212 213

home and awayAn inspiring home that opens its doors to many

This page The inspiration behind the colour scheme was the warm russet hues of autumn with its rusty red and earthy browns, with random bursts of green and a white base to tie everything together.

215

Brisbane-based John Croft Design has established itself as one of the leaders in

interior design in Australia. Not only does the company represent quality, but there is a certain je ne sais quoi about what the team do. They look after each and every client exceedingly well, which is why their clients keep coming back and why most of their work is by referral.

It was, of course, no different for this home, which was designed by John Croft Design’s senior interior designer, Renee Burgess. What

was different for Renee was that it was not only going to be used as a family home for the owners, children and grandchildren, but as a bed and breakfast as well. Therefore it was up to Renee to make the home appeal universally to a large number of people, as well as have a personal touch for the family.

The Montville home was a 30-year-old plain brick abode, which was built in a Y-shape with a flat roof and long decks in the centre of town. One of the home’s greatest qualities is its

spectacular 180-degree view of the Queensland coast. When Renee started work, the home had already undergone structural renovation with an extension adding another level for extra space.

The clients had long discussions with Renee about what they wanted for the home and their desired overall look. The colours throughout had to harmonise, however not necessarily match, so each room was interesting and different. The mix of furnishings and accessories was to be eclectic, with traditional pieces mixing with

Above Neutral tones of beige and cream were deliberately chosen to give the first bedroom warmth and charm. Below Patterned custom-made rugs are placed strategically around the house without drawing attention away frm the floorboards. Opposite page above Cherrywood floorboards and an ornate staircase give the house the feeling of an American East Coast summer house. Opposite page below Cerise bedding with a floral motif against a striped ottoman creates a strong visual effect in the second bedroom.

It was up to the interior designer to make this home appeal to a large number of people, as well as have a personal touch for the family.

216

unusual contemporary shapes to add interest. All of the pieces in the home were sourced and supplied by John Croft Design specifically for the look and some pieces, such as the bedheads and rugs, were custom-designed and made.

The lower level was transformed with an entry leading to a formal lounge and fireplace. A provincial-style kitchen and informal dining and living area overlook landscaped gardens and the spectacular view. A study, powder room, laundry and the master bedroom are also situated down on this level.

Firmly establishing the distinctly Hamptons feel to the home, a wooden and wrought-iron staircase takes you to the upper level, which is equipped with a kitchenette/reading area and sitting room mezzanine for the guests. Visitors also enjoy two large bedrooms that overlook the views, each with their own ensuites. Both bedrooms lead out to one large balcony, which can be divided by bi-fold doors for privacy.

Being an area where there would at times be a lot of traffic, all fabrics needed to be hard-wearing without a commercial hotel-like feel. The clients were very clear that they wanted the home to be warm, inviting and comfortable. Soft, washable fabrics were chosen and are accented with plenty of cushions and custom-made rugs for comfort. The autumn-colour palette used to help the family and guests ease into relaxation with various hues of reds,

browns and oranges adds to the rustic feel. The area also gets quite cold so the ambience created is very cosy.

Classic creams were chosen for bathroom and kitchen areas, with glass feature splashback tiles adding a touch of the modern. Marble creates elegance and is complemented with silver guilt frames. Renee chose lots of rich and regal patterns, such as bold stripes and delicate jacquards used together in bedrooms and living spaces, while quiet nooks feature ornate tables and mocha lounge chairs to snuggle into, with vibrant fire reds bringing the whole home to life.

John Croft Design’s clients are absolutely ecstatic with the result. The home is now everything they had hoped it to be and more. The space transforms beautifully from family home to newly named ‘Montville Village Bed and Breakfast’ and is definitely an extra-special place to stay, not only for B&B guests, but the whole family.

JOHN CROFT DESIGN63 Amelia StreetFortitude Valley Brisbane Qld 4006Tel: 07 3257 0633Fax: 07 3252 3433Email: jcd@croftdesign.com.au

Quiet nooks feature ornate tables and mocha lounge chairs to snuggle into, with vibrant fire reds bringing the whole place to life.

Above The outdoor areas look into landscaped gardens and across to the Queensland coast. Left A mixture of traditonal and unconventional furnishings were hand-picked for this project.