Hunters and gatherers
10 ImagesIn Sydney’s historic enclave of Hunters Hill, this sandstone worker’s cottage has had a loving makeover from a designer with a passion for finding just the right things.
1/10
“This is the entry room,” says Karlie. “The front door opens into it and it leads through to the living room. We wanted it to be a great introduction to the house and to say something about us.” Credit:Jennifer Soo
2/10
“I’ve always wanted a table that wasn’t too precious,” says Karlie of the long antique dining table where the family both eats and gathers. Credit:Jennifer Soo
3/10
“Luca’s room was the first I did. It was great fun collecting all the pieces. The tennis racquets were all bought individually online, then we had them framed.“ Credit:Jennifer Soo
4/10
This verandah is where the family spend most of their time. “The cushions are made from French grain sacks,” says Karlie. The sofa is antique and the chairs old favourites.Credit:Jennifer Soo
5/10
“We let the sandstone walls be the hero of the space, so we kept within the neutral colours,” says Karlie. Candles are placed in the fireplace at Christmas.Credit:Jennifer Soo
6/10
The tent was sourced in the US and is a favourite play destination for Yves, who hides his special toys there. “At one stage he insisted we all get in with him!” Karlie says.Credit:Jennifer Soo
7/10
“This is the studio space where I run my design business. The tapestry is from the early 1900s; I’m turning it into cushions to sell in our online store.” Credit:Jennifer Soo
8/10
Even in the kitchen, with its modern stove, Karlie keeps the mood consistent with copper saucepans, some new and some found in vintage stores.Credit:Jennifer Soo
9/10
“We like interesting people,” says Karlie of the extensive collection of portraits, bought online. “In this one I love the colour of her dress.” The horse sculpture was a gift from Dennis.Credit:Jennifer Soo
10/10
“The Moreton Bay fig was planted 200 years ago, when this area was farming land. Our verandah is west-facing but the sun’s heat gets cut by the dappled light through the tree’s branches.” Credit:Jennifer Soo