Home Beautiful: From a cramped city apartment to an art deco Federation dream house
7 April 2022
Rewritten from Home Beautiful original article “From a cramped city apartment to an art deco Federation dream house by Chris Pearson”
Anna Curnuck’s mixed-media, nature-inspired artwork, Extract I, from Sibu Gallery, add to the serene feeling. Photographer: Sue Stubbs | Writer: Chris Pearson.
Lauren, Aaron, and their three children, Edie, Henry, and Thomas, made a significant lifestyle shift in 2020. They moved from their high-rise Sydney apartment to a sprawling Federation home on the city's lower north shore. The motivation behind this change was their growing family's need for more space and the desire for a closer connection with nature.
Their new home was a stunning fusion of Art-Deco and Federation styles, offering a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor spaces. This was ideal for their children and their fondness for hosting guests. The house was adorned with moulded plaster ceilings, charming fireplaces, and an open-plan living area that extended to an outdoor pool area. Lauren, a keen runner, was thrilled with the nearby native bushland and its excellent running tracks.
However, the move could have been smoother sailing. The family faced challenges such as insufficient lighting and storage and the overwhelming task of furnishing a large house. To tackle these issues, they sought the expertise of interior designer Anna McMillan. She guided them through their design choices and helped them create a visually appealing and practical home.
Orkney artwork by Eva Frengstad, from Sibu Gallery, adds drama. Photographer: Sue Stubbs | Writer: Chris Pearson.
The final result was a home that perfectly combined functionality and style. The main living areas were adorned with durable, easy-to-maintain fabrics and finishes, like a blue modular sofa and a terrazzo coffee table. Glamorous statement light fittings and items like a chandelier in the formal living area added a touch of elegance. Custom-made joinery in the entry and living areas ensured a clutter-free environment.
The house also showcased a striking main bedroom with an emerald headboard and sapphire carpet, a daring choice that Lauren initially hesitated over but eventually adored. The outdoor area was converted into a cosy, inviting relaxation and entertainment space, with a woven sofa, armchairs, and a teak outdoor dining table.
Lauren and Aaron's journey from a tight city apartment to an Art Deco Federation dream house is a beautiful example of embracing change and the delight of crafting a home that genuinely mirrors one's lifestyle and tastes.