HGHOUSES
86 | AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN
<magnolia trees. The house itself presents as a classic Queenslander
with decks wrapping around 80 per cent of the structure. It’s an idyllic
set-up that has worked its magic on the current owners – and subtly
suggested its own design evolution.
When they moved in, the Wrights gave the five-bedroom house a
contemporary update, including a new kitchen and flooring. Yet with
time they could see that the modern kitchen didn’t really tally with the
character of the property, the floating floors seemed too slick and shiny,
and the wool-blend carpet didn’t fare well in a farmhouse setting. “I’d
never renovated before and soon realised it was really important to take
this house back to its heritage,” says Juliette. “When we did, the house
felt a lot warmer and became more delightful.”
For the second transformation, Juliette turned to interior designer
Anna Spiro of Black & Spiro for help choosing furniture, finishes and
accents. On Anna’s advice, solid oak boards took the place of the floating
floor, indoors and outdoors were unified with a timeless all-white paint
palette, and the wool-blend carpet was replaced with durable sisal. The
kitchen kept its modern counters but gained a large, striking splashback
of painted terracotta tiles in subtly varied patterns, giving the space
much-needed artisanal character. The decor now abounds in classic
country references with a fresh twist. There are touches of the Hamptons,
and a Ralph Lauren aesthetic in the contrast of airy, white-painted
spaces with traditional furniture, natural materials and handsome
old-school textiles. “I love textiles and I love texture,” says Juliette.
Over the years, she and Glen have woven their own stories into the
home’s long history. Early on, the couple celebrated their wedding in
the large barn they built on the property. Inside the house they’ve added
many pieces of personal significance, from family pieces reflecting
Juliette’s Irish ancestry to handcrafts collected on their travels. There
are also equestrian-themed pieces, reflecting their passion for horses
and polo. Outside, the fruit trees they’ve planted are a tangible investment
in the family’s future. “I know I’ll have to be here for years to see any
mangoes,” says Juliette with a laugh. >
Black & Spiro,New Farm, Queensland; (07) 3254 3000
or http://www.blackandspiro.com.au.HALLWAY“My mum gave me the chiffonier when she downsized a few years ago,”
says Juliette. “It had a huge mirror on top that was too aristocratic for me, but now
I love this piece.” Glass lamp with hessian shade and ginger jar, Black & Spiro.
Antique horse statue discovered at an antique store in Northern Ireland. Artwork
by Juliette’s aunt Kate Beagan, a well-known Irish artist.
GUESTROOMWhen Hudson’s not hitting the keys of the piano, a treasured family
heirloom, this space doubles as accommodation for visitors. Ralph Lauren wallpaper
makes the room feel special. Artworks by (clockwise from top left) George Wright,
E Bell, Eric Whisson, Pam Hopkins, George Earl and George Wright.
BATHROOMThe blue bath takes centre stage. Outside, blue and white agapanthus
frame the property. Bath and tiles, Black & Spiro. Tapware, Perrin & Rowe. Joinery,
Madders Kitchens & Cabinets. Copper pot, family piece.For Where to Buy, see page 188.