Photography: Edward Urrutia, Kristina Soljo
For many, achieving a magazine-worthy home feels like a distant dream. For Steve Cordony, it’s just another day at work. As one of Australia’s leading interior stylists, with years of experience shaping the pages of the country’s top home magazines, he knows exactly how to make a space feel polished and cohesive.
Now, he’s sharing his expertise in his newly released book, Moments at Home. “The book takes readers through nine different spaces within the house, and will show you how to create the most soulful, emotional response from each room through practical design and styling tips,” he says.
To celebrate the launch, Steve sat down with Home Beautiful to talk all things interiors – where to begin when styling a room, the biggest trends on the horizon and how he brought his dream kitchen to life at Rosedale Farm.
Steve Cordony answers your styling questions…
Where’s the best place to start when styling a room?
Any space or room I create always starts with a story. This can be an artwork to centre the room around, a memory or a piece of furniture or fabric that represents your style DNA. Building the room around a strong concept from the start will create a more tailored and cohesive interior, created with purpose and intention.
Which spaces at your own home, Rosedale Farm, have been the most exciting to transform?
The kitchen was a dream look that I had so many references for and I knew exactly how I wanted the space to feel. I had references from Plain English Design and DeVol, and knew I wanted it to feel like a contemporary version of a country home kitchen. Seeing all of the elements come together with reclaimed chevron flooring, Shaker-style cabinetry, brass hardware and tapware and Ralph Lauren lighting felt like a dream (kitchen) come true.
You’re known for hosting incredible events – what’s the secret to a stunning tablescape?
I always say you can never go wrong with beautiful flowers, candles, dinnerware, a great playlist and good company. Even styling a casual lunch for friends or family, I always have a concept or colour palette in mind to make even the simplest tablescape feel tailored and thoughtful.
What interior design trends do you see gaining momentum this year?
There is a real juxtaposition with two major trends I have been seeing: organic, earthy minimalism and bold maximalism. I think it says something about the chaotic state of the world, but also that people are retreating to two sides – bold or bare.
What are the three key elements of a beautiful home?
A home scent uniquely yours, great lighting – both sculpturally and mood-wise – and making the most of the indoor/outdoor connection.
Interior stylist Steve Cordony’s book ‘Moments At Home’, $70, Hardie Grant, is available on Amazon now.
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