Designer Masterclass: Quiet Luxe

The full-scale revival of this historic Sydney home deploys delicate colour, pattern and texture to stunning effect

- Jackie Brygel

To Lauren Mahoney, creative director and founder of Sydney interior design firm Studio Trio, there was no question that this heritage home was ready for a new chapter. While the circa 1907 Federation Arts & Crafts-style abode was certainly liveable for owners Hannah and Craig and their three school-aged children, it appeared tired and dysfunctional.

With a major renovation by heritage architect David White, the time was right for Studio Trio to get to work on a dramatic cosmetic makeover. The brief? To bring the expansive home into a new era while embracing its gracious period architecture.

The designer was in her element, unveiling a rich colour and material palette. Complementary shades of green impart tranquillity and harmony, accented by sprinklings of misty grey and blush pink, through sophisticated furnishings, patterned wallpaper and botanical artwork (as seen in the stately landing, above).“Hannah and Craig are thrilled with the result,” shares Lauren. “And so am I.”

DESIGNER TIP

“You can be a little adventurous with a period home,” says Lauren. “Vamp up the furnishings. Find a fabulous fabric as your starting point in a room and mix larger patterns with smaller-scale ones. But do try and connect spaces by bringing in a touch of the same tones throughout. The devil is in the detail.”