A delicate balance of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary materials brings a subtle integration of old and new in Sally Wilkins' latest project, Bowral Cottage.
Located 90 mins from Sydney in the picturesque Southern Highlands, sits the result of Sally Wilkins’ latest project. Positioned on a large plot, Bowral Cottage is an 1890’s building that was in desperate need of a renovation. The heritage charm of the cottage itself provided much of the inspiration, with Sally ensuring that elements of modern luxury and comfort would complement and enhance the home’s historical integrity.
Louise Sofa and Frankie Chair in the main living area.
Working with the existing layout, Sally used bespoke furniture and joinery to improve functionality, storage space and continuity between the rooms. Combing the Owner’s antique collection, alongside custom furniture from Arthur G, Sally created a space that respectfully celebrates the traditional elements of the home, but has a contemporary feel.
“I wanted a space that felt light and bright, functional and authentic…. Something that honoured the original 1890s home but with a more elevated feel” Melinda, Owner.
Nowhere is this more evident than in the main living space. The Frankie Swivel Chair and Diane Bergeron’s Louise Sofa in a stonewashed linen from Boyac, sit against a backdrop of warm white walls and personal mementos.
“We selected a warm turmeric colour (for the sofa) to offset the cool deep blue of the kitchen and compliment the timber floors, warm tones of the natural blinds and timber dining table and owners antique timber pieces in the space.”
“To add fun and a pop of colour – intended to tie back to the deep blue kitchen – we selected a fabric for the Frankie swivel chair. Again 100% linen for that relaxed look, keeping in theme with a contemporary yet relaxed country aesthetic,” Sally Wilkins.
Louise Sofa from the Diane Bergeron for Arthur G Collection. View here.
A Lexi Ottoman and Minty Sofa sit together inside the Snug. View here.
'I selected timeless colours such as the soft blue-green walls in Newport Blue by Porters, to create a sense of intimacy in the tiny snug,' - Sally Wilkins
Inside the snug (a space the owner uses frequently), Sally specified a Minty Sofa and Lexi Ottoman from the Diane Bergeron collection – pieces chosen for their classic shape and proportions, whilst maintaining a contemporary aesthetic and – most importantly for a snug – are very comfortable.
Contrasting upholsteries from Christopher Farr (Minty) and Borderline (Lexi) are warmly layered against the Newport blue walls, sisal flooring and brass fixtures to create a space with depth and visual interest. Ensuring no detail was left unconsidered, the Minty Sofa has contrast green piping, selected to offset Christopher Farr’s ‘Lost and Found’ woven check – a textile that plays on the traditional ticking stripe often used in country homes.
Photography by Milly Mead. Editorial Styling by Kerrie-Ann Jones for House & Garden.
A delicate balance of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary materials brings a subtle integration of old and new, with carefully selected colours, finishes and materials establishing a cohesive look throughout. Bowral Cottage delivers on this and more.
The Louise Sofa, Minty Sofa, Lexi Ottoman are part of the Diane Bergeron for Arthur G Collection. These designs alongside the Frankie Chair are available to order now in your choice of upholstery.
With thanks to Sally Wilkins.