The Art House by Nina Maya Interiors & Bevan Boss Design

Sydney-based interior design studio Nina Maya Interiors and Bevan Boss Architects have collaboratively transformed the neglected mansion overlooking the Sydney Harbour, removing the existing outdated influences to create a glamourous, contemporary home for a growing family. The residence, shortlisted for the Australian Interior Design Awards 2020, is almost overwhelming in its extravagance, the enormous spaces including a fully fitted-out steam room, 20-metre crescent-shaped lap pool, an underground gymnasium, and three separate external living spaces. All righty then.

There is an air of refined elegance that retains the very best of the existing structure while firmly bringing the previous post-modern Mediterranean style into a contemporary context. Different styles are sensitively knitted together, showcased by the co-existence of collections of modern art, unique antiques and European furniture which together combine to generate lusciously luxurious interiors.

The dramatic entrance offers the first glimpse of an attitude that threads itself through every inch of the property. A pristinely white, softly curving plaster staircase sits in a two-storey void, a theatrical welcome which marks the beginning of a beautiful unfolding narrative.

Sinuous curves seamlessly create gentle divisions between space, encouraging flowing circulation while retaining distinct rooms, actively avoiding the implementation of full open plan living. This distinction allows each room to exist with its own unique personality and palette, absorbing the finishes and furnishings allotted. Each environment features a conglomeration of layered textures – aged brass, natural timbers, plush fabrics and high shine lacquered finishes which generate comfortable, inviting living areas that are also sophisticated.

High quality, meticulously curated spaces have been achieved throughout the project through deep collaboration with highly talented craftsmen and superior artisans – natural stone cutters, artisanal metal workers, professional leatherworkers and master stonemasons is just a peek at the team of professionals consulted to achieve such a level of refinement. Everything has been hand designed and made with custom finishes from the largest of interventions down the smallest of details. A palette of deliciously beautiful materials has been integrated into the space, including Montenegro limestone flooring, a Calcutta marble kitchen featuring bespoke high gloss black cabinetry, an exotic Norwegian rose marble powder room, and a custom-designed blush pink leather banquette.

It is hard not to be jealous of this home. The combination of high-quality craftsmanship, generous allocation of space and divine interior pieces creates a beautiful example of somewhat unattainable, luxury living. We can still dream though, right?