This was published 2 years ago
Inside the home of a Sydney Swans player and an interior designer
A coastal theme of white, timber and stone runs through the home interior designer Kate Lawrence shares with AFL star Luke Parker.
By Jennifer Soo
“Because of the open-plan living, and because there’s only two of us, we have all our meals at the kitchen bench,” says Kate. “It is one of my favourite spots.” The kitchen bench is Caesarstone in “Cloudburst Concrete”, the lampshades are from Ur Place and the wooden stools are by Uniqwa Collections. Credit: Jennifer Soo
The home
A majestic, modern duplex in Matraville, in Sydney’s east, designed by Arkhaus studio with interiors by Kate Lawrence.
Who lives here
Interior designer Kate Lawrence with her partner Luke Parker, an AFL player for the Sydney Swans, and Dora, their seven-month-old dogue de Bordeaux.
What we did
“We knocked down the existing weatherboard house and built a symmetrical pair of generously proportioned two-storey homes.”
My favourite room
The living room with its six-metre ceiling and north-facing windows. “The height of the ceiling lets in so much natural light.”
The ’hood
“I love that we are a short walk away from Malabar beach and cafes. It has a quiet suburban feel while being close to the city. I’ve fallen in love with the neighbourhood.”
Future plans
“I have my office in the mezzanine and I enjoy the beautiful light and outlook from the tall windows. However, I’d love to glass it in for privacy.”
Best advice
“Being organised about finishes and fixtures before construction. Once you’ve made your decisions, trust that you got them right.”
The void created by the high ceiling in the living room was a design feature. The huge north-facing windows frame a view of surrounding trees.Credit: Jennifer Soo
The table and chairs are from MCM House. “This was my first big purchase for the house,” says Kate. “That table is the first nice piece I’ve owned.”Credit: Jennifer Soo
Large sliding doors open up the lounge room to create an entertaining area which gets plenty of use in summer. Outdoor furniture by Domayne.Credit: Jennifer Soo
A curved balcony with screens overlooks the street, making it Dora’s favourite spot. Matt-finished Blackbutt boards have been naturally “greyed off” by the sun. Credit: Jennifer Soo
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