We’ve seen inside a LOT of beautiful Australian homes, and the ones which always stand out are those that really are decorated with inhibition! One colour treatment which never fails to excite us is a dark and moody interior – think deep charcoal greys, black and indigo blues. Though bold, this palette is surprisingly versatile, and is equally effective in stark minimalist spaces as in layered, eclectic interiors.
The classic Australian beach shack mightn’t be the first image to spring to mind when considering dark and moody inspiration, and yet the Phillip Island retreat of stylist Simone Haag perfectly demonstrates how dark hues can be used in this context. Pine lining boards stained black add warmth and texture here, completely transforming this humble beachside dwelling.
We’re revisiting another all-time TDF favourite in this roundup too – the Prahran home of Fiona Richardson and family (shot way back in 2014, this one is still a firm favourite!). This beautifully renovated Edwardian home exemplifies how bold, contemporary colour can be used in a period home. A combination of deep blue greys with blonde timbers and accents of yellow and mustard has been used throughout – and with three boys under one roof, dark grey walls have proven the perfect resilient hue for six eternally grubby hands!
No ‘moody’ mood board would be complete without the inclusion of Australian photographer Martyn Thompson’s INCREDIBLE SOHO, New York loft, which we photographed during a trip to the US back in 2015. Having photographed countless inspired interiors across the globe, Martyn has a passion for layered interiors, aged surfaces and antiques. His home shows how a deep colour palette can be the perfect backdrop for eclectic collections of any kind.
