H&G HOUSES
F
illed with colourful artworks and exuding warmth
thanks to a palette of tactile natural materials,
this home is totally in tune with its owners. It’s set
in the Victorian beachside town of Barwon Heads,
a popular holiday destination not far from Geelong, and
sums up the pleasures of living well.
This is the home of Eliza and Michael Leake and their
children: Beatrice, 10; Jono, eight; and Henry, six.
Designed by architect Clinton Murray and built by
Michael’s construction firm, it’s testament to their vision
and skills. The exterior of weathered grey ironbark, with
wide stretches of north-facing windows, is shaped in a
gentle arc, embracing a broad timber deck and curved
lawn. From the striking use of organic materials and the
way it opens to the outside it’s clear that this house was
created for a family in tune with nature. >LIVING/KITCHEN/DINING “A solid concrete floor retains the
overnight cool and feels great underfoot,” says Michael. Sofa,
Living Edge. Cushions, Stone & Grain and Moss Grotto. Rug,
Cowhide Rugs. The floor lamp is a reclaimed cinema light.
Stools, Great Dane. Original Eames chairs. Artworks by Debra
Nangala McDonald (le) and Donald Moko.
Smart buy: For similar lamp, try the Photographer’s Tripod
lamp, $499, Pottery Barn. For Where to Buy, see page 196.