RURAL RETREAT

A Colonial-look 1970s property on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria is gently renovated with an English-country aesthetic in mind.

- Judy Pascoe

Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula is a popular playground for locals and visitors, offering a wealth of activities from surfing and golfing to winery tours and fine dining. Couple Margaret and David had owned land in the area for some years, intending to build a weekender there but when they came across this established circa 1973 house on a large block their plans changed.

The appeal of the single-storey, Colonial-style property was undeniable with its pool, tennis court and separate cottage. Views over nearby vineyards and easy access to great restaurants, shops and golf courses were an added bonus, as well as the proximity to Merricks Trail, a walking or riding track that meanders through an attractive bush reserve linking to wineries and eateries at either end.

Margaret and David and their Corgi, Bertie, spent nine years in the house before deciding to renovate. As Margaret works for Melbourne interior design practice Bloom, she naturally turned to director Terri Shannon and senior interior designer Nina Rowlands for their expertise, and designer Belinda Tuck who assisted with fabric and furniture selections.