The Challenge…
Transform a dated 1980s brick veneer complete with a curious floor plan & a previous renovation featuring traffic-stopping red, into a light-filled, open-plan coastal haven.
The Solution…
I started by reimagining the home’s flow. The wall between the kitchen/meals area and dining room was removed to create a large open galley kitchen with a butler’s pantry, instantly connecting the spaces and making the home feel expansive and functional.
The dated magnolia single-glazed windows were replaced with Pearl White double-glazed units, flooding the interior with light while improving thermal performance. The front entry was transformed with a feature V-Groove door and large opaque sidelite, bringing in a welcoming wash of natural light while adding privacy.
A skylight above the kitchen now draws sunlight into the heart of the home. Bare flooring by BM Floors anchors the palette with a warm, natural base, while brushed nickel tapware and door furniture lend a refined, contemporary edge that ties the spaces together.
In the kitchen, Polytec Topiary Smooth laminate with vertical Calcutta profile detailing and Kethy Archive Oak handles give the pantry subtle texture and warmth. Benchtops and splashback in AC Stone Cotton Ice create a crisp, timeless finish, balanced by floating shelving and a rangehood in Polytec Boston Oak Woodmatt. The island contrasts beautifully in Polytec Blossom White, carrying through the Calcutta profile detailing for a seamless mix of muted green, natural oak, and fresh white stone.
Throughout the home, I refreshed the palette with Dulux Snowy Mountains Quarter, retained the painted feature brickwork and exposed ceilings to celebrate the home’s original character, and added flowing sheer drapery from Champion Blinds in Zepel Allusion Snow to soften edges and create a light, coastal calm.
The Result…
The transformation is one of light, flow, and balance. What was once a closed-in and dated home is now a modern coastal retreat, filled with natural light and anchored by a warm, timeless palette. The new layout connects the kitchen, dining, and living zones, making the home feel open and social while still retaining moments of character through the original painted brickwork and exposed ceiling details. Soft drapery and carefully layered finishes bring calm and continuity throughout, while every design decision celebrates the home’s incredible coastal setting.
- Transforming homes across Geelong, the Surf Coast and Hobart. Kylie Sargent combines design expertise with building know-how to create spaces that are beautiful, practical & uniquely yours.