Masterchef judge Gary Mehigan’s Melbourne home

Masterchef‘s Gary Mehigan may be the boss of the kitchen in his family’s Melbourne home but it’s the chef’s wife, Mandy, seen here with Gary, who makes the decorating decisions. Their light and breezy formal lounge has beautifully grand proportions and is also home to one of Gary’s most-treasured possessions, a work by artist friend Jeff Martin. The couple also share their gorgeous home with daughter Jenna. All images: Armelle Habib.

Expansive windows and double French doors make the casual lounge of Gary and Mandy’s home an irresistible spot for the Mehigan family. A painting, Damper Seed Dreaming by artist Fabrianne Nampitjinpa Peterson, is a stunning focal point.

A photo of Gary with his Masterchef mates George Calombaris and Matt Preston, taken by Peter Brew-Bevan, has pride of place in the chef’s home. “This is one of my favourite pictures,” Gary says. “The three of us have had an incredible journey. I think we will remain friends forever.”

“These boots are my everyday – eight years old and still going strong,” reveals Gary. “I’ve owned three pairs in 22 years – good old Red Wings!”

Gary and Mandy’s courtyard provides a landing spot for one of his lifelong passions. “There is one thing I am just as obsessed with as I am about food, and that’s my bikes,” says Gary. “I’ve ridden them since I was 17, so it’s by no means a mid-life crisis!”

Who’s the main decorator in this household? “Mandy!” says Gary. “My domain is the kitchen… If I had my way there would be more ‘stuff’ around, but Mandy doesn’t like clutter.” Here, the family dog strikes a pose in the chef’s beautiful kitchen that features a generous island – a must for Gary – with a Stone Italiana bench top. A stunning window splashback lets in the light and view.