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The house: an eighties three-bedroom, two-story townhouse in north Melbourne. It has many design features typical of the time, such as exposed brick, wood paneling and slate floors.
Who lives here: Tamara Watts, owner and creative director of Retro Print Revival, makers of lamps, vases and planters inspired by mid-20th century design.
What we did: “I painted the peach walls, removed the carpet, wallpapered it and put in new curtains,” Tamara says. “It now feels like a totally different place.”
My favorite room “The living room. When the afternoon sunlight comes in through the window, the whole room shines. It’s very relaxing to spend time reading or listening to music on the couch or playing the piano.”
The “Hood” “I’m on a quiet, tree-lined street, away from the hustle and bustle, but close enough to get to cafes, pubs, restaurants, and live music in an instant.”
The best advice “Instead of buying what’s fashionable, fill your home with pieces that represent your own style,” says Tamara. “And you can’t go wrong with a plant or 10.”
“I picked up this modular velvet sofa from a commercial store on the surf coast long before they were as popular as they are now,” says Tamara. Credit: Armelle Habib
“I found this piano at a tip shop on Great Ocean Road,” Tamara says. “Getting him back to Melbourne ended up costing four times what I paid for him.” Credit: Armelle Habib
In the guest bedroom is a woven work of art by Melbourne artist Anna Fiedler. The bedding is from Bed Threads and the lights from Retro Print Revival. Credit: Armelle Habib
“My record collection is a variety of rock, country, blues, soul and psychedelic from the 60s and 70s. Music is a big part of my life, so if I’m not out on the weekend, I’ll do a concert in the city, ”says Tamara. Credit: Armelle Habib
“This stoneware vase was made by Melbourne potter Amy Leeworthy,” says Tamara. “He’s also a great fruiterer.” Credit: Armelle Habib
In the guest bedroom is a serene woven work of art by Melbourne artist Anna Fiedler. The bed linen is from Bed Threads. Credit: Armelle Habib
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