Bold Moves

Idiosyncratic details are the key to the vibrant personality of this home where colour and curated collections pack a punch.

- Carli Philips

Polished Chinese oxblood-red and lacquered Yves Klein blue are the arresting two colours saturating the formal sitting and dining rooms of this refurbished Edwardian home in the inner Melbourne suburb of Malvern, situated opposite a nature reserve and with views to the Dandenongs on a clear day. It’s a risky colour scheme and an all-or nothing palette that runs up the walls and across the ceilings to create a complete cocoon. “The brief was to go hard or go home,” says designer David Flack.

The owners had a joie de vivre about the fit-out, granting David considerable leeway when it came to big gestures. The tables turned when homeowner Nicole told David to put in his wish list. “I said, ‘Do whatever you need to make this right’. I didn’t want to sway him one way or another because I thought that way he could be more creative. If I were placing limitations, I wouldn’t have used a professional. I just had to trust him.” Such freedom was liberating for David who says it was a bonus that Nicole already had impeccable art and great taste. “That’s what I loved about this project. It’s her house with her belongings, but she came to us because we have such a strong look. At some point you have to let go and enjoy the ride.”