When it comes to home renovations, the challenge is often twofold: either the client has no design knowledge, or they have a wealth of it. But what happens when you're working with a client who falls somewhere in between, with a deep understanding of design and a unique perspective? This was the intriguing scenario faced by interior designer Simone Haag, who embarked on a journey to transform the Melbourne home of Stephen Mendel, co-founder of GlobeWest, and his wife, Tanya.
The Unique Balance
Haag describes the experience as a delicate balance. "Stephen and Tanya brought an incredibly informed perspective through their work with GlobeWest, and their extensive furniture and art collection was a treasure trove," she explains. Her role was to bring their ideas together, push the boundaries, and customize existing pieces to create a home that reflected their personal style and history.
A Home with a Story
The house itself had a story to tell. Originally a modest 1960s dwelling, it had been renovated in 2015 into a split-level layout, creating a four-bedroom home with a strong identity. Haag's task was not to transform but to refine and enhance. "It was an opportunity to reimagine a home rich with knowledge and history," she says. The process involved careful editing and recalibrating to create a cohesive yet personal space.
The Whisky Room: A Place to Retreat
One of the key transformations was the whisky room. Haag layered patterned wallpaper, soft textiles, and an intimate palette to create a space with a distinct mood. "It's become a favorite retreat," she notes. "It offers a contrast to the openness of the rest of the home, providing a place to slow down and gather.
Reviving Underutilized Spaces
Haag's approach extended to other underutilized areas. The seldom-used bar was transformed into a vibrant space, a dark pantry was brightened with a skylight and a new bar, and a children's rumpus room became a gym. But the standout feature is undoubtedly the living room, with its statement ceiling wallpaper, plush carpet, and a strong focus on texture and art.
A Curation of Personalities
The Mendels' existing art collection, featuring African artifacts, contemporary works, antique ceramics, and hand-carved sculptures, played a pivotal role. Haag explains, "These works anchor each space and were the starting point for curating the rooms. We moved them around, edited the collection, and let them guide the layering process."
Cohesion and Depth
Step into any room, and you'll feel a sense of warmth and depth. Haag's cohesive palette of earthy neutrals, softened greens, rich timbers, and tactile textiles grounds each space. The owners' art and collected objects remain the focal point, creating a layered and personal atmosphere. "It balances familiarity with surprise," Haag observes, "with existing pieces reimagined and new interventions fitting seamlessly.
A Nuanced Collaboration
Working with clients as deeply versed in furnishings as the Mendels presented a unique challenge. Haag reflects, "We leaned into their knowledge but also introduced moments of disruption through materiality and customization. It was about knowing when to challenge their ideas gently."
A Renewed Connection
The result? Stephen and Tanya feel a renewed connection to their home. "The outcome reflects them," Haag says. "It's not just about their work in the industry but their personal history and way of living."
This project is a testament to the power of collaboration and the ability to create a home that truly reflects its inhabitants.
