ART AND SOUL

An exuberant celebration of maximalism, Sydney architect Richard Archer's terrace is brimming with special finds that reflect moments in an enchanted life.

- Chris Pearson

Owner and architect Richard Archer in his double-height living room, surrounded by books, treasures and mirrors - just a few of his favourite things. Sofa, The Country Trader. Meridiani Bongo coffee tables and Baker Furniture 'Casanova' floor lamp by Jacques Garcia, all Studio Cavit. Antique gilded mirror, Paul Kenny Antiques. Rug, Whitecliffe Imports. The antique jardiniere is a family heirloom.

The living area looks directly into a secluded courtyard. Minotti 'Russell' lounge chairs, Dedece. Meridiani Bongo coffee tables, Studio Cavit. Koppel vase, Georg Jensen. The Georgian secretaire is a family heirloom. Ballet, Opéra de Paris artwork by JR.

Artwork by JR. Keith Murray Wedgwood vase, Alan Landis Antiques. Tribal mask, Orient House.

Every corner delivers a surprise, such as this wall adorned in Jab Anstoetz Preciosa' silk from Unique Fabrics, to the right of the fireplace. Simone Fraser urn, Sabbia Gallery. Casanova floor lamp, Studio Cavit. Teatro Nacional de Sao Carlos Lisboa Ill artwork by Candida Höfer.

Many architects worship minimalism and its simple, uncluttered aesthetic - Richard Archer included - but in his own home in inner-city Sydney, he has left it at the door. Within this urban hideaway, he celebrates maximalism to the... er... max, and is quite unapologetic about it. The always surprising results are an exuberant expression of his personality and all that he loves and values.