A neglected Queenslander is restored to its former glory
The reading nook
A library off the living area was included to make room for a collection of Trixie Belden novels, children’s books, biographies and design publications. The plush banquet seat is upholstered in fabric by US label Duralee and the wire chandelier is from Beacon Lighting. For similar word art, try Emporium.
John Downs
Upstairs Hallway
New mixed hardwood boards from Finlayson’s are low maintenance and lend a warm contrast to the clean white walls, painted in Dulux Chalk USA. The rundown fireplace was converted from timber fuel to Real Flame gas, and has now become a focal point, framed by a ‘Vaucluse’ mantelpiece, from Agnews Fireplaces. An intricate metallic mirror, from Reflect Mirrors, ties in with another Beacon Lighting ‘Elm’ chandelier.
John Downs
Kitchen
Fresh and white with a modern-country feel, the kitchen, by cabinetmakers Queensport Furniture, features reconstituted stone benches and 2-pac polyurethane finished cupboards with a routed front, reminiscent of traditional tongue and groove panelling.The island bench was designed around wicker basket drawers from Häfele, perfect for storing potatoes and onions. A striped automated awning, by Arab Awnings, adds a bold punch.
John Downs
Dining
Meals are a relaxed affair around the travertine-topped table (try J&M Stone Creations for a custom-made version). The chairs were bought 20 years ago from one of Brisbane’s first Indonesian furniture importers. Vividly hued imitation Persian rugs from Rugs-A-Million provide pattern and texture. Try Schots Home Emporium for a railway-style clock.
John Downs
Ensuite
Aqua-toned ‘FAP Fusion Listello’ tiles, from Metro Tiles, make a colour splash above timber lattice cabinet doors.
John Downs
Bathroom
Caroma ‘Starlett’ drop-in bath is accessoried with candles and silk orchids.
John Downs
Boys' bedroom
The two boys are big on blue, which has been used to great effect with denim quilt covers (try Cottonbox) and homemade star canvasses.
John Downs
Master bedroom
Entered via a graceful archway, the main bedroom has been refreshed with walls in Dulux Chalk USA, and crisp white bedding (try Pillow Talk). The blue pendant doubles as a bedside lamp, and was custom-made by Rakumba Lighting. Try Safari Living for a luxe checked throw.
John Downs
Front Verandah
Deep-cushioned wicker armchairs from Java Home Living, striking cushions and a decorative birdcage (try Freedom or similar) create a relaxing setting with tropical appeal. To revive the tired exterior walls, they were painted in Bristol’s Prairie Dust and had the brick line scratched in to give the impression of larger sandstone blocks – an effect copied from the original home.
John Downs
