Studio Highlights: August, 2024
As August unfolded, the spring season’s lead-up brought a whirlwind of activity. The property market saw a revival, and brands ramped up their preparations for spring-summer campaigns, leading to a surge in commissioned work that kept me busy at the keyboard.
For Domain’s Behind The Listing column alone, I had the pleasure of crafting stories about three remarkable homes: a c1870 double-fronted Hawthorn-brick beauty, a mid-century gem in Caulfield North, and another in Wollongong. This column is among my favourites, allowing a broader scope to delve deep into the history of these beautiful homes and the people who cherish them.
I also had the pleasure of contributing to Woodards’ latest Market Snapshot, a quarterly online magazine. My lifestyle articles explored topics from the evolution of warehouse conversions in Melbourne to Victoria’s enduring love for the High Street.
August also brought a delightful splash of colour into my work, particularly in the What To See This Weekend and Coast & Country columns for Domain. I featured a former whalers’ cottage in North Sydney, its living room bathed in coral pink, and a weatherboard home in Byron Bay, its exterior adorned in vibrant sunshine yellow.
As a lover of colour, these homes were a breath of fresh air, offering a bold departure from the all-white aesthetic that often dominates Australian homes.
~ Behind The Listing ~
Domain's Behind The Listing column offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of homeowners, capturing the unique stories behind their properties. This month, I explored the tale of a mid-century modern marvel in Caulfield North, uncovering its character and what makes this home truly special.
Beyond its Palms Spring, Slim Aarons-esque outdoor scene, the home has hosted vibrant celebrations. Just as intended.
“Entertaining and dinner parties with friends have been so wonderful here,” shares Domenica. “When you open the built-in bar, pour a drink, and play a record in the original entertainment joinery, dancing, laughing, and singing tend to follow.”
Everyday life in this home has been equally fulfilling for the couple, crafting a serene backdrop for creating precious memories.
~ Recent Project ~
For the latest edition of Woodards’ Market Snapshot online magazine, I crafted a series of lifestyle articles that encapsulate the essence of urban living in Victoria, from the evolution of warehouse conversions to Melbourne’s enduring love for the High Street.
In Melbourne, the charm of warehouse conversions has not only been preserved but celebrated, making them a cherished option among homebuyers. These once bustling industrial sites now serve as bespoke residences, creating spaces that are as characterful as the city itself.
The history of warehouse conversions in Melbourne can be traced back to the city’s booming industrial age, primarily in neighbourhoods like Richmond and Fitzroy. Artists and architects initiated the conversion of these expansive buildings into lively homes, establishing a trend that would define Melbourne’s inner-city residential landscape.
~ Featured Properties ~
Here are some of my other favourite listings I featured in my What To See This Weekend and Coast & Country columns for Domain, highlighting standout properties throughout Sydney and regional NSW.
70 Bank Street North Sydney
Transformed by Australian interior designer Lisa Burdus, this circa 1880 former whaler’s cottage beautifully blends classic English country style with a vibrant and lively colour palette. “Set amongst peaceful gardens, the three-level abode is updated for modern living while retaining its romantic appeal,” the agent describes. “Imagine restful evenings in the coral-pink walled living room, bathed in the glow of the open fireplace.”
10 Brandon Street Suffolk Park
Designed as the quintessential mid-century beach house, this coastal gem is just a three-minute walk from Tallow Beach. “Its sleek, minimalist interiors are enhanced by the warm tones of timber, most noticeable in the spotted gum cabinetry of the kitchen,” the agent explains. “Other highlights include a child-friendly yard, an inviting swimming pool, and a private one-bedroom studio, ideal for generating income.”
191 Hudson Parade Clareville
In this tranquil sanctuary designed by architect Nanna Lesiuk, a minimalist yet warm aesthetic invites harmonious living where natural textures and intimate social spaces reign supreme. “The dreamy interiors draw inspiration from Palm Springs and Japanese design, complemented by lush tropical gardens,” says the agent. “Glass walls frame the Pittwater while private entertaining terraces capture the home’s artistic flair.”
11 Browning Street Byron Bay
The vibrant sunshine yellow weatherboard exterior of this delightful Byron Bay home radiates a cheerful disposition, complementing its inviting and peaceful atmosphere. “Imagine sitting on the back deck, enjoying the sunny north-facing gardens, or cosying up in the living room by the open fire on those rare cool winter nights,” shares the agent. “With its calming, restful interiors and period details, the home retains its cottage charm.”
~ Favourite Edit ~
In my Design Digest column with Domain, my favourite edit highlighted designs that embrace florals, frills, and femininity—pieces I envisioned adorning a secluded cottage, nestled amidst blooming rose gardens.
Brimming with heart, nostalgia, and pops of colour, these cottage-inspired finds offer a sweet slice of interior pie.
GARDEN TO TABLE Infusing a hint of botanical elegance, the Fig Green Tablecloth by Bonnie and Neil features original artwork on luxurious linen. Ideal for a cosy, country-style spread, it is available in two sizes and pairs beautifully with matching embroidered napkins and coasters.
PRETTY IN PINK The Gaspard Pink Vase by Maison Balzac delights with its voluminous curves and sweet opaque pink hue. Fresh market blooms or garden-picked flowers nestle perfectly within its generous opening, cradling bouquets with open arms.
BRITISH BEAUTY Radiating countryside charm, the Floral Brass Shade by British designer Matilda Goad is a visual treat. Crafted in various shades, including vibrant red and soft celadon green, it pairs with a matching coloured ceiling rose, natural linen flex, and polished brass bulb holder.
MEADOW MUSE In collaboration with Ellen Merchant, the Dipley Wallpaper by Studio Atkinson brings the serene countryside indoors. As part of the Wild Meadow Collection, it draws inspiration from the water-meadow at British designer Susie Atkinson’s garden.
~ Copywriting Highlights ~
August brought the delightful opportunity to craft property descriptions for several clients, the highlights being those immersed by glorious gardens. From a cottage in the Southern Highlands, commissioned by DiJones - Southern Highlands to a historic Georgian terrace nestled in north-west of Sydney, commissioned by Cutcliffe Properties.
26-28 Missingham Parade, Robertson
Imagine a quintessential country lifestyle, and this Robertson cottage might be the very picture in your mind. Fully restored and set on a generous three-acre parcel, this property combines refined rustic charm with versatile living options, offering a peaceful retreat in the Highlands.
3 Thompson Square, Windsor
Step into a timeless piece of Windsor’s and Australia’s early colonial history in the beloved Doctor’s House. Overlooking the serene Hawkesbury River and the famed Thompson Square, this majestic Georgian terrace is a rare jewel exhibiting a grand facade and prestigious gardens.
~ Location Spotlight ~
For my Out Of Town column for Domain, I had the pleasure of writing about Merewether—the ‘it’ suburb in my hometown of Newcastle, where I’ve clocked up many hours at the iconic ocean baths.
