LEADER REEF

WHOLE OF HOUSE INTERIOR DESIGN PROJECT

A modern home recrafted into a winter alpine retreat, for an entrepreneurial couple from Melbourne.

This single-level house in Bright, Victoria, had a dated and uninspired vibe. Originally built in 2010 for a retired couple who favoured a traditional country style, Leader Reef lacked the charm and character that its location deserved. However, when a young couple in their thirties saw the potential hidden within its sturdy structure, they decided to breathe new life into the property. With a vision for a modern, Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic that reflected their tastes, they enlisted the expertise of Britt White Studio to oversee their interior design project.

Inspired by the majestic mountains surrounding Bright, the revamped home now boasts an open-plan layout with a Scandinavian Alpine feel — a cosy retreat perfect for winter snow getaways and hosting gatherings. The clients, hailing from Melbourne and juggling the demands of a national business, sought a winter haven to unwind and immerse themselves in the mountainous landscapes reminiscent of their favourite Canadian and Japanese mountain towns.

The original layout of the house, with its inward-facing rooms, failed to capitalise on the breathtaking views of the mountains beyond. Thus, the primary focus of the renovation was to reconfigure the living spaces, allowing for seamless indoor-outdoor flow whilst maximising the panoramic mountain vistas. Expansive floor-to-ceiling windows now frame the stunning scenery, bringing the outdoors in and flooding the interiors with natural light.

Embracing a palette of black, white and grey, accented by warm oak timbers and textured soft furnishings, the new design exudes a moody yet inviting ambience. The use of modular square-edge timber profiles adds a contemporary touch, resonating with the clients' affinity for clean lines and geometric simplicity.

Beyond aesthetics, the renovation also prioritised functionality, with the addition of a discreet home office and a complete overhaul of the kitchen, bathrooms, dining and living areas. Every detail, from furniture to finishes, was carefully curated to create a harmonious and welcoming environment — a sanctuary where the couple can escape the hustle and bustle of city life and recharge amidst the tranquillity of the mountains.

Interior design, curation and styling by Britt White Studio. Photography by Threefold Studio.