This was published 1 year ago
Inside a renovated mid-century-style home in Melbourne’s north-east
By Heather Nette King
Credit: Armelle Habib
The home
A four-bedroom, circa 1961, mid-century-style home by architect Gregory Rosman that overlooks the Yarra River in Melbourne’s north-east.
Who lives here
Lauren Li, interior designer and author of The New French Look, her husband Phil, who manages their design practice, Sisalla, and children Indigo, 10, Coco, 9, and Benji, 2.
What we did
“[The house] has been well maintained and its features are largely intact, so I have just added new lighting, from statement pendants to wall sconces and lamps,” Li says.
My favourite room
“The lounge room …the high ceilings and large windows that overlook the treetops make it feel peaceful and relaxing.”
The ’hood
“It feels like a tucked- away pocket by the Yarra River and bush, yet it’s so close to the city,” Li says. “I love walking along the river and seeing kangaroos and horses.”
Future plans
“Since we are renting, we’re making it feel like home with furniture and lighting.”
Best advice
“Utilise lighting options … floor lamps, table lamps and pendant lights can add instant atmosphere and create a focal point,” Li says.
An original timber-panelled wall and staircase lead from the home’s entrance to a self-contained living space. The vintage Swedish rug is from Halcyon Lake.Credit: Armelle Habib
“I love how the kitchen is centrally located in the house, yet when we’re at the dining table or in the living room, we’re not looking at dirty dishes,” Li says.Credit: Armelle Habib
“I enjoy creating spaces that are a perfect match for my clients,” Li says. Credit: Armelle Habib
“Every space calls for something different, but there are materials I am always drawn to.”Credit: Armelle Habib
The two-storey home sits on an elevated site and overlooks the Yarra River and parklands. The Offset sofa is by Audo Copenhagen, from The Apartment.Credit: Armelle Habib
The generously sized lounge is furnished with Scandinavian designs including the Fogia Bollo chair, and the Audo Copenhagen chaise and sofa. The rug is from Halcyon Lake.Credit: Armelle Habib
“It feels luxurious to have an actual entry, as our previous apartment didn’t have one,” says Li. The console is made in Melbourne by a local designer, Geri Sloyan, of YOS Studio.Credit: Armelle Habib
The dining table doubles as a craft space for Coco and Indigo. The vintage poster is by Herbert Berthold Libiszewski, and the chair is by Moroso from Hub.Credit: Armelle Habib
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