Hidden behind a pastel-pink door, Claremont House is the ultimate girl-family home.
Since moving in almost a decade ago, the owners — a client and her daughters — have put their own spin on the old Victorian, engaging Angela Harry Interior Design and Simone Haag for a two-part renovation.
While the initial update about five years earlier refreshed the house’s original spaces, a more recent instalment focused on improving the circa-1990s extension at the rear.
Walking through the entry garden to the double-fronted facade, it’s clear the residence hasn’t lost any of its heritage flair, showcased by the wrap-around veranda with delicate iron lacework and enchanting stained-glass windows.
Inside, blush-coloured walls and patterned piece set the tone for the soothing interiors, with patterned fabrics and sophisticated artwork carefully curated by Simone.
‘The result we achieved [in the first renovation] was still very much loved and gave us a wonderful canvas to layer on and extend into the second stage,’ Angela says.
‘However, the addition severely lacked connection and flow with the original home and the rear garden. It was poorly planned, limiting its liveability.’
Instead of designing oversized living areas in the extension to overcompensate for the more compact period rooms, Angela sought to maximise natural light with newfound floor-to-ceiling windows.
All four sides of the house now frame garden views, inviting attention out into the backyard where an outdoor dining zone and pool create a dreamy entertaining area.
‘My approach to new materials and finishes is uncomplicated in this space, including a muted grey backdrop layered with raw linen curtains, patinated brass hardware, and a deep green quartzite kitchen with a tactile, brushed surface in the kitchen,’ Angela says.
Only part of the structure was rebuilt and reconfigured, making space for a new powder room with a burgundy-vein marbled basin and vintage mirror, illuminated by a cast glass wall light. Solid brass hardware handmade in India adding a finishing touch.
The architecture is inherently elegant and restrained, inspiring Simone to focus on warm timber textures for the furnishings.
It’s one of those extra-personal projects that’s always evolving, with the design team recently returning again to add a fire-pit lounge in place of the trampoline the owner’s children have now outgrown.
‘Our clients’ commitment to create a joyful home for her and her girls is unwavering,’ Angela adds.
‘The transformation of Claremont House is a meticulous union, where classic charm meets modern simplicity, with an unmistakably feminine twist.’