Home inspiration: Seeing the light

The makeover of this Eastern Suburbs apartment has given it a whole new lease of life, with some clever tricks employed to enhance the already abundant light: doors were removed, doorways were widened for better flow, and the whole apartment swathed in white paint to make the walls ‘disappear’. The expanses of white create a gallery-like backdrop to some very cool artwork, like this image by fashion photographer Simon Lekias, and also work to reflect that magical light. A ‘Buddha’ console table with luxe marble top came from Empire, teamed with a lamp from The Country Trader.

The palette may be cool but the textures, from the limestone floors to the cream linen of the Orson & Blake sofa and the gnarled tree roots beneath the Empire coffee table, add natural warmth. An oversized mirror, picked up at MCM House in Sydney’s Waterloo, makes an eye-catching foal point. A striking chandelier by Danish lighting brand Refer & Staer and striped Missoni Home cushions bought on eBay complete the look.

The fireplace flue has been painted in Dulux Domino to create a dramatic feature panel and also holds a nook for the TV. A concrete fireplace surround from Jetmaster creates a strong contrast, as does the fitted shelving on either side.

A honed Calcutta marble benchtop wraps around the island bench, which was made using reconstructed Blackwash Crown Cut timber veneer from Legno. A photograph by Justin Cooper picks up on the hues of the room, while Tolix ‘Tabouret’ stools lend an industrial edge.

Serene greys carry a softer interpretation of the home’s monochrome palette into the main bedroom. Sheer curtains and Missoni bedlinen in shades of dove grey create a sumptuous, soothing space, while statement white lamps and a black-and-white photograph by Georges Antoni are a glam touch.

What’s not to love about fabulous shoe storage! A little turn in the wall was put to good use to create a custom-designed L-shaped addition to the bedroom’s built-in wardrobes, specifically for shoes. 

A warm grey paint for the walls of the study gives the space an identity of its own, with photographs adding a personal touch. The trestle table links with the home’s other dark timber pieces. 

This little boy’s room is decorated with Ralph Lauren bedlinen and bright accessories, including a whimsical artwork by David Bromley, Boy With Red Butterflies. A leather trunk doubles as a bedside table.

A bath/shower with a simple glass screen saves space, as does the Catalano basin from Rogerseller, vanity and concealed cistern, integrated into a slender bench. The mirrored wall cabinet contributes to the room’s light and airy feel.

A daybed sits on the terrace outside a set of French doors, which were a key part of the renovation.