Studio Highlights: February, 2025
February marked a steady return to routine, with my Domain columns back in full swing for the new year and commissioned projects gaining momentum once again. From standout property features to fresh copywriting work, the studio pace picked up, setting the tone for what’s shaping up to be a dynamic year ahead.
Outside work, February was also about packing and prepping for six months of upcoming travels to the Philippines, where I’ll live, work, and capture my motherland. With a book pitch in the works, the months ahead will be a balancing act of studio projects, reconnection with my heritage, and pursuing projects closer to my heart.
~ On The Cover ~
I’m a sucker for mid-century design, so the moment I laid eyes on 15 The Quarterdeck, Middle Cove, I knew it was perfect for my What To See This Weekend column. The pitch paid off, landing the cover of Domain’s February 22 issue.
A front-row perch above Sugarloaf Bay, this mid-century icon has been masterfully transformed while preserving its architectural pedigree.
“Originally designed by Glynn Nicholls, an exacting overhaul by 8 Squared Architects and Studio Gorman exudes James Bond charisma with a splash of Palm Springs cool,” says the agent. “A cantilevered master wing hovers over the heated pool, while terraced lawns cascade to a bespoke putting green.”
~ 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.
54 Caledonia Street, Paddington
‘Fraser House,’ a double-fronted modern mid-century home designed, built, and lived in by renowned architect Vivian Fraser, offers an alternative option to your traditional Paddington terrace. “Revitalised by Noek Witzand, the home merges modern materials with Fraser’s original vision,” says the agent. “The internal courtyard is a standout, offering private outdoor space that floods the interiors with natural light.”
65 Hillside Parade, Elizabeth Beach
Blending harmoniously with its breathtaking Australian bush setting, this modern reimagining of the classic beach house, built by a well-known builder, rests on a north-facing, sloping block between Elizabeth Beach and Wallis Lake. “The main living area is elevated among mature trees, capturing filtered views of the lake,” says the agent. “A self-contained guest studio enhances the home’s versatility.”
711 Federal Drive, Federal
Tucked away in the Byron hinterland, ‘Whimsy Farm’ spans 16 hectares of natural beauty, hiding a period home crafted for multi-generational living. “For entertainers, outdoor spaces abound—from sculpted gardens and a custom maze to a swimming pool and gazebo,” says the agent. “Meanwhile, equestrians will love the paddocks, stables, tack room, feed store, and Olympic-sized dressage arena.”
1/67-69 Denison Street, Bondi Junction
A rare masterpiece in the east, this Baker Kavanagh-designed haven spans three levels within the landmark Mill Residences church conversion. “At the heart of the home, a lush internal courtyard bathes the interiors with light and airflow,” says the agent. “Striking ecclesiastical features blend with custom stone and timber finishes, creating a harmonious fusion of Gothic Revival architecture and contemporary design.”
~ Location Spotlight ~
Over the summer holidays, I was commissioned to photograph the charming seaside town of Bendalong. This month, it became the first feature of the year in my Out Of Town column, giving this special NSW coastal gem the spotlight it deserves.
Tucked away on a tiny South Coast peninsula, Bendalong is cradled by national parks and pristine beaches, reached by a single eight-kilometre road. Its seven small streets unveil classic beach houses where kangaroos graze on lawns. Among them is Drop In, a lovingly restored soft-blue gem owned by Peta Sankey.
“In an era of larger homes, these small shacks are rare treasures,” Peta shares. “I’ve holidayed here my whole life, spending weekends with family – when the property next to my parents’ weekender came on the market, we knew we had to secure it – Drop In remains authentic with just three rooms.”
~ Copywriting Highlights ~
As the property market gathered pace in February, so too did copywriting commissions. Belle Property Berry kept me busy with two incredible hinterland homes, each framing expansive views that truly steal the show.
21 Cambewarra Lookout Road, Beaumont
The open-plan main pavilion flows from the sleek kitchen to the dining and lounge spaces, all connecting to surrounding walkways. All three bedrooms each occupy private pavilions complete with ensuite bathrooms, underfloor heating, and reverse-cycle air conditioning, while the main bedroom enjoys a front-row seat to the valley vistas.
70 Cedarvale Lane, Jaspers Brush
A private sanctuary on 2.5 acres, this stunning property offers the seclusion of an expansive estate while maintaining the ease of a manageable acreage parcel. Designed to embrace its northern and eastern aspects, the home is enveloped by lush mature gardens, with sweeping vistas and an ever-changing backdrop.
~ Other Work ~
This month, I dived into more projects for BresicWhitney’s blog, including a feature on RAINBOW STUDIOS’ new artist residency space. Meanwhile, I explored how to introduce the 2025 Pantone Colour of the Year, Mocha Mousse, for Carlisle Homes into their new build designs.
