Studio Highlights: March, 2024
As another month wraps up, March brought some profoundly personal and meaningful work.
In a heartwarming full-circle moment for Domain’s Behind The Listing column, I reconnected with Jemima Aldridge, co-owner of The Repose. Having once stayed at her charming cottage in Dubbo, it was a joy to share her story and that of her cottage, especially now as she prepares to sell.
Another highlight was featuring the township of Daylesford in my Living In column for Domain. Since relocating to Melbourne less than a year ago, I’ve enjoyed several weekend getaways to this charming destination, falling more in love with each visit.
During these trips, an old acquaintance turned new friend, Jodi Flockhart, extends an invitation to dine at her restaurant, Sault, which always proves to be the highlight. For my article on Daylesford, I leaned on Jodi’s insights, drawing on her deep passion and love for the region.
~ Behind The Listing ~
Domain's Behind The Listing column delves into the personal narratives of homeowners and their properties—entailing their journey to ownership, cherished memories, and reasons for selling. This month, I had the pleasure of covering the story behind The Repose in Dubbo.
Tucked away in the regional city of Dubbo, amidst the sprawling landscapes of the Western Plains, lies ‘The Repose’, a cottage that tells a tale of transformation and renewal.
Transported from the gold-rush town of Cobar, this property has evolved from a humble miner’s cottage, through years of neglect, to its current incarnation as a beloved artisanal homestay. This evolution mirrors the joys of a road trip through the Australian countryside—unexpected, awe-inspiring, and profoundly rewarding.
~ 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.
37 Cylinders Drive, Kingscliff
‘House of Sakana’ dazzles with its Koi ponds and fire features, embodying a modern interpretation of Japanese and Balinese boutique hotels. “It’s the copper facade, pool, and rooftop water feature that captivate, alongside the vast beachfront land,” shares the agent. “The owners cherish their moments in the sunken outdoor lounge, where the privacy of the gardens, the sunset, and the ocean’s whispers define life.”
39 Florence Terrace, Scotland Island
Gazing across the expansive views of Pittwater, the tranquil allure of this absolute waterfront property soothes the soul. “Following extensive renovations, this home offers calming interiors, spacious living areas, and a generous entertaining deck,” says the agent. “At the water’s edge, the deck invites you to dangle your feet in the water or swim from the jetty, while the adjoining boatshed offers a kitchenette, bathroom, and accommodation.”
44 Norfolk Street, Paddington
A collaboration between SE DÉA and Robert Plumb Fix delivers ‘Norfolk House’, a celebrated terrace beloved for its sweet facade gracing its corner block, with soul-soothing interiors flaunting subtle textures, blush accents, and soft curves. “Our home is immersed in natural light,” shares the seller, Jessica Hartigan. “In the afternoon, the back lounge becomes a haven of sunlight, looking out to our cherished leafy garden.”
1 Ocean Terrace, Newcastle East
Boasting unmatched 270-degree ocean views, this marvellously transformed terrace gleams with its modern extension. “A key highlight is the green roof, a serene outdoor extension on the main level that captures stunning ocean panorama and the iconic Newcastle Baths,” says the agent. “Further enriching the seaside setting is a two-metre deep plunge pool, offering a unique vantage point for spotting playful dolphins and migrating humpback whales.”
~ Favourite Edit ~
As a lover of colour, my favourite March edit for my Design Digest column in Domain focused on the theme of colour-blocking designs.
They say opposites attract, and in the case of these colour-blocking gems, they also make for a bold design statement.
MONTANA MAGIC The Montana Modular System offers unparalleled creativity in storage, featuring 36 modules and 42 finishes for endless possibilities. In collaboration with colourist Tekla Evelina Severin, the new ‘Colours of Comfort’—Acacia, Ruby, and Clay—invites fresh avenues for creativity.
COLOUR YOUR QUENCH Care for a sangria or iced tea? FAZEEK's Two Tone Pitcher elevates any beverage choice with its eye-catching colour-blocking aesthetic. Each piece in either Lilac + Green or Pink + Amber celebrates the beauty of hand-blown glass.
GEOMETRIC GLOW The Pivot Portable Lamp by &Tradition mirrors the minimalist art movement with its geometric shade angled at a 45-degree angle to the base. Made from powder-coated iron and mirror-polished steel, it comes in colour-blocked Blue Silver or Rusty Mint.
TABLE OF TONES Designed by Muller van Severen for HAY, the Two-Colour Table celebrates the art of contrast. Its Valchromat top rests on steel tube legs, available in varying colour combinations, shapes, and sizes, offering additional visual intrigue.
~ Copywriting Highlights ~
In March, I had the opportunity to write property descriptions for some remarkable properties. One standout was a breathtaking headland retreat in Gerroa with uninterrupted sea views, listed by Belle Property Berry. Another was a dreamy dual-dwelling property with stunning views over Eltham Valley in McLeans Ridges, listed by Belle Property Byron Bay.
164 Stafford Street, Gerroa
Perched at the pinnacle of Gerroa Headland, this once-in-a-generation package is an instant gateway to a life filled with panoramic beauty, unparalleled luxury, and the endless charm of the South Coast. As a premier oceanside retreat, it boasts a breathtaking, unobstructed view that sweeps across the shimmering shores of Seven Mile Beach to Currarong, encapsulating the essence of coastal grandeur.
16 Satinwood Drive, McLeans Ridges
The main cottage houses three elegant bedrooms, including a master with a lavish ensuite flaunting terrazzo tiles and brass fixtures. Another luxurious bedroom offers a spacious walk-in robe, ensuite with dual vanities and showers, and deck access. The central kitchen and dining area boasts an elongated kitchen island with a breakfast bar, a cosy fireplace, and glass doors framing sweeping valley views.
~ Location Spotlight ~
For my Living In columns with Domain, I explored some incredible places during March, but Daylesford was hands down the standout. As a new Melburnian, this destination has quickly become a favourite city escape.
