FOR THIS FAMILY-FRIENDLY
scheme, the aim was to include a bit of wow factor in every room, explains Coco Republic senior interior designer Lily Cumberland.
What was the brief? Spaces needed to be low maintenance and functional for a family with very young children. The home’s heritage features were also played up and sophisticated looks included throughout. What were the challenges of the space and how did you resolve them? Working out the function of each room was the main challenge. The kitchen and lounge were originally in the same room, but the walls in this area were taken up with large windows or doors so there was no space on which to place a TV. We ended up converting the former lounge room space into a dining room, introducing a TV hidden in a cabinet into the formal lounge, so it could also double as a living room. Describe the completed interior? It is understated and plays on light and dark but includes hits of colour throughout. The interior celebrates the heritage architectural elements, while being both contemporary and sophisticated. What are some of your favourite elements? The mix of textures and colours on the soft furnishings. Pops of pink feature throughout, including on the splashback in the main ensuite. Walls were painted a light grey to maximise the sense of openness and create flow between the rooms that had felt dark and poky. What informed the selection of furniture, fittings and finishes? The owners appreciated interesting pieces and were not afraid of mixing styles and finishes. We invested in dramatic lighting (the chandeliers are out of reach of the kids). How do the owners use the space? It’s a great house for entertaining, with the kitchen and dining area opening onto the outdoor lounge and pool. I was lucky to have such trusting clients who were so much fun to work with. cocorepublic.com.au