Eclectic Renovation Inspired by Decades of Travel + Curated Art
The owner of this split level 3-bed, 3.5 bath townhome in Brisbane engaged Ivy + Piper to add some personality to the interior spaces through soft refurbishment rather than major remodeling given the new age of the building.
The client is an avid traveller with an expansive and expertly curated art collection which she wanted to highlight and enjoy daily however she needed some professional guidance on how to pull the look of the home together.
At the initial consultation, we were struck by the client’s bubbly persona and her passion for tango which was evident in her bright and varied artworks. The interiors certainly didn’t integrate with their owner or offer the right backdrop for her treasured collections and mementos.
Ultimately the client wanted a space that reflected her style and would transport her, reminding her of her travels. The layout of the townhouse wasn’t altered so we set to work on a decorative scheme and cosmetic cabinetry updates to achieve the client’s brief.
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The decorative scheme we designed is eclectic in style and bold in the use of colour. The starting point was replacing the generic white floor tiles with a terrazzo cement tile laid right through the main level of the townhouse. It added instant interest and the black and blue tones provided a subtle canvas for layering global textiles through soft furnishings. We addressed the abundance of minimalist white walls by wallpapering from the front door all the way up the staircase and down the hall in a striking navy Anna Spiro wallpaper.
The expansion join in the stairwell was treated with a plaster roped detail frieze which we custom painted in navy. The existing hallway niches were plastered over to showcase two of the client’s favourite artworks side by side which we highlighted further by adding picture lights. We installed a large portion of her art pieces like a gallery wall up the stairs which can be fully appreciated while living and entertaining in the lounge space.
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A simple refresh to the generic white kitchen through oak Farmers Doors and floating shelves, updated handles and a mosaic marble splash-back provided a modern update and some very important tonal variety. We reconfigured the lounge seating by removing the existing 2.5 seater sofa and occasional chair and replacing them with one custom made corner sofa providing ample room for both relaxing and entertaining.
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The globally inspired curtains were crucial in framing the room and softening the delineation between interior and exterior. The combination and playful mix of fabric cushions were deliberate to evoke a sense of wanderlust and likewise, the plaster twist side table is another nod to a relaxed Mediterranean aesthetic.
We loved the client’s Scandinavian-style dining setting and juxtaposed it with a large antique French mirror to create the feeling of expansiveness and reflection of light.
The powder room at the end of the living zone was stark, and in an unexpected twist we played up the opportunity to soften all the hard finishes by applying lots of textural elements such as grasscloth wallpaper, tortoiseshell bamboo blinds, antique mirror, and rattan light. The flavour is a welcome and unexpected moment for clients and guests alike.
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The client enjoys potting so we rejuvenated the outdoor verandah with a beautiful iron and marble console, repurposing her existing dining room mirror above it and a mix of new and existing pots. The barnacle urns are particularly special and add an authentic vibe which the client is free to update as the season and her whim dictates. Adding some colourful new covers and cushions to the existing upholstery went a long way in freshening up the space too.
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Exaggerating the upstairs stairwell through contrast painted walls was combined with an artistic handmade pendant light and anchors the space as a focal point. With an emphasis on art in this home, we chose a feature light that felt sculptural and at home with the rest of her collection.
Overall it was an enormous transformation achieved through clever application of colours and finishes.
Check out the entire project here!
Kyle Hams
pottsy99
Ivy + Piper Pty LtdOriginal Author
Aus Joinery Kitchens Pty Ltd
Ivy + Piper Pty LtdOriginal Author