Pinch me. I must be dreaming. Do people really live with views like this? In houses like this? Sun and sand and surf and easy, stylish living. Perfect. Stinson Beach Home by Lauren Nelson Design.

French designer Laurence Simoncini wanted to retain the spirit of this Haussmanian apartment while creating a dramatic new space. Oversaturated colours, black lacquered doors and windows, contrasts between matt and shiny, raw and refined plus an eclectic mix of furniture breathe new life into the historic rooms.

Photography by Romain Ricard

This 1905 former army drill hall in Leichhardt, Sydney has been reimagined as a modern home. The building was not heritage listed but the design saw original elements salvaged and reused with unsympathetic additions removed.

“… the historic arched brick entryway provides access directly into the hall, where living, dining and kitchen areas flow together, opening to a sunny terrace. Above this space, two new mezzanine lofts accommodate a guest suite and study, with private terraces set into the roofline.

Downstairs – at garden level – the lower ground floor was entirely rebuilt as the main bedroom suite, and it opens to the newly landscaped large garden and upgraded pool area.”

Drill Hall House by Tobias Partners.

Photography by Justin Alexander

“Drawing upon the site’s architectural period and surrounding bushland, Wahroonga House is an example of mid-century modern design, referencing the warmth and playfulness of Palm Springs balanced with a laid-back sense of sophistication.”

Add an earthy colour palette of greens and browns inspired by the surrounding bushland and a play on geometric curves the result is relaxed yet refined. Wahroonga House by Tom Mark Henry.

Photography by Damian Bennett

It’s like I say week in week out. If you have to drag yourself into work on a weekend it helps if it’s super stylish. KOHE MEETING by Claude Cartier.