Lauren engaged the services of local architect
Rachel Hudson, whom she knew through her sister.
“Rach came back with two options: a cheaper bar
counter and bifold option, and the one we have
now, which was more expensive but a no-brainer- the layout solved all our issues,” Lauren says.
“It created an open indoor-outdoor area and flow.”
Kitchen renovations began in August 2014 and were
finished just before Christmas. More recently, the
couple revamped their bathroom and entrance.
PERSONALITY PLUS The couple’s love of travel
informs their decor, as does Lauren’s penchant for
Instagram and Pinterest. “I’ll see materials and
designs in separate pictures and put them together
to create exactly what we want and what will suit
the house,” she says. Jesse says his parents have
always gone for an eclectic look. “They bought
vintage in the 1970s when it was cheap, and still
have most of it – it’s timeless,” he says. “I supposed
it’s rubbed off, in that it’s made us realise the value
of buying well once and keeping it forever.”
RETHINKING DESIGN Lauren and Jesse also
have a great appreciation for well-designed spaces.
“Prior to doing the kitchen and dining renovation
we rarely used the dining room,” Lauren comments.
“Because the layout was so awkward we found
we only entertained in summer when we could
use the outdoor space. If we did entertain in winter,
we would end up outside under heaters, freezing.
The renovation has changed that completely. We
now have three spaces to sit comfortably and the
area flows beautifully.” Perfect for the entertainers.
HOLIDAY VIBE While the interior needed to
function better, the plant choices outside had
already made the outdoor area a relaxing place to
be. “The gardens were actually one of the reasons
we bought the house,” Lauren explains. “They had
been beautifully planted – totally in keeping with the
style of the home – and are low maintenance, which
is perfect for us.” The exterior of the house had been
rendered and clad so it didn’t feel too dated, either.
“When we saw the house we knew it was where AJungle rumble Arne Norell safari chairs were found online. The butterfly artwork is by David Bromley, the rug from Kulchi. Sleep easy The couple’s bed was custom-made
by Elo Silo. The bedding came from Bodie & Fou. A vintage baker’s rack from Rust in Avalon is used to store Lauren’s shoes. Bland to beauty “The bathroom was very low
spec and my least favourite space in the house,” Lauren says. “We changed the layout so the toilet wasn’t the first thing you saw as you entered, and replaced everything,
including the window.” The vanity was also custom-made by Elo Silo. The sink is from Acqua Bathrooms, the tapware from Reece. Usable space The dining room was hardly
used before the kitchen and dining renovation. “We love having a space to hang out with friends, who all love to cook and eat, so opening up the kitchen, dining room and
deck was an attractive proposition from the architect,” Lauren says. A dining table from Mr & Mrs White sits on top of a rug from Rugs Online.@reallivingmag