Inside the calming family home of Salt Design Studio director Kiera Sehmish, inspired by the Australian bush.
Kiera Sehmish had a clear vision for the brief of her own home; a cohesive space that could both withstand the throes of family living and act as a place of sanctuary. With this front of mind, Kiera focused on indoor-outdoor living and a balance of communal and private areas, where the entire floorplan is wrapped around a U-shaped courtyard.
The light-filled kitchen features an integrated Liebherr fridge, black VZUG ovens and white stone from CDK Stone.
Offering the best of both worlds, Grossmans Residence is nestled among native bushland with glimpses of Jan Juc beach in Torquay. Doused in creamy tones with warm timber accents, the home resembles an oasis that seamlessly blends into its surrounds. “There was an emphasis on using natural materials that would ensure longevity and meet the desired aesthetic while reflecting the native coastal landscape,” Kiera says.
Every material in the home has been considered for its connection to the outdoors. The timber-clad facade is repeated through the linear panelling in the bedrooms and V-groove joinery in the kitchen.
Lime-rendered walls extend beyond the outdoor shower to the interiors. Kiera says render offers warmth and softness and on the flip side, a sanded, textural finish that makes for a soothing base palette. “Over the course of the day, the colour of the walls is ever-changing with the play of light,” Kiera says.
Custom V-groove cabinetry in the kitchen continues into the butler’s pantry.
An upholstered bench-seat and study nook are an effective use of space next to the kitchen.
The solid oak dining table is illuminated by the Vertigo Suspension Lamp, designed by Constance Guisset for Petite Friture.
The living room features the Lato Side Table designed by Luca Nichetto for &tradition. Automated bespoke cabinetry opens up to reveal a television.
A traditional wood stove fireplace warms the living room.
Storage is paramount in the children’s bedrooms, holding toys and games.
An open living and dining area structured around the north-facing courtyard integrates the indoor and outdoor spaces as one. “This enabled traffic flow circulation and seamless transitions from one space to the next,” Kiera says. Large glazed doors overlooking the pool and lawn allow for easy entertaining, where an adjacent outdoor barbeque and cooking area are located.
The reclaimed French oak staircase leads to the master suite; emanating the luxury of quiet retreat for the parents. Cosy bedlinen and chunky woven carpet evoke a sense of comfort in all of the bedrooms, pared with soft timber furniture and white fixtures.
Through the layering of tactile materials and a cohesive layout, Salt Design Studio director Kiera Sehmish has achieved a refined coastal family home with strong ties to the Australian landscape.
The JH3 Pendant designed by Jaime Hayon for &tradition contrasts the neutral rendered walls.
