When a long-admired 1920s abode came on the market, this energetic family in Sydney jumped at the chance to make it their dream home
Jane Garrett is a graphic designer who lives with her partner Peter and teenage children Phoebe and Gil.
They bought their home on Sydney’s North Shore back in 2006. “It was built in 1919 and we thought it was a bit unusual and that there was something special about it,” explains Jane. “We also loved the leafiness and peace of the neighbourhood it was in.”
She describes her decorating style as ‘East meets West’. “I’m always changing things around and moving things about as I’m often inspired by my travels,” Jane admits.
Article from: homes+. Words by: Hana Jo. Photos by: James Henry
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“I wanted a really big, inviting kitchen,” says homeowner Anna Williams (pictured). “It’s where we spend most of our time.” Quantum Quartz benchtops in Alpine White (island) and Tornado Grey. Carrara marble splashback, WK Marble & Granite. Copper pendant lights, Dunlin. Stools, Oz Design Furniture. Dining chairs, Alfresco Emporium. Metal-framed pendant light (in hall), La Maison. Smart buy: Soho jute rug (1.6x2.3m), $420, Madras Link.
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Unhappy with the original side entrance, Anna requested that Adam Hobbs of Hobbs Jamieson Architecture create one facing the street. “I wanted a really inviting entrance,” she says.
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This thoughtful renovation has made the most of its generous block, once part of a large estate. The expanded layout allows parents and children, and their respective friends, to chill out in their own ways. “We never feel like we’re on top of each other,” says Anna.
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Concertina doors from the rear living area lead to an outdoor kitchen and barbecue area and a north-facing outdoor room. Coffee table and custom-made sofa, Beachwood Designs. Restored vintage armchairs were a gift to Anna from Matt. Rug, Pottery Barn.
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It’s turned out to be the perfect family home,” says Anna. “Having multiple living spaces is fantastic – it gives us separation but we can still supervise the boys.” Sofa and armchair, Outdoor Furniture Online. Coffee table, Citta Design. Rug, Winton House.
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"I love texture – everything from timber to velvet. It makes a room feel so inviting," says Anna. American-oak boards were used for the feature wall. Bed, Heatherly Design Bedheads. Bedside table, Satara. Trunk, Alfresco Emporium. Stool, Lightly. Rug, Temple & Webster. Carpet, Ken Sparks Carpet. Throw, Bed Bath N’ Table. Cushions on trunk, Rapee. Pink cushion, Citta Design.
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Anna requested that the ensuite be open to the main bedroom. “It gives us the luxury of space,” she says.
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Basins, Apaiser. Tapware, The English Tapware Company. Tasmanian-oak benchtop. Cabinetry, Cibo Design. Floor tiles, Tiles by Kate.
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The boys each chose a theme for their room,” says Anna. “Max’s was ‘jungle explorer’.” Stool, Globe West.
10/10
Bedlinen, Pottery Barn Kids. Bedside table, desk and map, Temple & Webster. Rug, Armadillo&Co.
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