DO IT.

Thanks to lightweight materials, including exterior timber cladding, the build took a speedy six months. “We love the term ‘radically conservative’,” says Monique of the exterior. “We embellish the original detailing of the house until it becomes radical again and takes on a life of its own. New and old are in conversation with each other – original painted horizontal weatherboards with new milky vertical timbers.”

A peachy palette unites old and new. “It all evolved around the kids’ bathroom and the fact that we have two girls who love pink,” says Samara. The yellow Baltic pine floorboards in the original house suggested a tonal scheme to Monique that she’s run with, edging the kitchen island bench and cabinetry with a yellow strip, then matching with a ply frame around the fridge, terracotta pendant lights from Anchor Ceramics, and the peach-painted ceiling.

The finishing touches, like the Pop & Scott rose velvet daybed and pendant light, work to accentuate the grand use of colour. “Your eye takes the journey from the pendant all the way up. It adds to the drama and composition of that ‘moment’,” says Monique. For Samara, it’s a colour that’s very softly and easily become the backdrop to life. “It’s lovely; a beautiful colour to live with.” For more details on Monique’s work, visit wowowa.com.au.