The beautiful Sydney home of Vanessa Steele and Peter Braig.  Sunroom – patchwork kilim from I & B Perryman Oriental Carpets, Woollahra.  Photo – Felix Forest, Production Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Living room – straw and wool embroidered Moroccan rug, purchased on a recent overseas trip.  Large photographic artwork by Peter Braig.  Photo – Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Living room – large photographic artwork by Peter Braig.  Photo – Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files

We’re back in Sydney again with today’s seriously lovely Australian Home – although I must say, this one could almost pass for a classic LA apartment, with it’s Spanish Mission styling and those amazing arched windows!  That top image of the sunroom  is such a stunner – totally magazine-cover fabulous (nice work Felix!).   It’s incredible how certain architectural details really give a space the feeling of being somehow so very ‘international’!

The lucky residents of this beautiful two bedroom apartment are Vanessa Steele, who runs her own PR company, and Peter Braig, a photographer (plus Macchiato the cat!).  This creative pair moved to Sydney from Melbourne five years ago, but hunted for three years before finding the perfect pad to call home.  ’We were looking for something special – it was worth the wait…’ says Vanessa!

One of just a handful of boutique apartments in a building known as ‘La Granada’ in Sydney’s leafy Bellevue Hill neighbourhood, this apartment really does have a special something going on. Tucked at the back of the block on the ground level, and opening out onto a leafy patio, it’s wonderfully private, and with windows on all sides, it feels more like a house than an apartment.  Vanessa puts that down also to the layout of the rooms and shape of the space.  ’ The square footprint makes it more like a house, and means we use every room’ she says.

Vanessa and Peter have been here just two years.  Since moving in they haven’t needed to do too much – other than polishing the floorboards and painting the walls white throughout. Of course they’ve also pulled together a tight, cohesive edit of furniture, soft furnishings and artworks to enhance the features of the space. I must say they’ve done such a stellar job of styling their home – all the colours and textures are so perfectly balanced, and not a thing out of place!  Vanessa and Peter’s favourite pieces at the moment are their antique Moroccan rugs in the living and dining rooms, found on their most recent overseas trip. Peter is originally from Europe, and the pair love to travel, inevitably collecting things to bring home with every trip!

It’s clear from chatting to Vanessa that she and Peter are still kind of pinching themselves, even two years after securing their beautiful apartment – and after 3 years of looking I would be too!  There is so much to love about the place – Vanessa says favourite elements include the Spanish Mission style of the space, the privacy, and their wonderful leafy outdoor area.  ’The courtyard is such a great space – excellent for parties, it extends into an outdoor room in the warmer months’ says Vanessa.

Massive thanks to Vanessa and Peter for sharing their beautiful home with us today! Aaaaww Sydney.  You’re so pretty.

Dining Room – view to courtyard.  Photos – Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Dining room details.  Artwork top left by Vanessa and Peter’s godson Alessio Jaeggi!   Photos – Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Dining room – oil pastel artwork by Newell Harry, straw and wool embroidered Moroccan rug.  Photos – Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Dining Room.  Photos – Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Details details!  Clockwise from top left – artwork by Anthony Lister, Vitsoe built in shelves, industrial details in the living room and sweet peaches Vanessa kindly fed us during our visit!  Photos – Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Living room details – Mark Tuckey bookshelves.  Artwork by Kitty from Melville Island, and Hideyo paper art ball.  Photo – Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Master bedroom through to ensuite.  Photo – Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files

Master bedroom details.  Photo – Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files

Master bed – wool rug with pom pom fringe from Morocco.  Photo – Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files

Exterior – rear courtyard.  La Granada alright! Photo – Felix Forest, Product – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files

The Paddington apartment of Alexia Gnecchi Ruscone – all photographs by Felix Forest, styling / production by Lucy Feagins.

Treasured antiques and eclectic finds on the mantlepiece – cute monkey in the palm tree!

Living room

Today’s eclectic Sydney apartment is another that seems to have a truly international flair. No surprise, really, as designer Alexia Gnecchi Ruscone and her family are in equal parts Italian / Australian, and have spent a good deal of time living in Europe before settling here. After returning to Sydney from Milan in 2003, they spent time living in Double Bay and Avalon before moving to their current terrace apartment in Paddington.  They’ve been here now for three years.

Alexia lives here with husband Paolo, and grown-up kids Tania (21) and Vittorio (18), plus a string of nieces and nephews that love to come to visit Australia!  The whole family is incredibly creative – Alexia is the founder and key designer behind classic fashion accessories label Eclettica, with two stand alone stores in Sydney and stockists Australia-wide, whilst Paolo runs super popular vintage furniture store Junktique in Glebe.  Their daughter Tania has also recently launched her very own design business - TDesign …whilst Vittorio is in his first year of industrial design!  That’s one seriously impressive collective skill set – all under one roof!

In true European style, Alexia and Paolo have adorned every inch of their home in amazing artwork, antiques and collectables. Gallery-style hanging systems were installed early on to allow for Paolo’s growing collection of paintings and artwork.  Alexia says everything in the house has a sentimental value – ‘our collection tells our story, individually through our family pieces and together through our travels’.

Alexia’s most treasured aspect of this home is it’s cosy-ness – ‘we love coming home and throwing our shoes off!’ she says.  Of course after many years living in Milan, Alexia also adores the sunshine, blue skies, harbour and beaches of Sydney, and in particular the central location of this apartment in Paddington. ‘It’s a great spot – walking distance to fab cafes, book shops and cinema; once I get home from work I really don’t need to drive’ she says.

Big thanks to the Gnecchi Ruscone family for sharing their beautiful home with us today!  I feel it’s only fitting to sign off in Alexia’s signature style – ‘Ciao, Ciao, Tanti Baci !’ xx

Entrance hall

Dining room retails

Dining

Dining looking through to kitchen beyond

Kitchen

Kitchen details, including industrial stainless slicer!  You can always tell an Italian kitchen…

Antique details in living room

Spiral staircase

Master bedroom

This generous balcony stretches from living area to master bedroom

Couldn’t resist sharing this quintessentially Sydney view from Alexia’s balcony!  Paddington terrace houses and the water beyond.  Shame no blue sky this day!

ps. If you love Alexia’s classic European sense of style at home, chances are you’ll love her accessories range too – do share the love with a little visit to the Eclettica website!

The Sydney home of Jacqueline Fink and family .  Painting in hallway – Mud Flats at Spencer by Joshua Yeldham.  Photos by Rachel Kara, styling / production by Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Cat / Butterflies painting by David Bromley.  Painting in gilt frame by Joseph-Desire Court (1833!).  Hand knit shrug on chair by Jacqueline / Little Dandelion.  Photos by Rachel Kara, styling / production by Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Front entrance, amazing curved wall (!!) and view to lounge / dining room.  Painting in gilt frame by Joseph-Desire Court (1833!). Photos by Rachel Kara, styling / production by Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

For our winter inspired week, it seemed fitting to share the home of extreme knitter Jacqueline Fink of Little Dandelion!  Jacqueline shares this beautiful home with husband Eric and their three children, Jasper (10), Remy (8) and Elodie (5). The family moved from Sydney’s squishy Eastern Suburbs to this generous block, perched on a hillside in Clontarf overlooking the water – Jac says they were craving a less frenetic life.  Mind you, they’ve brought a little chaos with them – with a small menagerie of pets and three energetic kids, it is a very noisy, spirited and busy household – ‘just ask the neighbours!’ say Jac!

This charming, supremely pretty family home was built in 1940 – it still has many original features which Jac is fond of, including original fireplaces, an almost untouched kitchen and bathroom, and sweet details such as bakelite light switches throughout.  And then there are those amazing deco-inspired curves!  Whilst they haven’t made any major structural renovations, Jac and Eric were keen to give the house a fresh bright paintjob soon after moving in.  ’My husband and I LOVE white so we painted the walls and the floorboards white – that’s it!’ says Jac.

Jac says the house has a lovely energy about it – ‘It really is a happy home … you just know that it has been witness to much happiness and love over the years’ she says. ’It’s also solid, unpretentious and beautiful in it’s simplicity.  And, I should add, the view is to die for’.  I second that – check out the pics below!  The home overlooks the Spit Bridge between Mosman and Seaforth so Jac says it’s a really active view. ‘We also have a great vantage point to watch the weather roll in.  And then there’s the sunsets…!’. Awww man. So good. Sydney really sparkles when you have a water view!

Another treasured feature of this home for Jac is the relaxed local neighbourhood.  ’Before we moved here, many of our friends from the Eastern Suburbs taunted that we were moving to the dark side’ says Jac.  ’I've got one thing to say to them – the Northern Beaches totally rocks!’.  Jac says she loves the sense of community in Clontarf, and being connected to the outdoors.  ’Eric loves fishing – he often disappears for a couple of hours and comes back with dinner caught down at Clontarf Reserve. We do the Seaforth to Manly Scenic walk with the children of a weekend; it’s a wonderland out there. The views are incredible, the harbour is so clear and the flora and fauna is so beautiful. We have also been blessed with terrific neighbours. It’s all good :)’.

Thanks so much to Jac and her family for sharing their beautiful home with us today!

Painting above couch by Cherry Hood.  ’We love art and have used treasured pieces to offset the bright white walls and floors’ says Jac.  Hand knit blanket on couch by Jacqueline / Little Dandelion.  Photos by Rachel Kara, styling / production by Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Loungeroom details.  Painting by Fiona Greehill, lamp is an original Jielde.  Photos by Rachel Kara, styling / production by Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Dining room and a hint of that VIEW!  Photos by Rachel Kara, styling / production by Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Sweet mini sculptures on dresser in entrance hall by Kendal Murray.  Rosellas on the balcony expertly captured by Rachel Kara!

That view!  Not bad. Photos by Rachel Kara, production by Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Master bedroom -another beautiful Little Dandelion knit blanket on the bed.  Photos by Rachel Kara, production by Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Hugo the dog naps in the master bedroom!  Photos by Rachel Kara, production by Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Bedroom / hallway details.  Photos by Rachel Kara, production by Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Beautiful master bedroom details.  Eames ‘La Chaise’ chair, antique mirror, Better World Arts cushions available from Koskela.  Photos by Rachel Kara, production by Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Kitchen details.  Photos by Rachel Kara, production by Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Girls’ bedroom – painting above dresser by Lauren Potts.  Photos by Rachel Kara, production by Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Jacqueline’s home studio – textile heaven! Tiny sea horse painting by Andrew Sullivan.  Photos by Rachel Kara, production by Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Little Dandelion details.  Photos by Rachel Kara, production by Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Little Dandelion studio.  Photos by Rachel Kara, production by Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Studio details.  Painting on mantle by Joshua Yeldham.  Photos by Rachel Kara, production by Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

The Sydney apartment of designer Emmanuelle Flahault and Johannes Weissenbaeck.  Above – original Eames dining chairs bought in Paris, table by Jonathan Ingram for Inde Design, Yuta Badayala pendant lights from Koskela – ‘Each piece is unique!’ says Emmanuelle.  All photos by Felix Forest, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Living space – Kilim patchwork rug from I & B Perryman Oriental Carpets in Woollahra, vintage leather Chesterfield sofa, wooden colourful candle sticks from trip to Sri Lanka.  All photos by Felix Forest, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Original metal door.  LOVE! (Shame the apartment is not actually on ground level so this is not a functional backdoor!). Photo –  Felix Forest,  production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

‘Warehouse apartment’ is an oft overused term I find.  Especially by real estate agents.  There seem to be all manner of non-descript teeny tiny apartment subdivisions popping up all over the place these days with one exposed roof beam or something, being touted enthusiastically as ‘loft style living’.  But today’s fabulous Sydney home truly deserves the term.  That’s because when designer Emmanuelle Flahault and her partner Johannes Weissenbaeck took possession of this space in Waterloo just over two years ago, it really was nothing but a completely empty warehouse.

Emmanuelle and Johannes swiftly converted the generous industrial space into a stylish but simple and functional open plan home, building a kitchen and bathroom, adding semi sheer drapes as room dividers in the massive main living space, and allocating a fantastic studio / showroom at the front of the home for Emmanuelle’s fashion and accessories label, Nell.

I love Emmanuelle’s toasty warm colour palette used throughout the home – those fabulous orange Eames dining chairs set the tone, whilst pinks, muted reds, mushrooms and browns follow suit in the upholstery and soft furnishing choices throughout.  And how about that stunning patchwork rug in the main living space!?  SO perfect.  (It’s from I & B Perryman Oriental Carpets in Woollahra, in Melbourne try Loom or Patchy Rugs for similar)

Emmanuelle says of all there is to love about her home, she most appreciates having so much space. ‘In the inner city, space is the ultimate luxury. we love the high ceilings and light – after this we just couldn’t live in a terrace house!’ she says.

Both Emmanuelle and Johannes also really enjoy the central location in Waterloo – just  skip from Danks st, close to the city, Surry Hills, and only 10 minutes from the beach.  Emmanuelle says ‘this is definitely a booming area, an extension of Surry Hills with a lot of texture…’! (Love that description!).

Massive thanks to Emmanuelle and Johannes for sharing their beautiful legitimate warehouse apartment with us today!  Do share the love with a little visit to Emmanuelle’s website for her label Nell!

Main living space. Sofa from Jardan, cushions designed by Emmanuelle (Nell Design), artwork from left - Two Lovers by Ian Shadwell, portraits a from trip to Bali, Aboriginal painting bought in Paris long before Emmanuelle moved to Australia!  Photo – Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

One of Emmanuelle’s favourite pieces is the antique French mirror, pictured above. ‘We didn’t have any window on that wall, so it was the perfect piece to reflect the opposite side and create a perfect illusion of having one!!’ she says.  Very clever!  Sofa from Jardan, cushions designed by Nell Design. Photo – Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Vintage hospital metal bed, cushions from Nell Design, Illustrations by Kareena Zerefos.  Photo – Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Functional open kitchen, filled with favourite vessels – Emmanuelle says ‘glasses and ceramics are a bit like shoes to me, I just love them and can’t have enough of them!’  Photo – Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Living room details – original Sydney bus stops sign, and a set of wooden shelves individually designed and made by Emmanuelle and Johannes on an Easter weekend!  Photo – Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Emmanuelle’s bathroom is an enclave within the master bedroom.  Vintage kimono from trip to Tokyo, engraved metal canisters from market in Hong Kong. Photo – Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Master bedroom – ‘Rouge tattoo’ portrait by Barbie Kjar – ‘this art work from Tasmanian artist Barbie Djar was love at first sight’ says Emmanuelle.  ‘Dingo’ artwork by Melbourne based artist Deborah Williams.  Photo – Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Master bedrooom – Cord Lamp by Form Us With Love from Design House Stockholm.  Patchwork quilt cover by Emmanuelle / Nell Design.  Moroccan geometric antique runner.  Photo – Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Emmanuelle’s studio / showroom at the front of the house.  Photo – Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Emmanuelle in her studio - Photo – Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Nell showroom / studio - Photo – Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

The Rozelle home of Andrea Millar and family.  Vintage artworks from Rozelle Markets and local auction houses.  Sunday school benches and dining table from David met Nicole.  Lantern purchased in Morocco and lugged across Europe by Andrea!  Photo by Felix Forest, production by Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Vintage artwork from Rozelle Markets.  Sunday school bench from David met Nicole.  Photo by Felix Forest, production by Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Dining room details  - artwork made from repurposed signage, and vintage bottles and jars.  ’I am a bottle and jar collector and have shelves overflowing with them’ says Andrea.  ’My latest ones are these vintage pharmaceutical jars I picked up on my visit to Montevideo, Uruguay last year’. (Andrea was born in Uruguay).  Photos – Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

OK I must admit. I am DYING with how good this house is.  Truth is I have quite a few fabulous homes up my sleeve at present (phew, good to be ahead!) but for the very first ‘Australian Home’ post since our re-design, I wanted to share something extra special. This truly gorgeous pocket-sized family pad in Sydney’s Rozelle seemed like the most perfect way to start off on a high note!

This supremely pretty weatherboard home belongs to Andrea Millar and husband Ben, and their gorgeous boys Sebastian (5) and Casper (2).   Given the immense cuteness going on here, it will come as no surprise to learn that that Andrea is a stylist and writer, and has worked in interiors / design magazines for many years, for titles including Inside Out, Belle and Habitus. Needless to say, she knows a thing or two about prepping a home for a photo shoot – lucky for us, this shoot was a breeze!

As it happens, this isn’t actually Andrea’s first ‘dream home’.  Before moving here, home for the Millar family was a large house on a big block, 45 minutes from the CBD in Turramurra on Sydney’s Upper North Shore.  In 2007 after the birth of their first child, Andrea and Ben made the move from Sydney’s inner west to Turramurra for all the usual reasons – more space, bigger garden, room to grow etc etc.  Here the Millar family created what they thought would be their ‘forever house’ – the perfect renovation they’d always wished for.

But, sometimes your dream home isn’t everything it’s cracked up to be. ‘We lived there for three years only to realise that more space and a bigger garden meant more work!’ says Andrea. ‘I never saw Ben, he was always wrestling with that bush block on weekends’.  And so, after three years and the birth of their second child, the Millar family downsized. ‘We moved back to the inner west after Casper was born, to a little garden and very little space, but there is (just) enough room for us and we love the neighbourhood’ says Andrea, adding ‘we just take the boys scootering around the neighbourhood when they need to burn energy!’.  The atmosphere, the coffee, the people, the restaurants and markets within walking distance are a constant reminder of just why Andrea and Ben made the decision to move back into town, despite having to compromise a little on space.

Since moving in, Andrea and Ben have made cosmetic changes here, but nothing structural.  After undertaking major renovations in their previous home, Andrea was content to accept the quirks of this tiny timber cottage, and ease the family into their new surroundings without too much disruption or expense!  Interior walls were painted white, and the timber floors were stained to dark brown in the original cottage, and painted white in the 1950′s extension at the rear of the home. The only other signifiant addition was installing a new Ilve oven (‘which I just love!’ says Andrea).

Let’s all learn some lessons from this sweet story.  1 – Cute beats big (again).  2 – A big garden is not a pre-requisite for keeping your kids happy / healthy.  And 3 – a lick of bright white paint goes a looooong way!

Massive thanks to Andrea and Ben for sharing their sweet cottage with us today!  I am smitten, well and truly.   It’s nice to be reminded that in some cases, that ‘dream home’ might be closer (and smaller!) than you think.

Dining room with view to kitchen.  Photo – Felix Forest, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Lovely light filled kitchen – stainless kitchen bench purchased on ebay. Photo – Felix Forest, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Sweet kitchen – featuring Andrea’s treasured Ilve stove!  Photo – Felix Forest, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Living area in the light filled 1950′s extension, adjoining the kitchen. French posters collected in Paris, trunk used as coffee table from The Country Trader.  Photo – Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Living room details.  Photos – Felix Forest, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Another view of the main dining room – one of Andrea’s most treasured pieces is her Moroccan lantern – ‘I lugged it around Europe for 6 months, leaving it in train stations etc. and then smashed it to bits on the move to Turramurra, and have since repaired it.  It has many lives – it refuses to die!’.  Photos – Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Dining room with view to kids’ playroom / TV room.  Love the timber panelling throughout!  Photo – Felix Forest, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Master bedroom.  Photo – Felix Forest, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files

Teeny tiny gorgeous bathroom.  Photo – Felix Forest, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Kids’ shared bedroom. Photo – Felix Forest, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files

Vintage artworks in dining room from Rozelle Markets and local auction houses.  Photo by Felix Forest, production by Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Painting by Jan Billycan at Short St. Gallery, Broome. Table from Original Finish, Newtown. Chairs by Tolix at Thonet, BTC Titan pendant lights from Dunlin Home. Photo – Rachel Kara, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Painting Lydia Balbal at Short St. Gallery,  Cane Chair from Revival, Milton, NSW.  Cushion from Koskela. ‘I love the cane chairs – we found them in Milton on the South Coast, at a 20th Century furniture shop called Revival’ says Fiona.  Photo - Rachel Kara, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Woven baskets on wall by Tjanpi Desert Weavers at Koskela. Photos - Rachel Kara, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Another stunning Sydney home for you today – this is pretty little cottage on a steep, leafy street in Neutral Bay belongs to florist-turned-interior-designer Fiona Bateman and family.

Fiona and husband Henry have been here for the past seven years.  In that time their family has grown to five – kids Freya and Edward share a room at the front of the house, whilst baby George has his own bedroom which doubles as a workspace / playroom for now.  Fiona has recently finished renovating the rear of the house of create a little more space for her growing family – the living area and kitchen have been updated and opened up to form a relaxed open plan living and dining space.

As you can see, Fiona and Henry have a passion for aboriginal art, and have an impressive collection of much-loved paintings purchased from various trips around Australia.  One of Fiona’s favourites is the Weaver Jack painting (above Freya’s bed), purchased whilst Fiona and Henry were having their honeymoon in Broome – ‘it’s our first real piece of art’ says Fiona.  Fiona has some (understandable!) trouble  pinpointing just one ‘favourite’ piece though – ‘…the weavings hanging in the kitchen give me such joy every time I look at them… as does the beautiful kitchen table from Original Finish, my love of it has never wavered!  SO this sounds like everything in the house is a favourite! Oh well.’ Ha ha.  It’s ok Fiona, you’re allowed more than one favourite!

I’m loving the bold details in this elegantly decorated home – the consistent colour palette of reds, pinks and greens make the perfect vibrant punch on those bright white walls, alongside more classic furnishings in neutral hues.  And of course Sydney’s signature lush foliage peeks through every window and door, adding another layer of beautiful deep colour to each room! (*sigh* I wish Melbourne were this green!).

Indeed, for Fiona, one of the biggest drawcards of living in this pretty little pocket of Sydney are the beautiful leafy surroundings. ‘What I love most about Neutral Bay is all the beautiful parks on the harbour foreshore, and all the greenery – while also being 2 minutes away from the harbour bridge and the city’ she says, adding ‘ There is also a wonderful sense of community with everyone being so jam packed together.’

It’ll be no surprise to learn that Fiona has an impressive creative background – and a bit of a green thumb!  After spending the early years of her career in fashion, working with respected Australian design brands such as Akira Isogawa and Scanlan and Theodore, Fiona launched her floristry business in 2010 (such beautiful floral creations for weddings and events – have a little look).  More recently she went back to study Colour and Design, and founded her interior design consultancy Bateman Brown earlier this year.  Her aesthetic combines rustic and industrial elements with unexpected colour, inspired by the natural environment.  Fiona now works on a variety of design projects including events styling, colour consulting,  and residential renovations.

Massive thanks to Fiona and family for sharing their home with us today!

Suzani from I & B Perryman Oriental Carpets, Woollahra. Table from Original Finish, Newtown. Chairs by Tolix at Thonet, Photo - Rachel Kara, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Kids corner in the kitchen / pantry area!  Stools by Anne Claire Petit.  Photo – Rachel Kara, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.  Photo - Rachel Kara, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Painting by Lydia Balbal at Short St. Gallery. Photo - Rachel Kara, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Freya and Edward’s room – painting by Weaver Jack at Short St. Gallery, Broome.  Photo - Rachel Kara, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

All clothing by Mamapapa, locker from Ici et la.  Photo - Rachel Kara, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Freya and Edwards room – Photo - Rachel Kara, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

George’s room / playroom. Painting by Donald Moko.  Photo - Rachel Kara, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Restored 18th Century chair from Howell & Howell, Woollahra, cushion from Koskela.  Photo - Rachel Kara, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Beautiful classic Victorian bathroom, woodblock by Belinda Bateman.  Photo - Rachel Kara, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Master Bedroom, painting by Madigan Thomas at Short St Gallery, Broome. Pillowcases by Rachel Castle.  Photo - Rachel Kara, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Master Bedroom.  Cherrywood bench from Original Finish, Print by David Rose.  Photo - Rachel Kara, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Looking through from kids’ room to hallway and master bedroom beyond.  I love the colour of that front door!  Photo - Rachel Kara, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Hallway looking through front door - Photo - Rachel Kara, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Front exterior details.  Photo - Rachel Kara, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Exterior.  SO cute! Photo - Rachel Kara, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

The Paddington home of Sophie Tatlow and Bruce Slorach of Deuce Design.  Photos - Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Quirky collectables in the home of Sophie Tatlow and Bruce Slorach.  Photos - Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Living room.  Sophie’s fave ‘Parentheses’ light, designed by Achille Castiglioni in the 1970′s hangs in the far corner.  Photos - Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Living room.  Sophie’s ‘Parentheses’ light, designed by Achille Castiglioni hangs in the corner.  Bruce’s vintage glass collection is proudly displayed throughout.  Marimekko cushion.  Photos - Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

When we shot this fabulous family home in Sydney’s Paddington a few months back, I actually knew very little about its occupants, Sophie Tatlow and Bruce Slorach, who run a brilliant little design studio in Surry Hills called Deuce Design.  In the weeks that have passed since they kindly let a random stranger in to photograph their home (thanks guys!) Sophie and I have become good pals… she is an absolute GEM and has sent me many story leads, tip-offs and advice!  She’s ex Melbourne but has lived in Sydney for many years, and is one of those amazing, energetic people who just seems to be everywhere at once.  If ANYONE is doing ANYTHING cool in Sydney, Sophie knows!  It’s lovely now to write this story knowing a little more about the clever creatives who live here!

Sophie and Bruce live in this light-filled Paddington home with their son Henri (10).  When they first got their hands on the place eight years ago, Sophie says the house had a ‘beige vibe’ – a little like walking into an episode of the Brady Bunch!  ’The original fitout included splattered brick, cream flecked carpet, brown curtains, buckled laminex, and too many internal walls – you get the picture’ says Sophie. At the time, it looked like an authentic terrace but in actual fact it was a ‘faux’ mid-seventies version, designed to fit into the Victorian streetscape.

Not long after moving in, Bruce approached architect Peter McGregor, working closely with him to re-design the home and make a dramatic metamorphosis. Internal walls were pulled down, the balconies at the back of the house were transformed to increase the bedrooms and top floor study, and the entire rear wall was knocked out to allow Sydney’s beautiful sunshine to stream in to the split-level living spaces.

Whilst they do love the odd graphic print and quirky souvenir collected on their travels, I get the impression Sophie and Bruce are design purists at heart!  They’re passionate about mid century design, and have an impressive collection of classic modernist furniture and lighting.

‘As far as favourites go, I like the dining room table’ Sophie says (its the Joyn table by Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec for Vitra). ‘It seats 8 people and we’ve had some good dinners around it.  The table has a long story behind it, too long to tell, but let’s just say it was hard fought for and nearly didn’t make it…’

Other favourite finds include Sophie’s treasured Parentheses light (designed by Achille Castiglioni in the 70′s). ‘It has a counter weight, and the steel tube allows you to move it it up and down. Brilliant idea!’ she says.

Whilst she still has great affection for her home town, Sophie has definitely been seduced by Sydney, after many years living in the sparkly city!  ’Everyone says the says the best things about Sydney are the beaches and the weather’ Sophie says. ‘As a former Melbournite, going to the beach isn’t a top priority, but I still like the idea that you can get to a beach in under 20 minutes when you need space, air, light.  There’s no denying the therapeutic quality of the Sydney climate. I like the warm balmy nights, the frangipani in the air and the crazy Sydney speed (most of the time). I love the rows of terraces and the way people have customised their homes with personality and style – coloured doors, custom iron lace, all the quirky bits and even the shoddy renovations. I also love the mad torrential storms and lightning!’

In between running their much respected design studio in Surry Hills, this year Sophie and Bruce have also been busy with a special personal project.  This November they’re launching Utopia Goods, a unique range of homewares with a crafted, quirky edge.  With Bruce’s impressive pedigree (he was head designer at Mambo for five years, before setting up Deuce Design) I’d say this new venture is destined for immediate CULT status.  Stay tuned – I’ll be sure to keep you posted!

Dining room.  Eames DCM dining chairs, Joyn table by Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec for Vitra. Photos - Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Dining room details. Photos - Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Dining room looking out to lush courtyard beyond.  Photos - Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Split level detail – stairs from dining / kitchen downstairs take you to the living room on level one.   Photos - Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Lush courtyard garden.  Sophie’s sparkly  bike!  Photos - Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Guest bedroom.  Sophie loves her collection of patchwork bedspreads – ‘I LOVE stuff crafted by someone else. I took up needlepoint last year and I know that anyone who can sew is a genius of patience and heart. It takes forever…!’ she says. Photos – Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Guest room details, more from Bruce’s vintage glass collection.  Photos - Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Henri’s bedroom.  COOLEST 1o year old boy’s bedroom ever. Photos - Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Henry’s shoes – a small selection!  Photos - Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Sophie’s libray, top floor office.  Photos - Felix Forest, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

The Sydney apartment of Gemma Cagnacci and Andrew Meehan.  Kilim bought in Turkey, clock from Boxx, wooden statue bought in Indonesia, painting by Max Berry, painting by Gemma, etching by Gemma during university years, triangle piece by Me and Amber, antique Chinese box bought in Beijing.  Photo - Gemma Cagnacci, styling / production – Lucy Feagins.

Mantlepiece details – etching by Gemma during her university years, triangle piece by Me and Amber, antique Chinese box bought in Beijing.  Photo – Gemma Cagnacci, styling / production – Lucy Feagins.

‘Gallery Wall’ in the dining room, featuring old photos taken by Gemma’s grandfather, basket woven by the Tjanpi Desert Weavers, Nubian masks bought in southern Egypt, wall hanging bought in Uzbekistan, print by Adam Hancher, antique textile bought in Uzbekistan. Photo – Gemma Cagnacci, production – Lucy Feagins.

This super sweet Surry Hills lovenest belongs to textile designer Gemma Cagnacci and her partner Andrew Meehan, an architect.  Loyal readers will know Gemma because she is the very clever lass behind the Line x Shape x Colour blog – which I LOVE!  I became hooked on Gemma’s site last year when she and Andrew documented their epic four month journey through the Middle East and Central Asia.  Gemma’s photos of the trip were truly incredible, and we were lucky to have her contribute a little Guest Blog for us on her return!

Since then I’ve had the great pleasure of meeting both Gemma and Andrew in person, and it’s been so lovely getting to know this creative couple, after following their travel adventures on Gemma’s blog for so long.

Having returned from their amazing journey last year, this sweet pad has been home to Gemma and Andrew for only a short time, but it hasn’t taken them long to put their personal stamp on the place.  Inevitably the home is filled with souvenirs and stunning textiles from their travels – Gemma is an expert shopper and can negotiate international shipping rates in any continent!

As you’ve probably guessed Gemma and Andrew’s home is another excellent example of how simple, inexpensive styling can be done in a rented space to maximum effect.  The lightweight, eclectic trinkets displayed ‘gallery style’ on the dining room wall, and the layers of framed artwork and collectables displayed on every surface really personalise the space without the need for permanent fixtures.

‘We were very fortunate that the apartment was very much a blank canvas before we moved in, and have been able to make it our own’ says Gemma, who says she and Andrew made a ‘non-negotiable list’ of pre-requisites when looking for their new place. (White walls, floorboards and lots of natural light!).  Gemma’s top tip for personalising a rental? ‘Those 3M command hook things are amazing – we have put them to great use!’ she says!

When asked for their favourite pieces here, Gemma lists the two rugs pictured in these shots, both of which she found in Turkey.  ’A carpet was the one thing I insisted we must buy while on our trip – we ended coming home with four!’ she says.  ’I like to swap them around as it instantly freshens up a room’.  Andrew sweetly says he loves all of Gemma’s artworks and creative projects displayed around the home – ‘we like changing things around a lot and not having things too static – things left in the same place too long seem to become invisible’ he says.

One thing both Gemma and Andrew agree on is how lucky they are to have found an apartment in this perfect location.  Their apartment is tucked down a quite sidestreet, right in the heart of Surry Hills, a stone’s throw from a bazillion local shops and cafes (hello Bourke st Bakery!).

Massive thanks to Gemma and Andrew for sharing their home with us today… incredibly, I also roped Gemma into working with me and taking all the photos you see here!?  Outrageous.  Thankyou Gemma!  You are a superstar!

Hallway details.  Kurdish woollen carpet bought in Turkey, frame on left is an old photo taken by Gemma’s grandfather in Afghanistan, collage of bits and pieces collected in Lebanon by Gemma, vintage super 8 projector.  Photo – Gemma Cagnacci, styling / production – Lucy Feagins.

Living room essentials!  One of Andrew’s boards – a classic twin fin.   Handpainted concrete planter painted by Gemma.  Photo – Gemma Cagnacci, styling / production – Lucy Feagins.

Living room reverse.  Oil burner by Page Thirty Three, an old travel map of Greece framed, black and white doodle by Gemma, portrait of Hmong woman bought in Vietnam, another old travel map of Spain framed. Kilim bought in Turkey.  Photo – Gemma Cagnacci, styling / production – Lucy Feagins.

Main bedroom - suzani bought in Uzbekistan, felt necklace bought in Krygyzstan, artwork on dresser by Andrew.  Photo – Gemma Cagnacci, styling / production – Lucy Feagins.

Main bedroom – handcrafted bed made by a friend, screen printed music poster by Methane Studios, blue dish by Dinosaur Designs.  Photo – Gemma Cagnacci, styling / production – Lucy Feagins.

The sunny spot!  Old chair from Canada – a gift to Gemma’s mum from one of her friends (‘on loan to me!’ says Gemma). Little woven vessel bought in Egypt, and Taj the cat!  Photo – Gemma Cagnacci, styling / production – Lucy Feagins.

‘Gallery Wall’ in the dining room, featuring old photos taken by Gemma’s grandfather, basket woven by the Tjanpi Desert Weavers, Nubian masks bought in southern Egypt, wall hanging bought in Uzbekistan, print by Adam Hancher, antique textile bought in Uzbekistan. Photo – Gemma Cagnacci, production – Lucy Feagins.

Sunny dining room!  Photo – Gemma Cagnacci, production – Lucy Feagins.

Dining details - Tonfisk tea set on top shelf from Funkis, old Chinese tin bought in China, lemon cup found at a flea market.  Photo – Gemma Cagnacci, production – Lucy Feagins.

Dining room looking into sweet mini Euro-style kitchen!  Yellow and black ceramic dish found at a second hand shop,  hand painted poster bought in Vietnam.  Photo – Gemma Cagnacci, styling / production – Lucy Feagins.

 Sweet details on the sunny dining room shelf.  Photo – Gemma Cagnacci.

The Sydney home of interior designer Juliette Arent and husband, designer Matthew Squadrito! Artwork from left – print by Robert Jacks, and ‘Araluen VII’ landscape by Guy Maestri, sculpture by Sydey artist Anna-Wili Highfield. Sofa is the Gervasoni Ghost sofa, Coupe lamp by Oluce. Photo – Phu Tang, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Medical Stainless steel tables sit side by side under the window in the loungeroom. Photo - Phu Tang, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Loungeroom details – sculpture by Sydey artist Anna-Wili Highfield. Brass candlesticks – a vintage find. Photo – Phu Tang, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Juliette Arent Squadrito is the most effortlessly stylish person I think I have ever laid eyes on. I am sure she will cringe to read this, but she really does epitomise summery Sydney chic – on any given day you’ll find Juliette donning some kind of cult-label printed pant, Chanel ballet flats, the perfect brimmed fedora framing her trademark blonde bubble curls, and an oversized French rattan shopping basket, overflowing with all manner of organic goodies. The magic is, despite looking paparazzi perfect at all times, Juliette always appears completely casual, as if she’s just ‘thrown together’ her look in a matter of seconds. Now that’s what I call stylish. It is seriously impressive and borderline infuriating. :)

I realise all this wardrobe related nonsense may seem superfluous, but in actual fact, Juliette’s innate, relaxed sense of style is central to this story, as it carries through seamlessly to the two bedroom apartment she shares with Husband Matthew Squarito in Bondi Beach.

As I am sure many of you will know, Juliette is one half of Arent&Pyke, the much respected interior design studio of which she is co-founder alongside business partner Sarah Jane Pyke. Juliette’s husband Matthew Squadrito, meanwhile, is Creative Director of Squad Ink design / branding studio.

Juliette and Matthew have been in their small but perfectly proportioned Bondi Beach apartment for just over 2.5 years. Though this apartment is a rental, of course being an interior designer, Juliette has still managed to improve the look and feel of her sun drenched Bondi pad by making a few strategic changes! ‘We gave up the larger bedroom to make way for a dining room – Matthew makes really yummy food and we love having friends over for dinner, so a this was a must. The smaller room is completely fine to sleep in!!’ Simple genius right there.

Favourite items for Juliette include the Kilim rugs – purchased in Istanbul, and the Gervasoni Ghost sofa from Anibou, purchased five years and 2 apartments ago! ‘the sofa is huge and I am truly shocked it has squeezed in and out of our last 2 apartments!!’ says Juliette. Other treasured possessions include artworks by Guy Maestri paintings and the late David Band. ‘The large Guy Maestri painting was purchased in the first year of starting Arent&Pyke, and it always reminds me of that incredibly exciting time’ explains Julitte. ‘It is a truly joyous painting that I look at at admire every day’.

But what Juliette and Matthew treasure most since moving here is the amazing location, just a stone’s throw from iconic Bondi Beach. ‘I used to groan disapprovingly when people would say that ‘once you move to Bondi Beach, you never want to leave’. But it is absolutely true!’ says Juliette. ‘I am sand/saltwater kind of girl, and even though I’m not able to get down to the beach as much as I’d like… being in the locale and knowing that the ocean is only moments away has a calming effect. It does get busy in summer, but difficult parking is a small price to pay for living in an area that feels like you’re always on holiday!’

MASSIVE thankyou to Juliette for sharing her gorgeous apartment with us today! I MUST mention that Arent&Pyke have just launched their own seriously excellent blog! Entitled the ‘In/Out Design Blog‘, here you will find such a dense and pin-able range of inspiring interior imagery and coverage of local design happenings… it is well worth a visit – immediate bookmark material!

Armchair (found on the side of the road!) reconditioned and reupholstered in Juliette’s FAVOURITE fabric by EDIT. Large painting by Guy Maestri, small artwork by Louise Tuckwell. Vintage lamp in corner, Noguchi side table by Vitra. Photo - Phu Tang, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Large painting by Guy Maestri. Photo – Phu Tang, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Wider view of loungeroom. Artwork from left – ‘Tomorrow Morning’ (study) by David Band, yellow print by Robert Jacks, and ‘Araluen VII’ landscape by Guy Maestri, sculpture by Sydey artist Anna-Wili Highfield. Sofa is the Gervasoni Ghost sofa, Coupe lamp by Oluce. Photo – Phu Tang, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

‘Tomorrow Morning’ (study) by David Band. Photo – Phu Tang, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Dining room – Artwork, ‘Black Hill’ by Tim Summerton. Kilim purchased in Istanbul, lamp by Artemide. Photo – Phu Tang, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Hallway looking to dining room beyond. Photo - Phu Tang, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Loungeroom details. Photo – Phu Tang, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Loungeroom details – stunning picture perfect peonies (For Juliette’s birthday!) sit in a Dinosaur Designs vase. Jonathan Adler bowl. Photo – Phu Tang, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Bedroom! Work above bed by artist Katherine Green, vintage lamp, The Society bedlinen. Photo – Phu Tang, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

The Rozelle home of Andrea Millar and family.  Vintage artworks from Rozelle Markets and local auction houses.  Sunday school benches and dining table from David met Nicole.  Lantern purchased in Morocco and lugged across Europe by Andrea!  Photo by Felix Forest, production by Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Lovely light filled kitchen – stainless kitchen bench purchased on ebay. Photo - Felix Forest, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

WELL hello 2013 and HAPPY NEW YEAR!  Hope you all had a smashing night last night… as I type it’s actually New Year’s Eve, and I’m in Sydney, housesitting a beautiful apartment in Double Bay.  Gotta love a change of scenery!  We’re planning for a quiet evening, a bottle of sparkling and maybe a glimpse at fireworks if we can bear the crowds… am a bit apprehensive about the Sydney NYE party-goers!  Fingers crossed!

ANYWAY, given I’m in Sydney this week, it seems fitting to re-visit another beautiful Sydney home which we first shared in back in July.   This gorgeous little family pad is another of my personal faves from the TDF archive – it’s in Sydney’s Rozelle, and belongs to Andrea Millar and husband Ben, and their boys Sebastian (5) and Casper (2).

What is interesting about this home, and what resonated with many of you when we first published this story, is that this isn’t actually Andrea and Ben’s first ‘dream home’.  Before moving here, home for the Millar family was a large house on a big block, 45 minutes from the CBD in Turramurra on Sydney’s Upper North Shore.  After the birth of their first child, Andrea and Ben had made the move from Sydney’s inner west to Turramurra for all the usual reasons – more space, bigger garden, room to grow.  Here the Millar family created what they thought would be their ‘forever house’.

But, sometimes your dream home isn’t everything it’s cracked up to be. ‘We lived there for three years only to realise that more space and a bigger garden meant more work!’ says Andrea. ‘I never saw Ben, he was always wrestling with that bush block on weekends’.  And so, three years on, and after the birth of their second child, the Millar family downsized, moving into this pretty little weatherboard in Sydney’s inner west.  ’We moved back to a little garden and very little space, but there is (just) enough room for us and we love the neighbourhood’ says Andrea.  The atmosphere, the coffee, the people, the restaurants and markets within walking distance are a constant reminder of just why Andrea and Ben made the decision to move back into town, despite having to compromise a little on space.

For the full story and many more pics, do re-visit the original post!

Vintage artwork from Rozelle Markets.  Sunday school bench from David met Nicole.  Photo by Felix Forest, production by Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Master bedroom.  Photo - Felix Forest, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files

The Darling Point apartment of homewares / furniture buyer Garth Allan. ‘Our living room has a bit of a ‘supper club’ feel’ says Garth.  ’The deer head came to us from the neighbours. We painted the fireplace black and just filled it up with wood. The zebra print hide and the zigzag lamps give the space a bit of a graphic punch’.  Photo – Phu Tang.  Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Living room details.  Painting on left by German artist Murray Zimiles.  ’This piece adds some drama to the living room – there is something dark about it, I find it’s a real conversation starter’ says Garth.  Photos – Phu Tang.  Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Hallway reading spot.  ’Here is my tribute to the lovely Kate Moss (the early years) by Roderick bunter. The daybed we inherited from a friend in a real state of disrepair – but with a bit of love and a lick of paint it came up good as new!’ says Garth.  Photo – Phu Tang. Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Garth Allan in his Darling Point apartment.  Photo – Phu Tang.  Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

I try to keep things varied around here in the house department – you know, rambling country property one week, cute ‘n crafty city pad the next.  What I always struggle to find, though, is more masculine interiors, so it was great to cross paths with Garth Allan recently, and document his stylish Sydney apartment!

Garth’s is one of a handful of generously proportioned apartments housed in an enormous Victorian Tudor mansion in Sydney’s Darling Point.  The home itself has incredible bones of course – soaring ceilings, bucket loads of natural light and period features throughout, such as the incredible detailed stained glass windows.  To this Garth has brought a tight edit of his favourite finds, from carefully sourced artworks, to salvaged vintage gems. ‘Our living room has a bit of a supper club feel’ says Garth.  ’The deer head came to us from the neighbours. The zebra print hide and the zigzag lamps give the space a bit of a graphic punch’.

Garth is a retail buyer – he sources designer fashion and homewares for online retailer BrandsExclusive (before than he spent many years as a senior buyer st David Jones).  But after so many years seeing countless new products for the home, in his own home, Garth is measured with his decorating approach.  He isn’t one for excess decorative fluff – this is a guy who covets and buys key pieces, or restores antique finds, rather than fill his home with too many trinkets.

Above all, it’s the unique sense of history and character here that Garth loves most about this home.  ’I really love the size and feeling of space in the rooms – it’s a feeling that I think is missing from more modern apartments’ says Garth. ‘While I understand the whole movement to open plan living, I also really love that each room in my home stands on its own. I also love that I’m completely surrounded by trees – I’m only 5 minutes from the centre of Sydney, but really I could be anywhere, it’s just so peaceful.’

Big thanks to Garth for sharing his home with us today!

‘This is probably my favourite area of the house’ says Garth of the light-filled sitting area at the front of his apartment. ‘It feels spacious and light all throughout the entire day’.  Chairs are salvaged, re-upholstered in brown linen.  Table in foreground from livingExclusive.  Photo – Phu Tang.  Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Dining room. ‘This would have to be my favourite artwork in the house I think’ says Garth. ‘I love the contrast between the background and the dancing figures’.  Dining chairs – a vintage find.  Lamp – from livingExclusive.  Photo – Phu Tang.  Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Bedroom.  Photo – Phu Tang.  Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Bedroom details.  Photos – Phu Tang.  Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Bedroom window.  ’My bedroom gets the perfect amount of natural light, and all I can see from the window is trees’ says Garth.  Photo – Phu Tang.  Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Building exterior.   ’The house itself was one of the first properties on the street, and was built by the same people who built St. Marks Church in Darling Point, so there is a real sense of history and character to it’ says Garth.  Photo – Phu Tang.  Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

The Sydney home of interior designer Lorena Gaxiola and family.  Rug design by Verner Panton.  Artwork on left by American artist Josh Hassin, timber artwork on right by Jorge Tellaeche.  Photo – Phu Tang, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Loungeroom details.  Artwork on timber by Jorge Tellaeche.  Photo – Phu Tang, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Glass dining table by Glas italia, chairs by Cassina and hanging light fixture by German Designer Ingo Maurer.  Photo – Phu Tang, Production – Lucy Feagins / the Design Files.

Today’s home belongs to Mexico-born, Sydney based interior designer Lorena Gaxiola and family. Despite Lorena’s impressive design credentials (outlined below!), she hasn’t tinkered too much with the general layout of the space since purchasing her home six years ago. Though the basic structure of the home remains unchanged, cosmetic changes have included replacing floorboards, changing interior paint colours and some joinery, and also reworking the central courtyard area.

Lorena has a love of bold colour, and a passion for artwork collected on travels through the US and her native Mexico.  One of her favourite vignettes is the entrance hall, where an artwork by her friend, Mexican artist Jorge Tellaeche, is paired with an eyecatching graphic cabinet by Australian furniture maker Old School Industries. ‘The composition is me to a tee!’ Lorena says.

Whist I must admit it’s not entirely clear in these shots, Lorena’s home is built around a central courtyard – from the entrance through to the living space, each room opens onto a generous outdoor room. ‘I love how we can open the hallway, den areas and TV room opens into the courtyard creating an indoor/outdoor feel’ says Lorena. ‘It is an amazing party home!’.

Born and raised in Mexico, Lorena’s father, a respected architect, inspired her to follow in his footsteps in the field of design. As a result, Lorena co-founded her interior design firm, Kuatro Design, in the US in 2000, and became the sole director of the company in 2003. After many years spent running her company from the US, and winning a string of international awards, Lorena moved to Australia six years ago, and had her first child – Demi Luiza (pictured below – so cute!), in Sydney last year.  She now officially calls Australia home.

Though she’s a new Mum, Lorena still plays a very hands on role in running her design business, with high profile clients the US, Asia and Australia. At present, Lorena is also busy adding another string to her bow! Combining her Mexican heritage and international design experience, she is currently working with a small team of Sydney designers to  develop her own collection of homewares, to be released later this year under her own name. We got a sneak peek at the ceramics and glassware whilst we photographed her home and they are seriously SO AMAZING! Lorena’s range will include textiles, wallpaper, rugs, dinnerware and glassware. I wish very much I could share a preview with you here but alas they’re not quite ready for coverage yet. I’ll be sure to keep you posted – think Mexicana meets Missoni….!

Massive thanks to Lorena and Demi for having us, and sharing their home with us today!

Loungeroom details.  Photo – Phu Tang, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Couldn’t resist including a pic of Lorena’s gorgeous daughter Demi!  SO cute!  Black and white rug by Verner Panton. Photos – Phu Tang, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Entrance area – one of Lorena’s favourite vignettes, featuring a painting by her friend Mexican artist Jorge Tellaeche, paired with ‘Hollywood’ sign cabinet by Australian designers Old School Industries.  ’The composition is me to a tee’ says Lorena.  This photo – Prue Ruscoe.

Deep, moody tones in the master bedroom.  This photo - Prue Ruscoe.

Lorena’s home is built around a central courtyard, accessed by front room, living room and the connecting hallway.  Photo – Phu Tang, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Lorena and Demi in the central courtyard.  Outdoor chairs by Verner Panton, table by B&B Italia.  Photo – Phu Tang, Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

The incredible Sydney home of artist Leah Fraser and her partner David Shrimpton.  Above mantle – painted photograph of David’s great grandfather c. 1900.  Photo – Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Dining room / front room.  Irish gentleman’s chair from the turn of the century, antique leather topped wine table, Afghan rug, antique washing bowl (on dining table), clock top left – a NSW standard issue railway clock.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Living room.  Painting on mantle - ‘Moths and mosquitoes beat your ears’ by Leah Fraser.  Ceramic vases on side table by Leah also.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Leah Fraser in her home studio, surrounded by works for her upcoming show at Arthouse Gallery in Sydney.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

OK Today’s post is what I call a seriously tight turnaround – we photographed this incredible home in Sydney’s Surry Hills last week, and it’s already up today!  (Thanks Sean!).  That’s because this amazing space is home to artist Leah Fraser and her partner David Shrimpton, and I wanted to share it with you just in time to mention Leah’s first solo show, which opens next week in Sydney at Arthouse Gallery!

But first.  The house.  What a treasure!

Being in this home is truly like stepping back in time.  It’s mesmerising.  Each room is overwhelmingly dark and moody, and full of beautiful soft lamp lighting and an incredible collection of art, artefacts and antique furniture.  Oh, and a seriously impressive audio system – we had quite an amazing playlist accompanying this shoot, care of David’s former life as a record label owner / manager (this guy knows a thing or two about music!).

But what’s really amazing about this space is that it’s really the opposite of what most Sydneysiders do with a terrace house!  Most people lucky enough to get their hands on a Victorian house in Surry Hills spare not much thought before lopping off the back, opening the space up to a pretty little courtyard, and adding a shiny white extension, complete with bi-fold glass doors and a stainless steel kitchen.  No problems there, I love me a stainless steel kitchen.  But what’s interesting about this beautiful home, is that David and Leah have done precisely the opposite.

This home basically reverses the trend of transforming terraces into small white modernist boxes. When David first took possession of the property 5 years ago, it had already received the obligatory modern renovation treatment. ‘He basically gutted it and restored it in a Victorian style’ says Leah. ‘The inspiration was a traditional Sydney Victorian terrace – taking ideas from Sir John Soane and Victor Horta‘ Leah explains.  David was intent on recreating the grandeur of Victorian times – re-instating cornices and ceiling roses using original Victorian moulds, and salvaging antique doors and windows to complete the look.  Floorboards were replaced with salvaged tallow wood. Layer upon layer of detail was added – from Victorian era paint colours to vintage lace curtains, giving this home an incredible sense of history, otherwise seen only on a film set!

When Leah moved in 3 years ago, another layer of decoration found its way creeping into this unique home.  ’I am quite a collector of interesting objects and trinkets from all around the world – everything has a story, and I love making little installations around the place with vases, shells, crystals, flowers and the like’ says Leah.  Aside from a few feminine flourishes (!), Leah also brought with her an incredible collection of art – her own amazing paintings and sculptures, as well as the work of her mentor, Del Kathryn Barton, who Leah assisted before embarking fulltime on her own practice. These contemporary paintings somehow fit so perfectly with the nostalgic styling of the home. Don’t ask me how it works – it just does!  ’We are both really into beautiful old things, and the natural world’ offers Leah by way of explanation.

Leah is such a thoughtful, gentle soul.  When asked what she loves most about living here, she offers such a sweet, slightly romantic response - ’I love the little world that we have created here, it feels like a country retreat in the middle of the city. We spend a lot of time at home and put a lot of energy into it.  There is a really interesting point of connect in our tastes, although David’s is more grand and mine is definitely more folk/hippie. It’s like a period piece drama set in a combi van!’

So there you have it, Sydney’s most eclectic, interesting, and nostalgic renovated terrace house – period drama meets combi van!

And now a note about the lovely Ms Leah Fraser.  I am firmly convinced this lass is going to be BIG.  You heard it here first!  We had the great privilege of previewing a number of works for her upcoming show whilst photographing her home, and I must say, Sydney –  you are in for a treat!

Leah is a graduate of COFA.  Her paintings and ceramics are so exquisite… there’s something dark and haunting about the mystical characters she creates, and their environments, rendered as layered backgrounds dense with detailed flora and fauna, are just breathtakingly beautiful.  DO check out Leah’s first solo exhibition next week in Sydney, entitled Valley of the Silver Moon, or download the full exhibition catalogue here.

Valley of the Silver Moon - new paintings and sculptures by Leah Fraser
Arthouse Gallery
27th February to 15th March  2013

The rear kitchen doors are antique finds from Argentina, c.1880′s!   Photo – Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

The kitchen is softened and given an authentic Victoriana spin with the addition of lush indoor plants and ferns.  Photo – Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Amazing kitchen details, including a fossil, a handpainted ceramic dish made by Leah, shells and other treasures! (Sean and I found ourselves quite mesmerised by this little microcosm of objects!)  Photo – Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Owl and antique table from an Antwerp antique store.  Photo – Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Original Australian cedar staircase, little paintings and old photographs from antique market in argentina, Turkish footstool.  Photo – Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Bespoke cabinetry containing David’s impressive vinyl collection!  Leah fraser ceramic objects on side table, Victorian recast plaster mouldings on wall, Afghani wall rug.  Photo – Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Bedroom mantlepiece.  ’Trance’ painting by Leah Fraser for her upcoming show, Valley of the Silver Moon at Arthouse Gallery.  Ceramic objects either side of mantle are totems by Leah Fraser.  Original Victorian fireplace and reclaimed stone tile.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Master bedroom.  French 14 day clock c.1880, bespoke cupboards, Orson and Blake leather armchair.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Master bedroom.  19^th Century French antique bedframe (Leah’s favourite piece!).  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Bedroom.  French lace and velvet curtains, Orson and Blake leather armchair.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Master bedroom.  Gainsbrough painting above fireplace –  ‘portrait of a young man’ authorised third copy by A. Thomas.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Bathroom with unique domed ceiling (I wish you could see up!).   Photo – Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

A few works waiting to be collected for Leah’s exhibition!  left – ‘I will take you through the sweet valley’, acrylic on canvas by Leah Fraser.  Right –  ’Shelter’  acrylic on canvas by Leah Fraser, both for her upcoming show.  Photo – Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Sophie Thé and Niki Baillie-Jackson aboard Gwenn A Du, their floating weekender!  Photo – Sean Fennessy, styling – Sophie Thé, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Gwenn A Du in all her glory! Photo - Sean Fennessy, styling - Sophie Thé, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Interior – looking through the bow into the master cabin (at the front of the boat).  Photo – Sean Fennessy, styling - Sophie Thé, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Gwenn A Du interior details.  Photo – Sean Fennessy, styling - Sophie Thé, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

The stern – looking from kitchen / dining area towards the back deck of the boat. Photo – Sean Fennessy, styling - Sophie Thé, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Alright, clearly, it’s a Wednesday, so you’re expecting to see a house. DON’T PANIC.  I do have the sweetest, and dare I say, romantic Sydney weekender to share with you… but it’s not a home in the strictest sense.  It’s a beautiful 1960′s sailing boat, or ‘ketch’ – and her name is Gwenn A Du!

Gwenn A Du, or Gwenn as she is affectionately known, is a home-away-from-home for Sydney lad Niki Baillie-Jackson, and his partner, stylist Sophie Thé.  Sophie is French and fabulous – you might already know her as the amazing assistant of Megan Morton!   Niki is a charmer, and a nomad of sorts – he works as a landscaper, but every spare day he has is spent sailing, and since purchasing Gwenn three and a half years ago, he cares not for spending too much time on dry land!  Niki has more or less lived on Gwenn A Du (which is the French Name for the Brittany flag) for the past two and half years.

So how does a Sydney lad end up with a 36ft 1960′s sailing boat instead of an overpriced Bondi apartment?!  Sophie will explain!

‘Niki lived in Laos, and before that China’ says Sophie. ‘Upon his return to Sydney he spotted Gwenn a Du for sale online. She was the first boat he looked into buying’.  It really was a case of ‘right place / right time’ for Gwenn and Niki.  Being a timber boat built in the 60′s, Gwenn really needed an active owner who could keep her well maintained and sail her every day.  She’s not the kind of boat you can keep anchored and just take out when the weather is good!  Niki was looking for an alternative to the rat race he encountered when moving back to Sydney, and along came Gwenn – it was the perfect match!  ‘Having never sailed or spent any time on a boat, it was a steep learning curve, but he had discovered a cure to the constrictions of modern life’ says Sophie. Niki was hooked!

However, truth be told, it’s actually Sophie who has the real nautical credentials here!  She moved to Australia in 2001, having worked in private luxury yachts sailing all over Australia, the South Pacific, and the Mediterranean. After seven years at sea, Sophie studied interior design, while renovating a client’s house on Pittwater. Since 2011, she’s worked side by side with stylist Megan Morton. ‘We laugh. A Lot!’ says Sophie of her current, slightly chaotic role as Megan’s right hand woman.  Sophie does have a small Sydney apartment, but most evenings and weekends are spent with Niki and Gwenn!

Gwenn was built in Noumea, New Caledonia, which Niki only recently found out by chance, when chatting to a salty old sailor who happened to be in the same shipyard in 1967 when Gwenn was first launched!  Not even her previous owner of 20 years was aware exactly where and when she was built. ‘We do know she has sailed to America and back to Hawaii several times across the Pacific, before coming to Australia in 1979′ says Sophie.

Gwenn is a wooden boat, which by nature, means she requires lots of TLC. Her hull is New Caledonian kauri timber, very well built and the only boat of her kind. ‘We have no blue prints or sketches of her original design to refer to, so you really have to spend a lot of time with her to learn all her quirks and oddities’ says Sophie. ‘Most of the work is a pleasure – painting and revarnishing, salting the decks after rain and airing her out when it’s hot’.  Gwenn has just about everything a house does – a solar panel on her deck provides all the electricity required for lights and a small fridge, computer and sound system.

‘Everything inside of this boat is framed by the beautiful timber of the hull itself, with the graceful curves and unique corners you can only find in a hand built wooden boat’ says Sophie. ‘The hull expands from the ground up, giving a real feeling of space for a yacht of this size. The main living area has a large table that can be dropped to create an extra double bed, which is lovely when not at sea. All the beautiful port holes are brass, which over time bleed a green colour, the timbers are all hardwoods that age nicely and retain their good looks.  Everything has to be designed to work both when at anchor and at sea, meaning that everything has a place and a function’.

It’s clear both Niki and Sophie are pretty taken with ‘boat life’. When asked what she loves most about time spent on Gwenn, Sophie explains it’s really about autonomy. ‘Your boat is your kingdom, and therefore you become chained hand and heart to your boat’s fate, the good and the bad. Waking up on the water is surreal the first time, and never stops being beautiful. Similarly, being rocked to sleep at night has yet to grow old. The freedom to move ones home and all ones possessions to (theoretically) anywhere on the planet accessible by water is incredible – and powered only by the wind and sun no less! Sailing is a magical feeling.  And nothing beats having everyday a 360 degree view that changes everyday!’.

Ok we got a bit excited and inquisitive, and thought we’d share a few addition quick questions with Sophie about ‘boat life!’ -

Best thing about living on a boat?

Some nights I cook Bouillabaisse, open a bottle of Cote du Rhone, and we have dinner to the sounds and sights of the sea.

What do you buy a person who lives on a Boat?

A copy of Life Of Pi or a life raft! And bikinis. I can never have enough bikinis!

How can a stylist live on a boat?

Megan and I have full kits that live in our cars, so all stylist situations are dealt with. I keep a small apartment for my magazines, books and larger items but really spend only a few nights a month there.

How do you feel about land lubbers’ current obsession with anchors?

It’s hilarious! It has such a strong meaning for us. We rely on it for the safety of Gwenn every day.

Do you entertain much on the boat?

Always! I am French don’t forget.

What have you learnt from living on boats?

Living on Gwenn reminds me every day how extraordinary simple life is, in absolute connection with nature and the environment. Through work I’ve been lucky enough to see the most beautiful houses around the world, the most expensive atmospheres money can buy, but for me nothing is as beautiful as living on a boat. I feel like a Queen on Gwenn.

I love the way Niki and Sophie refer to Gwenn as an old friend, rather than as a vessel or a vehicle!  With her unique hallmarks of age and experience, she really does have a personality all her own.  It was a challenge to capture Gwenn’s beauty and charm on camera – I do hope we did her justice!

MASSIVE ENORMOUS THANKYOU to Sophie and Niki for sharing Gwenn with us today, for telling her story so beautifully, and for being the best hosts ever!  This was SUCH a fun shoot.  Despite the not-very-Sydney weather.

Niki at the helm, taking us through the Harbour Bridge.  Photo – Sean Fennessy, styling - Sophie Thé, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

‘Life on a boat is about been outside, so breakfast and lunch are always on deck’ says Sophie.  Photo – Sean Fennessy, styling - Sophie Thé, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Dining area, which folds down and doubles as sleeping for guests if needed. Photo – Sean Fennessy, styling - Sophie Thé, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Niki’s reading material!  Photo – Sean Fennessy, styling - Sophie Thé, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Vintage admiral uniform – all nautical details care of Sophie Thé! Photo – Sean Fennessy, styling - Sophie Thé, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Niki adjusts the sails. Photo – Sean Fennessy, styling - Sophie Thé, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

‘My tattoo is to remind me not to anchor anywhere, but to keep exploring the world’ says Sophie!  Photo – Sean Fennessy, styling - Sophie Thé, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Couldn’t resist!  Photo – Sean Fennessy, styling - Sophie Thé, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

‘My favourite spot to sit and enjoy the view’ says Sophie.  Photo – Sean Fennessy, styling - Sophie Thé, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

The Sydney apartment of restauranteur Johnny Paradiso, Rebecca Hill and family.  French prints by the Atelier Populaire,  part of the student uprising in Paris in 1968.  Modular entertainment unit by Gordon Johnson.   Boalum light (flexible tubular light on the entertainment unit) designed by Gianfranco Frattini and Livio Castiglioni. Photo – Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Living room looking to balcony.  Amazing graphic Quaderna bench (used as coffee table) by Superstudio, from Space Furniture.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Dining area.  Another Quaderna Benche by Superstudio in the hallway.  Vintage dining table by Eero Saarinan for Knoll. No.B9 Le Corbusier bentwood chairs (available from Thonet). Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

OK if you are a truly die hard TDF fan who has been with us since day dot (THANKYOU!), you might notice that today we’re pulling a bit of a swifty on you. That’s because today’s stunning Sydney apartment is actually a home we have featured once before, an extremely long time ago.  I’m not normally into repeating myself, but this one is such a truly special space, that I really felt compelled to go back and shoot it PROPERLY, now that it’s 2013, and we have a budget for professional photography! (Because goodness knows my early attempts leave a lot to be desired in retrospect!).

This stylish yet totally understated family apartment in Sydney’s Darlinghurst in fact belongs to dear friends of ours – restauranteur Johnny Paradiso of Fratelli Paradiso in Potts Point (truly one of the loveliest restaurants in Sydney – ask any Sydneysider they will agree!) and 10 William st in Paddington, Rebecca Hill and their two gorgeous girls Parker (12 yrs) and Theodora (7 yrs).

Whilst it’s modest in size at 2.5 bedrooms (Theodora got the .5 – a sweet little study-nook turned single bedroom just off the main living area) there is something so relaxed and generous about this apartment in the Republic apartment building, designed by reverred Sydney architectural practice Burley Katon Halliday.  It’s just the most brilliant example of good old fashioned functional design for modern life – generous living spaces, and a simple, clever layout which draws in natural light on two sides via floor to ceiling windows and wide balconies adjoining every room.  Additionally, the incredible shared outdoor area and swimming pool downstairs, and fulltime concierge (!!) really do add an element of modern luxury to everyday life for the lucky inhabitants of this building!

However, of course it’s not just the architectural master plan that makes this such a special place to live. Bec is truly one of the most effortlessly stylish ladies I know, and this innate sense of style certainly translates to her impeccably styled home!  She is an avid reader of every amazing international interiors magazine she can get her hands on, and has a particular love of all things French.  Her decorating aesthetic encompasses both French antiques and contemporary classics.  She’s always on the hunt for classic European design pieces, and has also commissioned a number of modern custom pieces to complement these (many of these are made by my dear fella, Gordon Johnson!).  A few of Bec and Johnny’s most treasured pieces include the Boalum light (flexible tubular light on the entertainment unit, designed by Gianfranco Frattini and Livio Castiglioni), those amazing graphic Quaderna Benches by Superstudio (from Space Furniture), and their slouchy black leather Diesis chaise. Bec is also an obsessive collector of beautiful trinkets – from candles to books, Henry dean glassware and those amazing Astier de Villatte ceramics!

The Paradiso family have been here for 10 years – and whilst they’re nearly on the verge of out-growing this space now, they’ve become so attached to the lifestyle here, they’re sticking around for as long as they can!   ’We’re crazy about the apartment’ says Bec – ‘it has two balconies that I can grow a jungle on, see our neighbours over the other side, see the children in the pool, feel the warmth of the sun throughout the apartment even in winter, and it’s so light it’s like living on a permanent holiday!’.  Indeed, after having the great fortune of house sitting this beautiful home on the odd occasion, Gordon and I have been known to refer to it as ‘Hotel Paradiso’!  It’s just such a relaxed, easy space to be in.

Another great drawcard of the apartment for Bec and Johnny is its stellar central location.  Just a short walk from Parker’s school and Johnny’s restaurant and bar, it’s the perfect spot for this busy family.  ’There is so much to see, do and eat on the doorstep, it really is walking distance to everything, it’s close to the restaurant and bar, and I like to hear the neighbourhood noises when I am home’ explains Bec – ‘Darlinghurst is as close to Europe as I can get!’

MASSIVE THANKS to Bec and Johnny for sharing their home not one but twice with TDF readers!  I do hope we’ve managed to capture the easy-going yet effortlessly stylish spirit of this home and it’s occupants… here’s to hoping we can house-sit again soon!

Living room looking towards entrance hallway.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Dresser in entrance hallway.  Blue and red print is a much loved gift Bec’s aunty bought back from Europe 40 years ago.  Astier de Villatte oversized ceramic vase.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

The galley style kitchen is tucked just off the main living area.  Skateboard – an artwork by German artist Katharina Grosse, from Sarah Cottier Gallery.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Serene master bedroom, minimally decorated.  Tizio lamp (available from Artemide).  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

The beautiful master bedroom looks out over a leafy city park. Butterfly chair on balcony (available from Angelucci Twentieth Century in Melbourne or Ken Neale in Sydney). Chest of drawers (left) made by Gordon Johnson.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Master bedroom detail.  Bedside tables made by Gordon Johnson, Tizio lamp on bedside (available from Artemide).  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Parker’s bedroom.  Elevated bed with storage beneath, made by Gordon Johnson.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Balcony adjoining living room.  Butterfly chair (find similar at Angelucci Twentieth Century in Melbourne or Ken Neale in Sydney).  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

The Bondi terrace home of Jodi and Brendan York.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Living room.  Light by TVRM Lighting.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Kitchen.  Splashback tiles from Jatana Interiors. Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

For all the big budget drop dead gorgeous dream homes we showcase here, I always like to ensure there’s a good balance of equally lovely yet somewhat more accessible homes – from cute ‘n crafty spaces, to cheerfully chaotic family homes, and of course the ever elusive first home buyers’ home!  Today’s sweet Sydney pad falls into this category – it’s a  wonderful first home for industrious young couple Jodi and Brendan York, and will soon evolve to accommodate a new addition, as Jodi is expecting her first baby in the coming months! (congratulations guys!)

Jodi is an architect, and like any young designer, she leapt at the opportunity to design her very own home.  After purchasing their terrace in Bondi Junction 2.5 years ago, Jodi and Brendan (an accountant) wasted no time re-designing the home, and planning a significant renovation and re-build.  ’We actually demolished most of the house and started over’ Jodi recalls. Her design retained the front façade and external walls, but almost the entire internal structure was gutted, from the front bedroom back to the rear lane.

With a vision to maximise light and natural airflow in this narrow space, Jodi opted for a ‘New York’ style loft inspired design.  ’We wanted to expose as many raw materials as we could, also creating an open plan living format’ explains Jodi. Other priorities including maximising storage (a common challenge in Sydney’s narrow terraces), and the ability to move furniture around to accommodate entertaining (the dining table and island are on wheels!).

Since moving in in April last year, Jodi and Brendan have loved reacquainting themselves with their slick new space. ‘We love the area and the natural light’ says Jodi.  ’We have noticed in the last 12 months, we spend so much more time at home since moving here – rain, hail or shine’.  Jodi and Brendan also love entertaining, and the open layout downstairs really encourages this –  ’we have people over often, and really enjoy sharing the space with friends and family’ says Jodi.

Huge thanks to Jodi and Brendan for sharing their home with us today, and best of luck with the bump!

Looking from kitchen through dining to front of house. Table made by Brendan’s brother, Kartell Masters Chairs by Philippe Starck.  ’Guerilla knitting’ on stair balustrade an by a close friend of Jodi’s. Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Dining room.  Table made by Brendan’s brother, Kartell Masters Chairs by Philippe Starck.  Bowls on table by Mud Australia.  Photo – Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Living room details.  Artwork by artist ‘Kelly’ who has a tenancy at Mitchell Rd Auction House.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Master bedroom.  Artwork – a tapestry replicating Jodi and Brendan’a original marriage certificate, handmade by Jodi’s grandma.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Bathroom.  Tiles from Jatana Interiors. Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Front door – stencilled by Jodi and Brendan.  ’We bought a stencil online and spent a few days creating this!’ says Jodi.  Chest of drawers – Ikea, with a variety of custom knobs picked up at Anthropologie in the US.  White plaster piece sitting on chest of drawers – a section of the original archway.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Exterior raised terrace garden.  Screen by Laser Cut Screens.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

The Sydney apartment of Cassandra Karinsky of Kulchi.  Artwork on wall – ‘The Prayer’ by Chicago-based artist Lora Fosberg, 1995 – a friend of Cassie’s.  Fritz Hansen dining chairs from Corporate Culture.  Photo – Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

The Sydney apartment of Cassandra Karinsky.  Beautiful ‘Marmoucha’ rug in the loungeroom – one of Cassie’s from Kulchi of course!  Painting on shelf by Peter Atkins; Fritz Hansen chairs from Corporate Culture, couch from Arte Sofa.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Marmoucha rug from Kulchi. Sculpture by Alexander Karinsky – ‘Nebuchadnezzar with a rusty halo’, on shelf left to right – Egon Schiele portrait by Lora Fosberg, African sculptures, Egon Schiele prints. Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Apartment entry - Kulchi African stool in yellow fibre glass, Amassi leather & kilim souk boots  sourced by Cassie, Marmoucha rug on floor, painting ‘O Camino’ by Spanish artist Mora, 2004, selection of Kulchi rugs & blankets.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Cassie Karinsky at home.  Kulchi Hassira palm & wool floor mats leaning against wall, Kulchi Handira Wedding Blanket on Moroccan street stool.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Ohhh this apartment. It’s truly such a beauty.  When Sean and I photographed this supremely pretty little one bedroom home in Sydney’s Bellevue Hill recently, we really were smitten.  Though modest in size, it’s just such a wonderfully light, photogenic space, which really made for such an effortless shoot!  Every shot was so easily composed, and so consistent. I guess this is why supermodels get paid the big bucks.

This elegantly styled space belongs to Cassandra Karinsky, whose career has spanned hospitality, styling and writing for international interiors titles, but whose main occupation at present involves regular travel to Morocco, where she sources and imports a beautiful range of rugs and homewares for her wholesale business – Kulchi.

Cassie has held onto her Sydney apartment for the past 13 years, though she currently divides her time between Sydney and Marrakech.  ’I always love coming home here, as I can slot right back in to my Sydney life’ she says.  The apartment also serves as a meeting space and small showroom to showcase some of Cassie’s products from Morocco.

With its generous proportions, art deco details and bucketloads of natural light, Cassie hasn’t needed to do too much to improve this supremely pretty home.  Besides a good coat of white paint, and the obligatory carpet removal / floorboard polishing in the living room and bedroom, very little has been updated since Cassie first moved in.  The only structural change was the creation a sunroom (previously a balcony) which now doubles as a small office and guest bedroom. ‘I love working here overlooking the large tortured willow outside my window – it is like sitting in a little tree house, and the light is always perfect!’ says Cassie of this sun-drenched space.

Of course, the appeal of this home extends far beyond it’s good bones.  With a flair for interior styling, and an endless supply of the most stylish design pieces from Morocco and beyond, it’s no surprise Cassie’s pad is so perfectly pulled together!  Favourite pieces include the strap leather chair, recently purchased from the The Design Hunter, and Cassie’s new Tuareg Mat from Mauritania.  ’They both add a slightly more masculine vibe to my bedroom’ she says.  And of course, then there’s the impressive collection of rugs from Morocco, which are always on high rotation.  ’I move them around all the time, they can totally transform a room in a matter of minutes – I could never live without them!’ says Cassie of her treasured rug collection.

Cassie’s sweet apartment really proves that size isn’t everything.  Even a one bedroom home can be so stylish and functional given the right treatment, and a thoughtful edit of classic furniture, artwork and soft furnishings.  In this case, the combination of a monochrome palette, with simple, understated furniture, a smattering of rustic details, and soft handcrafted rugs underfoot really makes this space sing!

If you love the look of Cassie’s beautiful rugs and other design pieces from Morocco, you’ll be pleased to know she is having a sale of new Kulchi stock in Sydney very soon!  The sale will include rugs, tables, homewares and ceramics, and runs Friday 31st May, Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd June, from 10.00am to 6.00pm at the old Jones The Grocer space at 68 Moncur St, Woollahra, NSW.

Bedroom.  Hanging bedside lamp and Mauritanian Tuareg mat both from Kulchi, Bemboka cotton blanket from The Design Hunter, Greg Hatton stool from Koskela beside bed, painting by Alexander Karinsky.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Bedroom details.  Mauritanian Tuareg mat from Kulchi, strap leather chair in chocolate also from The Design Hunter.  African basket from Garden Life.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Bedroom wider shot.  Mauritanian Tuareg mat from Kulchi (under bed), Bemboka cotton blanket from The Design Hunter, Kulchi vintage Moroccan print on Ikea cabinets – ‘Porte des Portugais’ Tanger 1880, African plant basket from Garden Life, strap leather chair in chocolate also from The Design Hunter.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Kulchi vintage Moroccan print on Ikea cabinet – ‘Porte des Portugais’ Tanger, 1880, Indian Milk Pot from The Design Hunter. Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Kitchen detail - Beldi wooden utensil holders and utensils sourced by Cassie for Kulchi.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Sunroom which doubles as a home office / guest room.  On the floor - Kulchi antique Zaiane kilim, Moroccan street stool and palm poufs from Pure & General.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

The incredible Sydney home of Ferne Colls and family, designed by Harry Seidler in 1972!  Marcel Breuer Wassily Lounge Chairs, Vico Magistretti Maralunga sofa, Harry Seidler coffee table (designed especially for the house), B&B Italia slab sofa.  Photo – Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Looking from loungeroom to front entrance.  Warren Platner arm chair just sneaking in on the left! original fixed cabinetry in hall.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Dining room – with amazing double height ceiling and beautiful views to the leafy exterior!  Florence Knoll Oak dining table, Thonet Hoffman dining chairs, original fixed cabinetry to right.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Main lounge room from above.  Marcel Breuer Wassily Lounge Chairs, Vico Magistretti Maralunga sofa, Harry Seidler coffee table (designed for the house), B&B Italia slab sofa, Saarinen side table (foreground), AJ standing lamp (in the far corner). Photo – Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Amazing swimming pool, adjacent to main living room. Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

It’s not every day we have the opportunity to share a home quite like this one.  Today’s  truly iconic Australian home was designed by revered modernist architect Harry Seidler in 1972 – and, remarkably, is still almost entirely in its original condition.  It’s known as the Gissing House after its first owners, John and Janet Gissing, who lived here for 36 years until 2008 – an incredible tenure which speaks volumes for the appeal of this elegantly designed, functional family home, and has ensured its near perfect preservation.  The house is now home to Sydneysider Ferne Colls and her beautiful kids Luxe (12), Avah (10) and Leo (6), plus sausage dogs Bruno and Franki!  The Colls family has lived here, in Sydney’s leafy suburb of Wahroonga, for just over 5 years.

When purchasing a home like this, there often seems to be an inherent responsibility to restore and preserve the original features of the home, and beyond this, an obligation to really share and educate others about the beauty and efficiency of mid century architecture.  Everyone I meet who is lucky enough to live in an original mid century home seems to feel this sense of obligation – which is a wonderful thing, especially considering how many amazing homes from this era are sadly still demolished in favour of new development.  Ferne has taken this responsibility seriously – she regularly opens her home up to architects and design students, on the proviso that they promise to share this sense of respect and responsibility in all their future work!

The Gissing House retains it’s original layout and almost all its original features, with the exception of some paint finishes and carpet which have required replacing over time.  Ferne has invested in a thorough restoration of all the oak timber throughout the home (doors, ceilings, cabinetry), and the odd bit of repainting to freshen up some surfaces. The garden and pool, too, remain in their original layout, and simply require regular maintenance.  It really is a testament to Seidler’s incredible skill and foresight that this home has required so little significant restoration in its 40+ years, and still feels contemporary, serving a family of four in 2013 with the same robust efficiency as it did in the 70′s!

Of course what also makes this home so special is the restrained furniture and styling choices Ferne has made, including mostly classic mid century pieces (some of which were purchased with the home), complemented by a smattering of contemporary artwork and home accessories.  The result is a relaxed, sophisticated space with an unmistakeable sense of nostalgia – a visit here really feels a little like stepping back in time!

With three energetic young kids, Ferne doesn’t often find the opportunity to have time to herself, but when there’s a spare moment, her favourite spot is by the window, stretched out with a good book in her Le Corbusier Chaise by Cassina. (Sadly not pictured – sorry about that!). ‘It’s great to relax and read with the filtered light from the trees streaming in through the window’ says Ferne. ‘The opportunity  doesn’t come around very often, but perhaps it’s more the temptation of the opportunity that I like so much!’ she says!

Other favourite pieces for Ferne include her outdoor chairs by the pool, another classic design by Australian designer Clement Meadmore – and a sentimental favourite, passed on from Ferne’s father, who introduced her to Meadmore’s work and sculpture from a very young age.

Mid century enthusiasts might be keen to learn a little more about the history of this beautiful Australian Home – if so, pop over to The Modern House website for a more detailed back story.

Enormous thanks to Ferne for entrusting us to share her very special home with you all today, in the spirit of appreciation and preservation of Australian mid century architecture!

A photogenic corner in the dining room – Leo’s train set sneaks in at the bottom of the frame!  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Tighter detail of dinig room, looking to external courtyard.  Florence Knoll Oak dining table, Thonet Hoffman dining chairs. Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Master bedroom, with leafy outlook to garden.  At desk – Series 7 Arne Jacobsen chair, Snoopy lamp by Achille Castiglion.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Leo’s bedroom!  (He is a lego wizard!).  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Main lounge room.  Harry Seidler coffee table, Vico Magistretti Maralunga sofa.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Main lounge room, reverse angle.  Warren Platner Arm Chairs with Saarinen side table to left, original fixed cabinetry to right.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Pool area.  Clement Meadmore dining chairs.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Pool again (we couldn’t resist!).  Clement Meadmore dining chairs.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

House exterior.  Butterfly chairs and Eames table.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

The Sydney home of designer / furniture maker Tim Levesonand family.  Original Harry Bertola chair from Shapiro’s in Woollahra. Wooden bench purchased on holiday in Indonesia. Original deep yellow kitchen cupboards.  Photo – Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Dining room looking through to front of house. Blue painting by Tim Summerton (Tim Olsen gallery) Harry Bertola Chair.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Love arrangement of art and kids craft in Tim’s home office!  Artists - Amy Baker, Robert Malherbe, Luke Sciberras, Boyd Sanday and an antique Chinese glass painting. Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Tim’s home office.  Office chair – ‘Grace’ from Aero. Tim Leveson Rocking chair.  Lamp from Rozelle markets. Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Today’s Australian Home comes to us from the very sweet suburb of Lilyfield in Sydney, which is SO cute and central I feel like it’s Sydney’s best kept secret.  The home belongs to interior designer and furniture maker Tim Leveson and his partner Libby Knott, who works at Marimekko in Sydney!  Tim and Libby share their colourful cottage with two daughters – Sunday who is 6, and Harper, 3.

Tim and Libby’s house is a small but perfectly proportioned family home, with 4 bedrooms – one of which serves as Tim’s home office.  The kids share one bedroom, whilst the remaining room has been turned into a dedicated playroom, just off the kitchen – such a simple but genius idea which separates playtime and sleep time, for as long as Sunday and Harper are happy to share a bunkbed!

Tim and Libby bought their house in 2009, when Libby was pregnant with Harper.  Whilst they could instantly see the potential of this simple little weatherboard with its pretty Victorian frontage, it was no mean feat bringing it up to liveable standards in time for their youngest daughters’ arrival!

‘The house was in really dire shape when we bought it, with no gutters, graffiti on the bedroom walls, some of which had holes in them, and overall it was really pretty dingy’ recalls Tim.  But, of course, this didn’t deter them!  ’We could tell that with some love and time, the house could be really charismatic’ Tim says.  It was decided that in order to be moved in by the time Harper was born, there would be time only for a fairly minor tidy up. A new roof and gutters were essential, patching of walls, painting throughout and some simple storage in the bedrooms were installed soon after acquiring the property.

Tim and Libby’s gorgeous little home really exemplifies that common stage for so many Australian families – after making a few early cosmetic changes, and spending 3 or 4 years living here, they’re still waiting to do the ‘proper’ reno!   It’s in the works – but as an interior designer himself, Tim is keen to ensure that the next stage doesn’t take too much away from the relaxed charm of his much-loved little family house.

‘The kitchen, bathroom and laundry are still yet to be renovated, but we have some grand plans on the boiler for the home as a whole, we are just trying to nail the finer details’ says Tim.  ’It’s important that we don’t lose the integrity of its shack-like feel, so we need to be certain of what we do long term. We want to marry a modern renovation with its existing persona, so the choice of materials and fittings will be really important’.

There’s a quirky charm about this home that really gives the space such warmth and personality.  Tim’s design practice means that pieces of furniture are in high rotation here, ‘it’s a great canvas for trialing new pieces’ he says.  Both he and Libby love mixing organic pieces with mid century and modern finds, and collecting artwork when budget permits.  One particularly treasured piece is the Alan Jones ‘Head in Grey Field’ painting hanging in the loungeroom.  ’There is a long story about how we ended up buying it’ says Tim. ‘It was actually purchased with Sunday’s baby bonus money, which is a bit naughty, but a better investment than a cot!’.  OH I bet this is not the first family to have splurged a little with their baby bonus!

Huge thanks to Tim and Libby for sharing their home with us today!

Living room.  Sofa by Jardan.  Large painting on wall – ‘Head in Grey Field’ by Alan Jones. ‘Without a doubt the Alan Jones picture above the sofa is a family favourite. There is a long story about how we ended up buying it, and it was actually purchased with Sunday’s baby bonus money, which is a bit naughty, but a better investment than a cot!’ says Tim!   Other artworks by David Band and Louise Tuckwell. Rug from Tsar Rugs. Coffee table from Tim Leveson Interiors.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Hallway looking to front door.  Ruby, the family’s Kelpie looking a little suspicious.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Master bedroom. African throw, purchased from Michael Nagy Fine art. Bed and bedside designed by Tim / Tim Leveson Interiors. Pink and spotted cushions by Marimekko. Lamp found in council hard rubbish!  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Master bedroom.  African throw, purchased from Michael Nagy Fine art. Tim Leveson Interiors bed head. Pink and spotted cushions by Marimekko.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Kids’ bedroom.  Curtains made by Libby.  Globe light from Professor Plumb in Crows Nest. Pink stick stool designed by Tim / Tim Leveson Interiors. Tim had the bean bag and euro cushion on top bunk made by a friend using Ikea fabrics. Dream catcher from Bali.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Kids playroom.  Marimekko oilcloth on table. Chairs from ECC.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

The Sydney home of Leanne Carter-Taylor, owner of much loved Balmain interiors store Quintessential Duckegg Blue, and her husband Trent Carter-Brugman.   Original Brille industrial factory clock (double face), made from zinc, reclaimed by Leanne.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Master bedroom.  Bedside table - reclaimed from the casualty unit of a Sydney hospital. The Bakelite radio dates from the 1940’s and still works perfectly!  Wall paper sourced from the UK.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Leanne’s attic home-office. The set of timber Gentleman’s graduated drawers from London are one of Leanne’s ‘all time favourite finds!’.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Details from Leanne’s home office, including beautiful imagery / reference material on the desk for Leanne’s e-magazine, The Quintessential Magazine.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

I had the great pleasure of meeting one of Sydney’s best known creative retailers recently, Leanne Carter-Taylor, who owns industrial and antique furniture store Quintessential DuckeggBLUE, ladies’ fashion store duckeggBLUE, AND now ‘The Man Next Door’ – a brand new menswear store, just opened in July this year.  Aside from being one lovely lady with a seriously fabulous (and contagious) British accent, Leanne is a total dynamo!  I can’t believe how much she juggles, between all three stores AND her amazing e-magazine, ‘The Quintessential Magazine‘, which is a labour of love, and so truly beautiful! (We’ve actually featured this inspired side project here once before.)

Leanne lives in Rozelle, not far from her three stores in Balmain, with her husband Trent, and a motley crew of four friendly little dogs – Woody, Muffin, Millhouse and Ralphy!  Leanne and Trent’s home is a tiny little sandstone workers cottage, with a weatherboard extension at the rear.  The original part of the house dates from the turn of the century – it’s essentially comprised of just two rooms, plus a bathroom!  The modern extension adds a kitchen and dining / living area to this modest footprint, plus a sweet little home office in the attic upstairs.

Leanne and Trent purchased their home back in 2002.  ’It had character, charm and potential – and we could afford it!’ says Leanne.  It was, however, crying out for a little TLC, which Leanne and Trent tackled strategically, in stages.  During their first few years in the house, they renovated the original two rooms at the front of the house, pulling out carpets and built-in wardrobes, re-painting and wallpapering, and sanding and staining the floor boards.  The rest of the house was a bigger undertaking!

‘The remainder of the house needed some serious attention, council approval and lots of money – so the renovation wasn’t completed until October 2012, 10 years after we moved in!’ says Leanne.  ’We have now (FINALLY) renovated literally every room’ she continues. The recent renovations took eight months, during which time Leanne and Trent had to move out temporarily. ‘There was absolutely no way we could have stayed here during the work, as walls came down, doorways got moved, the kitchen and bathroom were completely re-worked, and the attic was converted’ explains Leanne.

‘Our house reflects our own style – it’s basically an extension of our furniture store’ says Leanne. ‘Even though we love the old and worn, we like pieces that are finished to a high standard.  People often think of vintage salvage as clutter and junk, but that isn’t always the case!’.  Indeed, this home perfectly reflects Leanne’s passion for traditional and industrial things, but also incorporates a level of refinement and minimalism, with its clean lines, restrained colour palette and striking contrast of light and dark.

When asked what she loves most about living here, it’s clear how much satisfaction Leanne gets from having finally completed the 10 year renovation (!!), and seizing the opportunity to really put her stamp on the place. ‘It’s great to finally come to a space that we created’ says Leanne. ‘Being a decorative salvage dealer for our store, I would say that I found about 98% of all of our furnishings myself… I love that!  I can admire all my finds, knowing exactly where I found them, and what state they were in. It’s pretty satisfying.’

Huge thanks to leanne and Trent for sharing their home with us today!  If you love Leanne’s style, do check out her industrial & antique furniture store, Quintessential DuckeggBLUE when next in Sydney.

ALSO, I cannot recommend highly enough The Quintessential Magazine, Leanne’s amazing e-magazine, produced in collaboration with some amazing creatives including Tracy Lines (previously Creative Director of Inside Out magazine), super stylist Glen Proebstel and photographer Sharyn Cairns!  The whole team does such an incredible job with this little publication – subcribe here to check it out.

Front sitting / TV room.  Artwork on left hand wall is by Guy Mathews.  ’We have many pieces of his artwork – too many is actually the case as we have no wall space to hang it all’ Says Leanne.  The wall clock is an original from British Railways, dating to around 1940.  Leanne has a particular affection for vintage clocks and this is a favourite – ‘Hell would have to freeze over for me to part with this find!’ she says.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Vintage details in front sitting room.  The original vintage Jielde Lights sourced by Leanne on her travels to France.  The papier mache dolls legs are housed under glass in the Victorian taxidermy dome.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Kitchen. Including another piece from Leanne’s impressive collection of vintage clocks!  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Kitchen details.  The timber English village direction sign is a personal favourite of Leanne’s – ‘I love vintage typography’ she says. Twin milkshake maker, purchased by Leanne as a gift for Trent!  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Dining room.  The dining table is a French walnut bistro table, sourced by Leanne from Provence, France.  ’We haven’t had a dining table for approx. 3-4 years!’ says Leanne.  ’As we sold out of dining tables in our furniture store we would replace them with our tables from home, until we had nothing left!  This table certainly isn’t going anywhere near the store!’ The slate blackboard was also found in provence.  The original Singer sewing machine dates from the early 1900’s and was left  to Leanne by her Nanq, who taught Leanne to sew on it when she was a child.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Generous bathroom, converted from the spare bedroom.  The antique cast iron claw foot bath weighs approx. 140kg! ‘That was an interesting day trying to move it into the house’ recalls Leanne!  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Bathroom details.  A fantastic use of white Subway tiles, finished with black grouting.  Bathroom ware and taps etc are from Perrin & Rowe in London.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Front room looking to hallway, featuring Tin Ceiling panel wallpaper purchased in Paris, and a salon-hang of various original oil paintings by Countess Ingegerd Ahlefeldt-Laurvigen , daughter of a Danish Count.  The portraits are of Chelsea pensioners and date to the 40’s. (Leanne has a total of 8 portraits down this hallway).  Original bakelite factory phone from the UK, sourced by Leanne, full working order – ‘just need to get a landline into the house – do people still have landlines?’ Leanne says!  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.