The Whimsical Transformation of Mountain House

Unveiling the Charm of a Blue Mountains Retreat

Nestled in the tranquil embrace of the Blue Mountains, our recent Mountain House project stands as a testament to the seamless blend of sophistication and playful warmth.  Behind this unique project, born from the desire to craft a cultivated home with the spirit of a country cabin, is a story of inspiration, creativity, and a harmonious dance between playful elements and practicality.

Project Concept and Inspiration: A Symphony of Nature and Nostalgia

For our clients, Mountain House was originally intended as a weekend refuge in the Blue Mountains, a cosy escape from the bustling Northern Beaches lifestyle.  Having worked with them previously to transform their Northern Beaches semi-inside and out, we felt confident we could create the cosy, inviting weekender they dreamt of.

To allow the house to sit comfortably in its environment, we drew our design inspiration from the soft hues of the surrounding eucalypt forests, the majestic purple of the mountain pinnacles, and the famed blue ‘haze’ that envelops the region and gives it its name. Our vision embraced the idea of a sophisticated country haven, blending warmth and comfort in a timeless manner.

The resulting colour and materials palette, mirroring nature's subtlety, found expression in a mix of new and vintage furniture, each piece chosen to resonate with the essence of a space that has been collected and cultivated over time. It's a dance between modernity and nostalgia, where every corner whispers tales of relaxation and connection.

Design Challenges and Solutions: A touch of Playful Form and Function

Every project brings both opportunity and challenge.  While sporting good bones, there were a few small niggles we needed to resolve before diving into the decoration of the home, most notably addressing a cumbersome corner fireplace in the living room (an inviting space now affectionately known as ‘the snug’). The transformation involved a delicate dance of repositioning the fireplace and integrating a lowline entertainment unit into the hearth to enhance both the functionality and aesthetics of the room.

And, the ingenious solution to the need for occasional formal dining without a dedicated dining room? A vintage drop-leaf table, a versatile furniture piece that effortlessly transitions between tucking neatly against the wall as a  console table and extending out in one, or both, directions as a dining table.

Material and Colour Choices: A Tapestry of Texture and Tone

In the realm of material and colour, the project took a bold step, drawing inspiration directly from the surroundings. We started from the bottom up, refinishing the existing spotted gum flooring with a black-brown stain to create a grounding element throughout the entertaining spaces.  This was complemented with a plush, 100% wool loop pile carpet in a neutral greige colour.  

Tactile materials took centre stage, with a standout being the lightweight composite panel adorning the fireplace, its organic linear texture adding depth and character. Gloss porcelain and walnut timber veneer on the entertainment unit further enriches the sensory experience.

The bedrooms embraced traditional charm with a mix of playful patterns, from gingham to florals and hand-printed geometrics to William Morris prints, creating a delightful contrast to the sophisticated living spaces.

Personal Touch and Client Collaboration: A Symbiotic Design Journey

The signature elements infused into the project reflect our design style—a seamless blend of comfort, practicality and joy. Collaborating closely with our clients, we embarked on a journey to transform their weekender. The infusion of vintage pieces sourced from local antique stores added a personal touch, making the design uniquely theirs.

Our clients actively engaged in the process, sharing in the joy of uncovering hidden treasures from local antique stores and vintage finds on eBay. Their trust and collaboration allowed us to push boundaries, creating a home that resonates with the unique spirit that is Mountain House.

Impact on Mood and Experience: A Symphony of Joy and Relaxation

The design of Mountain House transcends aesthetics; it creates an immersive experience that elevates moods and enhances daily life. From unexpected bursts of colour to tactile surfaces and playful patterns, the home radiates warmth, comfort, and vitality.

As Louise and Richard share, "Just wanted to say a big thank you for your help in getting our new house set up. Everything about it is so relaxing and exactly as I would imagine it – which would not have been achievable without you!" 

Their testimonial echoes the sentiment that Mountain House isn't just a weekender; it's a forever home, where every moment is an invitation to unwind and embrace the joy of timeless comfort.

Your Timeless Retreat Awaits!

Does this narrative align with your aspirations for a timeless escape? We're eager to hear your story and explore how our team at The Space Within can turn your vision into reality. Whether a weekend sanctuary or an everyday retreat, we specialise in crafting spaces that embody your unique style. 

Reach out to us, and let the magic of timeless comfort unfold in your home. Your dream retreat is just a message away.

Live, Beyond Ordinary. 

Donna.