Studio Highlights: November, 2024
November has brought a taste of summer to Melbourne, and with it, a renewed sense of excitement. The warmer days seem to reflect the vibrant properties I had the pleasure of covering this month.
For Domain’s Behind The Listing column, I told the story of a breathtaking Palm Beach home owned by Justine Cullen, editor-in-chief of InStyle Australia. Justine shared how it was love at first sight, the moment she climbed the stone staircase and glimpsed her Pittwater retreat—a sentiment that resonated through every detail of her story.
Meanwhile, my regular columns for Domain’s magazines, namely, What to See This Weekend, spotlighted two incredible Sydney properties. One was ‘Tourmaline’, a 1959 mid-century home in Roseville with glass walls, a wraparound deck, and a dreamy kidney-shaped pool. The other was a one-bedroom apartment in Point Piper’s exclusive ‘Wolseley Gardens’ complex, with a shared harbourfront swimming pool overlooking Sydney’s iconic skyline—proof that grandeur can come in smaller packages.
I also revisited Tasmania’s storybook town of Oatlands for my Living In column, reflecting on the charm of this historic village. Writing about Oatlands made me nostalgic for my September Tassie road trip, but the good news is another journey beckons.
December will see us take the scenic coastal route from Melbourne to Newcastle, enjoying slow stops, sunny beaches, and plenty of downtime before a festive homecoming in Newcastle.
Bring on the summer days ahead!
~ Behind The Listing ~
Through Domain’s Behind The Listing column, I unveil the heart and history behind remarkable homes. This month, I shared the story of Justine Cullen’s idyllic Palm Beach residence—a quintessential and utterly romantic Pittwater sanctuary.
There’s a captivating pull to Palm Beach, with its vast coastline kissed by ocean breezes that intertwine into the very fabric of family life. Amid this beachside setting stands Sundowner, a cherished home that has embraced the Cullen-Guppy family through seasons of joy.
For Justine Cullen, editor-in-chief of InStyle Australia, and her husband, Hayden Guppy, finding this home was a turning point. The walls of their previous Avalon house felt too snug for their growing family of six, and after a series of near misses, this Pittwater gem caught their eye.
~ Recent Project ~
In the latest issue of Woodards’ Market Snapshot online magazine, I contributed a series of lifestyle articles, with my favourite being a fun piece on Australia’s Best Brands for the Outdoors. It was a joy to highlight some personal favourites, from Tait to Sarah Ellison.
Whether it’s a sunny courtyard, a breezy balcony, or a lush garden, outdoor spaces are an extension of the home, requiring both aesthetic appeal and long-lasting durability.
These homegrown brands offer outdoor designs that reflect Australia’s love for alfresco living.
~ Featured Properties ~
In my What To See This Weekend and Coast & Country columns for Domain, I highlighted a selection of standout properties from Sydney to the beautiful stretches of regional NSW.
25 Friday Hut Road, Tintenbar
Taking inspiration from its name, ‘Friday’ embodies the weekend spirit of relaxation with its infinity pool, cosy fire pit, and tranquil spa—perfect for enjoying restorative moments. “The striking facade and refined interiors contrast elegantly the natural hinterland surrounds,” notes the agent. “Floor-to-ceiling windows with New Guinea Rosewood frames reveal expansive views that envelope the compound-style retreat.”
98 Packham Drive, Molong
Set on nearly a hectare, ‘Willowgrae’ features two charming homes, each lovingly designed by mother and daughter, Pauline and Linda Dunsire. “Linda, residing in ‘The Farmhouse,’ treasures its vintage timber floors, open fireplace, rustic brick wall, and sweeping rural views from every room,” says the agent. “In ‘The French Barn,’ Pauline delights in high ceilings, black-and-white chequered floors, and a French-like ambience.”
12 Kimo Street, Roseville
Crafted in 1959 by the acclaimed architect John James, ‘Tourmaline’ stands as a timeless mid-century masterpiece, encased in glass to reveal serene views at every turn. “Recent renovations maintain its original character while harmonising with the surrounding bushland,” shares the agent. “The home’s array of indoor and outdoor living zones provide an exceptional backdrop for grand entertaining and resort-style living.”
5B/78 Wolseley Road, Point Piper
There’s a reason why apartments in ‘Wolseley Gardens’ are rarely on the market—its waterfront location grants exclusive access to a private jetty, harbourfront pool, and breathtaking views of Sydney’s icons. “This luxury hotel-style suite, crafted with high-end finishes and meticulous attention to detail by Studio Sit, offers an unparalleled lifestyle,” shares the agent. “It sits among some of Australia’s most prestigious and historic homes.”
~ Favourite Edit ~
A November highlight for my Design Digest column in Domain’s Prestige magazine was ‘Maximalism Magic’—an ode to fearless design choices and unapologetic individuality.
More is more in the maximalism movement—forget subtlety, and embrace vibrant patterns, bold colours, and playful layering with creative freedom.
WONDER WALLS Dulux, renowned for celebrating boldness in colour, spotlights the Recollect palette in its 2025 Colour Forecast. With deep olive greens and rich wine tones, this palette transforms interiors into opulent, cosy havens where heritage meets modern sophistication.
BOLD BORDERS With Studio Atkinson’s range of Wallpaper Borders, even the smallest trims and edges can be spared from the ordinary. Ernie’s classic check and Edith’s playful pattern inject layered intrigue, transforming every doorway, window, and wall into an artistic statement.
GROUND CONTROL Bonnie & Neil’s Wool Rugs anchor spaces with the luxury of New Zealand wool and hand-painted motifs. Standouts include the Daisy Khaki featuring an oversized flower and the Grid Chocolate with its geometric appeal, each catching the eye and defining a space.
GOOD TIMES Bringing back the cool charm of the ‘70s, the Good Times capsule by Fenton & Fenton blends nostalgic design and bold colours to celebrate life at home. With its maximalist flair, every piece, from the Margot Chair to the Rosie Table, invites you to gather and revel in style.
~ Copywriting Highlights ~
On the copywriting front, I crafted descriptions for several prestige properties. One highlight was a sprawling estate in Berry, a commission from Belle Property Berry. The other was a hinterland haven in the Northern Rivers, commissioned by LS Properties.
417a Back Forest Road, Berry
This enchanting lifestyle estate offers the perfect blend of country living and modern comfort, with multiple living quarters set on a manageable one-hectare property. Immersed in lush, manicured gardens, this property creates a picturesque setting with meandering pathways, vibrant flower beds, and established trees.
445 Clothiers Creek Road, Nunderi
Transition effortlessly to the alfresco area, an entertainer’s paradise paved in travertine tiles and crowned by a timber-lined ceiling. Steps away, the glistening 13-metre freshwater pool, complete with a sun deck and traditional sauna, promises hours of indulgence, while evenings can be spent gathered around the fire pit.
~ Location Spotlight ~
For my Living In column with Domain, I revisited the charming town of Oatlands, Tasmania. Within the story, I highlighted a trio of cottages currently for sale along its main street, including the former home of The Imbibers—a wine, cheese, and spirit merchant where I once enjoyed an afternoon tipple. The idea of calling it my own sparked plenty of daydreams.
