CHRIS WARNES
This Southern Highlands country charmer is now a serene and soulful family haven, thanks to Home Beautiful’s Creative Director Imogene’s decorative prowess. Red walls have disappeared behind several coats of Dulux Wash & Wear paint in Pearl Ash. The dark ‘Scenic Walk’ carpet in Pepper by Carpet Court was a must, while chairs from French Dressing and La Maison chime well with the white Ikea ‘Ektorp’ sofa.
While the 1980s detached house had been designed in the style of a Georgian cottage and had a charming, rustic appeal from the outside, the interior wasn’t quite so fine. “There was lots of dark red everywhere and it made the house feel quite oppressive,” recalls Imogene.
Imogene hired a local carpenter to construct shelves in the alcoves to match the height of the fireplace and painted them a crisp white for a seamless look. An ‘Arlec’ chrome floor lamp from Bunnings makes for a cosy reading nook by the bookshelves.
A favourite framed mirror offers a glam touch above the sofa – get the look with the ‘Champagne’ mirror from Mirror Mirror. For an equally chic sofa, try Ikea’s ‘Ektorp’ sofa cover, and Linum cushions from French Dressing.
Imogene’s collection of maps are given a sense of unity thanks to identical ‘Ribba’ frames from Ikea. An elegant bergere chair (try La Maison for similar) was rescued from oblivion with a new seat cushion crafted in traditional ticking fabric.
For more French inspiration, take a look at this striking Victorian home.
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