COASTAL HOME

, heritage details and a family’s relaxed lifestyle informed the design of this coastal home by Alexandra Donohoe Church of Decus Interiors. We were introduced to the clients, a family with five children, by the architect Tim Wright. Our brief was The heritage part of the house required a traditional approach while the new extension necessitated a contemporary feel. Another challenge was that the location was a considerable distance from Sydney. Travelling with presentation materials combined with importing and installing furniture from across the world were challenges we relished overcoming. The size of the living areas provideda spatial design challenge to visually divide the open-plan ground floor and delineate separate areas for living, dining and kitchen spaces with continuity throughout. In the children’s bedrooms, bathrooms and playroom we erred towards energetic and optimistic palettes, taking direction from what each of them loved. The master suite is a retreat with a sophisticated palette and luxe fabrics and finishes to reflect the clients. It was intentional to select a dark, dramatic and moody base palette for the living spaces. We did not want the house to feel typically coastal. This is a house with something for everyone! Every room has a personality – there’s masculine tones, feminine lines and pops of colour. Our clients’ exceptional art collection was a foundation for the selection of fittings and finishes. The detailing of the existing heritage house was also a source of inspiration. For instance, when developing a consistent design language we added traditional cornices, plasterwork and panelling to the master suite. Stone, brass and timber contrast and complement the coastal location. The ‘Starburst’ bronze front doors. The powder room with Bianco Cararra marble used in three different finishes. And the bronze stairwell hand rail winding through the heart of the house. They were thrilled with the subtle, luxuriously layered elements and surprise moments of frivolity and fun. Although the house has a large footprint it is still a cohesive family home with areas to come together, to entertain and to enjoy privacy.