The home, which was built in the early 2000s, was one the client and his family had eyed for years. In lieu of “wishy-washy coastal minimalism,” it’s now a tribute to texture, art and playful vignettes, with an overarching sense of fearlessness and custom commissions throughout. The plan? Substance first. The design transformed the home, which had great views and a beautiful garden but lacked any inference of innovation, into a grounded retreat. Timeless, appealing materials such as Venetian plaster, terrazzo, solid timber doors, parquetry, Palladiana floors and a hand-turned walnut stair create a layered sense of warmth and depth, atypical in bright, boxy Australian beach homes.Each room has its own identity and a sense of permanence, with furnishings, alluring materials and modern art. The homeowner and Flack’s shared taste for risk led to the punchy palette. While the client is colourblind and can view blues and greens, it didn’t stop the designer from infusing a rainbow of hues, relentless energy and unapologetic attitude.
