This dated and dreary home is perfectly defined as ‘the worst home on the best street’. The original cold, grey living spaces felt hard and uninviting, despite the gorgeous views overlooking my favourite northern beach. But we knew there was amazing potential here to be found, and we transformed this 80s doer-uper into an elegant haven of natural light.
One of our biggest challenges in transforming this space was how to proportionately furnish two overly large, side-by-side living spaces.
We resolved this interior design dilemma by defining each side with a particular mood and purpose. On the left was the formal lounge, a place to have lively conversations or get lost in a good book. The space on the right became more casual with a TV for family entertainment.
We made several structural and aesthetic improvements to reveal the diamond that I knew was hiding under this rough exterior.
First, we repainted everywhere in a fresh white, which included covering the internal brick and timber cornices, banishing the awful 80s aesthetic. For a touch of contrast, we decided to keep the original window and door frames and we drew inspiration for the soft furnishings from the warm wood tones.
Next, we ripped up the daggy grey carpet and replaced it with quality engineered timber floorboards.
The brightening of these spaces was instant and magnificent! VJ panels added a touch of subtle texture to the walls, while the original internal brick got a crisp white makeover.
We added a softness to both rooms with sheer linen curtains that filter the western sunlight, layered with blockout roller blinds.
Let me give you an interior design tip: A light and bright lounge room doesn’t mean that all the furniture must be white.
By opting for monochromatic and deep neutral tones, we created a contrast that accentuates the fresh white look. The formal lounge on the left leant into strong defined lines and dark accents.
We saw an opportunity for a mini study nook in the corner of this space, which takes advantage of the stunning natural light.
