Perched gracefully atop a gentle rise, this sub-penthouse effortlessly marries modern elegance with the serenity of coastal living. Here, minimalism takes centre stage, allowing the mesmerising Sydney Harbour vistas to captivate the senses. Located in the tranquil enclave of Fairlight, Sydney, this apartment stood poised for a remarkable transformation. Its interiors, stuck in a bygone era of the 1970s, yearned for rejuvenation, burdened by outdated features and an aesthetic that had dulled over time. The chance to reimagine this space allowed our talented Stylesmiths interior designer, with the opportunity to breathe fresh vitality into this residential interior design, creating an enduring, chic, and functional haven for our clients.
With meticulous craftsmanship, the complete redesign of the sub-penthouse redefines coastal living, seamlessly fusing contemporary design elements with comfort and entertainment as the core of the design vision.
The overarching concept was to accommodate our clients’ evolving circumstances, as their children had grown and moved out, forging their own paths. A couple, now empty nesters and with a fondness for simplicity, yearned for an open-plan sanctuary that would embrace the breathtaking ocean views, both at sunrise and sunset. The project aimed to not only resonate with their personal tastes and preferences but also cater to the unique requirements of this new phase in their lives. This endeavour sought to authentically mirror their current journey, transforming an ageing apartment into a modern seaside residence. The complete renovation encompassed the entire three-bedroom apartment, reimagining spaces to align with our clients’ needs. One of the bedrooms underwent a transformation into a functional study, while the former laundry area evolved into a delightful coffee retreat and wine storage pantry.
The bathroom designs underwent graceful transformations, and a spacious walk-in robe was added to enhance the renovated ensuite. The outcome achieved a graceful equilibrium, harmonising the preservation of historical elements with the embrace of modernity. At the core of this residence lies a captivating blend of deep, opulent tones gently offset by lighter shades, crafting a minimalist yet welcoming ambiance. Careful consideration in the selection of materials and the incorporation of curvaceous elements throughout the design guaranteed not only visual allure but also durability, exemplifying the project’s dedication to lasting elegance and understated sophistication.
The kitchen renovation embraces a breathtaking fusion of natural elements, featuring Calcutta marble adorning the countertops, backsplash, and the gracefully curved kitchen island resting atop a fluted ivory marble base. These luminous surfaces, bathed in soft natural light, exude a timeless sense of sophistication, with their intricate veins serving as a testament to the artistry of nature. The custom-crafted walnut timber cabinetry showcases a meticulous eye for detail, with its gentle curves adding an artistic dimension that seamlessly melds form and function. The combination of walnut timber and burnished steel fixtures and appliances imbues the space with a richness that beautifully bridges tradition and modernity. This sculptural island creates the perfect setting for gatherings and culinary rituals, with its elegant contours facilitating a seamless flow of interaction and entertainment. Adorned with Grazia & Co bar stools enveloped in plush wool, it adds a touch of whimsy, inviting you to savour moments of relaxation and connection.
Panoramic views spill from the kitchen to the spacious living area, where sunlight bathes the room in luxury. The Jardan curved boucle wool sofa and Grazia & Co armchair lend an air of relaxed sophistication, anchored by a pink ombre hand-carved wool rug from Designer Rugs, adding texture and depth. Curvature defines the space, with the focal point being the elegantly curved Venetian plaster fireplace, echoed throughout the residence in entry halls and bathrooms. A marble plinth enhances the aesthetic, offering both storage and a captivating pedestal for the fireplace. This thoughtful detail harmoniously connects the kitchen and living room, creating a seamless blend of the living zones.
The dining area is nestled against the rear of a bespoke walnut timber bar, adorned with reed glass that harmoniously extends the design aesthetics from the kitchen. With its marble inlay, this bar introduces a touch of understated opulence and a connection to the organic beauty of nature. Embracing a play of curves and textures, the Gubi boucle wool dining chairs elegantly complement the design theme, harmonising effortlessly with the subtle nuances of the reed glass and serving as the perfect match for the sophisticated black Grazia & Co dining table. The space is illuminated by the horizontal trilogy pendant light from Articolo Studios, uniting it all. Our Stylesmiths Designer had the crucial task of crafting an interior for the open-plan living space that rivals the beauty of the stunning view, all while orchestrating a seamless harmony between the two.
The hallways, bathed in Venetian plaster, glow warmly in sunlight and exude a romantic luminescence at night. Arched entrances seamlessly blend 1970’s historical significance with personal inspiration. The master bedroom features a custom upholstered headboard and a walnut bedside table, creating a serene haven for relaxation.
This design language extends to the bathrooms, where the ensuite boasts a handcrafted marble vanity, burnished taps, and marble floors, framed by arched doorways and mirrors. A floating wall sconce adds a welcoming glow. In the main bathroom, a trilogy pendant light illuminates walls adorned with a mosaic of Piketto grey kitkat tiles, enhancing the beauty of marble, walnut timber, and iron bronze tapware. This intricate fusion of elements creates an aesthetic symphony that elevates the ambiance to new heights.
In the study, a shared workstation seamlessly incorporates the same material palette as the living area while offering sweeping views of Sydney’s urban panorama. An unexpected delight emerges in the renovated laundry, which has transformed from a mundane space into a sanctuary catering to the client’s love for coffee and wine. This transformation highlights design’s power to elevate everyday life. Continuity in design is evident as Calcatta marble benchtops and reeded glass flow seamlessly from one room to the next, creating a visual narrative that unifies the spaces. The residential interior design of the Fairlight residence represents the seamless blend of 1970’s history and innovation, of quiet sophistication and comfort.
