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Once we can finally venture outside our homes, The Repose in Dubbo would be the first stop on our lists!
Regional city locals Jemima and Bede Aldridge own this skilfully renovated cottage with another couple, Ric and Moir Jones, who co-host guests on the property. Eighteen months ago, the four friends combined their love for hospitality and handmade design to transform the tumbledown house into one of the only boutique accommodation spots in the in-land city.
The plan was to open up the cramped layout and renovate the dilapidated house and courtyard, and outdated amenities, to unearth the best qualities of the heritage structure. Internal walls were removed to create a more open-plan living space, while aged aluminium doors and old glass windows were updated to a contemporary living standard.
Like all good worker’s buildings built in the early 19th century, the toilet was originally in an outhouse disconnected from the main dwelling! Now, the washrooms are connected to the rest of the house through a lime-washed hallway, glazed with secondhand French windows. There is even a reclaimed claw-foot bath to use!
Remaining consistent to the heritage charm was the most important consideration of the renovation, a responsibility which Jemima took seriously in her design approach. ‘I love to weave elements of the countryside surroundings into the styling of the rooms,’ Jemima explains of her decorating vision. Working with a bright white base palette, Jemima sourced vintage furniture and artworks by local artists such as Belynda Henry and Rowena Dean specifically for individual rooms, to give each room its unique character.
The courtyard is a favourite feature amongst the four owners. Designed and built from brick which was then cement-rendered and painted with limestone paint, the owners added atmospheric elements like outdoor lighting and a fireplace, to create a cosy outdoor room. A marble tabletop and olive trees complete the relaxed, European feel.
‘There is an inherent sense of slowness and a spirit of rest that pervades The Repose,’ says Jemima, alluding to the direct translation of the accommodation’s namesake – the French verb reposer, meaning to rest. ‘It’s something each guest comments on!’ And with the year everyone’s had, we can’t think of a better time to plan a restful weekend away!
See the listing for The Repose here. Bookings are subject to state quarantine restrictions and border closures.
Follow The Repose on Instagram here.
