From humble beginnings as an awkward duckling to a stunning transformation into a graceful swan—an average house in Sydney’s Northern Beaches has been elevated to something exceptional through the efforts of designers Jacinta Warner and Sonia Woods from Woods & Warner.
Nevertheless, remarkably, they hardly ventured outside the perimeter.
The mystery behind this enchanting transformation resides surprisingly in both large-scale actions and meticulous care.
When the owners, who have two children aged 13 and 11, purchased the property in 2019, they found themselves welcomed by a 1960s Klinker-brick house .
“The allure of the property and seclusion drew us in,” explains the homeowner. “We desired ample space outdoors for our children and admired the majestic eucalyptus trees along with the abundant local fauna. Although the home itself needed updating, we envisioned its vast possibilities.”
After knowing Jacinta’s husband for a while, they approached the design team to assist in bringing out that potential.
Combining shaker-style joinery, marble countertops, brass fixtures, and a practical floor plan creates the ideal centerpiece for your home.
THE OWNER
"We were looking for a place where everyone in our family could unwind and spend time together, yet still have their own areas as the children grew up," explains the homeowner.
She had gathered numerous Pinterest and Instagram pictures as well. "Many of these images came from American houses, so we requested Jacinta and Sonia to add an Aussie spin to them."
Initially, the designers gave the house a fresh appearance by installing weatherboarding, which provided a more airy aesthetic. They also updated the windows with multi-pane designs framed in sleek dark edges. These changes were enhanced by the use of limestone flooring, featuring a dual-toned checkerboard pattern surrounding the swimming pool area. However, the most striking feature visible right away from the driveway is an elegantly designed stacked stone chimney that serves as the pièce de résistance.
A dual-car garage along with a gym and golf simulator, which were initially standalone structures, have been integrated into the home. Jacinta and Sonia additionally expanded the primary bedroom suite out onto the balcony; however, they maintained the overall structure size and mostly retained the original floor plan.
We were looking for a place where everyone could unwind, allowing our family to spend quality time together.
THE OWNER
Next to the entrance lies a vast open area that extends into an outdoor entertainment zone, whereas on the opposite side are situated the kids' rooms, a guest bedroom, and a study.
Above this area, you'll find facilities such as a laundry, gym, golf simulator, and media room. On the ground level, there’s a principal bedroom suite that has been expanded to include a spacious en-suite and a walk-in wardrobe.
The heart of the transformation focuses on striking elements and meticulously finished details. "We've incorporated traditional Australian design aspects—such as lofty ceilings, intricately decorated moldings and baseboards—which are emphasized through organic materials," explains Jacinta. "Yet the wainscoting The home stands out with its meticulous details and complexity, offering captivating visuals and textures as soon as you step inside.
And so, too, the stone-clad fireplace You notice this characteristic from the exterior—then to experience the surprise within is absolutely stunning. It dominates the area, but its tactile quality anchors it.
Within the spacious open-plan area, size is maximized completely - featuring three couches, four armchairs, four coffee tables, and a massive seven-by-four-meter floor rug, everything framed by wainscotting-covered walls and centered around the impressive fireplace.
"Although the area is spacious, we've decorated and furnished it to make sure it feels snug, welcoming, and cozy," explains Jacinta.
Introducing elements of surprise, the light neutral color scheme in these more communal zones is complemented by deep, dramatic tones in compact areas such as the powder room, pantry, and laundry. Even in these lesser-seen spots, every detail receives attention—like the laundry’s luxurious amber cabinetry paired with an intricate mosaic backsplash. top laundry in H&G’s Top 50 Rooms awards in the October issue.
The limestone flooring seamlessly extends from indoors to the checkered pool area, complemented by American oak timber elements, providing an atmosphere of serene sophistication.
We've incorporated traditional Australian design features emphasized by the use of natural materials.
JACINTA WARNER, DESIGNER
We adore every aspect of this house, but if we must pinpoint our favorite part, it’s definitely the kitchen," states the homeowner. "The Shaker-style cabinetry, marble countertops, brass fixtures, and practical design create an ideal centerpiece for daily living. Despite the large size of the island, it sees frequent use; we gather around it for nearly all our meals.
The pantry for the butler is equally remarkable due to its striking color scheme. Although the paint colors were unexpected choices for us, we're delighted with the final result.
But the paneling is what truly sets it apart," she says. "It makes the house feel very cozy.
Woods & Warner: woodsandwarner.com.au.
The Design Team
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