When it comes to interior design, the collaboration between clients and designers can be a delicate dance. In this case, designer Simone Haag took on the unique challenge of working with Stephen Mendel, co-founder of GlobeWest, and his wife, Tanya, to transform their Melbourne home. What makes this project particularly fascinating is the dynamic between the designer and clients who possess a deep understanding of design and an extensive collection of furniture and art.
A Home with a Story
The house, originally a modest 1960s dwelling, had already undergone a significant renovation in 2015, creating a split-level layout and adding four bedrooms. Haag's task was not to start from scratch but to refine and enhance the existing space.
Redefining Underutilized Spaces
One of the key aspects of Haag's approach was to identify and revamp underutilized areas. The whisky room, for instance, was transformed with patterned wallpaper and a softer color palette, creating an intimate and inviting space. Similarly, a dark pantry was brightened with a skylight and a new bar, and a children's playroom was converted into a gym. These changes not only improved the functionality of the home but also added a layer of personality and purpose to each room.
The Living Room: A Showcase of Texture and Art
The living room is a standout, featuring a bold statement wallpaper on the ceiling, plush carpet, and a carefully curated art wall. Haag explains how this room draws on the home's modernist roots while incorporating GlobeWest's limited-edition pieces, the Legacy dining table and Pippa Stripe coffee table, to create a personal and inviting atmosphere. The use of texture throughout adds depth and warmth, making it a space that feels both familiar and surprising.
Curating a Collection
The Mendels' existing art collection, which includes African artifacts, contemporary works, and hand-carved sculptures, played a significant role in shaping the design. Haag describes how these pieces served as a starting point, anchoring each space and guiding the curation process. The art was moved and edited, with the collection informing the overall layering and design of the rooms.
Achieving Balance
Haag's challenge was to balance the Mendels' deep knowledge of furnishings with her own design expertise. She explains how they "happily leaned into their knowledge" while introducing disruptive elements through materiality and customization. It was a nuanced collaboration, requiring a delicate balance between respecting the clients' vision and gently challenging their ideas to create something truly unique.
A Renewed Connection
The result is a home that feels layered, personal, and resolved. Stephen and Tanya have expressed a renewed connection to their home, feeling that the design reflects not only their work in the industry but also their personal history and way of living. It's a testament to the power of design to create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also deeply meaningful and connected to the lives of those who inhabit them.
Final Thoughts
This project showcases the importance of collaboration and the role of the designer in bringing out the best in a space. By carefully editing, recalibrating, and adding personal touches, Haag has created a home that is both a reflection of the Mendels' taste and a unique, inviting space in its own right.
