
In Sydney’s lower north shore, Hearth House by Arent & Pyke reinvigorates a Federation-style residence, fostering connections through its redesign. The sunken lounge, once a garage, now serves as the heart of the home, linking formal rooms and a rear extension. Various stone selections unify the space with expressive curves and angular planes, creating a softly luminous sanctuary. Architect Luigi Rosselli introduces structural alterations to maximize natural lighting. Removal of the narrow staircase enhances the flow, while olive-shaded leather handrails and custom runners add tactile richness. Fluted travertine tiles adorn the fireplace, linking spaces upstairs. Warmth and interaction are encouraged through immersive colors and textures, echoing throughout the house. Sharp granite and travertine planes in the kitchen are softened by stained timber joinery. Birch-hued wool upholstery wraps the lounge, inviting comfort, while terracotta tones add warmth.



















Photography by Prue Ruscoe.

This Victorian Terrace in Sydney’s Darlinghurst blends tranquillity with vibrancy. It’s both a serene sanctuary and a lively hub for music and gatherings. The design aimed for a minimalist stage for life’s theatre, balancing privacy with everyday living. Collaborative planning ensured every item found its place, creating an emptied vessel. The core idea was to design with a respect for empty space. Skylit voids mimic ceramic vessels, casting changing light and mood. Heritage meets contemporary with landscaped courtyards, while brick and timber textures define spaces. Embracing emptiness, the design reveals joy and meaning in simplicity. Vessel by Madeleine Blanchfield Architects.















Photography by Tom Ferguson.

Apartments are hard to find in central Madrid, but Mafalda Muñoz and Gonzalo Machado of Casa Muñoz really scored with this space on the second of a 4 story Neoclassical building, though it apparently took them a year and a half to make it legally theirs. They maintained original elements and really leaned into the classical vibe whilst adding modern touches for a really eclectic space. I really love that red paint in the photo below.







This Hawthorn house has been transformed by Studio Doherty in collaboration with Therefore Architects, emphasizing family living and communal spaces. A Californian Bungalow transformed with a rear exposed brick pavilion caters to a young family of four, fostering seamless indoor-outdoor connections and ample natural light. Neutral tones and warm whites dominate, complemented by strategic pops of rich hues. Contemporary family living with an emphasis on materiality and bespoke joinery.











Photography by Dave Kulesza.

Life can sometimes be ugly but the rooms we live, work and dance in should always be beautiful and dreamy where one will feel embraced and safe. Every living space has a story to tell and new adventures to host. I try to find the essence of that story. The mood is often soft and romantic, yet decadent with elements of elegance, simplicity, honesty and warmth.
There is such a sense of calm and ease and simplicity with these spaces by Swedish designer Marie-Louise Sjögren.
















