Let me introduce Studio Nine, a South Australian architectural practice. I was going to wax lyrical about their modern, honest spaces but their own words some up their design beliefs best.

“Think of when you have been forced to spend time in a room you hated; then compare that with one you never wanted to leave because you loved being there. Love and hate. Two very powerful emotions. But why?
Architecture has a profound effect on the natural environment. And naturally, that includes human beings. Beyond what we perhaps realise, it influences our emotions, our moods, our efficiency, our creativity, how we conduct our lives and our business. The style, the colours, the materials used, the space and the light all evoke a human reaction. Maybe not an overt response. But their effects are undeniable.”

And where would I like to be? In that bright, light and oh so green kitchen. How could you not start the day with pep in your step?

What is it with Australian architects and property developers and their obsession with church conversions? (Or is it that I’m obsessed with them?) I have found yet another while stalking my favourite real estate site. LOVE the bookcase by the window, the use of colour and I would live quite happily just in the bedroom and it’s rooftop balcony. It appears to be one of a multi-residence conversion so there’s more than one chance to get your hands on a little slice of heaven. Re-use of significant buildings is to be applauded especially re-use in urban areas where the demolition of the building would would so alter the character of the area.

Malcolm James Kutner has a style that straddles both sides of the Atlantic with influences from both England and the States. Based in New York after living in London his “colonial” vibe fits well with the warmer climates, think Key West or the West Indies. Equally though he is at home with the elegance of the English terrace house genre. Worn and lived in but refined. He has a great feel for the essence of a place. I’m particularly loving how he has handled the pared back stripped timber walls. The whole feel is of warm tropical days, the throb of cicadas, light sea breezes in the afternoon, gin and tonics and a gentler time. More of his portfolio here.

An individual look for individual clients. New York interior designer Kari McCabe creates wonderfully light and airy, casual yet elegant rooms. I love the texture and the layering and especially Kari’s sense of colour. Can’t you just imagine curling up in one of these rooms and relaxing? Or inviting your friends over? Liveable and lovely.

Mike Witt designs rooms with a modern aesthetic with more than a nod to mid-century influences. Is it obvious that he has spent years of studying, buying and selling 20th century decorative and fine arts? To me these spaces are classics of the future. Even though he uses finishes that may be thought cold and hard (think concrete and metal) the rooms are still warm and intimate, rich and at times organic.