Home Beautiful Magazine Feature

It’s often said that the best things in life are worth waiting for, and it’s an ethos that certainly resonates with Sunshine Coast couple Dennis and Lesley. After buying a prime block of land overlooking the ocean five years ago, the couple bided their time and lived in the existing shack, while familiarising themselves with the lay of the land and drafting plans for a home that captured the beauty of the area.

Drawing upon years spent gathering ideas from their travels and countless magazines, they ensured every aspect was designed to balance form and function. At last, their dream home was built, but the couple barely had time to settle in, before fire, then flood struck, which meant they virtually had to start all over again. “The first 12 months in the house were far more eventful than we’d anticipated, so we’re banking on the fact it will be a holiday from here on out!” says Lesley. Disaster number one occurred eight months after the home was finished: a freak fire swept through the upper level, leaving a trail of destruction and soot. The couple made the local news, and were grateful that everyone, including their beloved samoyed, Souri, emerged unscathed, and that, thanks to the efforts of the Noosa fire brigade, furniture and sentimental pieces were salvaged. Mother Nature wasn’t finished yet, however – less than two weeks after the fire, torrential rain literally tore through the fire-damaged roof, flooding the upstairs kitchen and living area.Eileen Middleton Interior Design

KITCHEN

{designed by Interiority Interior Design Consulting}

Lesley, a keen cook, knew exactly what she wanted when it came to the design of the kitchen and the all-important appliances, which include a double Ilve stove. The couple worked with kitchen designer Eileen Middleton, who helped source the rich palette – driftwood veneer cabinetry covers the island bench and cupboards, while a smoky grey glass splashback offsets the honed-marble and stainless steel work surfaces. To add a hit of glamour, Dennis and Lesley chose Oty Light Paolo Crepax ‘Sophie’ pendant lights in chrome.Kitchen Designer, Eileen Middleton

See more in this months edition of Home Beautiful Magazine (Jan 2013 Issue)