Calm & collected

Gentle curves, chalky neutrals and natural finishes have breathed new life into Brooke Testoni's classic Arts and Crafts home, creating a serene backdrop to family life

- WORDS EMMA J PAGE

Just north of Sydney Harbour Bridge in a leafy waterside suburb, the home of Brooke Testoni is an oasis of calm, epitomised by graceful 1920s architecture and streamlined schemes.

Much like her fashion brand Rylan, known for its sinuous shaping, every superfluous detail has been pared back here, the better to let the proportions of the building sing.

'I'm always pulled to the period details of a Federation house,' says Brooke of the Arts and Crafts home where she lives with her husband Leith and two young children, Franco, six and Mila, three, plus dog Presley. 'In a highly decorative era, I'm still a firm fan of a less-is-more philosophy: I've always preferred minimalist interiors and a gentle palette of soft neutrals.'

Yet this serene home is anything but bland. Thanks to the input of interior architect Alexandra Ponting, who joined forces with Brooke to undertake a thoughtful renovation.