Animal instinct A kids’ bedroom with colour and fun

PLAYFUL AT HEART, THIS COLOURFUL CHILDREN’S BEDROOM PAIRS ORIGINAL FEATURES WITH CONTEMPORARY DESIGN AND JOYFUL DECOR

african animals and native birds stalk the walls of this playful yet practical bedroom in Sydney’s lower north shore, created with homeowner Dianne’s seven grandchildren in mind. Inspired to renew the room for her most frequent little guests, Edith, 11, and Audrey, 9, Dianne engaged interior designer Lisa Santamaria after spotting her “beautiful designs” in a magazine. “The room was boring, cluttered and tired, with beige walls and spare furniture crammed into the space - it also urgently needed storage,” explains Lisa of Santamaria Design, who balanced 1913 period features with bold bursts of colour. “We retained the heritage fireplace tiles and highlighted the beautiful cornices and picture rails by painting them in crisp white, while introducing a modern carpet and dressing the mantelpiece with fun accessories,” adds Lisa, who opted for durable fabrics in classic tones that would grow with the grandchildren.

And how did Edith and Audrey react? “They were very excited and just loved it! One of their favourite additions were the animal prints; it is always a tussle when they stay as to which animal they will sleep under!” Dianne laughs. “A lovely problem to have.”

“IT’S THE FIRST ROOM SEEN ON ENTERING THE HOUSE SO wow IT NEEDED FACTOR” ~ DIANNE, HOMEOWNER

HIT REFRESH “The colour palette is bold and classic with a pop of colour for fun − we paired vibrant orange bedding with bold charcoals and blacks,” says Lisa, referring to the bespoke bedheads and roman blinds in ‘Calverton’ fabric by Warwick Fabrics, and the plush ‘Hampton Style’ carpet in Peconic Stone by Carpet Court. Above the beds, styled in Rapee cushions and Kas Australia bed linen, Safari Life photographic prints by Designer Boys lend a contemporary edge. “The kiddies love animals, specifically giraffes and elephants,” says Lisa.

COLOUR BLOCK A replica George Nelson saucer light “brings in a dreamy, cloud-like effect,” shares Lisa. “The shape is beautiful but understated, allowing the period features of the room to be the hero.” The pendant overlooks Dianne’s pre-existing cabinet from Zuster Furniture, which inspired the colour palette. Meanwhile, a striking ‘Gillian’ cockatoo print by Grotti Lotti and leather mirror are statement pieces against walls splashed in subtle Dulux Manorburn.