This remarkable 170-year-old bluestone miner’s cottage, one of the oldest in its area, has been meticulously renovated to blend historical charm with modern family living. Enveloped by lush greenery, the renovation has preserved the home’s distinctive character while introducing new elements ideal for a young family. Initially a historical gem with its solid bluestone and fine architectural details, the property was a hidden jewel waiting to reach its full potential.
The Stylesmiths’ interior designers collaborated closely with the homeowners—a young couple with two sons—to craft a home that marries practicality with minimalist style. The clients sought to honour the home’s heritage while embracing modern design, with special attention to creating fluidity between the home’s levels and enhancing the connection to the back garden.
Inspired by natural textures and materials, the home interior design incorporates timber battens, leather accents, stainless steel countertops, marble, and handcrafted rugs. This selection establishes an elevated contemporary “farmhouse” atmosphere, with strategically placed colours and textures that add vibrancy without overwhelming the minimalist aesthetic.
The renovation preserved and enhanced core spaces, including the kitchen, mudroom, dining area, living room, and master bedroom, while adding a study, powder room, laundry, lounge room, children’s bedrooms, a bathroom, and a guest bedroom. A contemporary extension connects these areas to the central courtyard, seamlessly linking indoor and outdoor spaces.
Upon entering, visitors are welcomed by polished timber flooring in warm honey tones that ground the home in its historical roots. A bold blue acrylic console and a floral runner provide a modern contrast to the cottage’s original charm. The arched doorway, with preserved woodwork, frames the lush garden view, creating a visual bridge to the greenery beyond.
In the courtyard living room, a mix of rich materials and soft tones creates an inviting ambiance. A matte black and marble TV unit serves as a focal point, blending modern finishes with subtle warmth from soft grey furnishings. A grey fabric sectional with blush and coral throw pillows introduces muted colour, while rose-gold accents add a hint of sophistication.
The kitchen, designed with farmhouse charm and modern functionality, features dark cabinetry against a backdrop of light, open walls. A sleek, handle-free charcoal-toned design enhances the kitchen’s minimalist feel, while white timber panelling on the ceiling adds height and spaciousness. Stainless steel countertops introduce a subtle industrial edge, making the kitchen interior design durable and efficient.
Extending seamlessly from the kitchen, the mudroom offers practical storage and direct access to the garden. Flooded with natural light, the space feels airy yet intimate. A built-in leather bench provides convenient seating and storage, and the white vaulted ceiling connects the mudroom design to the rest of the home.
In the dining room, a raw wood table with rich textures serves as the centrepiece. Leather chairs in a warm caramel hue add softness, while a modern black chandelier with blue glass accents provides visual intrigue and height to the room.
The master bedroom is a serene retreat, transitioning into an ensuite that juxtaposes raw bluestone walls with sleek grey marble and black metal-framed mirrors. The freestanding tub and ribbed tiles create a luxurious spa-like bathroom interior design, enhanced by a floor-mounted nickel faucet and an earthy-hued side table.
The study, located along the cottage’s perimeter, is defined by a curved wall clad in vertical wooden slats, balanced by a black desk and shelving. Earthy tones and deep blacks promote a calming atmosphere, making the study an ideal space for creativity and focus.
