KMcK - Styling and Interior Design

For this Bondi abode the client wanted a vibrant, urban interior that was ideal for entertaining and incorporated eco features. The inspiration was to be sourced from the local beach landscape and its vibrant culture, past and present. Environmental sensitivity was also a must.

With its majestic ocean views and the vibrant Bondi scene on its doorstep, this east-facing, three-bedroom apartment had a lot going for it. Ceiling-to-floor glazing in the living area revealed its large wraparound balcony. These spaces were enhanced and styled by the use of carefully selected art, furniture and homeware pieces.

Fresh and playful, like the ever-changing ocean the living room Infini rug with its Escher-like quality of unexpectedness was the perfect centre piece. In the classic oak-and-stone kitchen, functional Moooi bar stools popped in bright yellow, red and white, adding a playful vintage twist.

As it was important to the client to acknowledge the Indigenous people of the area and their local heritage and custodianship, a sensational Bronwyn Bancroft painting was hung. Her canvas tells a story of the ancient, hand-carved and age-worn river stones dear to the Bundjalung people.

Ceiling-to-floor mirrors were used on one side of the living room to reflect and bounce the natural light and to create a sense of further spaciousness. To achieve a streamlined look, the existing ceiling bulkhead in the living room was altered to hide the blind heads, avoiding the need for pelmets. A colourful and iconic Proust geometrical armchair anchored the room and echoed the vibrancy of the beach-life brilliance below.

Sheer Belgian linen curtains were used in both the living space and the bedrooms to create a floaty ambience. Each bedroom was given a theme. The roomy master bedroom was styled to be organic and stylish with the use of timber, recycled elements, Italian glass pendants and 11 convex, custom-made, gold, hand-stained framed mirrors. The bedroom featured a fabulous en suite in textured tones. A low, oak headboard stretched the whole length of the wall, creating a natural shelf. Two Italian glass bedside pendants on either side of the bed were positioned above the shelf and contrasted the rough-sawn look of the night tables. The iconic Wiggle chair by Frank Gehry made of compressed recycled cardboard was chosen to represent the importance of eco sustainability within the ocean environment.

On the wrap-around balcony, furniture and plants had to be both heavy and hardy to withstand the unpredictable sea breezes and intense sunlight. Statement succulents were used to create texture, height and privacy and to reduce indoor temperatures. The low-maintenance garden was perfect for the client’s busy lifestyle.