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Shari Lowndes grew up in the country surrounded by horses, so after 15 years of inner-city Melbourne living, she was eager to return to her roots.
The ceramic artist behind Szilvassy and her partner, interior designer Dion Hall, might not have made the move if not for discovering this house for rent. Located in the Macedon Ranges, but within commuting distance of Melbourne, the 1970s brick and timber home left an immediate impression with its enchanting and heartwarming feel suitable for the couple, their work, three Devon Rex cats (Phoenix, Astro, and Pingu), and bull terrier Luna.
‘What we appreciate most is the quiet and the incredible variety of nature right on our doorstep: plenty of kangaroos, an abundance of native birdlife, a retired kangaroo we’ve affectionately named Brutus, and the horses along the boundary who patiently wait for me to bring them carrots,’ says Shari.
Dion and Shari were instantly struck by the original features of the 1970s house, including beautiful vaulted timber ceilings, three fireplaces, and brick and slate floors in the main living areas. ‘Each room is focused on surrounding aspects so they each have in their own right special qualities,’ says Shari. ‘What we love most is that the home remains in its original condition untouched by ill-considered updates or cheap modern renovations.’
As renters, they’ve made no changes to the property, except for slowly taming the gardens and incorporating some more native and climate-sensitive species.
Their styling reflects the tones and textures of the natural materials and landscape, creating an atmosphere that feels warm and highly personal. ‘While we’re drawn to several eras and styles of design, we find ourselves especially influenced by Italian mid-century pieces and also Japanese sensibilities mixed in,’ says Shari.
Living in this country house has afforded Shari and Dion with a work-life balance not previously possible. In addition to her Collingwood Yards studio, Shari now has a large home studio, and Dion has a separate home studio and office to work from, depending on the task. ‘He’s also enjoying the luxury of more space to work and explore,’ says Shari.
They still frequently spend time Melbourne, but it’s hard to beat the lifestyle here, which has enriched both Shari and Dion’s work and personal lives. With the luxury of more space and a dedicated studio for Shari, their house is now clay free (!) and the couple have been able to better enjoy smaller everyday tasks, such as cooking together, rather than taking turns in a small space.
‘The light and the landscape stop us in our tracks daily, and we often have to remind ourselves that this is really where we are living,’ says Shari. ‘It genuinely feels like living in a retreat because our relationship with time feels very different to the mode of city life.’
