A derelict avocado and citrus ranch an hour north of Los Angeles in the Heritage Valley, a Spanish Mission style house by the architect Chris Choate, a partner in Cliff May’s office, bought lovingly back to life by Sarah Walker Design Associates. I find myself more and more these days drawn to old buildings whose renovation brings their soul back to life without eviscerating to enable modern living.

In my daydreams I’m sitting here with my favourite book with only the occasional bird call to disturb my concentration. You can see more of this stunning house by Sumich Chaplin Architects here.

Photography by Simon Devitt

I’ve asked myself many times if there is a land more beautiful than my own Australia? And each time I have to admit that New Zealand is just a little more stunning. Just. The same question arises when it comes to architecture and interior design and the answer might just be the same. Just. This Barn House on the edge of the sea by Sumich Chaplin Architects has stolen my heart and may just prompt me to slip quietly across the Tasman Sea and declare myself a Kiwi. Perhaps 😉

Photography by Jeremy Toth

View? What view? I’m too busy drinking in the house. Beachview by Brown Design Group.

Villa on the Cliff

What do these three holiday rental properties have in common besides their Mediterranean locations? And besides their minimalist design whether old or new? And besides all being via Welcome Beyond? They’re all united by the fact that we’d rather be there than here. Stop dreaming and go.

Paros Villa

House under the olive tree