A Melbourne interior designer’s Sydney base is light, bright and cosier than any hotel

This article details the renovation of a Sydney apartment by Jacob Olsen Interiors, transforming it into an elegant pied-à-terre with a modern Art Deco influence. The clients, who already resided in Observatory Tower, sought a larger apartment offering superior harbor views. A primary challenge in the renovation was the limited natural light in the entry, kitchen, and master bedroom, common in buildings converted from offices. To mitigate this, narrow corridors leading to the kitchen and living areas were removed, allowing natural light from the harbor-facing balcony to permeate deeper into the apartment. Another significant challenge stemmed from the building's past as an office, resulting in lower ceiling heights. To counteract this, Jacob Olsen utilized crisp, bright white paint for the walls, specifically Dulux 'Vivid White,' in contrast with dark chocolate timber floors in Woodcut 'Osaka Brown.' This design choice served to visually elevate the ceilings and frame the panoramic Sydney Harbour views. The renovation was also subject to tight deadlines as the clients planned to sell the property shortly after completion, necessitating seamless coordination among all parties given the apartment's location on the 21st floor of Observatory Tower. The interior design drew inspiration from the clients' lifestyle as part-time Sydney residents, focusing on creating a refined city escape. Their extensive collection of art and antiques, gathered from their travels, was a key consideration in the design process. The aesthetic aimed for understated elegance with an Art Deco sensibility, achieved through a blend of contemporary and classic elements. Finishes such as fluted glass, polished chrome and nickel, black-and-white marble, and dark timber floors were incorporated to evoke the Art Deco era while maintaining a bright and airy feel. Key design features included combining two bedrooms to form a spacious master suite with a lounge, walk-in robe, and ensuite. The kitchen was outfitted with a marble-clad island bench, an open bar, and Shaker cabinets featuring fluted glass inlays. The bathrooms showcased dramatic marble combinations, such as Calacatta Apuano on vanities and Nero Marquina on walls, with 'Labyrinth' mosaic flooring in Carrara and Nero Marquina. Light-colored stone, specifically Athena from Cav'Art Designer Stone, and light-hued joinery in Dulux 'Terrace White' were employed to enhance the sense of space. Transparent sheer curtains were installed to preserve the harbor views while ensuring privacy and optimal light control. The project concluded successfully, with the clients reportedly so pleased with the outcome that they delayed listing the property to enjoy the renovated space longer, appreciating its lightness, warmth, and glamorous yet refined atmosphere. #SydneyApartment #ArtDecoInfluence #InteriorDesign #LuxuryLiving #HomeRenovation #ObservatoryTower #ModernElegance #SpaceMaximization #MarbleInteriors

Interior designer Elise Croker has transformed her 1920s Art Deco apartment in Woollahra, Sydney, into a unique Airbnb rental named Frida's. This is the fourth property Croker, a self-taught designer and nurse, has renovated for short-term stays, driven by a desire to create comfortable and happy spaces. The apartment's design emphasizes character and personality, shunning overly perfect aesthetics. A graphic wallpaper from Casamance around the fireplace serves as a central design element, with its textural, earthy colors informing the palette throughout the apartment. These colors, described as 'dirty colors,' are intended to evoke an earthy and calming sensation, as exemplified by the green carpet in the bedrooms, which provides a soft, tactile experience underfoot. Croker's design approach is intuitive, stemming from her nursing background, which prioritizes comfort and well-being. She carefully selects art pieces that complement the home's overall aesthetic, often incorporating timber, black, white, and green elements to connect with nature. The renovation of the Woollahra apartment was largely superficial, focusing on updates rather than structural changes. The original cornices and skirting were preserved to maintain the apartment's historical integrity, aligning with a gentle and sustainable renovation philosophy. The kitchen and bathroom, originally from the 1980s, were completely overhauled. The Woollahra location was chosen for its community feel, which reminded Croker of a country town within a large city. The top-floor apartment offers good natural light with a north-east facing orientation and views of Double Bay and Bellview Hill. Key features of the renovation include a green kitchen painted in Porters Paint 'Sediment,' chosen for its dark, elegant tone that changes with the sunlight. Lemon wallpaper from Morris & Co. throughout the space influences the overall mood, with its yellow tones echoed in other design choices. The main bedroom features pink walls and a custom-made bed head by Croker, crafted from plywood and upholstered in leftover boucle and a blue-green stripe, creating an elegant and luxurious feel. In one of the bedrooms, two low-lying bunks are centrally placed, a quirky decision that maximizes sleeping space without overwhelming the room. Croker sources art from up-and-coming artists, often through platforms like BlueThumb, and also finds unique pieces at markets and antique stores. Old-style light fittings, sourced from a local shop, and hardware from Trad Co contribute to the Art Deco ambiance and tactile experience, appealing to the five senses. Custom-made cabinets and wardrobes with curved and fluted ends, painted in Porters Paints 'Obsidian,' demonstrate Croker's innovative approach and willingness to challenge traditional craftspeople. The renovated bathroom also heavily features green tiles, harmonizing with the overall color scheme and the building's Art Deco heritage. The living room includes a gas log fireplace, a library with vintage collections, and various books, further enhancing the eclectic and welcoming atmosphere of Frida's. #ArtDeco #SydneyApartment #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #AirbnbStay #EclecticStyle #Woollahra #EliseCroker

This article details the transformation of a three-story Sydney beachside home by interior designer David Flack, founder of Flack Studio. The client, a hardworking New Yorker with a blended family, sought a complete respite from his busy life, and while the original home featured a calming "white on travertine on white" coastal aesthetic, it didn't align with his personality. Flack, known for his intuitive design approach that eschews extensive questioning in favor of understanding a client's essence and lifestyle, aimed to create a home that reflected the client's witty, straight-shooting, and kind nature, while also incorporating a blend of New York, European, and Australian influences. Despite no significant structural changes beyond the addition of a bathroom, Flack Studio reimagined every aspect of the interiors. This involved introducing rich materials like walnut and American oak, polished plaster in jewel tones, terracotta tiles, and a diverse selection of marbles. The design intent was to evoke a sense of global sophistication. For instance, the modern kitchen features a hammered brass rangehood, Portuguese tiles, and rust-colored stone, creating a look that Flack describes as reminiscent of a Renaissance oil painting, or a blend of "Mexicana meets Milan" with Palladiana flooring and handmade checkerboard tiles. The dining area, which connects to the kitchen, includes a banquette as requested by the owner, complemented by an organic-shaped Christophe Delcourt dining table and Mario Bellini chairs, alongside art by Nabilah Nordin and Reko Rennie. The living room exudes a brownstone-salon vibe, characterized by timber library walls, timeless furniture, and a curated collection of art. Flack emphasizes that this space, despite facing the ocean, deliberately avoids a typical coastal aesthetic, aiming instead for an antithesis of beachside Sydney property design. The lower-ground level features a cellar and tasting room that channels a 1970s nightclub aesthetic, complete with Kiron Robinson neon wall art and pieces by Indigenous Australian artist Tracey Moffatt. Attention to intricate details is a hallmark of Flack Studio's work, such as a thin red line subtly integrated into the library joinery. This level of bespoke craftsmanship is fostered by clients who appreciate such nuances. The home also boasts a carefully chosen art collection, including works by prominent artists like Daniel Boyd, Dale Frank, Bill Henson, and Tracey Moffatt, alongside pieces from emerging artists. The bathrooms incorporate American oak, Opus marble, and vintage Murano glass lights, creating dramatic and tactile spaces. The client's satisfaction is evident in his ongoing communication with Flack, sharing his continued love for the home and photos of family gatherings, highlighting the success of the personalized and deeply considered design. #InteriorDesign #FlackStudio #SydneyHome #ModernCoastal #LuxuryInteriors #CustomDesign #ArtCollection #Materiality

The article presents a case study of a Sydney apartment in Potts Point, a neighborhood known for its European ambiance, which was transformed by designer Tamsin Johnson. Originally an ordinary new build with modest proportions, the property underwent a complete renovation, demonstrating Johnson’s philosophy that small spaces can be exceptionally creative. The project involved gutting the entire interior, making it an entirely new design. The client, a young doctor, sought a comfortable and immersive escape from a demanding work life, with a particular emphasis on sophisticated kitchen functionalities. Tamsin Johnson is recognized for her ability to blend different periods and global styles, creating luxurious and livable spaces. For this apartment, she drew inspiration from the ornate decorations found in early 1900s European hotels, aiming to enrich every detail and envelop the owner in comfort. The redesign focused on achieving a refined yet eclectic aesthetic, incorporating elements of modernism, brutalism, and Art Deco. Key structural changes included the installation of steel-framed doors and windows and the enlargement of interior openings to eliminate any trace of the original mundane construction. The apartment now features a complex but harmonious dialogue between various styles. Furnishings sourced from Tamsin Johnson’s Sydney showroom, such as a 1980s green ribbon baroque chair by Anacleto Spazzapan and a 1950s Venetian pendant in the kitchen, contribute to its unique character. The designer highlights the importance of built-in bespoke joinery, particularly the living room fireplace, for its sculptural strength that anchors the room amidst its elaborate decor. Luxurious materials are prominently used throughout, with extensive application of marble and velvet on seating in the living and media rooms. Johnson emphasizes the interplay of textures—glass, sculpted timber, velvet, stone, and mirror—to create a visually rich and layered environment. The color palette is described as saturated but mild, deliberately avoiding vivid tones to maintain a calming atmosphere. Contrary to conventional wisdom about small spaces, Johnson advocates for a maximalist approach, encouraging designers not to fear scale but to infuse rich intimacy and visual nourishment into compact living areas. The apartment serves as an example of how a small space can become a special, jewel-box home through creative and thoughtful design. #SydneyHome #EclecticDesign #TamsinJohnson #InteriorDesign #SmallSpaceDesign #LuxuryInteriors #ArtDecoInfluence #MaximalistDesign #HomeRenovation

Australia's diverse coastline offers a unique setting for luxurious homes, attracting both homeowners and designers. These properties, whether situated harbourside or beachside, are characterized by their ability to integrate spectacular views with sophisticated interiors, effectively blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living. The designs often prioritize air, light, and the expansive sea and sky, showcasing natural assets through refined aesthetics. One example is an island-inspired family retreat on Sydney's Northern Beaches, which, despite its tranquil resort-like appearance, functions as a serene family home, featuring oversized timber doors and a calm compound layout. Another featured property is a modern coastal home in Sydney, which underwent architectural reorientation by Georgina Wilson. This redesign transformed a series of smaller rooms into a single, expansive space, maximizing natural light and capturing harbour views, thereby creating a seamless connection to the outdoors with a neutral palette. A free-spirited beachside holiday home showcases a vibrant and playful atmosphere, drawing inspiration from chic resorts. This makeover incorporates vibrant red hues, spicy ginger upholstery on outdoor furniture, and zesty citrus accents, complemented by intricate patterns throughout the space. A renovated Bronte Beach home by Tom Mark Henry features a simplified and restrained design. The renovation introduced new openings and large glass panels to provide uninterrupted views of the water. The interior design adopted a monochromatic palette of dove grey and milky white, with biscuity unfilled limestone flooring, creating a sandy texture that complements the coastal environment. In a relaxed harbourside property, interiors by Juliette Arent and Sarah-Jane Pyke complement the natural surroundings of the sea and mature trees. The home is distinguished by statement furniture, Australian art, and a warm color palette that enhances the daily lives of its residents. A modern Mediterranean coastal home in Palm Beach, designed by Megan Burns of CM Studio, features pure-white pavilions with billowing sheer curtains, pale rosewood interiors, and rough stone walls, evoking a Mediterranean ambiance suitable for a family-friendly holiday retreat. A minimalist harbourside home, designed by Phillip Mathieson, exudes pure luxury with a powerful minimal palette and is anchored by a magnificent gum tree. The design fulfills the homeowner's request for a sophisticated and serene permanent holiday residence. An arresting concrete home, positioned above Sydney's Balmoral, showcases a strong character derived from its robust materials and confident embrace of its bayside location, offering clear views of Sydney Heads. Finally, a modern coastal home in Sydney's eastern suburbs, designed by architect Matthew Krusin of Tobias Partners, is terraced into a sloping site to maximize ocean views. The design emphasizes a simple, luxurious aesthetic, with each level providing a unique experience as one ascends the property. These homes collectively demonstrate a high level of design sophistication, integrating natural beauty with contemporary luxury to create living spaces that are both visually stunning and functionally harmonious with their coastal environments. #CoastalHomes #AustralianArchitecture #LuxuryInteriors #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #OutdoorLiving #SydneyHomes #BeachsideLiving #ModernCoastal

The EVE Hotel in Sydney, situated at the convergence of Redfern and Surry Hills, serves as a contemporary tribute to its surroundings, integrating the area's urban character, Victorian architecture, Aboriginal heritage, and a lively culture of food, art, and design. The hotel is a collaborative effort, conceived by SJB under Adam Haddow's direction, with landscape architect Daniel Baffsky and interior architect George Livissianis. It represents the culmination of the Wunderlich Lane precinct's revitalization, bridging Sydney’s industrial history with its current creative vibrancy. The 102-room boutique hotel embodies Australian culture, nature, materiality, and craftsmanship. Guests are welcomed into the lobby through an enclosure of glazed terracotta tiles, leading to a space characterized by rendered walls, white glazed breeze blocks, and natural stone. The design aims to evoke the feeling of staying in the home of a stylish friend. Designer furniture is carefully chosen, with two aqua-hued, large ceramic reception desks serving as central focal points. A white rendered arched walkway, featuring leathered handrails and sculptural lighting by Henry Wilson, connects the lobby to the guest rooms, adding a refined architectural detail. The guest rooms are decorated with color palettes inspired by the local landscape, incorporating soft eucalyptus greens and rich red clays. Artworks by Louise Olsen and Tarryn Gill further enhance the local identity of the spaces. The hotel's design includes a tranquil central courtyard. The rooftop garden and a 20-meter pool, lined with Sukabumi tiles and surrounded by native plants, offer panoramic city views. The pool area is enhanced with retro-style umbrellas and spacious orange cabanas. The adjacent Lottie Mexican restaurant mirrors this aesthetic in its interiors. Interior architect George Livissianis explains that the aim was to create a space that feels external, surrounded by planting. Sandblasted travertines, Palladiana flooring, and an exposed concrete structure were used to create a textured, outdoor sensation within an urban setting. Bar Julius, located at the hotel's entrance, functions as both a social hub and a design statement. Its European-inspired interiors are vibrant and kaleidoscopic, combining classic materials with playful modern elements, reflecting the eclectic energy of the neighborhood. The lobby bar features a dramatic vaulted ceiling adorned with artwork by Louise Olsen, a prominent artist and gallery owner from Surry Hills. This artistic integration serves as an introduction to The EVE Hotel's design philosophy and foreshadows the experiences awaiting guests. The EVE Hotel, through the combined efforts of SJB, Daniel Baffsky, and George Livissianis, successfully weaves history and landscape into an immersive guest experience, celebrating Australian culture and offering diverse spaces for relaxation, dining, and socialization. #HotelDesign #InteriorArchitecture #SydneyHotels #BoutiqueHotel #AustralianCulture #UrbanDesign #HospitalityDesign #SJBArchitects #LandscapeArchitecture

Daniel Fletcher, a renowned fashion designer, showcases his unique four-storey flat in a converted warehouse in Southwark, London. His home, a former hops factory from the late 19th century, was originally two separate flats that were combined when the top floor owners acquired the lower unit, integrating the communal staircase into their living space. The residence boasts two kitchens, three bedrooms, and three bathrooms, providing ample space for Fletcher, who meticulously curates his surroundings. Fletcher, known for his wearable yet subtly subversive fashion aesthetic, launched his label after graduating from Central Saint Martins in 2015, quickly gaining recognition with Harry Styles as his first customer. He was nominated for the LVMH prize in 2017 and was a finalist on Netflix's 'Next in Fashion.' More recently, he was appointed Royal Ascot's inaugural creative director, overseeing their annual Lookbook and Millinery Collective. His design philosophy, which he applies to both fashion collections and his home, starts with a neutral base of cream, black, or navy, accented with pops of color. Despite the industrial nature of the warehouse, characterized by exposed brick, Fletcher has successfully created a "minimalist cosy" atmosphere. He incorporates soft textures like bouclé and traditional tailoring fabrics such as canvas and calico to soften the raw elements. Key furniture pieces include a fuzzy cream sofa, a low-slung, mid-century-style chair from Bali, a walnut dining table from Habitat, and a three-legged marble table from Soho Home. These blend seamlessly with reclaimed wood featuring rusted nails, repurposed by architects for beams and drawer fronts. Fletcher's creative endeavors extend beyond fashion and interior design. His kitchen shelves display ceramics he crafted during a six-week course in Hackney, demonstrating his versatility and hands-on approach. Large canvases, painted after intense work periods, adorn his living space, reflecting his artistic heritage inherited from his art teacher grandmother, whose works also grace his walls. These include a line drawing of a cow and a landscape of Arizona painted in 1990, given to him on his 21st birthday. The home is filled with items of significant sentimental value. A giant photograph of an iceberg by Andrew Irwin commemorates Fletcher's trip to Antarctica. In his bedroom, a framed LP sleeve of the Rolling Stones’ 'Goat’s Head Soup' serves as a tribute to his late father and inspired his autumn/winter 2022 collection. Pieces from the Royal Academy’s Summer Exhibition further personalize the space. The flat also functions as a relaxed setting for client fittings, offering a more personal experience away from the bustling studio, attended by notable figures like Nick Grimshaw, Douglas Booth, James McAvoy, and Marcelino Sambé. Fletcher's home is a testament to his comprehensive design vision, blending industrial architecture with personal touches, art, and sentimental objects to create a harmonious and inviting living environment that reflects his creative journey and personal history. #DanielFletcher #FashionDesigner #WarehouseConversion #MinimalistCosy #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #SouthwarkFlat #ArtisticHome #ReclaimedMaterials

This article offers a glimpse into the Melbourne home of photographer and author Robyn Lea, showcasing her unique approach to interior design. The residence is a two-storey Victorian home with five bedrooms located in Melbourne's inner-eastern suburbs, where Robyn resides with her husband Tim Hunt, their two children, Isabella and Freddie, and their Beagalier puppy, Magnolia. The family undertook an extensive renovation of the home approximately 12 years prior to the publication of this article, subsequently enlisting Penelope Scott Interiors for window furnishings. Robyn Lea's office is highlighted as her favorite room, described as an evolving space filled with inspiring books, artworks, and various objects. This includes Italian-made plates by La DoubleJ, artworks by Charles Pollock, Nathalie Lété, and John Benn, and four distinct wallpapers, reflecting a constantly changing installation. The sitting room features a mural by Russian artist Ekaterina Panikanova, complemented by chairs from Early Settler and a table from Family Love Tree. The home's collection also includes numerous paintings by artist John Benn, a family friend. The neighborhood where the home is situated is characterized as small, with local cafes, shops, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Robyn expresses her ongoing intention to continuously evolve the interior homescape, viewing it as a natural extension of her visual storytelling through photography and writing about artists. Her advice for decorating is to personalize the space, stating, "Decorate to please yourself – it’s your nest, after all. If you love it, it will love you right back." A significant detail mentioned is Robyn's initial attraction to the home, which was influenced by a majestic magnolia tree in the back garden, reminding her of 'The Magic Faraway Tree.' #EclecticHome #InteriorDesign #MelbourneHomes #PhotographersHome #VictorianArchitecture #ArtisticInteriors #HomeRenovation #PersonalizedDecor

Sun Ranch is a 55-acre coastal estate located in the Byron Bay hinterland, designed by Balanced Earth Architects to offer guests privacy, on-site experiences, and luxury hotel living. The project, completed in 2023, spans an area of 1000 square meters. The architectural team for Sun Ranch included Michael Leung and Leo Dewitte, with Carlotta Phelan serving as the interior designer. Engineering was provided by Lucena Engineering and Dougal May, while Laughlan Rabbidge and LAND were responsible for the landscape design. The construction was handled by Balanced Earth Building, with Ture Schmitd and Luke Wrencher overseeing the process. The design of Sun Ranch emphasizes a departure from conventional hospitality experiences, focusing on creating a unique and exceptional environment for guests. The choice of materials and construction methods reflects a commitment to integrating the structures within their natural surroundings while providing high-quality accommodations. Wood is a prominent material used throughout the project, contributing to its aesthetic and potentially its sustainability credentials. Key manufacturers involved in the project include Archdomus, Eco Outdoor, and Microcement, indicating a blend of high-end and natural materials. The estate features a variety of spaces, including bedrooms, dining areas, kitchens, bathrooms, and living rooms, all meticulously designed to enhance the guest experience. The interior photography highlights elements such as exposed beams, strategic lighting, and large windows that connect the indoor spaces with the scenic outdoors. Exterior photography showcases the integration of the architecture with its natural landscape, featuring gardens, decks, patios, and courtyards, suggesting an emphasis on outdoor living and interaction with the coastal hinterland environment. The project falls under the categories of Hospitality Architecture and Cabins & Lodges, signifying its purpose as a destination for leisure and accommodation. The location in Byron Bay, Australia, further emphasizes its appeal as a serene retreat. The architectural approach appears to balance modern design with a respect for the natural setting, aiming to provide a distinct and memorable stay for its visitors. The overall design intent is to create a sense of total privacy and luxury, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the unique offerings of Sun Ranch. #HospitalityArchitecture #CabinsLodges #ByronBay #Australia #WoodConstruction #CoastalEstate #LuxuryAccommodation #BalancedEarthArchitects #InteriorDesign

This article details the second major renovation of a 1930s Streamline Moderne house in Bellevue Hill, Sydney, by designer Greg Natale. The initial redesign, twelve years prior, transformed a two-apartment building into a 3,600-square-foot single-family home. This first renovation involved structural alterations, including a sunken living room and Juliet balconies, and adopted a Hollywood Regency aesthetic with a black-and-white palette, pops of color, checkerboard marble flooring, and rectilinear spaces. In 2020, socialite Eleni Taylor purchased the property, seeking a softer, more feminine interior that would integrate the exterior's curvilinear forms. Taylor, inspired by Cycladic architecture, desired pared-down, fluid spaces. Natale was commissioned again, undertaking a complete gut renovation, a unique experience for him, allowing for a reinvention of his design approach. While structural changes were minimal, such as reconfiguring and extending the second floor to four bedrooms and three bathrooms, and updating exterior elements like balustrades and fenestration, the interior envelope underwent a radical transformation. The renovated interior eliminates previous moldings, paneling, and ornamentation, replacing straight edges and angular corners with sinuous lines, swelling forms, and arching portals. The walls and ceilings are finished with a natural-clay plaster, imparting a silky tactility and creating organic, pristine living spaces that evoke a light-filled, sophisticated cave-like atmosphere. The entry features a custom bronze front door opening to a new sculptural staircase that ascends in a flowing arc. The entry hall is paved with Patagonia Verde quartzite, a Brazilian stone with sea-green and smoke-gray swirls, which introduces the home's extensive use of dramatic marble patterns and hues. The client's preference for marble is evident throughout, with full-slab bathrooms featuring Verdi Alpi in the powder room and Arcadia in an upstairs bathroom. Breccia Capraia, a Carrara marble with pink, purple, and charcoal gray veins on a white background, was imported from Italy and used for kitchen countertops, an island, a backsplash, a vent hood, and in the main bathroom for flooring, the shower cubicle, and a custom double-sink vanity. American oak serves as the principal wood, used for chevron-patterned flooring, minimalist kitchen cabinetry, and millwork in the children's bedrooms, including a built-in desk with travertine pulls. Furnishings blend mid-century classics, such as a Warren Platner lounge chair and a Vladimir Kagan Serpentine sofa in the living room, with contemporary pieces like Lara Bohinc’s Orbit chairs and Marco Pagnoncelli’s Masai pendant fixtures in the dining room. These selections, alongside items like Gio Ponti's Bilia table lamp and Grant and Mary Featherston’s Scape chair, reflect a spirit of 20th-century modernism. The overall design harmonizes the building's original Streamline Moderne exterior with a newly softened, curvilinear, and material-rich interior, creating a sophisticated and flowing residential experience. #GregNatale #StreamlineModerne #SydneyArchitecture #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #MarbleInteriors #CurvilinearDesign #LuxuryHome

Bella Mancini of Bella Mancini Design undertook the task of furnishing a nearly 3,500-square-foot loft in Dumbo, Brooklyn, for a family of four. The objective was to create a space that offered serenity at the day's end while also accommodating frequent entertaining. The loft, situated in a former industrial building, already possessed significant character with its natural wood columns, exposed brick walls, and floor-to-ceiling windows. High-end white oak floors and a new developer's kitchen were also existing features, meaning Mancini's focus was primarily on furniture, custom millwork, lighting, paint, wallpaper, and soft furnishings. The design process was heavily influenced by the clients' lifestyle. With two preteen daughters, a husband who works from home, and a wife with demanding hours, the need for both relaxation and functionality was paramount. The couple's enjoyment of entertaining also played a crucial role in the layout and furnishing choices. This led to the establishment of two distinct dining areas: a casual space near the large windows featuring an Eero Saarinen tulip table, wicker chairs, and a custom banquette that doubles as a desk, and a more formal dining setup elsewhere in the loft. The open kitchen and living area, centrally located, were designed for fluid movement and informal gatherings, encouraging guests to choose any available seat rather than adhering to a formal dining structure. Mancini aimed to infuse a relaxed, breezy Californian aesthetic into the New York setting. However, acknowledging the clients' British background and their Hamptons home's English country style, some glamorous and sparkly touches were incorporated to satisfy their preference for a slightly dressier city environment. The kitchen, visible upon entry, features a dropped ceiling painted in Farrow & Ball's Downpipe to conceal wiring, with Louis Poulsen glass globe pendants illuminating the island. The foyer is anchored by a vintage Scandinavian piece, setting an immediate tone for the home's curated style. Custom elements are prevalent throughout the loft, such as the banquette in the casual dining area, which is also painted in Farrow & Ball's Downpipe, a dark gray used in multiple spaces. The living area showcases a sophisticated and unconventional color palette, including a pink Chesterfield sofa complemented by vintage ochre and gray armchairs, with two coffee tables sourced from Jayson Home. The formal dining area is defined by pink grasscloth wall covering, featuring chrome Breuer chairs from Knoll upholstered in durable mohair, surrounding a wood table from the Danish Design Store. A custom-designed credenza by Mancini further enhances this space. The powder room received a facelift with Ellie Cashman floral wallpaper, an Apparatus light fixture, and a vanity painted in Farrow & Ball's Dead Salmon. The daughters' rooms also feature personalized designs, such as tie-dyed wallpaper from Donghia and canopy beds, alongside custom-built desks and bookshelves designed by Mancini. The master bedroom includes nightstands from Lawson Fenning, a whimsical side table from Artemest, and a chaise lounge from Gubi, with Italian garment-dyed linens from Society Limonata at ABC Carpet & Home. These design choices collectively create a functional, stylish, and comfortable environment tailored to the family's needs and aesthetic preferences. #BellaMancini #BellaManciniDesign #InteriorDesign #LoftDesign #OpenPlanLiving #DumboBrooklyn #CustomMillwork #ResidentialInteriors

The article details a design project undertaken by Emma Beryl Kemper of Emma Beryl, a New York City design studio, to transform a two-bedroom Greenpoint duplex. The condo, originally created from a storefront in a vintage row house approximately a decade prior, was characterized by a cold, "cookie-cutter" aesthetic and lacked personalized touches for the young family residing there. The primary objective of the renovation was to infuse warmth and character into the space, making it feel more like a home, and to significantly enhance its functionality. One of the initial challenges involved the original kitchen, which featured only a single wall of cabinetry and an island. Beryl reconfigured this area, adding a wine bar with a glass cabinet to create a smoother transition between the functional kitchen space and the open living room, integrating it more effectively with the adjacent dining area. Beyond the kitchen, the project focused on maximizing storage throughout the duplex. This included reconfiguring the upstairs bathroom and adding a shower to the downstairs powder room, thereby converting it into a full bath. Custom built-ins were designed for an awkward downstairs room, which served the dual purpose of concealing plumbing pipes and creating a cozy nursery for the family. To achieve the desired warmth and character, the design incorporated vintage pieces, hand-painted tiles, and a selection of specific furnishings and materials. Manhattan-based Jan Renovations carried out all the new construction work, including custom millwork. In the open living room, a vintage rug from ABC Carpet, a grasscloth-covered media unit, and a new sofa from Restoration Hardware were combined with the clients' existing coffee table and chairs. The floor-to-ceiling storefront windows, which made the living room feel exposed, were addressed by adding a built-in window seat with integrated storage, creating a barrier and softening the space with curtains. A custom-built narrow bookcase in the corner was installed to hide wires. The dining area features a built-in banquette that conceals a steel rail for the downstairs staircase, also providing additional storage. Rejuvenation chairs accompany a wooden farmhouse-style table, complemented by a West Elm chandelier. A wooden desk from Restoration Hardware is positioned alongside the dining area. The kitchen was enlarged while maintaining its general location, featuring a contrast of white upper cabinets and open shelves with dark navy lower cabinetry. Carrara marble countertops and handmade tiles on the backsplash were significant upgrades. The master bedroom, being small, was designed to maximize openness, with custom floating nightstands and walls painted in a moody dark hue. Lutron shades were installed for privacy on the frosted storefront windows. The door to the upstairs bathroom was relocated to the front entry, necessitating a complete change in the room's footprint. The bathroom's color scheme aligns with the kitchen and master bedroom, incorporating patterned floor tiles from Tabarka Studio and custom-made wall tiles to match the blue in the flooring. A Restoration Hardware vanity and Cedar & Moss sconce completed the new bathroom. On the lower level, a custom-built angled closet provides linen and coat storage. The downstairs nursery features a bi-level window seat, a long wall of storage, and a floor-to-ceiling closet, all custom-built from lacquered wood to conceal mechanicals while allowing access. Distinctive wallpaper from Hygge & West and Dwell Studio baby furnishings enhance the space. A shower was added to the downstairs bathroom by utilizing space beneath the staircase, with a sink from Restoration Hardware and floor tile from Wayfair. The article also mentions the availability of before-and-after photos to illustrate the transformation. #InteriorDesign #Greenpoint #CondoRenovation #EmmaBeryl #CustomMillwork #BrooklynDesign #HomeTransformation

Australian designer and stylist Simone Haag’s recent project involved furnishing a four-story house in Melbourne, a property previously worked on by renowned architecture firm Edition Office and Flack Studio. The home, originally constructed by Angle, features a curved facade and expansive windows, blending modernist history with contemporary living. The clients are a family of seven, with several adult children who have moved out. Hagg was tasked with adding the finishing touches to the interiors, working with a substantial budget that allowed for the realization of ambitious design ideas, such as a custom rug that mirrors the architectural curves of the space. Her long-standing relationship with the homeowners fostered a high level of trust, providing her with creative freedom. She also incorporated the clients' collection of classic pieces, like an Arne Jacobsen Egg chair, which she re-covered in a tweed-like fabric. Haag implemented a camel-colored carpet in the primary bedroom, combined with a pared-back textured grasscloth wallpaper. This design choice, initially a risk for her due to its permanence in a five-bedroom house, ultimately proved successful. She also highlighted the concept of placing a console behind a sofa, a technique she intends to reuse in future projects, as it neatly finishes the couch and avoids exposing its back. The use of templates to ensure custom rugs precisely followed architectural curves was another key strategy. Among her notable discoveries was Hommes Studio, based in Porto, Portugal, whose designs, particularly the lacquered Malala drawers, impressed her with their blend of elegance and quirkiness. These drawers were integrated into the main bedroom, complementing existing joinery. A particular artwork by Alice Wormald, which dictated a tan and electric blue color palette and had a wall sized specifically for it, was ultimately not purchased by the clients. While Haag moved on to incorporate open shelving instead, the homeowner later expressed regret over not acquiring the piece. Conversely, the clients convinced Haag to reuse existing bedside tables in the primary bedroom, a decision she initially resisted but ultimately found made sense. They also insisted on having a TV in the bedroom, a point on which they prevailed. The dining area represented the project's biggest splurge, with a Minotti table and deeply cushioned Fogia Spisolini chairs selected to create a loungelike and inviting atmosphere for the entire family. Smart savings were achieved by repurposing and recovering existing furniture pieces, such as an ottoman and a Flag Halyard chair, thereby minimizing waste and giving new life to old items. An initial design idea for a freestanding mirror with hooks and trays for the basement entry was sidelined during the planning phase but remains a potential future addition. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #MelbourneArchitecture #SimoneHaag #LuxuryInteriors #CustomDesign #ModernistInfluence #HomeTour

This article explores the transformation of a late-1990s, two-level apartment in Sydney, Australia, undertaken by Dylan Farrell Design. The renovation aimed to blend the relaxed aesthetic of Australian living with the sophisticated grandeur reminiscent of a Parisian flat. This unique fusion was developed for long-term clients who granted the design studio the creative freedom and financial backing necessary for ambitious aesthetic choices, including expanding the budget where exceptional results were possible. The 465 sq m apartment, featuring four bedrooms and four bathrooms, was redesigned with a focus on its prominent city skyline views. Dylan and Nicolette Farrell, the New York-based duo leading Dylan Farrell Design, intended to counteract the typical lack of 'charming patina' in contemporary Australian buildings by importing the atmosphere of a classic Parisian apartment. This involved extensive work such as concealing modern systems within existing structures, designing and casting custom architectural mouldings, and developing bespoke finishes to evoke a sense of timeless elegance. The interior's color scheme is characterized by a deliberate tension between serene, airy neutrals and 'unexpected and almost overwhelming moments' of vibrant, saturated colors. For instance, the main suite maintains an almost entirely achromatic palette, while the stairwell is enveloped in a vivid aqua Venetian plaster. Throughout the apartment, quiet neutral tones are strategically punctuated by deeper greens and brilliant reds, creating visual interest and dynamic shifts between spaces. Material selections further amplify this exploration of contrasts. Adjacent areas may feature dramatically different textures, such as sandblasted surfaces juxtaposed with polished marble. Polished nickel fittings are contrasted with blackened steel and hand-forged metals, which were utilized for elements like doors, shutters, and lighting fixtures. Even the flooring, composed of rustic, variegated floorboards, provides a deliberate textural counterpoint to the smooth, glassy surfaces of the polished plaster walls. Ultimately, the project culminates in a home that masterfully combines austerity with glamour. It marries a contemporary, laid-back Australian sensibility with the opulence found in 19th-century Parisian design. This significant transformation was achieved by reconfiguring the original building's 'rabbit warren' of small, constrained rooms into an expansive, open-plan central core, establishing a distinctive character for the residence. #SydneyApartment #ParisianGrandeur #InteriorDesign #DylanFarrellDesign #LuxuryInteriors #ArchitecturalMouldings #MaterialContrast #ColorPalette #RenovationProject

Lachlan Seegers, an Australian architect, designed the Erskineville House in Sydney around a native spotted gum tree. The house is situated on a narrow, long plot measuring 4.8m wide and almost 36m long. The exterior maintains a traditional period frontage, featuring arched windows, a covered porch, and a corrugated metal roof. In contrast, the interior reveals a minimalist design with a linear plan that emphasizes verticality despite being a two-story property. The house is functionally divided into two sections by a central courtyard, where a 20m spotted gum tree stands. This tree, planted in the 1970s as part of a city-wide greening initiative, serves as a dynamic focal point. Its mottled bark and dense canopy offer an evolving display of nature throughout the year. The entrance lobby leads past a ground-floor bedroom into the main living area, which includes a sunken living room, a kitchen, and a dining room. These spaces are arranged around the glazed courtyard, with the kitchen set up in a galley-style configuration along one edge. A utility space, bathroom, and garage are located at the rear of the property. Two distinct staircases, positioned at opposite ends of the house, provide access to two independent, self-contained bedroom suites upstairs. Each suite boasts its own terrace, offering views into the tree's branches. Above the galley kitchen, a raised roof incorporates three large rooflights with yellow-painted walls. These features enhance the sense of spaciousness and draw more natural light and views of the tree into the interior. The bathrooms are also equipped with lightwells, lined with dark blue tiles to evoke an underwater atmosphere. The spotted gum tree not only serves as a visual centerpiece but also influences the interior's material palette. The color of its bark inspired the tint used for the joinery throughout the house, and spotted gum wood was specifically chosen for the staircases. Seegers meticulously designed every view and aperture to create a living environment rich in subtle colors, natural light, and warm materials. The Erskineville House was recognized for its design, being shortlisted for a 2022 Australian Interior Design Award, highlighting its successful integration of nature with modern minimalist living. #ErskinevilleHouse #LachlanSeegers #SydneyArchitecture #MinimalistInterior #SpottedGumTree #CourtyardDesign #AustralianDesignAward #ResidentialArchitecture #ModernLiving

Adam Kane Architects undertook the renovation and extension of a dilapidated cottage in Barwon Heads, Victoria, Australia, transforming it into a contemporary, minimalist residence for a young couple. The project, known as 'Barwon Heads House,' sought to revitalize the heritage cottage while embracing the relaxed, coastal lifestyle prevalent in the area. A key design element on the exterior is the striking deep black paint applied to the entire existing cottage facade and roof, which creates a strong contrast with the natural textures of the surrounding landscape. Inside the home, the main living space is defined by a double-height, American oak-lined raked ceiling, which introduces a sense of openness and airiness. This feature is complemented by burnished concrete floors and hand-scratched solid plaster walls, which contribute to a muted color palette and textural richness. Pops of black are integrated throughout the interior, echoing the exterior's dramatic finish. The design carefully maintains heritage features, such as the original restored lining board ceilings and period skirting and architraves, seamlessly blending them with contemporary architectural elements. The choice of natural materials and a subtle color scheme aims to create a lightweight and relaxing atmosphere. A glazed link connects the original cottage to the new extension, offering views of the garden from both sides and ensuring a smooth transition between the old and new sections of the house. Access to the extension involves an enclosed corridor, clad with black mottled joinery panels on the walls and ceilings, which ingeniously conceals doorways leading to the rumpus room, laundry, and storage areas. Above this darkened corridor, a master bedroom mezzanine is positioned. This deliberate design creates a sense of compression in the corridor, followed by a dramatic release upon entering the main living area, characterized by its soaring ceiling. The architects consciously utilized the interplay of compression and release to craft a unique and unexpected spatial experience as one moves through the home. The timber lining and cladding are instrumental in blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, delineating various zones, and enhancing the perception of generosity within the rooms, all contributing to the relaxed ambiance of the residence. The material palette includes silver travertine slabs and burnished concrete floors, which harmonize with the desaturated timber ceilings and joinery. Hand-scratched solid plaster walls, finished in a soft, warm 'bone' color, further enhance the tactile qualities of the interior. Linen sheer curtains introduce a soft balance, adding comfort and an inviting feel to the living spaces. In the main room, a large island bench, clad in travertine, serves as a central feature. This versatile element transitions smoothly from a kitchen bench to a dining table through a subtle change in floor level within the kitchen area. The back-bench joinery extends into the living area, effectively connecting the two zones. The mezzanine bedroom, overlooking the living space below, is wrapped in the same black cladding used in the corridor, maintaining design consistency. The project successfully integrates the relaxed coastal lifestyle of Barwon Heads by thoughtfully reinterpreting the original structure with modern interventions. #Architecture #HomeRenovation #MinimalistDesign #CoastalLiving #AustralianArchitecture #HeritageRestoration #InteriorDesign #AdamKaneArchitects