Interior Designer, Aimee Wheate teams up with ICM Geelong member, Cabinetmaker, Scott Smith from SCLK. The result, this stunning Surf Coast home.
I have consulted on many fascinating projects over the years but none more gratifying than this Surf Coast property, completed early 2016. I happened to cross paths with this client – who I now gladly call a friend – and over the years we have completed many remarkable assignments together.
The brief for the home was to create a modern yet relaxed setting with warm decor for long weekends and holiday escapes. Realising the client’s vision is my primary focus so even though this project was in its early stages, I could already see where that vision was headed with a counter-levered front lounge, curved entry wall and formed concrete feature walls throughout.
I always begin an assignment ensuring that the interior design and finishes will complement the aesthetics of the home. To achieve this, I spent time with the family finding out how they like to live, what excites them or makes them feel happy to be home when they walk through that front door.
As an interior designer my job is often a labour of love. Countless hours are spent focusing on the finer details of a brief. Regular client meetings, supplier consultations, showroom visits and ‘must-have’ coffee catch-ups to discuss our progress. Close relationships with suppliers and trades help me fulfil the brief on time and within budget.
For this assignment, ICM Geelong member, Scott Smith from SCLK was engaged to deliver the cabinetry fit out throughout the home. The client, Scott and I worked together to ensure every detail was thought through, aesthetically and practically. Having worked with Scott for many years, I always appreciate his technical input and trust his ability to deliver the brief.
In the kitchen the custom-made black two-pack range hood creates a stunning focal point for the understated cabinetry and seamlessly integrated Sub-Zero refrigerator. Every amenity is at your fingertips. Scott and I developed some of the subtle, sophisticated details in the kitchen such as the black metal legs beneath the concrete bench top and the oak cubes above the fridge. Sourcing elegant oak stools with black metal accents – from local designer Relm – completed the area perfectly.
To complement the beautiful Royal Oak floors laid throughout the entry and living area, I had Scott add accents of oak throughout the house, the bathroom cabinets and floating shelves in the pantry being prime examples. It’s these details that create ‘flow’ and a ‘custom fit out’ feel to a home.
European oak dining table and designer dining chairs in five different colours created some levity to the dining area along with stunning artwork and an Under the Bell pendant light. I used an Armadillo and Co rug under the dining table to create a break between the oak floor and oak dining table, which brings warmth to the space.
Fittings and appliances were supplied by E&S Trading Geelong. Their range is the best in the region and their customer service is exceptional. Kylie (E&S Sales) went to great lengths on so many occasions to meet our specific requirements….. even down to locating a missing plug for the bath!
With every assignment, it’s the details that excite me! Whilst not always noticed at first, it’s the little things that create harmony. Finishing an assignment with those touches fills me with joy!
When quality design, expert trades and locally produced furniture come together it’s a beautiful thing.
Aimee Wheate
tel: 0410 655 150
email: aimee@yourabodedesign.com
About Your Abode Interior Design
Aimee Wheate is a wife, mumma to three and a successful Interior Designer. Aimee believes your home should reflect YOU and YOUR style.
Image Credit: Pam Hutchinson Photography
The information contained in this article has been prepared by our guest blogger. It does not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs, position, advice or endorsement of ICM Geelong, it’s members and sponsors.