Australian House & Garden (January 2020)

houses H G



DINING The ‘secret’ door leads to the laundry. Ici sconces,
Articolo Lighting. Tribe Home rug, Luumo Design Store. Channel-
groove pine cladding, Intrim Mouldings. LIVING An artwork by
Zoe Young and an array of colourful cushions enliven the sitting
area adjacent to the front terrace. Møller stool, Great Dane.



























































































In sydney’s east, renovating from the inside out gave this 1980s
home a fresh new face and a sunnier disposition.


STORY Chris Pearson | STYLING Kate Bell | PHOTOGRAPHY Jason Busch







AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN | 99

H G HOUSES







hen renovating this four- and comfortable beach house,” says Deborah.
bedroom house in Sydney’s “We like light colours, but didn’t want the home
east, the owners made the to feel clinical, so asked Kate to incorporate
unusual choice to revamp stone, timber – and an element of surprise.”
Wthe interior before updating Kate completely stripped the interior,

the exterior. “That was simply so we could removing just one wall on the first floor to
live in the property while the building open up the kitchen, dining, and living spaces.
approvals were processed,” says Deborah An existing wine cellar on the ground floor
Herrigan, who lives here with her husband, was converted into a home cinema.
Mike Weale, their daughter Charlotte, 21, and Deborah wanted the home to have both open
son Max, 18. plan areas and more intimate spaces. “It’s a
The inside-out approach proved a challenge big house, but it can sometimes feel like there
for interior designer Kate Bell. “It was difficult is nowhere to escape to in open-plan layouts,”
to envisage the house as a whole, as the window she says. On the first floor, the generous
and door openings would change when the kitchen, dining and living areas are distinctly
main build began,” she says. Despite the tricky zoned for a sense of separation. There’s also

start, such is the synergy between Kate’s a bar area in the living zone and a private study
interiors and the exterior structure, by tucked behind a wall of joinery. Slatted screens,
architect David Smyth of Smyth & Smyth, that differing joinery treatments, colours and
most people think the home is a new build. finishes also help demarcate the zones.
The family already had an idyllic home in On the first floor, pale timber-veneer joinery
nearby Bondi Beach, but it lacked some creates a light, beachy feel. It’s teamed with
desirable luxuries, such as a pool and home soft-grey cabinetry and a concrete benchtop
cinema. “Mike and Charlotte considered our on the island bench. In the living room/bar
last home our forever home,” says Deborah. area, meanwhile, the joinery is a darker

“But I love the challenge of finding an old gunmetal shade, with a zinc-topped bench and
house and creating something amazing.” She a Carrara Gioia marble work surface.
recruited Max to Team Move and the pair set Decor sorted, attention turned to the outside
to work looking for the best options. of the building. “Our brief to David was to make
In 2015, the family walked into this 1980s the exterior more striking and less red-brick
home on top of a hill. It was north-facing and box,” says Deborah. Raising the window and
double-brick, with a great layout arranged over door heights proved most effective; the home
three levels, including a self-contained studio is now flooded with light. Elsewhere, white
with kitchenette on the ground floor (street render, timber and sandstone replaced the
level). “The living area opened to a huge north- red-brick cladding, and the pitched roof gave
facing terrace at the front of the home and way to flat. David also relocated the entrance

the dining space at the rear opened onto the from the side to the front of the home.
garden,” says Deborah. But there was definitely Today, even the most sceptical members of
work to be done. “The red-brick cladding was the family are smitten. “This home is a
ugly and the interior was decked out with beautiful sanctuary for us all,” she says.
shag-pile carpet, big flowery tiles and flocked “Charlotte and Mike are well and truly beyond
wallpaper,” she adds. holding onto our last home.” >
Mike wasn’t so keen, but Deborah knew Kate Bell Interior Architecture & Design,
she had an ace up her sleeve: Kate, who Paddington, NSW; katebelldesign.com.
masterminded the interiors of the family’s Smyth & Smyth, Rosebery, NSW;
previous home. “We wanted a sophisticated (02) 9662 2720 or smythandsmyth.com.au.

The palette






Resene
THIS IS THE LIFE Alabaster
“Weuseeveryroomandspaceregularly,”says (interior walls)
Deborah.“Ourfrontterracefacesnorthandhas
greatsittingspaces–wehavedinneroutthere
oftenasafamilyandjustchilloutinthisarea.”
Thehomealsoadaptstoentertainingwell.“If Resene
wehavepeopleover,thekidsareusuallyinthe Sea Fog
backyardorinthepoolandtheadultscongregate (kitchen
joinery)
outthefront.Wecanallenjoyourselveswithout
trippingovereachother.”


Resene Tapa
(bar area
joinery)










































Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.


































KITCHEN/DINING Removing a wall delivered brighter, airier communal spaces. ‘Selene’ pendant
lights, Classicon. Polished-concrete benchtop, 2Barrows. Eveneer timber-veneer joinery in
Milkwood, Elton Group. ‘Tuscan Arezzo’ sisal, International Floorcoverings (throughout).




AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN | 101

H G houses The layout



Garden

Pool





Bed Bath Dining Laundry

Bath Studio
Sitting Kitchen Entry

Bed Bed Home
cinema
Bed
Study
Living
Garage
Bar
SECOND FLOOR
Terrace GROUND FLOOR



FIRST FLOOR
















































































102 | AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

BAR AREA An existing chandelier was restored to give the bar area a touch of glam. Zinc benchtop, Rustic Coast. Ercol stool,
Luumo Design Store. LIVING Slatted screens help demarcate zones. Tolomeo ‘Mega’ floor lamp, Artemide. Side table, Luumo
Design Store. CHILDREN’S BATHROOM Glass wall tiles from Onsite Supply+Design introduce texture and a hint of colour. Duravit
‘Happy D.2’ basin, Sydney Tap and Bathroomware. Yokato basin mixer, Brodware. Custom vanity in Laminex Seasoned Oak. MAIN
BEDROOM Custom headboard upholstered in Carlucci di Chivasso ‘Montebruno’ from Unique Fabrics. Gubi ‘Bestlite’ lights,
Luumo Design Store. KITCHEN A single wall of storage allows more circulation space. Gubi ‘3D’ bar stool, Luumo Design Store. >

REAR GARDEN Top, above right and opposite Architect David Smyth designed pivoting slatted-hardwood screens to shade the
rooms at the rear of the home. Sliding doors between the deck and dining area retract fully, making it feel like one enormous space.
The pool is a favourite haunt for the owners’ adult children. Sunloungers and side tables, all Globe West. Umbrella from Cosh
Living. Artwork above dining table by Martine Emdur. STAIRS An elegant covered staircase leads visitors from the street to the new
first-floor entry. The feature dragon tree, in a pot from Garden Life, is underplanted with Dichondra ‘Silver Falls’. Limestone pavers,
Eco Outdoor. Garden design by Venation Landscapes. For Where to Buy, see page 190. #

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AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN | 105

ENTRY A breezy, beachy
welcome awaits visitors
to this Sydney home.
Daughter Lola steps
out of the front door.
Dragon’s Lair stone walling
from Barefoot Living
(opposite) gives the front
fence a touch of texture.

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View finders






A relaxed, beachy beauty runs right through this freshly

extended home on sydney’s Northern Beaches.

STORY Sarah Pickette | STYLING Olga Lewis | PHOTOGRAPHY Kristina Soljo






AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN | 107

LIVING Natural materials shine
in this light-filled space. The sofa
is from Angelucci 20th Century;
rattan chairs from Adairs. Blue
oil painting by Matt Smith and
Collaroy Rockpool photo by Bill
Shapter. All other artworks by
Suzy O’Rourke. Evie rug from
Collective Sol. HALL Royal Oak
floorboards in Driftwood are
used throughout the home.
Jute rug, Freedom.






























eforethey’devensteppedthrough
the front door, Suzy and Nick
O’Rourke knew this home they’d
come to inspect was the one. But

Bbecause it was the first property
they viewed, they weren’t completely
confidentaboutactingontheirgutfeeling.
“We thought ‘surely it can’t be that easy?’”
says Suzy. “So we looked at other houses
for the next two months before we circled
back and bought this one.”
Situated on Sydney’s Northern Beaches,
the 1920s cottage did need some work.
But the spectacular location, offering
gorgeous views out over swaying palms to
theseabeyond,wasworthit.“Thehomewas

bathed in winter sun when we saw it, and it
had a lovely, relaxed feel,” she says.
Thatwas12yearsago,whentheirsonOllie
was just four and Suzy was pregnant with
daughterLola.Notlongaftermovingin,the
couple undertook some minor renovations
–increasingthesizeofthedeckandcourtyard
to allow for more outdoor living – but made
adecisiontoleaveabiggerrenovationuntil

the kids were older. “Then our third child,
Finn,camealongandweneededmorespace.
The answer was to add another storey.” >

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“NATURAL MATERIALS AND
LOVELY TEXTURES WERE MY
FOCUS WHEN IT CAME TO
DECORATING OUR HOUSE.”
Suzy O’Rourke, designer and homeowner
















































































AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN | 109

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KITCHEN/DINING A milliner and artist, Suzy has an innate
“All summer, we have understanding of design. Indeed, she had
this area open to the previously developed the interiors for
deck so sea breezes flow holiday rental The Shed in Gerroa, NSW
into our kitchen,” says (featured in H&G August 2016), so she
Suzy. The island bench
in Caesarstone Rugged relished the opportunity to take on this
Concrete is softened by renovation project for her family.
pendant lights and “Our architect, Alexander Michael,
stools custom-made for helped us work up a floor plan. From that
Suzy in Indonesia. The
vintage Douglas Snelling we gained better spatial flow and an
chairs belonged to Nick’s amazing parents’ retreat on the first floor
grandmother and that has a beautiful ‘lighthouse’ feel,” says
were restored by Suzy. “I wanted every room to be quite
Make Furniture.
casual. We’re pretty relaxed people and
I felt the home should reflect our beachy
lifestyle, in texture and materials.”
From the front door, a hallway flanked
by the children’s bedrooms leads to the
open-plan living area. A library and office

nook is tucked in opposite the living area,
which has a stone fire surround as its focal
point. Some clever remodelling of this
floor saw an oddly positioned bathroom
shifted and the space opened right up.
The kitchen has been masterfully
designed, with in-line cabinetry flowing
out to the deck to offer additional bench
space for meal preparation. “The kitchen

isn’t massive; this is a cottage, after all,”
































THIS IS THE LIFE
Thehome’sthreelevelsmakeitperfectfora
familyoffive.“Icanbeupstairs,paintinginmy
studio,andonechildmightbestudyinginthe
livingareawhiletheothersaredowninthefamily
roomwatchingTVorinthepool,”saysSuzy.
Thehome’slowestlevelhasasoundproofed
recordingstudioforNick,avoiceoverartist.
It’salsousedbyeldestsonOllie,anaspiring
drummer.“Yep,thedrumsbelongdownthere!”







110 | AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

The palette
she says, “so my answer was to integrate
the fridge, keep the cabinetry understated,
and to run it outside so the kitchen looks
twice as big as it actually is.” Dulux
Mount Aspiring
For Suzy, the best thing about the
(weatherboards)
kitchen is its Pitt Cooking burners, which
are set straight into the benchtop. “I’ll
admit I became quite fixated on having
Caesarstone
them!” says Suzy, laughing. “You can Rugged
set them in any formation and we love Concrete
having them in a semi-circle so there’s as (kitchen island)
much Caesarstone visible as we can have.
It makes a difference in a small kitchen.”
Downstairs, there is a family room and Dulux
a soundproofed recording studio for Nick, Alexis Blue
who works as a voiceover artist. This space
opens out to a courtyard and the pool. The
home’s crowning glory, though, is its new
top level. “It has beautiful, wraparound

windows – they really make the space,”
says Suzy. Plantation shutters create
privacy and reference the home’s heritage.
In the main bedroom, the bed is
positioned in the centre of the space, with
the bath set under the bedroom windows.
“It wouldn’t quite fit in the ensuite and
was originally designed to sit where my
w w
workspace is, but there’s such beautiful
liig
ght there I felt it was better used as >
































Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.

H G houses









































“ THE IN-LINE CABINETRY AND BURNERS SET INTO THE BENCHTOP
MAKE A HUGE DIFFERENCE IN A SMALL KITCHEN.” Suzy









































































112 | AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

FAMILY ROOM Suzy and Finn relax on the sofa, which was
made in Indonesia. Artwork on the left by Suzy’s mum, Shirley
Shapter, and photo by Hugh Holland. KIDS’ BATHROOM The
mirrors and trough-style basin were custom-made in Indonesia.
MAIN BEDROOM The bed and bath were made to order in
Indonesia. FINN’S ROOM A Kmart quilt cover and Ikea rug are
affordable inclusions. Artwork by Marty Schneider Art. KITCHEN
Pitt Cooking burners are set into the Caesarstone Rugged
Concrete bench. Leather handles from MadeMeasure punctuate
the cabinetry. Custom pendant light and stools from Indonesia.

The layout









Kitchen Dining


Bed Living Pool


Bath Library


Bed
Studio Bed


SECOND FLOOR Bath Bed
Games
Entry
Bath
FIRST FLOOR

GROUND FLOOR

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aspottopaintanddesign.”Fromtheoutset,
Suzyhadaclearideaofhowshewantedthe

house to look and feel: layered, relaxed and
beachy.“Istucktoapaletteofconcrete,white
and grey, even down to the flooring and the
Marrakechfinishplasterfortheensuite–it’s
a textured, velvety grey and one of our
favourite features in the whole house.”
Allthefittingsandfurniturewereselected
bySuzy,withthebulkofthefurniturecustom-
made in Indonesia from her drawings.

“FriendstoldmeIwasbravefordoingitthat
way, but we’re thrilled with the pieces we
received,” she says.
Intheend,therenovationcameinontime
andunderbudget–“wemadeallourdecisions
early on and stuck pretty closely to them” –
and,now,there’sjustsomuchaboutthehouse
tolove,saysSuzy.“Allthosetimesweclimbed
aladdertoseewhattheviewmightlooklike
have really paid off. Sundays mornings are
sacred; we’ll sit upstairs and have a cup of
tea,gazingouttotheocean.Whenyou’veput

inthehardwork,itmakes the enjoymentall
the more sweet.” #
Suzy O’Rourke Interiors, Collaroy, NSW;
suzyorourke.com.au. Alexander Michael &
Associates, Paddington, NSW; siloboy.com.



DECK From left, Finn, Nick, Lola, Suzy and
Ollie relax on outdoor sofas made in Indonesia.
Decking is whitewashed tallowwood. OUTDOOR
KITCHEN A BeefEater barbecue is set into the
Caesarstone Calacatta Nuvo bench. Louvres
by Signature Shutters and joinery by Mandziy’s
Just Joinery. For Where to Buy, see page 190.




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GARDEN This gathering space is a hit with the owners and
their friends, including children (from left) Teag, Zeph and Finn,
who are pictured with Tenterfield terriers, Lilly and Winston.
Garden designed by New Grade Landscapes in collaboration
with Wildwood Stone. The firepit is a vintage Indian cooking
pot from Amandanaga Objectology.




116 | AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

Infinite joy








A spectacular site in WA’s south-west inspired a considered

renovation and delivered a new, more relaxed, way of life
for the home’s well-travelled owners.


STORY & STYLING Anna Flanders | PHOTOGRAPHY Dion Robeson

H G HOUSES



olly and Stephen say they fell in love with this knockitdown,”saysPolly,“buttheconstructionwassoundand
property,locatedbetweenDunsboroughandYallingup theU-shapewasperfectforthehomeweenvisioned.Wewanted
in WA’s beautiful south-west region, the second they separatewingsforguests and for us, with a generous communal
stepped foot on it. The 2.02ha site is high above sea space in between.”
Plevel, which affords sweeping views out over Architect Clayton Lindley of Naked Architecture completely
Geographe Bay to the east and bushland to the north. It’s reconfigured the internal layout and raised the roof to
also protected from the strong south-westerlies for which accommodate glazed gables at the front entrance and rear
the region is renowned. “It really is the perfect block,” says terrace. The now-cavernous foyer leads to Polly and Stephen’s

Stephen.“Theaspectisuniqueanditfeelslikeit’sinthemiddle two-bedroom private suite to the left; to the right are the two-
of nowhere, despite being only three minutes from town. The bedroom guest quarters, a home cinema, study, and laundry.
viewoverthebayisabsolutelybreathtaking.It took three years The inviting living room and adjacent kitchen/dining area are
of searching to find it, but it was worth it!” afewstepsdownfromthefoyer.Intheultimateluxetouch,Polly
TheonlynegativewiththepropertywastheexistingU-shaped and Stephen also have an outdoor bathroom – complete with
home, built in the 1980s. “Our builder actually advised us to spa, shower and sauna – adjacent to their bedroom suite. >


MAIN LIVING Owner Polly says she loves having mementos of her travels around her. Rug bought while on holiday in Turkey. For
similar Moroccan pouf, try Cush & Co. Sofa, chaise and wooden side table, all European Concepts. Cushions, Empire Dunsborough.
Seating pod (on patio) and mustard throw, Bay Furniture & Design. For similar brass side tables, try Event Artillery. Artwork by Lori
Pensini. Foorgres floor tiles, European Ceramics (throughout). KITCHEN The kitchen, featuring Old Jack veneer joinery, is by
Dunsborough Woodworks. Stool, European Concepts. Black glass splashback. Appliances, all Miele. Tapware, Rogerseller.

The palette




Porter’s Paints
Wood Smoke
(interior,
main walls)



Porter’s Paints
Riverstone
(interior,
contrast)





Dulux
Olive Reserve


























“ THE REFINED MATERIALS DELIVER THE GLAMOROUS, SUMPTUOUS FEEL WE LOVE.” POLLY













Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.











































AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN | 119

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THIS IS THE LIFE
“Ourhomeisthemostbeautifulplacetospend
time–lookingoutoverthebayandtreesisso
peacefulandrestorative,”saysPolly.Mornings
usuallybeginatthebeachwiththedogs,followed
byanalfrescobreakfast.Friendsmightpopoverin
theafternoonforaswimoragameofpetanque.
“Intheevenings,wehidefromthewindinthegin
garden,thenheadtotheoutdoorbathwitha
glassoflocalwine.Wearelovingretirement!”




































“OUR HOME IS THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACE TO SPEND TIME. THE VIEWS ARE SO RESTORATIVE.” P O LLY

Two-tonegreywallsareteamedwithtextured-porcelaintiles architect and he collaborated with Wildwood Stone to create
intaupe,creatinganearthybackdropforthecouple’scollection ourspectacularterracedgardenandthemeanderingfootpaths
offurniture,artandartefactscollectedontheirtravelsthroughout throughthegarden,afeatureinspiredbyKingsPark[inPerth].
the Kimberley region and Indochina. The darker grey, Porter’s The garden complements the home beautifully – we discover
Paints Riverstone, is used in the entrance and living area to new vistas each time we walk through it.”
absorbtheharshestsun,and helps the living zone sink into its Thehousereallycomesintoitsowninsummer.Allthedoors
bushland surroundings. are thrown open and life revolves around the infinity pool,
Comfort is always a key factor when choosing furniture, but grassedterrace,outdoorkitchenandfirepit.“Welovetraveland

sophisticated finishes were equally important to the couple, staying at beautiful resorts and we aimed to bring the best of
who opted for soft Italian leather on the sofa, velvet cushions, thatintoourhome,toenjoyeveryday.Stephenthoughthemight
and walnut joinery. “These materials deliver the glamorous, get bored living in the country, but he loves it as much as me,”
sumptuous feel we both love,” says Polly. Colours throughout saysPolly.Stephen’sverdict?“It’s absolutely perfect. We wouldn’t
taketheircuesfromthelandscape;objetsd’artfromtravels and change a thing,” he says. #
vases filled with native foliage add the final flourish. Naked Architecture, Dunsborough, WA; 0409 999 155 or
“Stephen lived in the UK for many years, and he wanted our nakedarchitecture.com.au. New Grade Landscapes, South Perth,
gardentoshowcasethenativeflorahe’dmissedwhileabroad,” WA; 0404 242 496 or www.newgradelandscapes.com.au.
says Polly. “Ourfamilyfriend,LouisVanRooyen,isalandscape Wildwood Stone, Dunsborough, WA; wildwoodstone.com.au.


POOL Infinity pool designed by Naked Architecture, constructed by Dunsborough Pools Design & Construct. Sunloungers, Bay
Furniture. MAIN BEDROOM Bespoke pearl-inlay bedhead and side table, Sohal Living. Turkish sconce from a store that has now
closed. Lamp, Empire Dunsborough. REAR GARDEN The mostly native garden, on the western side of the property, helps settle the
home into its surroundings. MAIN ENSUITE Vanity, tapware and basin, all Rogerseller. Inlay stool, Sohal Living. Rug, Armadillo &
Co. OUTDOOR ROOM This alfresco area is a favourite for Polly, pictured with her friend Bea (seated). Dining table and chairs, all
Bay Furniture & Design. Champagne bucket, Georg Jensen. Vase, Empire Dunsborough. For Where to Buy, see page 190.


































The layout


Bed
Study Bath

Cinema
Bed
Living

Entry


Dining Kitchen Pantry


Bed Bath
Bed
Kitchen
garden
Pool
Outdoor bath
Outdoor room


AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN | 121

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Modern love






A bit of a rough diamond when purchased, this Mid-Century home

in Melbourne positively sparkles after a sensitive renovation.



STORY Judy Pascoe | STYLING Chelsea Hing | PHOTOGRAPHY Rhiannon Taylor












































































POOL AREA Magis ‘Spun’ stool, Dedece.
Eames LCW low chair and E15 ‘Backenzahn’
side table (in hall), both Living Edge.
INTERNAL COURTYARD Opposite Hay
‘Palissade’ seating, Cult. Fred coffee table,
Jardan. Landscaping by The Plant Society.









122 | AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

Feature plants
_______

Dichondra ‘Silver Falls’
Boston ivy
(Parthenocissus
tricuspidata)

Ginkgo biloba
Aspidistra elatior
Ficus elastica
Sedum ‘Blue Feather’

KITCHEN American-oak veneer joinery.
“ THE RESTRAINED PALETTE Kashmir white granite benchtop. Manetti
ALLOWED FOR MORE COLOUR terracotta tiles (splashback), Artedomus.
AND FUN IN THE FURNISHINGS.” Last Minute stools, Hub Furniture. DCW
Editions ‘No. 302’ ceiling light, In Good
Chelsea Hing, interior designer Company. Engineered-timber flooring, Royal
Oak Floors (throughout). DINING Knoll
Studio ‘MR’ side chairs, Dedece. Cassina
‘713/714’ dining table, Space. Ligne Roset
‘Solveig’ floor lamp, Domo. Artwork by
Simon Finn. LIVING Bottom and opposite
Gatto table lamp, Euroluce. Fat Fat coffee
table, 111 Wink lounge chair and LC14
Tabourets stools, all Space. Concerto sofa,
King Living. Vitsoe shelf unit and FDC1 chair,
all Hub Furniture. Custom rug, Bibi Viro.
Painting by Barbara Kitallides. Mini
sculptures by Melanie Upton, Pieces
of Eight. Wall sculpture by Sarah Robson.


















































lex, the owner of this home, “loves a project” so when he
happened upon an uninhabited Mid-Century gem in a
bayside suburb of Melbourne, he felt a considerable

degree of excitement. Hidden behind overgrown shrubs
Aat the end of a cul-de-sac, it had escaped the notice of
other renovators. He tracked down the owner and secured a sale.
Alex and his wife Alina had worked with interior designer Chelsea
Hingonapreviousabode,andshewasthefirstpersonthecouplecalled
oncethesalewassettled.“Thehousehadn’tbeentouchedsinceitwas
builtinthe1960s,”saysChelsea.“Itwasdrabanddark.Therewasbrown
floral wallpaper throughout the kitchen and living spaces; joinery
interruptedtheflowofthelayoutandlimitedviewsthroughthehouse.”

Designed by Walter P Pollock, the single-level home had plenty of
natural light, so the priority was to improve the flow and update the
interior to suit the family, which includes two young boys. >




124 | AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

HOUSES H G




































































































THIS IS THE LIFE

Thepeacefulinternalcourtyardisintegraltothis
home,sobringingthepreviouslyblandspace
tolifewashighontheprioritylist.AlexandAlina
engagedThePlantSocietytosoftenthepaved
spacewithlushplantings,whichChelsea
complementedwithbeautifuloutdoorfurniture.
Forthefinalflourish,trainingwirewasstrungup
andoverthecourtyard;intime,thenewlyplanted
Bostonivywillprovidedappledshade.

The palette


The layout

Resene
Alabaster
(throughout)
Dining
Living



Pool Inax ‘Repeat
Wave’ wall tiles
Entry
Kitchen

Bed
Garage
Courtyard Bed
Meals American-oak
Bed
veneer joinery
Laundry Bath Bed Bed Bath
Family




















THE SIMPLER REMEDIAL MEASURES

DELIVERED THE MOST IMPACT.


























































126 | AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

HOUSES H G













“We retained the existing footprint and kept the original doors and
windows wherever possible,” says Chelsea of the makeover. Elements
that no longer served any purpose were removed, such as joinery that

wrapped around the perimeter of the glass-walled internal courtyard
and obstructed sightlines through the home. “One of the assets of a
house like this is that you can look through it. That is rare nowadays
– we tend to live looking out,” she adds.
Inspirationforthemakeovercame“straightoutofthePalmSprings
playbook”,saysChelsea.“Wewantedtorejuvenatethehome–toliberate
it.Thesamefreshwhitepaint,ReseneAlabaster,isusedinsideandout
forunity.Therestrained palette allowed for more colour and fun in the
furnishings too.”
SteppingthroughthefrontdooroftheL-shapedhome,thefirstsight
is the glass-walled internal courtyard. It’s undeniably the heart of the
home, both physically and figuratively; the owners say bringing it to

lifewasthemostsatisfyingpartoftherenovation.Astacked-stonewall
on the far side of the courtyard is a wonderfully organic element and
ananchorpointforthespacesthatsurroundit.Communalareas–the
kitchen,diningzoneandtwolivingrooms–wraparoundthecourtyard.
A children’s retreat, study, five bedrooms and two bathrooms occupy
the long length of the home.
A new garage and in-ground pool were the biggest changes to the
property,howeverChelseasaysthesimplerremedialmeasuresdelivered
themostimpact.Thekitchenwasreorientedtolookintothecourtyard

andanewbuilt-indiningnookadded.“Reinvigoratingthekitchenand
meals area has really transformed the house,” she says. In addition,
removingdoorsandloweringthresholdshelpedtomakethehousefeel
moregenerousandconnected.“Theceilingheightswererelativelylow,
so it was important to lift the eye up wherever possible,” she adds.
Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.
While most of the project was straightforward, it was not without
hurdles. For example, the original terrazzo flooring had to go because
some walls were moved. “I still think about this a lot,” says Chelsea,
“butmarryingnewterrazzowitholdwasgoingtobesuch a painstaking
job that we decided to go with timber throughout.”
Chelsea is still adding the finishing layers to the home, rethinking

someofthesmallerspacesandworkingonimprovingthesuncontrol.
What does not need improvement, however, is the abode’s seamless
blendofoldandnew–thestandoutcontemporaryfeatures beautifully
complement the integrity of the original design. #
Chelsea Hing, South Melbourne, Victoria; (o3) 8506 0417
or chelseahing.com.au. w



MAIN BEDROOM Bedlinen, Cultiver. Oluce ‘Atollo’ lamp, Euroluce.
Francesca side table, Temple & Webster. Artwork by Galliano Fardin, Art
Bank. MAIN ENSUITE Right and opposite Inax ‘Repeat Wave’ wall tiles,
Artedomus. Flos ‘OK’ vanity lights, Euroluce. Water Jewels basins, Rogerseller.
Astra Walker ‘Icon’ tapware, Mary Noall. Issy Zi mirrors, Reece. Pluro bath,
Abey. The dressing room (beyond the ensuite) features Häfele and Blum
fixtures and fittings. For Where to Buy, see page 190.

H G HOUSES





























































ENTRY HALL Architect Rob Nerlich
simplified the flow of this townhouse, opening
it up to the light and freeing up wall space to
display the owners’ artworks. Painting
by unknown artist (left); the framed prints
were found at a Paris flea market. Framed
Escape Velour carpet in Noosha, SuperTuft.
REAR COURTYARD Planters and
low stool, Redfox & Wilcox.
Bluestone pavers, Eco Outdoor.







































128 | AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

Follow the art







Treasured collections take pride of place in these Melbourne downsizers’ compact
new home, an abode that easily adapts to use and the time of day.


STORY Chris Pearson | STYLING McMahon and Nerlich | PHOTOGRAPHY Shannon McGrath

The palette





Dulux Lexicon
(interior,
throughout)






Dulux North Sea
(kitchen joinery)






European oak
(flooring,
throughout)














































s the owners of this home show, it’s possible
to downsize without losing sight of the
bigger picture. One of a neat row of 1980s

townhouses, the home expresses the
Aowners’ love for the finer things, including
a generous collection of books and art.
KITCHEN The formerly squeezy kitchen is The semi-retired empty-nesters moved to this three-
now part of a dramatic open-plan space. bedroom townhouse in Melbourne’s southeast in 2016,
Benchtops and splashback in Arabescato wooed by the more manageable size and light-filled
Vagli marble, Signorino. Classic Cormatin
cooker, Lacanche. Integrated ActiveSmart spaces. Its configuration gave it gardens both front
french-door refrigerator, Fisher & Paykel. and back and plenty of sun throughout the day, thanks
Lismore Executive integrated rangehood, to its east-west orientation.
Qasair. Dishwasher, Miele. Sussex Scala Inside, peachy pink and beige walls, worn timber
gooseneck mixer, Reece. Victorian ash benchtops and tired bathrooms cried out for an update.
shelves. Mrs.T Soft Flush-Lens pendant
light, Darkon. Gemini track lighting, Layout-wise, the ground-floor laundry hogged valuable
Masson for Light. floor space, making the adjacent kitchen a squeeze

HOUSES H G







































































Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.





andlimiteditsconnectiontothefamilyarea.Thelarge
livingroomwascutofffromtheinformalliving/dining
zoneattherearofthehome,whichlackedalinktothe
rearcourtyard.“Thelayoutfeltcrampedandtherooms
tooseparate,”saysarchitectRobNerlichofMcMahon

and Nerlich, the firm engaged for the renovation.
“Wewantedtoopenthelivingspacesuptoeachother,
improve the relationship with the garden, and update
kitchens and bathrooms to contemporary levels of
comfort,” says the owner. A walk-in wardrobe – an
indulgenceusuallyreserved for larger homes – was also
onthewishlist.
Robopenedupthelivingroombyreplacingfullwalls
with partial ones to facilitate sight lines through the

home.Doubledoorstothehallwereremovedto create
wall space for the owners’ art collection. >






AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN | 131

Anewkitchenislandreplacedabenchseat,freeing
up space for a series of french doors that connect the
interior to the garden. Upstairs, the home’s three
bedrooms (one currently used as a study) were
structually untouched except for the addition of the
walk-in wardrobe in the main bedroom. The laundry
isnowlocatedinaspaceformerlyoccupiedbyapowder
room.Relocatingthelaundrytothefirstfloor“allowed
foranopen,generousrelationshipbetween the enlarged
kitchen and dining space”, says Rob.
Inthediningroom,cantileveredshelvesaccommodate
thecouple’sextensivelibraryandobjetsd’art;similar

full-length shelves feature in the living room. A third
set of shelves –smaller and backed with marble – acts
as a divider between the kitchen and living room. “I
love collections of books as a visual and textural
backdrop to a room,” says Rob. “The bookshelves in
thediningspacebalancethoseinthelivingroomand
accentuatetheconnectionbetweenthesespaces.”The
existing skirting was swapped for one with a cleaner
profile and all cornicing removed for a simpler, more

contemporary feel overall.
Thematerialspaletteincludesnaturalfinishessuch
asmarble,timberandleatherfortheirinherenttexture
andcharm,andareteamedwith‘finished’materialsfor
colour, says Rob. “These natural materials create a
dialoguebetweenaremarkablecollectionofartworks
andthehouseitself,throughtothecourtyardbeyond.”
Whitewallsthroughoutensurealight,airyfeel,and
provide the perfect canvas for the owners’ extensive
artcollection.Inthekitchen,deep-bluejoinerymakes
aboldstatement,complementingthetonesofveining

in the Arabescato marble on the benches and
splashback, as well as the ivy in the garden.
Fortheowner,shiftingtoasmallerhomehasmeant
“I LOVE COLLECTIONS OF BOOKS AS sacrifices,butithasalsobroughtmanypluses.“Inthe
A VISUAL AND TEXTURAL BACKDROP mornings,Ilovereadingthenewspaperatthedining
TO A ROOM.” Rob Nerlich, architect table and looking out to the green wall of the private
courtyard,”shesays.“Theopen,relaxedspacesmean

LIVING/DINING Above and opposite The owners selected it is always a pleasure to come home.” And the couple
furniture and fittings with an emphasis on natural materials and are still surrounded by the treasures – with a little
clean profiles. Nook sofa, Jardan. Dining table, Mark Tuckey. judicious editing – that have brought them so much
Crochet rug in Atlantic from Jenny Jones Rugs. Heat & Glo gas pleasure over the years. >
fireplace, Jetmaster. Artworks by Jason Benjamin (left) and Vu
Thuy. AJ Royal pendant lights, Cult. Potted plants, Glasshaus. McMahon and Nerlich, South Melbourne, Victoria;
Magnus Olesen Butterfly dining chairs, Danish Red. (03) 8256 9685 or www.mcmahonandnerlich.com.au.




132 | AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

HOUSES H G

LIVING/DINING A handsome library wall was THIS IS THE LIFE
designed to accommodate the owners’ extensive book “Wefollowthesun,withthekitchenanddining
collection. Hans Wegner Plank chair, Great Dane, roombeingourmorningplace,”saystheowner.
Artwork by Nguyen Thanh Binh. MAIN BEDROOM Intheafternoon,thefocus–andthesun–shifts
The wall and bedhead of hand-stitched Verona tothelivingroom,“acalmoasiswithdappled
leather in Sepia from Instyle adds richness to light”.Withitstwolivingareasandgardens,the
the restful scheme. For Where to Buy, see page 190. houselendsitselftoentertaining.“Welovehosting
familygatheringsandthecombinedkitchenand
diningareaworkreallywellwhenwehavelarger
groups,”shesays. #

HOUSES H G




The layout











Bed
Kitchen
Study Dining

Bath

Living
Bath
Bath
Bed Wardrobe




Entry
FIRST FLOOR

Courtyard






GROUND FLOOR



































































AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN | 135

H G houses



























































































A new turn







The renovation project was incredibly complex, but
perseverance has reaped beautiful rewards for the

owners of this home on sydney’s Northern Beaches.

STORY Sarah Pickette | STYLING Archisoul Architects | PHOTOGRAPHY Tom Ferguson

LIVING Old meets new in the living area, with high-performance glass sitting comfortably
alongside the restored early 20th century chimney. An automated Silent Gliss curtain
track is set into the marine-ply ceiling. Devex underfloor heating is linked to the home-
automation system so it can be turned on from anywhere. GARDEN The builder’s young
daughter Danielle strides across the concrete steppers. The carport has blackbutt doors
and can be used as an extra entertaining space. Landscape design by Podology.





































































































AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN | 137

H G houses













here’s no such thing as the too-hard
basketforJoGillies,directorofArchisoul
Architects.Iftherewas,thisrenovation

on Sydney’s Northern Beaches would
Tsurely be in it. The owners of this early
1900ssemicontactedJo,havingseenanArchisoul
sign outside another heritage project, to enquire
about renovating their property.
Joandherdesignteamtookonthejobandsoon
struck their first challenge: council planning
officialsinsistedtheadjoiningsemiberenovated
at the same time. “The owners convinced their
neighbour to bring his renovation plans forward.
So we had two different briefs, two budgets and
twotimelinestoworktowithouronebuilder,”she

says.“OnehomeownerlivedinEurope,whichmeant
lots of late-night phone calls, and we acted as the
contracts administrator for one semi but not
theother.Andwhenwebegantheproject,wehad
no idea of the building’s historical significance.”
It turns out that the semis were built by the Sly
brothers, local fishermen who would drag their
wooden boat out from the house to the nearby
ocean to conduct daring sea rescues in the early

20th century. “The Sly brothers were pioneers of
the Australian surf-lifesaving movement as we
know it today,” says Jo. “It was our heritage
consultant who discovered this; none of the
homeowners had any inkling.”
Archisoul Architects has carved out a niche for
itself as a firm that specialises in heritage work,
so the team understood how to approach this
complicatedproject.Thefacadesofthesemis,and
their two front sitting rooms, were retained
and restored. In the semi on the right [the home

featured here], the brick fireplace was also saved.
“Weprotecteditwithplyandropeswhile the house
was demolished around it,” says Jo.
The floor plan today bears little resemblance
to the original layout – “there was no flow, rooms
weretackedontorooms”–andit’snowalight-filled
familyhomewithanopen-plankitchen,livingand
dining area and a whole new level upstairs.
A trip to the Leicht Kitchens showroom saw

the homeowners fall instantly in love with the
European styling and craftsmanship they >








138 | AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

“A NEAT JULIET BALCONY AT REAR OF THE HOUSE ALLOWS
THE OWNERS PRIVACY AND GREAT AIRFLOW WITHOUT
HAVING TO CEDE TOO MUCH BEDROOM SPACE.”
Jo Gillies, architect


















































REAR EXTERIOR Top left A Vitrocsa sliding door recesses completely to create a juliet balcony.
Automated external venetian blinds works as a solar shade and blackout to the main bedroom.
Nu-Wall aluminium cladding. FACADE Top right The sensitively designed first-floor extension
is barely visible from the street. KITCHEN/DINING Above and opposite Miele ovens are set into
charcoal cabinetry, designed and installed by Leicht Kitchens. Modern plaster was removed to
reveal the original chimney brickwork. The Lopi gas fire was selected for its ability to connect
to the home automation system. A Bora downdraft extraction system is neatly hidden in the
island bench, which is topped with Caesarstone in Snow. Muuto dining table, Living Edge.
Hans Wegner ‘Wishbone’ chairs, Cult.

H G houses



BEDROOM High windows allow light and privacy in the room where Danielle
plays. ENSUITE Original kauri floorboards were used to construct the ensuite’s
vanity. Basin from Rogerseller, mixer from Ikon Bathroomware. WARDROBE
Mafi engineered-oak floorboards are used throughout the first floor. Joinery
made from Gunnersen’s DesignerPly. STUDY NOOK Bricks from the adjoining
semi’s chimney were repurposed in the upstairs hall of this home. Windows by
Steel Windows Australia, skylight by Atlite Skylights and joinery by Nu Space. >







































“ THE OLD FLOORBOARDS
WERE REPURPOSED
TO CREATE A VANITY IN
THE ENSUITE.” Jo
























The layout


FIRST FLOOR
Bath Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.
Bed Bath Wardrobe
Study Bed



Entry Kitchen Carport
Bed Bath Meals Living Courtyard
Sitting


GROUND FLOOR







140 | AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

The palette




Dulux Snowy
Mountain Half
(interior,
throughout)




Caesarstone
in Snow
(island bench)





Engineered oak
(flooring,
throughout)

H G houses









saw. “They adore the concealed extraction fan that pulls THIS IS THE LIFE
air into a vent in the island bench. This works well with Thehomeowners,afamilyoffour,lovethecool
the kitchen’s integrated appliances and handle-free seabreezesthatflowrightthroughtherenovated
cabinetry.” A slimline timber dining table fits neatly in homeinsummer.“Itsretractableflyscreenswork
sowellinthisregard,”saysJo.“Thehouseis
with the island cabinetry and beautiful Vitrocsa steel situatedclosetoeverythingthere’snoneedfor

doors open the area up to the greenery outside. acar.Theparentsliketositoutontheverandah
The kitchen and dining areas are flooded with light, withtheirmorningcoffees,watchingtheworld
thanks to the glass hallway floor above that’s positioned gobyandchattingtoneighbours.Theyfeelvery
beneathagenerousskylight.Thishallwayaccommodates muchapartofthelocalcommunity.”
ahomeofficeareaandlinksachild’sbedroomatthefront
ofthehousewiththemainbedroom,which has a walk-in
wardrobe, ensuite and juliet balcony.
“Wetreatedtheupdateofthishomeverysensitively,”says
Jo.“Theextensionisbarelyvisiblefromthestreet.Wereused
materials and far exceeded the minimum environmental
requirements. Sustainability to me means a return to
wholenessandthat’ssomethingthat,throughacollaborative

designprocess,we’veachievedforthishome.” #
Archisoul Architects, Balgowlah, NSW; archisoul.com.au.
Newmark Constructions, Chatswood, NSW; newmark.com.au.

























































MAIN BEDROOM This calming sleep space features Walter Knoll ‘Oki’
brass tables and ‘Fabricius’ armchair, all Living Edge. Silent Gliss
automated curtain track from Oz Shade For Where to Buy, see page 190..




142 | AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

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NURSERIES

s rden





































a






G













































Photograph by Simon Griffiths. The elegant former home of department store






founder Sidney Myer and his wife Merlyn sits
in parklike surrounds. For more on this special
Melbourne garden, see over the page.







THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER OF OUTDOOR SPACES

H G gardens


























































































Living history








The Myer name needs no introduction, but not so well
known is the Melbourne garden loved by four generations

of the philanthropic family.


STORY Elizabeth Wilson | PHOTOGRAPHY Simon Griffiths

The Myers acquired a paddock neighbouring their property in
1932; architect Harold Desbrow-Annear transformed it into
this classical sunken garden with topiary, statuary and pond.
Feature trees in the garden include a giant Californian
redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) planted by Ken Myer in 1943;
a glorious pin oak, golden elms, tulip trees, copper beech, a
deodar cedar and a rare white oak (Quercus alba).










































































































AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN | 147

H G gardens







hestreetviewofCranlanaofferstantalisingglimpsesof Cloaked by the canopy of old
the splendour within. Framed by sandstone pillars and trees, this sheltered pocket of the
wrought-irongates,thepark-likegroundsstretchoutas garden is bathed in dappled light.
far as the eye can see, divided by a gravel driveway that OPPOSITE Clockwise from top
left Vibrant potted marigolds.
TsweepsuptotheporticoofanEdwardianhome.Manicured The wrought-iron gates designed
lawnsareoutlinedbyrowsofhedgingandpunctuatedbycolossal by Harold Desbrow-Annear at the

trees reaching into the sky. It’s an extraordinary sight. But then, street entrance feature the family
there is nothing ordinary about this property. crest, Sidney and Merlyn’s initials,
‘M’ and ‘S’, entwined; a glorious
LocatedintheprestigiousMelbournesuburbof Toorak,Cranlana pin oak stands at the top of the
was the home of businessman, philanthropist and founder of the driveway. Classical statuary and
Myer department store, Sidney Myer, and his wife, Merlyn. They urns are found throughout the
garden. The tennis court fence is
bought the 1903 home and property as a newly married couple, in draped in wisteria. The beautiful
1920, and immediately began planning and planting around the variegated foliage of calla lily.
home, intent on creating a ‘house in a garden’. An Italianesque water feature.
The Myers welcomed their first child, Ken, in 1921 and within The delicate flowerhead of
several years, they had four young children running around the pink spider flower (Cleome).
grounds. As their youngest daughter, Marigold – now 92 and
known as Lady Southey – wrote in the foreword of Cranlana:

Thefirst100years,arecentlyreleasedhistoryontheproperty:“The
house and garden grew and matured together, and in those
two places a happy family was raised”.
In 1928, Sidney engaged architect Harold Desbrow-Annear, an
exponentoftheArtsandCraftsMovement,tooverseearefurbishment
of the house and to revamp the design of the garden. The aim was
to create a cohesive layout in which the home would connect with
its surrounds. Harold responded by creating a series of terraced
lawns and garden beds that fan out from the house, with a grid of

stone paths and retaining walls dividing the expanse into zones.
In 1932, Sidney and Merlyn acquired an adjoining paddock,
expanding their plot to just under one hectare. Desbrow-Annear
was asked to transform this new parcel of land. He had a grand
vision: a formal sunken walled garden in the Italianate style.
Designedwithstrongaxiallines,thesunkengardenfeaturesalily
pondwithcentralfountain,marblestatuaryandclippedtopiaries.
SidneyMyerdiedsuddenlyin1934,attheageof56.DameMerlyn
continuedtoliveatCranlanauntilherdeathin1982andtheMyer
descendants still own the property. The entire clan holds a deep
affectionforthisspecialplace: Lady Southey still walks the grounds
every day with her dogs. >