CLASSIC CHARMER

Cote Interiors infused a handsome Federation house with a relaxed atmosphere and much-needed storage for a growing family of five.

- Hanna Marton

One size does not fit all when it comes to engaging an interior designer. For Juliet and Jonathan, the owners of this fairytale Federation home on Sydney’s Lower North Shore, it took a few meetings before they found the perfect person to realise their renovation dream. Enter Coco Tully, founder and creative director of Cote

Interiors, whose “warm and bubbly” temperament and timeless American-coastal aesthetic appealed to Juliet instantly. “Coco is so lovely,” says Juliet, “and she uses just the right amount of colour while keeping interiors fairly clean, but never cold or clinical.”

After purchasing in 2018, Juliet and Jonathan, along with baby William, now 8, lived happily in the single-storey, one-bathroom home for a few years before Patrick, now 6, joined the family.

“It was perfect for us when we moved in, but eventually the house needed a bit of love,” says Juliet. Not to mention another bathroom. The couple considered reconfiguring the floorplan or even selling. But when Juliet was pregnant with Ellie, now 3, they resolved to add a second storey. “Ellie was the catalyst!” says Juliet.

LIVING Ralph Lauren ‘Anette’ picture lights, Bloomingdales. Artwork by Theresa Hunt, Curatorial+Co. Fireplace surround and hearth in Esmeralda quartzite, Art of Marble. ‘Sofia’ sofa, Crafted Furniture. ‘Le Forge’ coffee table, Boyd Blue. ‘Casper Remi’ dining chairs, MCM House. Xavier Furniture ‘Laguna’ cross leg stools, Isla Design. ‘Cancun’ octagonal side table, Naturally Cane. Rug, Isla Design.