ART HOUSE

contemporary art throughout led the way for the creation of a gallery-like interior for this theatrical family home, says designer Claire Driscoll Delmar (above). We had styled the owners’ holiday home on Sydney’s Palm Beach. They came to us wanting their Architecturally, the building is masculine in structure and detail. We wanted to layer femininity and playfulness shown through bold and pastel tones, soft curves and geometric shapes, and contemporary and traditional furnishings, lighting and decor. Their love of European architecture and detailing permitted us to feature the home’s original grandeur that we aligned with the joinery but reflect their personality through modern furniture, finishes and styling details. We created a gallery feel where sculptural lighting, furniture and art merge together in a visual feast throughout. The home is filled with character evolving from a distinctly traditional residence into a theatrical family home. Curated rooms comprise of contemporary forms sitting harmoniously within the architectural foundations. Dramatic murals, sculptural lighting, textured fabrics and bursts of colour against muted tones all play a part in representing the young family in its grand inner-city setting. This home harmoniously plays between the masculine and the feminine, the old and the new. We worked together as a collective when sourcing the art by sharing pieces we loved and found through a group WhatsApp. We selected furniture with soft curved shapes to help soften the grand rooms and subtle nods to tradition through fabrics, patterns and details. We focused on brushed metals and matt finishes. The master bedroom has a serene sense of calm through its elegant style. I love the fanned wallpaper print which has been framed behind the bed with ornate mouldings and the repetitive shapes throughout the home, in particular the pleated details. These subtle points bring reference to the interconnecting rooms. They love it. With two little children, the bedrooms, playroom and living areas are always enjoyed. They held off entertaining until the house was finished so they now enjoy it with guests.