PEACE of mind

The serenity is palpable at this holidayhouse on the Hawkesbury River amplified by the restrained palette, neutral tones and easy engagement with the surrounding bush.

- JUDY PASCOE

The natural beauty of the Australian bush and the nearby jacarandas were the inspiration for the renovation of this holiday house at Calabash Bay outside Sydney. With water views from every room interior designer Carole Whiting made the most of the property’s position right on the Hawkesbury River.

Maruni ‘T’ chairs from SeehoSu surround a table from Collective in the dining space. Light fitting by Studio Truly Truly for Rakumba. Bowl on table by Brickett Davda, and plates from The DEA Store. On shelves (from top), sculpture by Natalie Rosinfrom Curatorial+Co, vessels from Craft Victoria and bowls from The DEA Store. Opposite page The house occupies an enviable position right on a tranquil curve of the Hawkesbury River north of Sydney.

Built as one of the original guesthouses in the area more than 30years ago, Calabash Bay Lodge had been converted into a family home before the current owners, Kim and Derek Ellis of Wild Luxury, turned it into a luxury holiday rental property in 2008. More renovations ensued in 2014 before the lockdown of 2020 presented the opportunity for a more extensive makeover. When Carole was called in it was initially to upgrade the kitchen and dining area but, as with so many projects, the brief evolved to include the entire four-bedroom house.