Inside TV presenter Brodie Harper’s beachside Peninsula paradise
From renovating challenges to beach house styling and her favourite local haunts, popular TV presenter and model Brodie Harper tells why her home will always be the Peninsula.
South East
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Popular TV presenter and model Brodie Harper grew up on the Mornington Peninsula, so when it came to finding her forever home, the decision was a no-brainer.
During the past 10 years the Brodie and husband Heath Meldrum have transformed their four-bedroom, two-bathroom property into their dream beach house.
Brodie chats to Leader about renovation challenges, beach house styling and why she never wants to live anywhere else.
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How did you feel when you first saw your house?
It has a peaceful vibe. I felt it straight away. I know it sounds a bit out there! But as soon as we walked inside we felt relaxed and calm.
What drew you to the property?
Our house is on a really quiet street and there are lots of trees. There are so many windows too, which brings the outside in. I love that about it.
What changes have you made since moving in?
We’ve done a lot of work. When we first moved in there were cork floors and terrible carpet. We stripped it all back and painted everything white. It’s a very clean, simple look. I don’t like clutter. We also redid the kitchen as it was in its original state when we bought the home, and also the bathroom.
Were there any particular challenges that you faced while renovating?
When we moved in the ceilings were gloss floorboards. Sanding them back and painting them
was a big job. I became very good at setting up and dismantling scaffolding! I also remember being up on the scaffolding painting with a shocking hangover the day after The Logies one year. In the end, my dad (Allan) who was helping us, sent me to bed.
Do you have a favourite room?
I love the kitchen. It’s an open-plan space that’s become the hub of the house. Jess does her homework there while Heath and I cook. I also go there to get work done on the computer.
Is there anything else you would change about the house?
Probably the second bathroom. It’s in its original state and could definitely use updating.
How would you describe your home’s style?
Beachy. I also love bringing nature into the home so we’ve kept things simple inside to showcase the trees outside. We use mirrors a lot too. They act like frames for reflections of the trees.
Do you have any other art in your home?
There is one piece that has special significance. I’m an ambassador for Mercedes Benz Mornington and they had an art show a few years back. As part of that one of the artists involved said she wanted to paint me. I didn’t think much about it at the time but when we went to the opening Heath saw the painting and said he had to have it. It’s an abstract style you don’t immediately see that it’s me unless you know the story behind it.
Where do you go for homewares?
There are so many great shops in this area. We’re really spoiled. I love Provincial Living and Big Chair in Mornington. I’m also on a first-name basis with everyone at Diacos Nursery because I love having plants in the house.
The region’s property values have soared in recent years. Why do you think it has become so popular?
I think the rest of the world is now realising what people who live down here have always known. This is an amazing place to live. It’s so beautiful and has the perfect lifestyle for families. I’m really lucky that I get the chance to show off what I love about the region in my role as presenter of Postcards Summer Series. This summer the program begins and ends on the Mornington Peninsula so I’ll be able to introduce viewers to some of my favourite spots, like Point Leo Estate, the Rosebud foreshore and Moodah Beach at Mt Eliza.
Best beach?
Mills Beach. Actually there is a house overlooking that beach that I absolutely love. That would be my dream home if I won Tatts Lotto!
Where do you go to enjoy some down time?
I love running at Point Nepean. Running is my ‘me time’. It clears my head and helps me work through any problem I might have. I’m actually in training at the moment to run a marathon in Hawaii. We leave in a couple of weeks. I don’t feel ready for the marathon — I don’t think you ever do! But I am excited about the trip. Heath and I are renewing our vows there to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary.
You can catch Brodie on the travel and lifestyle show Postcards Summer Series on Sunday nights at 5.30pm on Channel Nine.
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