For art director Marsha Golemac, the secret to a welcoming and memorable home doesn’t solely lie in the styling and furniture choices, but rather – in the people you’re surrounded by.
“As much as I love my apartment, it’s having great neighbours that makes it even better,” she explains. “We all look out for each other. We often leave our front doors open so our pets can pop in for a visit, or in my English Staffy Raf’s case, to walk in expecting treats. Most of us don’t have outdoor areas, so the hallway has become our backyard.”
Marsha’s Collingwood apartment, formerly the New Gibsonia Yarn Spinning Mill, is located in one of the old Foy & Gibson warehouses. Since being converted into a mix of studios and apartments, this building has remained a hub for local creatives.
“There are several artists and creative studios based here, and many of us have ended up working together in some way and becoming friends,” says Marsha. “It’s quite a unique place to live.”
Her home is striking in its dedication to simplicity and an un-fussy approach to design. Characterised by a sense of restraint, the apartment’s best features (high ceilings, textured walls and natural light) shine.
Yet, this is not a home without personality! Marsha’s distinct design nous delights every available corner of the space. “I like how furniture, art, objects, right down to the cutlery or the house keys take on a new life once they have moved with you,” she says.
“Being exposed to design every day, I’ve found I can be a little nonchalant when it comes to how I live with design. It’s my home, therefore comfort overshadows style for me. Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely find the value in having nice things – it can bring great joy – however, today I find that I value pieces that carry a story; a gift from a friend, inherited objects or items from my travels, for instance.”
Initially the large, light-filled apartment presented a daunting task; how to fill the space?
“It’s an enormous place for one person and a dog,” she says. “I recall having a self-inflicted pressure to fill the entire space, which is crazy.” Since shaking that expectation, Marsha has created a free and open abode that satisfies the comfort of home with the requirements of work – her studio sits right behind the sliding barn door in her dining space.
“Occasionally, home and work join,” she says. “There have been times where my team and I end up taking over the dining table, which is purposely on casters to allow for the occasional shoot to take place. I love work, hence home and work coming together from time to time is enjoyable.”
