Candy Land

Building new was this homeowner’s chance to run with her love of colour and create a home that makes you smile whether you’re inside or out.

- Jackie Brygel

Creativity is on full display within the walls of Emma and Simon O’Meara’s home on Australia’s Victorian coast. A sunny abode inside and out, this is a house that speaks clearly of its owners’ love of colour and texture. From the blush front door, to the statement colours and whimsical design elements, all layered on a crisp white backdrop, the home leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.

To interior stylist Emma, it’s only fitting that friends have given the home a name that encapsulates its distinctive features. “They call it ‘The Gingerbread House’ because of the cedar shingles, the pitched roof and all the colour,” she says. “It’s my take on Aussie-meets-Scandi with splashes of a mid-century Palm Springs vibe.”

THE BUILD

Raised on the coast, Emma can’t imagine life away from the ocean. Certainly, hearing the crash of waves late at night is a joy that never wanes. They live in Barwon Heads, southwest of Melbourne, which lies 109 kilometres away by road. “It’s a beautiful little village – relaxed, not too busy and just a great place to bring up the kids,” she says.

The couple were living nearby when they saw this vacant double section and it wasn’t long before they’d engaged local builder Daryn Anthony to build them a home there. “We decided to build at the front of the block and we will eventually build another house at the back. The idea is that this one will become a boutique rental property,” she says.

INSIDER STYLE