Poppy's Room Reveal

As a sassy and energetic four-year-old, Poppy’s room had to be full of character.

PHOTOGRAPHY FRANÇOISE BAUDET, DESIGN SAMANTHA HOWKINS STYLING, MADELINE MCFARLANE

Bursting with happiness and bright energy, we were instantly drawn into Poppy’s world. A joyful world of play and laughter.

Poppy’s mum, Samantha Howkins, was inspired to create this room to be just like Poppy herself – vibrant and fun-loving. As a sassy and energetic four-yearold, Poppy’s room had to be full of character. Sam achieved this with bright pops of colour throughout, personal touches such as Poppy’s own art work on display, and a bold, personalised keepsake on the wall.

Sam’s natural style is modern and minimal. It is a theme that runs through the entire home and may be considered contrary to bright and characterful. Sam was able to balance this with considered storage and sophisticated patterns in complementary tones.

Sam’s natural style is modern and minimal.

“The Incy Interiors Sybella Ottoman is perfect for Poppy’s toys and the chest of drawers (Malm by Ikea) for everything else” says Sam.

Incy Interiors Sybella Ottoman pictured above

The use of layered Rachel Castles linen on the bed and art on the walls brings a consistency to the colour palette that calms the room down, keeping it in-line with the rest of the home. The Artek Alvar Aalto stool in orange was an inspired choice. Its classic, minimalist design brings an unexpected elegance to the room without sacrificing character.

Functionality was key to creating this space. It is stylish, of course, but also practical and low maintenance. “Poppy loves to take herself off to corners of her room to immerse herself in play” explains Sam. It was essential that the room catered for this with dedicated, clutter-free play spaces for Poppy and her friends to enjoy. “One of my favourite things about the space is the fact that the room can become a play space with things everywhere, and quickly contract back into a tidy room – it’s a functional space that Poppy loves playing in” says Sam.

The period features in this space are breathtaking. The stunning fireplace, high ceilings and stain glass windows are classic features of the era. However, working with such beauty was not without its challenges. Nailing the floor plan was tricky. Sam carefully resolved this by keeping the furniture minimal and neutral.

Poppy’s bed was lovingly crafted by her grandfather and is one of Poppy’s favourite features. It feels right at home centrally located in the room, nestled in the original arches reminiscent of the original home. With its layers and textures, it is a welcome sight on entry to the room.

Poppy’s dolls’ house is a stand out. It was custom made by Whimsy Woods and the attention to detail is phenomenal. The open front is both practical and aesthetically pleasing. Located in its own little nook, Sam has created a well-loved play space that could not be more fitting for the home. Its neutral design makes a statement yet it does not overwhelm in the slightest.

Dollhouse custom made by Whimsy Woods

This room so gracefully balances the practicalities with style. The considered design is a gift that Poppy and her friends will enjoy for years to come.

NUMERO 74 GARLAND BUNTING FLAGS VELVET DUSTY PINK $29 LEOANDBELLA.COM.AU

FERN QUILT COVER $135 CASTLEANDTHINGS.COM.AU

BELLE & CO LIVING GREY STORAGE CASES $129/$159 BELLEANDCOLIVING.COM.AU

TDE MINI LILAC CROSS BODY BAG $99.95 THEDAILYEDITED.COM

INCY INTERIORS SYBILLA OTTOMAN $499 INCYINTERIORS.COM.AU

ATRIUM WISH METALLIC COPPER $260 LILLYANDLOLLY.COM.AU