This was published 1 year ago
Inside a renovated Melbourne period home that also houses an art gallery
The spacious four-bedroom 1930s brick house has an eclectic mix of original features and contemporary furniture.
By Heather Nette King
“This beautiful big lounge room was used as a ballroom by the original owners,” says Willis. “We carry on the tradition of music and entertainment with our friends.” The pendant light is from Living Edge.Credit: Armelle Habib
The home
A two-storey, four-bedroom 1930s brick house in Melbourne’s inner east.
Who lives here
Sammy Willis, who works at Fletcher Art, Tom Bernadou, who works in IT, their sons Monty, 12, and Freddie, 9, and Poppy the cavoodle.
What we did
“Downstairs we patched walls, and painted and sanded the original hardwood floors,” says Willis. “Upstairs, we changed the layout and updated the bedrooms and bathrooms with help from architect Penny Kinsella and interior designer Lou Prentice.”
Our favourite room
“The big living room, as I love how the original cornices and fireplace combine with our contemporary furniture and art,” says Willis. “The gallery is now run from our home, so the art is always changing, which keeps it interesting.”
The ’hood
“I love walking the dog around the streets here,” says Willis. “There are some really beautiful homes with incredible gardens.”
Future plans
“Right now, it feels like home, so there are no plans for any renos.”
Best advice
“If you buy what you love, it will come together beautifully as you are staying true to your style. Don’t be told by others what you should love.”
“This is my office and quiet place,” says Willis. “We found the fireplace hidden behind old cabinetry.” Artworks by Marnie Haddad (left) and Mark Howson.Credit: Armelle Habib
The home has a mix of contemporary pieces like this Maxalto sofa from Space and a vintage lamp from Angelucci. The Powerful Owl photo is by Matthew Stanton.Credit: Armelle Habib
“We repainted and added lighting here,” says Willis. “The kids use this area and it’s not precious.” The painting is by Mark Howson, the photo from Aquabumps.Credit: Armelle Habib
“I spend as much time as I can in the garden and like how the different levels create activity zones,” says Willis.Credit: Armelle Habib
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