Relaxed Luxury

For even the most experienced designers, being awarded the job to help create someone’s ‘forever home’ is a daunting task. Pressure amplified, when the client has a very clear vision for not just the look, but also the desired feel of their new home. Being able to conceptualise the client’s thoughts and visions and translate them into a result that they are not only thrilled with, but results in multiple industry awards, is a true testament to the skill of the designer, as is the case with this project by Studio del Castillo, winning best Interior Design Residential at the Melbourne Design Awards 2020, as well as shortlisted for Best Interior Decoration AIDA 2020, and receiving several TIDA awards and accolades.

The home of entrepreneur and founder of Boost Juice, Janine Allis, the brief was for a robust home that was elegantly grand, taking full advantage of the volumes of space created by Wolf Architects. The scope included the material selection for finishes, fittings and fixtures, along with all the loose furnishings, art, rugs, and accessories for the interior & alfresco dining area.

“Our interiors approach was one of ‘quiet luxury’ to match the character of our down-to-earth clients,” says Creative Director Penny del Castillo, “minimalist, yet with a focal hero in every room.”

Through clever use of architectural forms and inspired material choices, that includes striking Dekton cladding to the entry door, the spectacular living room fireplace and the master ensuite, Studio del Castillo have produced a home filled with hard finishes which appear soft, fixed materials which appear to move and solid materials which appear to float. Elements of nature including extensive use of stone and wood, soften the contemporary lines and monumentality of the house imbuing an organic warmth throughout.

The emotional connection Janine was seeking was delivered through materiality, colour, lighting, texture, proportion, and the functional aspects of how each space flowed seamlessly. Quality and timeless materials were conscientiously selected, adhering to ethical production, low environmental impact and in harmony with long term sustainability. Australian designed and manufactured key feature pieces were selected, endorsing the local industry’s ability to remain at the top of their game.

As a client Janine was very trusting of the process, as an example, agreeing to alter the original idea for roller blinds on the windows to elegant, flowing curtains at Studio del Castillo’s suggestion, despite the modification requiring structural changes in order to accommodate recessed pelmets for the automated curtains. “We believe this has resulted in the feeling of relaxed luxury that Janine was chasing for her home.” Says Penny.

Studio del Castillo Creative Director Penny del Castillo

Janine’s advice is, “Trust your designer! There were moments where I could not visualise what Penny could see. My concerns quickly vanished when the results were revealed. Penny & her team curated an elegant, timeless interior. Every aesthetic element has been crafted to contribute towards emotional gratification, luxe without bling. This home is the ultimate combination of luxury and practicality for our family.”

See more exceptional projects from
Studio del Castillo at www.delcastillo.com.au