 Walter G ‘Amulet Spice’ cushion, $144, Tara Dennis Store. 7 Relik ‘Orthos’ vessel, $190, Casa by Kate Nixon. 8 Meadow cocktail table, $2485, Boyd Blue. 9 Chich-bich backgammon set, $249, Tigmi Trading. 10 Avalon bar stool, $6680, Boyd Blue. For Where to Buy, see page 188. #

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EXTERIOR The home melds with the landscape, thanks

to the choice of natural materials and its low-slung lines.

Cladding in silvertop ash from Everist Timber, finished in Cutek Wood Oil and Cutek Colourtone in Black Ash.

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EARTH SONG Long, low and composed entirely of natural materials, this handsome Mornington Peninsula home is in perfect harmony with its setting.

STO RY Chris Pearson | ST YL I N G Natalie James | PHOTO GR AP HY Shannon McGrath

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Thonet dining chairs, Leonard Joel.

Jon made the dining table himself.

Gubi ‘Ronde’ pendant lights, Surrounding. Cheminees Philippe ‘Radiante’ double-sided fireplace from Wignells Heating & Cooking.

Tasmanian oak lining boards, Everist Timber. Curtains in Mokum Textiles ‘Shoji’ by Penny Cooke Design. Ceiling fan, Fanco. Onyx Up/Down wall light and Linear pendant, Richmond Lighting.

Blackbutt joinery, Homestead Cabinets & Furniture. Wall-side benchtop is Bardiglio marble from Parthenon Marble. Artwork by Helen Kennedy.

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H

unkered down in the landscape, this Mornington Peninsula home belonging to two scientists treads the earth lightly, which is exactly the way they wanted it. It ticks all the boxes for functionality and eco-friendliness – they made sure of that – but it also rolls out the welcome mat for warmth and cosiness.

Looking for a retirement project that was “not too large to manage”, owners Jon and Michelle bought the 4-hectare site peppered with native messmate trees in 2016. “We were drawn by the views and sounds of rolling farmland and bushland, and the mix of native fauna and grazing farm animals. And we could choose a location for a new house that maximised the views,” says Michelle.

They hired architect Justin Noxon to design them a home along the ridge line. “His style appealed to us, earthy with natural finishes and a great sense of building a house for its location,” says Jon. “There’s always excellent use of light, with the eye being drawn through the structure of the house and its openings to the surrounding views.”

They were also swayed by Justin’s nuanced understanding of the area. “It’s a microclimate, a cool temperate zone, with southerlies blustering in from Bass Strait, winds whipping through the valley, and four seasons in one day,” explains Justin, a long-time resident.

“Equally, a classic Mornington day can be clear and crisp, not a breath of wind and absolutely magnificent, so I have to design for this too.”

The couple presented Justin with a meticulously written wish list: “serene, clean lines; spacious but not cavernous; interesting ways of getting light into the house, such as clerestory windows and skylights”; a library wall and “a corner window seat for two, with deep sills for cups of coffee”.

As well as fulfilling these requests, the biggest challenge for Justin was that the best views were all to the south, >

The floor plan is designed with different aspects to create sheltered nooks and sun traps.

LIVING Cloud Series artwork by Helen

Kennedy (left), Big Changes IV by Jorg Schmeisser. Hall table made by Jon. DeSede ‘DS44’ sofas and armchair, Leonard Joel.

B&B Italia ‘Fat-Fat’ coffee tables, Space.

Trace rug, Designer Rugs. Ceiling fan, Fanco.

Onyx Up/Down wall lights, Richmond Lighting. Concrete flooring (throughout).

along the valley. “I had to work out how to enjoy the west and south-east, when all the sun is in the opposite direction,” says Justin. The house also had to be placed away from the messmates, so it wasn’t too shaded.

The layout grew organically. First up, Jon and Michelle specified two bedrooms, with a third that could double as a study. Then the garage grew to cater for Jon’s woodworking hobby. And then, the masterstroke: a second study between the living areas and the main bedroom as a transition zone. “Because it’s up two steps and not closed off, it’s more casual and connected with daily life than the separate study,” says Justin. Those steps are the only level change in the house, ensuring accessibility is maintained if the couple were to become less mobile.

The floor plan is zoned in three blocks, says Justin, with a central living area, a main bedroom to the left and two more bedrooms, including the separate formal study, to the right. “This arrangement creates spaces with different aspects while offering protection from those winds, especially the prevailing south-westerly, and, unlike a plain rectangle, creates nooks and sun traps.” The southern side is open and expansive, taking in broad landscapes, while the northern is protected, “contained, cocooning and smaller in scale”. “The secluded outdoor >

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The south side is open and expansive; the north is cocooning.

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HALL Handcrafted pieces such as this hall table give the home a distinctive personal touch. Onyx Up/Down wall light, Richmond Lighting. Big Changes IV artwork by Jorg Schmeisser. Coat rack, Freedom. MAIN BEDROOM Clerestory windows

THE PALETTE Dulux Natural White (interior, throughout) Cutek Colourtone Black Ash (exterior cladding)

Porter’s Paints Fired Earth

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Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.

let light without compromising privacy. Bedlinen, Scout House. Stanley side table, Jardan. Caravaggio Read wall lamp, Royal Design. Tasmanian oak lining boards, Everist Timber. MAIN ENSUITE Vivienne bath and basin, Stonebaths.

The stool is Jon’s handiwork. Wall and floor tiles, Elegance Tiles. Astra Walker ‘Metropolis’ shower and taps, Reece.

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spaces on the exposed site are unexpected surprises,” he says. That sense of containment is fostered by a veil of Virginia creeper trained on wires all around the house. On the northern side, the dense, deciduous veil ensures shade in summer but lets winter sun shine through.

Meanwhile, clerestory windows in the main bedroom, facing north, ensure the roof opens up to the light, first thing in the morning and last thing in the evening.

“The house sits subtly in the landscape,” says Justin, “camouflaged and elongated and stretched, and nestled into the hill.” The cladding, in silvertop ash, is dark-stained so it recedes into the surroundings, while the skillion roof reflects the gentle slope of the terrain.

The concrete slab with hydronic heating is robust and durable, offering thermal mass as well as a grounding soft grey palette. “It’s an elemental house, with robust finishes.

The Tasmanian oak ceilings create richness against the concrete floors, with both materials flowing throughout to unify the spaces,” he says. Internal timber beams extend outside to provide visual links with the green veil.

Elsewhere, black aluminium windows frame landscape vistas, creating a sequence of dynamic artworks. And, unsurprisingly, the home ticks many sustainability boxes.

The inspired result provides the perfect setting for Jon and Michelle to enjoy their retirement. “It’s very liveable, with excellent integration between the spaces. And the kitchen is perfectly designed for us to cook together, which is something we enjoy,” says Jon. “We can also enjoy views of countryside and wildlife from every room.”

“Our house nestles into the landscape,” adds Michelle.

And, equally, she and Jon nestle into their home, with its fireplace and in-slab heating, when those blustery Bass Strait gales rise up. “We are so fortunate to live in this beautiful house in such a special place.” > Noxon, South Melbourne, Victoria; (03) 9650 8988, noxon.com.au.

“It’s very liveable, with excellent integration between the spaces and views from every room.” JON, OWNER

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THIS IS THE LIFE

Jon and Michelle can often be found outside “managing vegetation” or enjoying their hobbies – Jon, in his workshop, where he enjoys woodworking, and Michelle pursuing craft activities inside. But the home also adapts to accommodate guests.

“When family visits, we share the central area, but also appreciate the separated sleeping zones,” says Michelle.

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THE LAYOUT

Outdoor dining

Dressing Bath

Workshop

Garage

Living Study

Kitchen

Bed

Entry

Laundry

Bath

Dining Bed

Bed

Vegetable garden

EXTERIOR Virginia creeper climbs

the framework of wires that runs around the house to provide shade as well as help the home blend into the landscape. >

COURTYARD Secluded pockets provide

shelter from the sun and the prevailing winds that blow up the valley. Tait ‘Linear’ table and bench seat, Coastal Living. Bombora Pots ‘Hampton’ urns, Red Hill Garden and Farm Supplies.

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THE SOURCE Sustainable living calls for enduring pieces in tones and materials derived from nature.

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2

6 4

5

Produced by Saffron Sylvester.

7 8

9

1 Hampton urns, from $260 (large) and from $150 (small), Bombora Pots. 2 Caravaggio ‘Read’ wall light, $505, Cult Design. 3 Designer Boys Art ‘Rhythmic Abstract III’ art print, $415, Living By Design.

4 Vintage Thonet No.19 chair, $968, 1stDibs. 5 Bamboo coat rack, $145, Howards Storage World. 6 Isse bamboo silk rug in Lapis (270x180cm), $1490, Hali. 7 Estancia Leather Co ‘Aspen’ leather occasional chair, $2445, Coco Republic. 8 In Waves vase by Valerie Vigar, $540, Saint Cloche. 9 Ligne Roset

‘One Shape’ occasional table, from $1995, Domo. For Where to Buy, see page 188. #

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COURTYARD GARDEN The rear walls

and extension are built with bricks salvaged from demolished additions to the terraces.

The owners, Michael and Angela Kelly, cleaned each one by hand before reuse. The shiplap spotted gum cladding was sourced from Jaks Timber & Joinery Specialists and Provans Timber. Basalt pavers, RMS Natural Stone & Ceramics. Outdoor dining setting, Jati Furniture. Cheminées Philippe combustion stove, Wignells Heating & Cooking. STREET ENTRANCE A pair of weeping cherry trees (Prunus ‘Snofozam’) strengthens the connection between the terraces.

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TWO BECOME ONE When the twin to their beloved terrace came on the market, one Melbourne couple jumped at the chance to double their happiness.

STO RY Stephen Crafti | P HOTO GR AP HY Willem-Dirk du Toit

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“A ‘less is more’ approach has made the property feel much larger than it is.”

TOM CARROLL, ARCHITECT

DINING Wing Lux dining setting by Kiyoshi Sadogawa for Conde House, Apato. Skygarden pendant light by

Marcel Wanders for Flos, Euroluce. Basalt floor tiles, RMS Natural Stone & Ceramics (throughout). The rug is part of the owners’ existing collection. KITCHEN Pietra Grey marble benchtops. KWC ‘Eve’ kitchen mixer, E&S. Normann Copenhagen ‘Amp’ lamps, Make Designed Objects. Erick Buch ‘Model 61’ stools, Great Dane. Joinery by Fletcher Cabinets. The timber cabinets are walnut, the polyurethane joinery is in Dulux Ceylonese. Appliances, V-Zug.

V

iewed from the street, this house in Melbourne’s inner north appears as twin Victorian-era terraces. Step beyond the front door, however, and there’s no doubt it’s all one perfectly harmonious home. “The owners, Michael and Angela Kelly, were living in one of the properties and took the opportunity to buy the neighbouring one when it came on the market,” says architect Nelson Riofrío of Riofrío Carroll Architects (RCA). Nelson and RCA co-director Tom Carroll worked closely to unite the single-storey terraces plus add a second level that is hidden from the street.

Given heritage restrictions and the fact that the terraces were in relatively good condition, the facades and front rooms of both were retained. Beyond this section, the house was demolished, removing unsympathetic extensions dating from the 1950s and the 1970s.

The terraces, comprising four separate rooms (two in each), were reworked to accommodate bedrooms with ensuites on either side of a central corridor. The bedroom to the left of the hall, the Kellys’ son’s, has doors at either end – one to the street (a former entry) and the other to a courtyard. “This arrangement is designed to allow him greater autonomy as he gets older,” says Nelson. Many of the home’s period features, including its decorative archway in the passage, were restored as well.

Open the leadlight door that marks the boundary of the Victorian structure and you could be forgiven for thinking the two homes were always one. An extension to one of the terraces to accommodate a flow-through kitchen, dining and living spaces carved out room for green space and an entertaining terrace behind the other.

Full-height glazing along the north wall of the ground-floor extension connects house and garden beautifully. “The front of the block faces west, so getting sufficient light into the house was one of the most challenging aspects of this project,” says Nelson.

The kitchen and outdoor areas were critical for Michael and Angela, who are keen cooks and entertainers. Tom and Nelson designed a 1.2x3.2-metre marble-topped island at the heart of the space, complemented by floor-to-ceiling joinery along two walls.

This joinery, too, is zoned: the appliances are integrated into a section clad in walnut veneer, while the majority of the storage is contained in cabinetry finished in Dulux Ceylonese. A lightwell at the southern boundary of the dining area – located between the kitchen and living room – boosts the overall brightness of the ground-floor extension.

To meet the Kellys’ request for a spacious main bedroom suite, Nelson and Tom designed a contemporary first-floor addition that is concealed from the street by the terraces’ original decorative parapets. Clad in shiplap spotted gum, it is sited perpendicular to the ground-floor structure and cantilevered > AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

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THE LAYOUT

Living Garden

Dining

Bed

Kitchen

First floor Bath

Terrace Terrace

Laundry Bath

Courtyard Bath

Bed Entry

Bed

Ground floor

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3.5 metres above the garden, which created cover for the terrace too. “Since there is glazing along the north and south walls downstairs, the arrangement of the upper level ensures daylight flows through to the main living areas unobstructed,” says Tom. The orientation of the first-floor extension opened up another opportunity: the ability to capture views of Melbourne’s city skyline to the west. To achieve this, Nelson and Tom created a rooftop garden that’s accessed from the main bedroom; it has since become a favourite place for Michael and Angela to sit and unwind as the sun sets.

Although the contemporary extension is in clear contrast with the Victorian terraces in terms of its architecture – a strict condition of heritage regulations in this area – nothing jars.

That’s due, in part, to the Mid-Century aesthetic that runs through the interior, a unifying thread between old and new.

All of the furnishings, including built-in joinery, are clean-lined and elegant. “Post-renovation, the home is about 280 square metres on a 350-square-metre block. That’s relatively big for this part of Melbourne, but the ‘less is more’ approach has made the property feel considerably larger,” says Tom. It’s not often that homeowners have the opportunity to buy the house next door to gain more space. But for Angela and Michael, it was a chance worth taking: they now have a property that’s bigger, more liveable and beautiful too. > Riofrío Caroll Architects, Melbourne, Victoria; rcastudio.com.au.

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STAIRWELL Above left The artwork is a poster by Richard Drew. Amp lamps, Make Designed Objects. Oak flooring, Oslek Flooring.

MAIN BEDROOM AND ENSUITE Above right and this image Artwork by David Bromley. Wing Lux low table by Kiyoshi Sadogawa for

Conde House, Apato. Kai Kristiansen ‘Paper Knife’ chair and footstool, Great Dane. Tolomeo floor lamp, Artemide. Vertical Bookcase, Sogar. Kaldewei ‘Classic Duo’ bath, E&S. Basalt floor tiles, RMS Natural Stone & Ceramics. LIVING Opposite The artworks are tribal pieces from Papua New Guinea. Wall units designed by RCA, made by Fletcher Cabinets. Wing Lux sofas by Kiyoshi Sadogawa for Conde House, Apato. 500 Table by Finn Juhl, Great Dane. Tolomeo Mega floor lamp, Artemide. Haiku ceiling fan, Big Ass Fans.

THE PALETTE Dulux Ceylonese (kitchen joinery)

Dulux Antique White USA (main walls, throughout)

Pietra Grey marble (kitchen bench)

THIS IS THE LIFE

Sustainability was so important to Michael and Angela that the demolition work was done by hand rather than machine to minimise damage to the bricks.

The couple then cleaned and stacked the bricks themselves before they were reused to build the extension. Timeconsuming, for sure, but that care has delivered a home with character and soul in spades.

COURTYARD The frame-like timber eaves shade the interiors from the hottest northern sun and join up with a small deck that forms extra seating when the family is entertaining. The west-facing roof terrace, featuring laser-cut steel balustrades, is a favourite spot for ‘me time’, especially in the evening. Carpentry by Highwill Constructions (throughout).

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1

THE SOURCE Pieces inspired by Mid-Century design meet the twin objectives of form and function.

Produced by Saffron Sylvester. Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.

2 3 5

4

6

8 7

9

10

1 Muuto ‘Grain’ pendant light, $305, Living Edge. 2 Riva 1920 ‘Boss Executive’ bench, from $6449.65, Fanuli. 3 Greenway Crackle S3 pendant light, $2310, A Design Studio. 4 Eon Sans S1 pendant light, from $685, A Design Studio. 5 Woodland ‘Nancy’ stool, $450, Globe West. 6 Oiva 8.5cm plate, $25, Marimekko. 7 Morphy Richards ‘Accents’ 1.5L pyramid kettle, $149, Harvey Norman. 8 Australian House & Garden acacia salad servers, $19.95/set, Myer. 9 Rén lounge chair by Stellar Works, $2515, Living Edge. 10 Opinion Ciatti ‘Original Ptolomeo’ bookcase,

$1135, Space. For Where to Buy, see page 188. #

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STREET ENTRANCE Repainting the home in a contemporary

colour scheme gave the whole house an inviting lift. Landscaping

by Jane Britt Design. SITTING ROOM Sideboard, Le Forge. Table lamp on sidebord from Pottery Barn. Side tables, Ikea. Sofa, armchair and rug, all Fanuli. Cushions, Ivy Lane Agency. Throw, Kit and Ace. The mirror was a wedding present. George Nelson ‘Saucer’ pendant light, Living Edge. Mokum ‘Ocean’ curtains, custom made by Pip Casey Interiors. Walls painted Dulux Vivid White (throughout).

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Balancing act With a brief that included old, new, decorative and minimalist, renovating this Victorian gem for a young family required more than a little juggling...

STO RY Georgia Madden | STYL IN G Brooke Aitken | P HOTO G R APH Y Prue Ruscoe

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“ THE AIM WAS TO CREATE MORE USEABLE SPACE AND TO CONNECT INSIDE AND OUT.” Brooke Aitken, architect

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A

KITCHEN/DINING/LIVING Owners Sam and Anita (above) are delighted with the way Brooke and Delphine have combined their differing aesthetics. Côte D’Azur marble, used on on the island and for the splashback, plays a starring role. The marble and Dust concrete-look floor tiles are from Signorino. Wall-side benchtop in Corian Glacier White. The Qasair rangehood has a mirrored surround to bounce light around the room.

Ovens, Miele. City Stik kitchen mixer, Brodware.

Arc HydroTap, Zip. Bar stools and dining chairs, The Wood Room. Dining table, Original Finish. Il Canille print by Slim Aarons, Fine Print Co. Muuto ‘Ambit’ rail light, Living Edge. Ceiling clad in Austratus western red cedar battens, Modinex (throughout).

nita and Sam came to the renovation of their home in Sydney’s inner west with very different design ideas – Anita prefers a decorative aesthetic; Sam is very much a minimalist. But there was one thing they agreed on: they wanted a beautiful and liveable family home they could share with their children Henry, 13, Zoe, 11, and Charlotte, eight. “We didn’t want an architectural showpiece, we wanted somewhere we could all be together and host friends and family, as well as retreat to,” says Sam. “Basically just a home we loved coming back to.”

The couple purchased the grand, albeit rundown, Victorian residence in 2007. At that time, it had been carved up into apartments and had a small secondary dwelling at the rear that was being used as storage.

“We loved its size and potential,” says Sam. They did a light renovation to make the home liveable, but it took a further 10 years of navigating poky rooms, cooking in an awkward kitchen and sharing the home’s one bathroom, before they were ready to dive into a serious upgrade.

Enter architect Brooke Aitken and her colleague, project architect Delphine Hernot. The pair were tasked with reworking the original part of the house to better suit the family’s lifestyle, including extending to the rear, adding a fourth bedroom and increasing the number of bathrooms. “The aim was to create more useable space and to connect inside and out,” says Brooke. The secondary dwelling was converted into a TV room for the kids and a new pool installed too.

“We retained the home’s beautiful Victorian facade, the stairs and three rooms at the front of the house. Everything beyond that was demolished,” adds Brooke. “There were some pretty major structural problems, including underpinning issues and some cracks in the walls big enough to put your finger into, and that demolition work solved a lot of them, not to mention preventing some very expensive fixes.”

In its place, Brooke and Delphine designed a generous open-plan kitchen/dining area, sunken lounge and deck. The striking marble-topped island and matching splashback are the stars of the show, paired with easy-care concrete-look floor tiles and white joinery. “The back of the house has a contemporary feel to balance out the elaborate facade,” says Brooke. “It creates a sense of surprise as you move through the house.” >

Western red cedar battens on the ceiling add the warmth and natural appeal that Anita wanted and speak to Sam’s love of Japanese architecture.

“They also bring a texture and finesse to this new part of the house that marries with the delicacy of the period features,” says Brooke.

The focus then turned to the garden. “Having a backyard in this area is a pretty amazing thing, but theirs was completely overgrown and the kids hated going into it,” says Brooke. “The property is on quite a slope, which meant there is almost a floor of difference between the front door and the back deck. We wanted to make a really easy connection for the kids to run out to the backyard, which we achieved with a gently stepped-down approach from the front of the house, through the new addition and down to the lawn and the new pool,” she says.

The layout at the front of the house was reworked, with the original dining room making way for a cosy study that opens to a sitting room.

Upstairs, the two existing bedrooms were renovated and an extra one added, along with a new family bathroom, so the children have a space to call their own. The designers then created the main bedroom suite Anita and Sam had been dreaming about. “We wanted to make sure it was a space they both loved, despite their different tastes,” says Brooke. “The patterned wall tiles in the ensuite have a sense of softness that appeals to Anita, while the open bath and shower have a Japanese feel for Sam.” Fortuitously, the renovation was completed just prior to Sydney’s first lockdown. “No longer having to share a bathroom with the kids was a big win – and then we had a lovely home to isolate in,” says Sam. > Brooke Aitken Design, Ultimo, NSW; brookeaitkendesign.com.au.

Asiel Constructions, St Leonards, NSW; @asielconstructions.

DINING Il Canille print by Slim Aarons, Fine Print Co. Dining chairs, The Wood Room. Dining table, Original Finish. L&M Home vessels, Ivy Lane Agency. Muuto ‘Ambit’ rail light, Living Edge. KITCHEN/LIVING Opposite, top and bottom left Côte D’Azur marble splashback and island benchtop, Signorino. Wall-side benchtop in Corian Glacier White. Qasair rangehood with mirrored surround. Ovens, Miele. City Stik kitchen mixer, Brodware. Arc HydroTap, Zip. Bar stools, The Wood Room. Sofa, King. Artworks by Marnie McKnight. STAIRS This stairwell marks the transition point between old and new. Sisal runner, International Floorcoverings. Wallpaper sourced on Etsy.

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H G HOUSES CHARLOTTE’S ROOM This image

Wallpaper sourced on Etsy. Bedhead and bedlinen, Adairs. Drawers and cushions, Kido Store. Lamp, Target. Artwork from Belle and Boo. MAIN BEDROOM Below and opposite A dressing room is concealed behind the ‘secret’ door. Etched Arcadia wallpaper mural, Anthropologie. Bed and bedside table, Fanuli. Bedlinen, Sheridan.

Lambert & Fils ‘Cliff’ wall light, Living Edge. Galet carpet in Shale, Bremworth.

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THIS IS THE LIFE

“Most weekends are spent at home enjoying each other’s company,” says Sam. “This typically means pool time, playing board games, watching sport on TV and the girls’ latest dance routines. The house is amazing regardless of the season, though Anita and I personally love the winter – working week over, fireplace on and a glass of red in hand… and the kids in bed.” >

THE PALETTE Dulux Milton Moon (exterior)

THE LAYOUT Entry

Dulux Blue Steel (exterior ironwork) Sitting

Bed

Dulux Obisidian (front door) Bed

Library

Bed Dining

Kitchen

Laundry

Living

Bath Bed Bath Balcony

Pool

Retreat

Retreat Bath

Ground floor

First floor

ENSUITE Contura bath, Caroma. Bath rack,

Jemmervale Designs. Ottawa wall tiles, Teranova.

Tundra Grey marble floor/shower area tiles, Signorino. Concrete basins, Falecki Furniture. City tapware and shower in Antique Bronze, Brodware.

Wall behind vanity finished in Micro Cement by Chic Coatings. KIDS’ RETREAT A standalone dwelling at the rear of the property is an ideal hangout space/guest accommodation. Artwork by Martin Sharp. Vantage aluminium windows, Architectural Window Systems. Governor bricks in Stewart, Austral Bricks. Travertine pavers, Signorino. Outdoor dining setting, The Wood Room. Deckchairs, Ici et Là. >

Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.

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Charlotte (left) and Zoe splash about in the new pool while Sam, Anita and Tilly, the family’s bordoodle pup, watch on. Hub barbecue, Everdure by Heston Blumenthal. Blackbutt decking. Deckchairs, Ici et Là.

Thewestern red cedar battens on the first floor provide privacy and shade for the main bedroom.

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1

THE SOURCE Decorative flourishes and clean lines can reside harmoniously side by side.

2

4

3

5

6

7

8

9

Produced by Saffron Sylvester.

10 1 Muuto ‘Ambit’ rail lamp, $1495, Living Edge. 2 KSM195 4.8L Artisan standmixer in Beetroot, $999, KitchenAid. 3 Multicoloured Lattice lampshade, $195, Spiro Store. 4 Ferm Living ‘Verso’ vase, $209, Designstuff. 5 Croft poly-cotton-linen fabric in Denim, $60/m, Wallpaper Direct.

6 Sea Green Ginger Jar lamp base, $789, Bragg & Co. 7 Australian House & Garden cotton and Tencel towels, $20/hand towel, $40/bath towel, $60/bath sheet, Myer. 8 Elaleh’s Rugs and Other Things IV artwork by Elle Burguez, $3200, Modern Times. 9 Fermob ‘Cocotte’ low table/stool, $200, Classic With A Twist. 10 Studio 1 ‘Amsterdam’ freestanding bath, $1499,

Harvey Norman. For Where to Buy, see page 188. #

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Life on

DISPL AY Thanks to a soulful renovation, a once-underwhelming 1980s house in an incredible location lets its owners showcase their creative personalities.

STO RY Georgia Madden | ST Y LI N G Williams Burton Leopardi | PH OTOG RAPH Y Caroline Cameron

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FOYER Wedge breezeblocks in Porcelain from Austral

Masonry are used inside and out. “The breezeblock walls are one of my favourite features,” says owner Louise. Stool, Jon Goulder. Euphorbia and planters from a wholesale nursery. Vivid engineered-oak floorboards, First Choice Flooring (throughout). STREET ENTRANCE Amber Glow crazy paving, Allstone. The feature tree is an ash species.

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efore its recent transformation, this late 1980s house didn’t have a lot going for it: drab exterior, poor flow and harsh, almost commercial, interior finishes. But since it was perched high in the Adelaide Hills, it enjoyed 180-degree views of the Adelaide Plains from the front and similarly expansive mountain and gully views from the back – vistas that immediately captivated owners Louise and Ken. “We were looking to downsize from a large, quite traditional bungalow and our first impulse was to move closer to the city, but we soon realised that being near nature was more important to us,” says Louise. “I wanted a house where my collection of Mid-Century furniture could sit comfortably, and there was something in the structure that I thought had the potential for this. Once inside, the home’s light and views won me over.”

The couple approached architect David Burton and interior designer Sophia Leopardi of Williams Burton

Leopardi to help them resolve the home’s spatial issues and to give the interior what it was lacking: warmth, emotional connection and a sense of place.

“They didn’t want extra space, just better flow and to improve the home’s connection with their beautiful surrounds,” says David. “With a moderate budget, they chose to spend their money on those areas that would most enhance their enjoyment of the home – the kitchen, living and dining areas on the ground floor, a new deck and a guestroom downstairs.”

David set about “stripping away the extraneous” and focusing the house around its views. He squared up the floor plan, removing an awkward angled partition between the entry and sunken living area, and opening up and extending the closed-off kitchen so that it flows into the open-plan living/dining space. Throughout, the existing windows were replaced with more efficient double-glazed ones – a must for a home in one of the hottest, coldest > and windiest spots in Adelaide.

“I DIDN’T WANT A MODERNIST REPLICA. I WANTED A HOME THAT FELT FRESH, ELEGANT AND PLAYFUL.” Louise, owner

HOUSES H G

KITCHEN The large artwork is a digital reproduction of Hilda

Welcomed by Stanley Spencer; the smaller pieces are family photos and travel souvenirs. Lightblocks resin benchtop in Dry Ice (white), Baresque. Hem Drifted stool, Aura Objects. Main benches are concrete by Adelaide Outdoor Kitchens. Square RH mixer tap, Voda Tapware. The open shelf is a custom design. Vase and carafe, both Ferm Living. FOYER Knowing the Interior, Heartland 2013 painting by Paul Sloan from Hugo Michell Gallery. Vintage Rodd sideboard and Bitossi lamp.

Louise bought the runner in Iran.

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KITCHEN/DINING Oven and cooktop, Fisher & Paykel. Ay Illuminate pendant lights, Spence & Lyda. Vintage Danish dining table. Louise restored the vintage TH Brown dining chairs herself. Square RH mixer tap, Voda Tapware. Box under-mount sink, Franke.

HOUSES H G At the rear, a “fairly useless” verandah made way for an expansive new deck that overlooks the gully, positioned to the southeast of the house so the kitchen and dining rooms can enjoy unobstructed views. “We only extended the footprint by about 5 square metres, but just those few gentle moves were enough to make it feel more spacious,” says David.

Out the front, a new wall of decorative breezeblocks softens the monolithic shape of the exterior. The feature carries through to the home’s entryway like a room divider, bringing with it texture and a sense of Mid-Century playfulness.

A reproduction of one of Louise’s favourite paintings – Hilda Welcomed by Stanley Spencer – hanging in the kitchen inspired the interior colour palette. “This is one of the few projects where the owners asked us to dull down the light rather than bring it in,” says Sophia. “The house faces west, so the light and heat can get very intense in the afternoon. The complex palette of bush greens and greys mellow the light and create a wonderful backdrop for Louise’s collection of art and furniture. The kitchen joinery is crafted from solid timber painted in muted sage (“Louise was aghast at the idea of a white kitchen,” says Sophia), teamed with concrete benchtops and a

concrete upstand that conceals cooking mess from the adjoining living area. The one concession to white is on the island, where one end is topped with Lightblocks (a resin product) to demarcate the meals zone.

Thoughtfully considered touches create a sense of honesty and intimacy. In the living area, for example, the existing slow-combustion fire was elevated to a feature piece with a simple tiled hearth, while a cork panel beside it offers a soft landing for casually arranged artworks. “Early in the design process Ken and I had taken a wonderful holiday to Scandinavia,” says Louise.

“In retrospect, I can see how that experience informed my desire to have the indoor spaces sit seamlessly within its setting. The house sits on top of a ridge and is subject to extreme weather conditions. The darker, complex colours contribute to a feeling of safety and shelter.”

“I’ve never been happier in a house or felt that it reflected us as well as this one,” says Louise.

“The outcome far exceeded our expectations – I still pinch myself that we could be so lucky.” > Williams Burton Leopardi, Adelaide, SA; (08) 8223 1177 or www.designbywbl.com.au.

Wetherward Constructions, Coromandel Valley, SA; www.wetherwardconstructions.com.

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THE LAYOUT

THIS IS THE LIFE

Bath Dining Laundry

Kitchen

Living

Entry

Bed

Garage Store

Bed Bath

Ground floor

THE PALETTE Dulux Domino (exterior)

Dulux Ricochet (interior, throughout)

Dulux Armada (joinery)

Bath

Lower ground

“The location is just remarkable,” says Louise.

“To the west, you can see all of Adelaide and the sea beyond. The view to the east is across a gully to Mt Skye with an Adelaide Hills panorama.”

On part of the property that slopes into the gully, Louise and Ken have begun replacing existing olive trees with native plants. “We’d love to leave this land even better than we found it.”

Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.

Bed

HOUSES H G

“OUR PRIORITIES REVOLVED AROUND COMFORT, FOOD AND COMPANY.” Louise

LIVING This page and opposite Owner Louise relaxes on a sofa

from Jardan the family has owned for 20 years. The armchairs are reupholstered vintage pieces. Resident Offset coffee table, Aura Objects. The wall and substructure surrounding the existing combustion fireplace were tiled in Minokoyo mosaics from Academy Tiles+Surfaces “so the fire doesn’t look like a blob in the corner”, says interior designer Sophia Leopardi.

Wall hanging by Kangaroo Island artist, Kenita Williamson.

The artworks on the floor are prints by Evert Ploeg (left) and Modigliani; the artwork above the corkboard is an antique.

Autumn Veneer cork sheeting, Portugal Cork. Junit Record pendant light, Schneid Studio. Billie bench, Jardan. > AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

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FRONT ENTRANCE Top left and above Landscaping by Lee Gray

Landscape Design. The decorative breezeblocks from Austral Masonry screen the house from the street and create dappled shade inside. REAR ELEVATION Top right Pre-renovation, vast expanses of concrete made the house feel dull and heavy. The decorative breezeblocks out the front and black-framed windows and support structures out the back provide just the right amount of contrast. DECK The dining table is a second-hand piece. The benches were made to match by Remington Matters. The armchairs were a roadside find; Louise painted them green and had the cushions custom made in a Tommy Bahama fabric. Compressed fibre-cement decking, James Hardie.

HOUSES H G

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THE SOURCE Mid-Century forms and landscape-driven colours combine in playful yet elegant ways.

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Produced by Saffron Sylvester. Currecncy conversion correct at time of writing.

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8 7 9

1 Ferm Living ‘Tala’ platter, $209, Designstuff. 2 Strikha pendant light, $4220, Tigmi Trading.

3 Screen in Laminex Danish Walnut, shelves in Laminex Pillarbox and wall in Laminex Porcelain Blush laminate, all from $113.20/m², Laminex. 4 Vintage Suzani 4 cushion, $325, Spiro Store. 5 Dua Relax lounge chair by Läufer & Keichel, $10,780 (leather upholstery), Fanuli. 6 When Thoughts Turn To Praxis artwork by Paul Sloan, POA, Hugo Michell Gallery. 7 Lorne ‘Totem’ vase, $70, Globe West. 8 Scalloped lampshade with cream trim, from about $215.15, Matilda Goad. 9 Islets Series coffee table, $7790,

Cult Design. For Where to Buy, see page 188. #

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DINING & TERRACE The owners spend most of their time in the

treetop level open-plan living space and adjoining terrace, which has views of the pool area below. Dining table and chairs, The Wood Room. Bowl, Mud Australia. Throw, Saardé. Outdoor furniture, Cosh Living. Bodega Freeform sandstone walling, Eco Outdoor.

HOUSES H G

NEXT LEVEL Just a stone’s throw from the beach, this contemporary home for a young family is all about laidback living, sandy feet and all.

STO RY Georgia Madden | ST Y L I NG Mel Orr | P H OTO G R APHY Tom Ferguson

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he poky 1950s cottage that once stood on this site may have been underwhelming, but its location – just a minute’s walk from Sydney’s Balmoral Beach – was not. One smart couple swiftly snapped up the dated brick dwelling and made plans to replace it with a forever home to share with their three young children.

“We had a pretty clear idea of how we wanted the house to look,” says the owner. “We wanted it to be relaxed and casual, with natural colours and tones. It needed to reflect its coastal location and be robust enough to cope with young children.”

But the sloping wedge-shaped site presented a few challenges.

The couple sought to create a five-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home with free-flowing, indoor-outdoor connection. They had seen a simple sketch of a proposed redesign that architect Andrew Vingilis, associate director at Corben Architects, had drawn up 12 years before for one of the home’s previous owners, and liked what they saw. The fact that the firm had already designed no fewer than six other houses on the same street bolstered their confidence further.

The design they eventually settled on wasn’t far off Andrew’s original drawing. “Fashions change and the design evolved slightly – for example, the owners wanted to >

HOUSES H G KITCHEN/DINING Cote D’Azur marble splashback and benchtops, CDK Stone.

Timber veneer joinery in Navurban The Oaks, New Age Veneers; the surrounding joinery is melamine. Convection/steam ovens, Wolf. Twiggy pendant lights, Spence & Lyda. KWS ‘Eve’ kitchen mixer, Winning Appliances. Dining setting, The Wood Room. Bowl, Mud Australia. Joinery by Dacora (throughout).

BUTLER’S PANTRY Opposite Custom wall panelling. Beverage centre, Vintec.

Cote D’Azur marble splashback and benchtops, CDK Stone.

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THE PALETTE Dulux Whisper White (interior, throughout) Murobond Nero 50% (exterior render)

Sikkens Ebony (exterior cladding)

FOYER Above and opposite top left Artworks by Ashleigh Holmes (on bench) and Anita West (in hall). Console, Mark Tuckey. Baskets, Papaya. Bench seat, Great Dane. Rug, Armadillo. Tongue N Groove ‘Eterno’ engineered European oak flooring, Precision Flooring (throughout). LIVING The cabinets either side of the Escea D6 1650 fireplace have mesh fronts to allow the AV equipment to be hidden away but still activated by remote. Sofa and armchairs, Jardan. Coffee table, The Wood Room. Platters from Dinosaur Designs. Cote D’Azur marble, CDK Stone. Vessels on shelves from Clay Canoe, Land by Dean, Sophie Nolan and Lane Crawford. STAIRWELL Paris Au Mois D’Août lampshades, Hub Furniture. Exterior blinds, Maxim Louvres (throughout). MAIN BEDROOM C11 highback chair, The Wood Room. Cushion, Walter G. Lisburn carpet in Cambric, Bremworth.

Aren Bianco limestone pavers (on balcony), Onsite Supply+Design. >

Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.

HOUSES H G

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H G HOUSES

soften the exterior with some curved elements and introduce texture with touches of stone,” says Andrew, who collaborated on the project with associate interior designer Karina Kerr.

“But the main internal space – a large open-plan kitchen/ living/dining area that opens onto a full-width, north-facing terrace – was the crux of the design. It’s a timeless concept and suits the way families want to live today.”

The layout spills over three floors, with the entry, main living area and an entertainer’s terrace on the ground level, all oriented to capitalise on light and garden views. “We used the site’s slope and wedge shape to our advantage,” he says. “When you walk into the house you can see straight out to the garden, and the house then opens up as you move through it, making it feel more spacious.” The sandstoneclad terrace on the lowest level, which features a built-in barbecue, heating and operable roof louvres so it can be used year-round, is one of the family’s favourite spots.

The top floor accommodates four generous bedrooms, including the spectacular main, which has a private balcony and luxe ensuite. “The owners wanted their bedroom suite to feel like a true sanctuary,” says Karina. On the bottom floor, there’s a guestroom and a family room that opens to the pool area and garden. “The owners plan to be here for many years, so we designed spaces they can grow into,” says Karina. “No doubt everyone will appreciate the sense of separation these extra spaces provides in the future.”

When it came to the interiors, robust, easy-care finishes were a must. “The owners wanted relaxed, welcoming spaces but they didn’t want to spend their whole lives maintaining them,” says Karina. The furniture is timeless and more than up to the challenges of family life, and much of the artwork is propped casually against the wall so it can be moved around as needed.

But it’s the sense of calm that really defines this house – aided, no doubt, by the cool sea breezes that gently blow through every room. “It’s a beautiful and understated home,” says Karina. Just perfect for the family that owns it. > Corben Architects, Neutral Bay, NSW; (02) 9904 1844 or corben.com.au. J Motherway Constructions, Seaforth, NSW; jmotherwayconstructions.com.au.

STUDY NOOK Dome light, Mud Australia. Chair, Cosh Living.

Desk in Navurban The Oaks veneer, New Age Veneers. Aren Bianco limestone tiles, Onsite Supply+Design. FAMILY BATHROOM Left City Stik wall set, Brodware. Brescia Caparia marble benchtop, ledge and splashback, Worldstone. Spanish wall tiles in Seabreeze (reflected in mirror), Barefoot Living. MAIN ENSUITE Opposite, top left and bottom City Stik basin tapware, City Plus shower set and heated towel rails, all Brodware. Benchtop, ledge and splashback in Calacatta Vagli marble, CDK Stone. Custom-cut Moroccan mosaic wall tiles, Barefoot Living. Moda Lucia bath, ACS Bathrooms.

POWDER ROOM Opposite, top right Mosaic wall tiles, Barefoot Living. Custom mirror by Dacora. Duomo Piccolo wall light, Nightworks Studio. City Stik basin set, Brodware. Calacatta Vagli marble, CDK Stone.

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THIS IS THE LIFE

Building this home had an unexpected side effect: it inspired the owner to do a course in interior design. “Juggling study, kids, a pregnancy and building the house all at once was a bit of an experience, but we were fortunate to be working with such a great design team and our amazing builder, Joe Motherway,” she says.

“It was fun and I learnt a lot during the process.”

THE LAYOUT Lower level

Pool Main level

Retreat

Bath

Dining

Pantry Garage

Entry Study

Living Bath Laundry

Bath Dressing

Bed

Kitchen

Upper level

Bed

Bath Bed

Family

Bed Bed

REAR EXTERIOR The designers

opted for different treatments on each level for maximum drama.

Outdoor furniture, Cosh Living.

Bodega Freeform sandstone cladding, Eco Outdoor. Render in Murobond Nero 50%. Top-floor cladding in Sikkens Ebony.

Landscape design by Spirit Level, construction by Lux Landscapes.

HOUSES H G

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THE SOURCE Tactile natural materials deliver a sunny coastal vibe year-round (even when it’s not beach weather).

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5

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2 7

9

6 10

11

1 Hive vase in Blossom, $320, Mud Australia. 2 Marnie occasional chair, $1345, Coco Republic.

3 R+D Lab ‘Luisa Acqua’ tumblers, $139/set of 2, Lee Mathews. 4 Lollipop Shape A glass pendant light

by Boris Klimek for Lasvit, $6870, Living Edge. 5 Maison Tahité ‘Vanillade’ eau de parfum, $260/100ml, Tuchuzy. 6 Aruba Voile Silver curtains, from $33/pair, Blinds Online by Tuiss. 7 Milani Assembly taps and spout set in Brushed Copper, $354.80, ABI Interiors. 8 Humphrey vessel, $169, Clo Studios.

9 Off-White x Home Swimming Logo towels, $250/set, Marais. 10 Tilda dining bench, $449, Freedom.

11 Madras jute rug (155cm diameter), $299, Freedom. For Where to Buy, see page 188. # AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

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L A E V E R G I B E TH ards. w A n ig es D r o ri te In li u n a F the Belle

in Meet the faces scooping firsts

w o N e l a On S

G a rden s Photograph by Marnie Hawson.

Potted salvia and prostrate rosemary add colour and scent to this sitting nook, part of a newly renovated Melbourne garden.

For the full story, see over the page...

P L A N T- F O C U S E D S PA C E S T H A T I N V I T E A N D D E L I G H T

Asked to create a practical garden for this Melbourne home, designer Andrew Panton incorporated a vegetable garden of raised boxes made from reclaimed railway sleepers on a surface of river pebbles. Pretty espaliered fruiting pear varieties – a Williams pear flanked by two Packham pears – are sprawled along the lattticed fence. A row of Hill’s fig (Ficus microcarpa var. hillii ‘Flash’) forms a lush backdrop along the rear boundary while English lavender, prostrate rosemary and salvia provide splashes of colour and scent.

GARDENS H G

L AW N & O R D E R Wanting to transform their garden into a place to welcome guests, this young family opted for a neat, calming space that connects with the indoors.

STO RY Elizabeth Wilson | PH OTO G R A PH Y Marnie Hawson

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H G GARDENS The view from the top dining terrace takes in the lower, more casual, alfresco area which is outlined by a rectangle of dwarf mondo grass (Ophiopogon japonicus ‘Nanus’). The Sir Walter Buffalo lawn is an inviting space for children and pets alike. OPPOSITE A row of Hills fig is underplanted with prostrate rosemary and below that, a row of star jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides).

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A

s an interior designer, Lisa Buxton practices a ‘less is more’ approach – and that’s exactly what she was seeking in the redesign of her Melbourne garden.

Lisa and her husband Ari Lakman bought their 1930s, Tudor-style home in late 2019. At the time, they had one baby daughter Mia, now three, and Lisa was pregnant with son Louie, now 12 months. Understandably, the desire to create a child-friendly environment indoors and out, was top of mind. The existing rear garden was a wonderful size at 250 square metres, but it felt a little crowded and didn’t relate easily to the home. “When we arrived, there were eight huge pear trees in the garden and while they were lovely in themselves, they were two storeys high, making the garden – and the house – very dark.”

For Lisa and Ari, the ‘mini forest’ limited the garden’s useability.

“With two little kids, outdoor play areas are essential. Plus, light is very important to us and we felt the outside needed to talk to the inside,” says Lisa. “We wanted the garden to be functional as well as beautiful.”

While Lisa attended to lightening and modernising the house, she and Ari called on friend and landscape designer Andrew Panton to overhaul the garden. Their key request was to make it more practical, with areas of open space and places for entertaining. Stylistically, Lisa wanted a palette of greens, whites and purples, and “everything no-fuss”.

While Andrew doesn’t like to remove plants unnecessarily, he felt the old pear trees needed to go, and their removal immediately lit up the home and paved the way for new plantings. In their place, he created a central area of level lawn edged in English box (Buxus sempervirens) and star jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides). The lawn is surrounded by a variety of destination points including a vegetable garden and firepit to one side, and two dining terraces closer to the home. He also added landscaping around the existing pool, planting hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Bridal Bouquet’) and Mexican orange >

Feature plants _______ Hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Bridal Bouquet’) Mexican orange blossom (Choisya ternata) English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) Prostrate rosemary (Rosemarinus officinalis ‘Prostratus’) English box (Buxus sempervirens) HEDGES/SCREENING Hill’s fig (Ficus microcarpa var. hillii ‘Flash’) FRUIT TREES Espaliered Packham pear (Pyrus communis ‘Packham’s triumph’) and Williams pear (Pyrus communis ‘William’) Lemon tree (Citrus limon ‘Lisbon Lemon’)

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GARDENS H G

blossom (Choisya ternata) underneath an existing row of silver birch trees along the boundary fence. “We kept the birch trees because they were healthy and established, and looked beautiful,” says Andrew.

Along the back boundary fence he planted a row of Hill’s fig trees (Ficus microcarpa var. hillii ‘Flash’) which have grown quickly to form a lush green hedge and backdrop. Underneath them is a row of English lavender with prostrate rosemary spilling over a low retaining wall. A custom bench seat of Tasmanian oak battens sitting on bluestone pillars is fringed by star jasmine.

“The garden is semi-formal with touches of formality here and there,” says Andrew. “I’ve kept the species palette simple and the focus on practicality.” For the lawn he chose Sir Walter Buffalo: “It’s kid- and pet-friendly, hardy and nice-looking.”

There’s a strong foliage focus, comprising different shades of green. “As it grows, it will become a garden of lush layers,” says Andrew. “But having said that, in spring there are bursts of colour with the rosemary, lavender and then the hydrangeas – both white and purple – in flower. And there’s purple-flowering Chinese wisteria growing up the house.”

Lisa and Ari were keen to incorporate a productive garden and Andrew has created a vegetable ‘patch’ comprising two raised

boxes made from reclaimed railway sleepers, sitting on a pebble surface. Three espaliered pears spread neatly along the boundary fence, underplanted with aromatic prostrate rosemary. Lisa, Ari and little Mia have enjoyed their vegetable-growing experiments.

During summer they harvested watermelons, strawberries, herbs, tomatoes, zucchinis, cucumbers and carrots. “I love cooking and we wanted the kids to learn about growing food,” says Lisa.

“It’s been a journey. Everything has grown really well except for the carrots – they were only 2 centimetres long but they were Mia’s favourites!” Andrew custom-designed a cast-iron firepit, which sits between the vegetable boxes and is a popular gathering point in winter.

Lisa and Ari entertain a lot, and having dedicated outdoor dining areas was important, so Andrew designed two alfresco areas – a top terrace which connects to the formal living area, and a lower terrace where the vibe is more casual. “We were lucky we were able to redesign the home and garden together,” says Lisa. “They’re connected and cohesive – we can open all the doors and the outside comes inside. And when I look out # onto the garden, it feels very peaceful.”

Andrew Panton Design, Melbourne, Victoria; andrewpantondesign.com.

Andrew softened the existing pool landscaping with additional plantings, including lush glossy-leafed shrubs Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Bridal Bouquet’ and Choisya ternata under the birch trees. A low hedge of English box helps define the pool zone. OPPOSITE Clockwise from top left The silver birch tree (Betula pendula) underplanted with hydrangeas and Choisya. Lisa and Ari with their border terrier, Boris. An espaliered Packham pear. The redesigned alfresco dining areas help connect the interiors with the garden.

Landscape architect Sophie Greive from Think Outside Gardens devised a contemporary garden design to match the recent extension to the rear of the home. Clean lines coupled with a simple but interesting plant palette allow the architecture to shine.

GARDENS H G

PE R F E C T H A R MON Y A complete garden overhaul helped transform this newly renovated Sydney house into one totally fabulous package.

STORY Tammy Huynh | PH OTO G R A P HY Anson Smart

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fter the owners had completed an architect-designed extension on their 1940s home on Sydney’s North Shore, they knew the garden needed to follow suit. “Because the site had been a construction zone, it was a wasteland of rubble and weeds, and the uneven levels in the rear garden made walking around a challenge,” says landscape architect Sophie Greive of Think Outside Gardens, who was engaged to renovate the space.

The owners wanted both front and back gardens redesigned, but contrasting facades called for separate briefs. A “traditional, pretty landscape with seasonal flowering interest” was the plan for the 1940s frontage; with “a low-maintenance design with a

balance of hard surfaces and greenery” for the modern pavilion at the rear. Having plenty of areas for their children to play was crucial, as was screening neighbouring houses.

At the rear, Sophie echoed the clean lines and contemporary materials of the extension in her hardscaping choices. An expanse of large-format porcelain tiles flows from the pavilion through to a terrace, accentuating the design and connecting it to the landscape.

The planting palette is modern to match, with plenty of contrasting heights, textures, and shapes to provide interest. A sweet viburnum hedge lines the perimeter, mingling with Teddy Bear magnolia, rhapis palms, and clumps of dwarf cardamon. The silvery tones

of Persian shield (Strobilanthes gossypinus) combine with the rich burgundy tones of the Chinese fringe flower (Loropetalum ‘Plum Gorgeous’). In the centre of the garden, an existing trio of kentia palms (Howea fosteriana) were retained for “scale and softness” and are bordered by a low hedge of Japanese box.

To resolve the site’s level changes, Sophie looked to the house for inspiration. “The rear of the home steps down the sloping block, so the garden was designed in the same way,” she says. To navigate between the patio and lower expanse of lawn, Sophie installed broad stairs to one side and a gentle ‘lawn ramp’ for access on the opposite side. This allows the children to easily play between >

ABOVE An informal path of sandstone flagging surrounded by dichondra winds its way around the alfresco area linking it to the rear of the garage.

OPPOSITE, TOP ROW From left A Japanese maple (Acer palmatum ‘Bloodgood’) is a welcoming feature at the front of the home. Purple mist flower (Eupatorium megalophyllum) offers seasonal interest. Large, wide steps flow into the lawn. MIDDLE ROW From left Sweet viburnum is clipped into

a hedge to give the garden a neat border. Salvia ‘Santa Barbara’ dances underneath the Japanese maple. Japanese box gives structure to the beds.

BOTTOM ROW From left A dwarf lilly pilly (Acmena sp.) intermingles with dwarf cardamom. The beds next to the pavilion are filled with Chinese fringe flower (Loropetalum ‘Plum Gorgeous’), Persian shield (Strobilanthes gossypinus) and Magnolia ‘Teddy Bear’.

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H G GARDENS Feature plants Groundcovers ● Dichondra repens Shrubs & perennials ● Japanese box ● Persian shield (Strobilanthes gossypinus) ● Chinese fringe flower (Loropetalum ‘Plum Gorgeous’) ● Sweet viburnum (Viburnum odoratissima) ● Dwarf cardamom (Alpinia nutans) ● Mexican sage (Salvia leucantha ‘Santa Barbara’) ● Purple mist flower (Eupatorium megalophyllum) ● Rhaphiolepis ‘Springtime’ ● Camellia ‘Early Pearly’ Trees ● Teddy bear magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora ‘Teddy Bear’) ● Japanese maple (Acer palmatum ‘Bloodgood’) ● Kentia palm (Howea fosteriana)

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the two spaces but also strikes a good balance of greenery and hardscaping.

At the front of the property, Sir Walter Buffalo lawn is framed by a low hedge of Japanese box. “This mirrors the planting in the rear garden and helps to create a sense of cohesiveness throughout the property,” says Sophie. Seasonal colour is delivered via Camellia ‘Early Pearly’, Rhaphiolepis indica ‘Springtime’, and sprinklings of Salvia ‘Santa Barbara’ and purple mist plant (Eupatorium

megalophyllum). “This more traditional planting suits the heritage architecture at the front of the house,” says Sophie.

The owners are absolutely delighted with the outcome. “There’s a lot to love about this garden,” says the owner. “It’s visually interesting, with eye-catching elements at every level, plenty of space for child’s play, but above all, it’s relaxing.” # Think Outside Gardens, Paddington, NSW; 1300 460 690 or thinkoutsidegardens.com.au.

A lawn ‘ramp’ neatly resolves the challenges of a sloping site, provides easy access to the lower lawn and encourages children to engage in active play.

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GARDENS H G

Blaze of glory At this time of year, many deciduous trees are at their best, dressed in rich russets and golds as they celebrate the change of season. Here, Tammy Huynh’s top five.

O

ne of nature’s most spectacular visual displays is the changing colours of deciduous trees. The transition to autumn is the turning point, with clear days and cool nights signifying it’s time for the seasonal show. Gardens are set aglow with fiery shades of red, gold, copper, yellow and orange. The kaleidoscope of crimson, amber and russet tones differ between trees and the intensity varies between climes too, with colours often more intense in cooler climates but they can still show up well in temperate regions too.

CHINESE PISTACHIO (PISTACIA CHINENSIS)

MAPLES (ACER SPP.)

GOLDEN ASH (FRAXINUS EXCELSIOR ‘AUREA’)

Popular maples for autumn colour include Japanese maples (Acer palmatum cultivars) and red or lipstick maples (A. rubrum cultivars).

Japanese maples are greatly varied in their leaf shapes and growth forms, and are a good choice for small gardens as many cultivars grow to 7 metres or less. ‘Sango Kaku’ and ‘Bloodgood’ eventually reach 5 metres. Lipstick maples are taller, generally reaching between 10-12 metres in height, perfect for medium-large gardens and avenue plantings. ‘October Glory’ and ‘Fairview Flame’ are popular choices.

A new leaf

This small, spreading tree (8-10 metres) is a wonderful choice for warmer climates. The glossy green foliage turns vivid shades of scarlet and amber in autumn, provided night temperatures average 6-7˚C. It has a loose symmetrical habit with the lower branches attractively weeping with age. Grows best in full sun and well-drained soil. While related to the pistachio tree, the fruit is not edible.

A handsome tree with bright, lime-yellow leaves on a broad, rounded crown. In autumn, the foliage transitions through rich golden hues before falling. Once the leaves have dropped, pale-yellow bark with sooty black buds is revealed for a striking winter display. Truly a tree with year-round appeal. It’s ideal for small gardens and is a great shade tree in summer. Loves full sun and well-drained, compost-rich soil. Will tolerate drought conditions once established.

Fallen leaves can be a slight annoyance to clean up, but they can play a valuable part in your garden. Instead of throwing them in the greenwaste bin, collect and turn them into leaf mould. As leaves break down, they turn into leaf mould, a rich source of organic matter that can be used to improve soils and potting mixes. Fill an openweave hessian sack or similar with leaves, lightly moisten and store in a cool, shaded spot. Leaves eventually break down and will be ready for use once it resembles a dark crumbly mix – much like compost – after 6-12 months.

CRABAPPLE (MALUS SPP.)

Photograph from Alamy.

EASTERN REDBUD (CERCIS CANADENSIS ‘FOREST PANSY’)

The heart-shaped, burgundy foliage of this deciduous tree (pictured) is highly ornamental and as such, often used for contrast against green or silver-leaved plants. In summer, the leaves turn purplish-green then yellow, then bronze as the weather cools. Growing up to 5 metres, it’s an elegant choice for small to medium gardens. Give it a spot in full sun or part shade. Good drainage is essential; drought-tolerant once established.

A much-loved tree for its floriferous spring blossom display but it’s well worth growing for its glorious autumnal show too. The glossy green foliage becomes fabulous shades of burnt orange and depending on the variety, the branches may also be decorated with crimson-red (edible) fruit. Choose a sunny spot with welldrained, organically enriched soil. M. ioensis ‘Plena’ is a crowd favourite, growing to 6 metres high and producing masses of white to pink blossoms in spring. #

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BISTRO COLLECTION Iconic designs created for modern life.

Karen Davis & Pepa Martin Friends Karen (left) and Pepa bonded over their mutual love of textiles and wabi-sabi.

They founded their fabric dyeing and design studio, Shibori, in 2005.

PH OTOG R A PH Y Will Horner

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THE CREATIVE TYPE H G

Hair & make-up by Samantha Powell. Photography by Mark Pokorny (sculpture), courtesy of the artist and Sullivan+Strumpf & Alamy (Japan).

“Karen and I both studied other mediums before textile design. It’s the perfect fit for us – it fulfils our dual needs for creativity and practicality.” Pepa Martin What is shibori? Karen: Shibori is a traditional Japanese art form of resist-dyeing. It’s been part of Japanese culture for thousands of years and respected for its beauty, intricacies and diverse techniques. The process involves compressing and exposing areas of cloth to create patterns with indigo dye: these patterns can be precisely planned and geometric or more textural and whimsical.

When and how did you fall in love with the medium? Pepa: We met while studying textile design at the National Art School in 2004 and immediately connected. Despite our differences in just about everything, we bonded on our lack of interest in perfection, and the precision required for screen printing. Our frustrations made us more and more interested in wabi-sabi, the Japanese philosophy of appreciating the beauty in the ‘imperfect’. K: After being shown the shibori technique in class, we saw infinite possibilities that we could experiment with to create new things that intrigued us both.

What is the scope of the work you do? K: We thrive on jobs that take us out of our comfort zone – if it requires a crane or cherry picker, we are all over it! We have made custom-dyed leather headboards for each of the rooms at the magnificent Elements of Byron resort as well as soft furnishings for Hotel Nobu Barcelona. We have worked with fashion designers and alongside school students doing their major works. We love hearing people’s ideas then pushing them further.

How does your average working day unfold?

P: It can go anywhere. If we aren’t dyeing fabric or leather for a custom job, we could be working on a new design for our commercial fabrics or wallpapers. K: We teach a lot of workshops and people from all walks of life come from all over – you never know who is going to knock on the door next.

What do you love about your work? P: We love experimenting with random ideas or materials.

There might be challenges but figuring a way around them is what we do best. Giving up is never an option! K: The excitement we get from shibori, working out how a pattern works or finding a new variation on a typical technique turns us into children again, even after nearly 20 years of doing it. How many jobs do that?

Do you listen to any music or podcasts while you work? K: Sometimes we become so transfixed on working we don’t even notice we have worked in silence all day, while other days feel empty without music.

What has been the biggest challenge of your career? P: We have a great friendship and our love of shibori has really morphed us into a third entity that is neither Pepa or Karen. What one lacks the other picks up. For me, having multiple sclerosis (MS) has been the biggest challenge. It may be my body but it impacts Karen’s life too – and for me, that is the hardest thing. Accepting the physical challenges MS has presented me with has been very trying, but Karen has helped me over every hurdle.

Is there a particular achievement you are most happy with to date? K: We are very proud to have achieved so much with Shibori. It’s a bit surreal, similar to realising you have aged but still feel like your teenage self. Our business offers us many different creative outlets, including collaborations with Materalised and wallpaper company Milton & King.

Your strategies for achieving good work-life balance? P: Dogs! They force you outside, they make you socialise, they attract people into the studio, they make you laugh and play and definitely let you know when it’s park time.

What nourishes your creativity? P: Teaching is the best way to rejuvenate your creativity.

People are so inspiring and often come up with amazing ideas without even trying.

Who are the creatives you admire? P: Growing up with a Spanish painter father, I was always drawn towards the strong textures in his oil paintings. The walls of our home were his canvas and there were murals on many of the ceilings. Then there are artists like Ken Done who commercialised his paintings by transforming them into bedlinens and found ways to use his art in the home. I love the idea of art being versatile and useful or used in the everyday.

K: Ramesh Mario Nithiyeandran. I adore his flamboyant ceramics and his natural creativity.

Tell us about a travel destination that has inspired you in your work… P: Japan, of course, has been instrumental in our creative journey – there are always new places to go, new shibori artisans to meet. But we have followed fabric to all corners – Indonesia, India, Morocco... Textiles are a fundamental part of the human condition, so there’s always something inspiring on the horizon.

Your dream project? K: There are more dreams than time to think of them! We’d love to dress a whole building exterior with shibori or sails on a yacht? Maybe a shibori light show? Not sure what it will be but dreams can come true! # Shibori; www.shibori.com.au.

OPPOSITE Karen (left), Pepa and Pepa’s dog Bori in the Shibori studio in Sydney’s inner west.

All of the textiles pictured, including the trio’s outfits, are hand-dyed, showcasing the versatility of the shibori technique and the indigo tones synonymous with the art form.

KAREN AND PEPA’S FAVOURITE THINGS From top 2017 Limited Edition Sheridan bedlinen by Ken Done.

Shibori Birds wallpaper

by Shibori, $215/10m roll, Milton & King. Bi-head with White T-shirt sculpture by Ramesh Mario Nithiyendran, Sullivan+Strumpf. Scenery of Japan, the home of shibori.

Breathtaking wall art is easy to acquire with Designer Boys Art, where you’ll find works to suit all interiors.

The Mayfair Floral artworks, $865, will instantly add beauty to your home. designerboyscollections.com

Let Artusi help you create the perfect outdoor kitchen, where top-quality materials are matched with outstanding European appliances. Explore the various options at artusi.com.au.

From Provincial Home Living comes the familyfriendly Kandos sofa, $3499 – it’s a generous 270cm wide and is upholstered in 100% linen. Timelessly elegant, perfectly comfy. provincialhomeliving.com.au

H&G ESSENTIALS Preparing for a large celebration is easy with the KitchenAid 13-cup food processor, from Harvey Norman. It comes with a multi-purpose blade, dicing kit, dough blade and reversible shredding discs. harveynorman.com.au

Create a beautiful lifestyle and home with these must-have products.

Lighting designer Thomas O'Brien is the mind behind the Piaf Two-Light Linear Pendant from The Montauk Lighting Co. It's perfect for above a kitchen island or to grace a dining room. $1199. montauklightingco.com

The Odessa oval dining table, designed by Mauro Lipparini for Ligne Roset, is available at Domo.

Its streamlined ceramic tabletop floats on arches of lacquered steel. From $14,850. domo.com.au

Inspired by London’s Georgian townhouses and Victorian mansions, the Park Lane Series by Austral Bricks (from $2110 per 1000) oozes elegance and refined taste. brickworks.com.au

Shabargan rugs from Hali Rugs are handknotted in the remote villages of Afghanistan. Made from hand-spun wool, these are timeless masterpieces that will work in any room. From $3990. hali.com.au

For the widest selection of wallpapers – chosen from around the globe – visit wallpaperdirect.com. There are design ideas inspire you, plus everything from classic styles to the latest wallpaper trends. wallpaperdirect.com

Have five free fabric samples sent straight to your door for your next project. Neutral colours, interesting textures, bold prints and pops of colour – explore your options today at Wynstan. wynstan.com.au

From Dunn & Farrugia Fencing and Gates comes the ColorMax Allysleeper, which pairs beautifully with the ColorMax boundary fence. Made from powdercoated extruded aluminium. dunnandfarrugia.com.

YO U R C H O I C E S

inspiration station available

MOOD collection window furnishings stockist

Information correct as at February 2022

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