ositioned on a wild outcrop of the Mornington Peninsula, this home’s sublime natural setting is matched by the monumentality of its built form. So, when it came to the interiors, Miriam Fanning of Mim Design summoned something equally epic. Anchored by broad sweeps of stone in a confidently restrained palette of cloud-like greys and minty seafoam, living spaces express a fluidity and grandeur befitting the vast, curvilinear volumes At our first meeting, we had a wonderful conversation with the clients about the site, its location and the incredible dreams the project could deliver. We agreed that this unique property needed a soft, connected interior to pay homage to the outstanding views and beautiful surrounds. Once we were officially invited to design this exceptional home, we seized the prospect with open arms. Being granted such a dramatically positioned, untouched site is a rare opportunity. With a home so large, it’s important that all spaces deliver an emotional response of practical and visual comfort. We saw an opportunity to reassess spaces such as the kitchen, entry, library, master bedroom, childrens’ rumpus, bathroom and cellar. Every material, finish and appliance was carefully evaluated to meet energy efficient guidelines, a challenging feat when designing on such a grand scale. Working closely with our clients and the builder, we ensured every addition was conducive to the local environment and its native flora and fauna, and able to withstand the test of time – design-and performance-wise – specific to this locale. Our intention is always to design for permanence, regardless of the challenges. This project of strength, authenticity and craft was no exception. Our process is driven by contextual cues. The design began with considered spatial planning of the interior envelope and careful attention to how each room connected to the others as well as individual sightlines. On a site as breathtaking as this, it’s difficult not to be inspired and influenced by the landscape. The interior reflects natural forms such as ripples, waves and undulating sands interpreted in abstract and contemporary ways throughout. A grand open-tread stair embraces a softened curvature, while rounded bulkheads artfully roll into ceiling spaces. Joinery is generous in form and finish with gentle curves tempering proportions for an organic, sculpted presence. In a world of trends, repetition and visual overexposure, it is special to work on a project that has such a variety of one-of-a-kind details and finishes. The soft curve of the grand stair is experienced through the smooth balustrade, shaped perfectly to the hand. The kitchen island bench appears hewn and carved from a foamy white marble, encapsulating a gentle ocean wave. Our connection to the project and careful attention to its natural surrounds enabled us to immerse ourselves each day in the foundational design principles of shape, form and flow. Responsive to the brief, the home has a soft, interconnected interior that empathises with its natural surrounds in a sculptural, experiential format. All furnishings, art, fittings and finishes were curated to highlight this sense of softness inside, complementing and contrasting with the rugged outdoors. Extremely happy and they truly bonded with the experience throughout. Designing to ensure each space had a purpose and personality that could be immersive, and command varied emotions, means our clients enjoy the home in its entirety. Works
