KASTURI WREN
Kasturi and her partner Katherine Campbell, 37, live in a renovated 1910 cottage in Coolah, NSW, with their four dogs and one cat. Through her creative business, Wren & Whippet, Kasturi has redefined herself as a photographer, writer, interior decorator and Airbnb host.
What do you love about living in the country?
I was born in Sri Lanka and came to Australia in the ’80s as a result of the civil war. Life in the country has taught me to value time and establish a slower connection with both nature and people.
How would you describe your style? An individualistic, country rustic vibe that draws from eclectic European influences.
Who are your style influences? Cate Blanchett, Françoise Hardy, Iris Apfel and Zoë Kravitz.
What are your wardrobe essentials? Headwear – whether a hat, beanie or scarf.
What are your favourite clothing labels? I love Ellery and Scanlan Theodore.
Where do you shop for clothing and accessories? When I go to Sydney, I always visit Gorman and COS, and boutique designer stores in Paddington.
What are your essential beauty products? Dermablend foundation and red MAC lipstick.
Do you have a favourite fragrance? I like Balenciaga Florabotanica eau de parfum, although lately I also love Ralph Lauren Polo for men.
Do you have any favourite accessories? My headscarf and sunglasses by Sass & Bide.
What helps you keep a balanced life? Having a cup of tea while reading an interior design magazine for inspiration and cuddling my fur puppies.
What are you reading/listening to/watching?
I’m reading Womankind magazine and watching season two of Sweet Tooth.
Where are your favourite local spots to eat? I do love a long lunch at The Zin House in Mudgee.
Where are your favourite spots to shop? I love scouring our local op shop, where you always find something interesting. We once found a signed book by Sir David Attenborough for two dollars! My favourite store, Verandah Collective, is an hour away. Owner Jen is my go-to for interiors and has a talent for sourcing goodies from all over the place.
What makes your region a special place to live?
A friend once described Coolah as a place that was “far away from everything and the middle of everywhere”. I love that we are surrounded by hills that are constantly changing in colour and mood. Coolah, to me, is where three rivers meet and where I have started building a new chapter of my life. For more on Kasturi’s life and home, see page 58.