Port Stephens House I

Set on a hillside overlooking Nelson Bay in Port Stephens, NSW, this residence was designed for a client who divides her time between Australia and North America. The home takes full advantage of its elevated position, capturing sweeping 180 degree views across Nelson Bay.

Originally conceived as a project with a primarily decorative scope, the brief quickly expanded to include the full interior design and decoration of the two bedroom, two and a half bathroom home. The planning of the upper level was rationalised to support entertaining while maximising the dramatic coastal outlook, with the home’s more private spaces positioned on the lower floor.

The client brought an extensive collection of antiques and objet d’art, which became an important starting point for the design process. As part of the transition to a smaller home, the project focused on curating pieces of strong sentimental value while introducing new furniture and objects suited to this next stage of life.

The resulting interior is richly layered and atmospheric, defined by a dark, dramatic material palette and characterful decoration that balances collected pieces with contemporary design.

Photography — FIONA SUSANTO