The house
A mid-century bungalow in Avalon on Sydney's northern beaches, which was given a new pool, upstairs attic-style parents' retreat, and fresh paint in neutral shades of black, grey and white.
Who lives here
Interior designer Romy Alwill, her husband Russell Denovan, a financial project manager, and their daughters Milla, 7, and Anais, 5.
What we did
"When we bought this place two years ago, I gave it a bit more soul, changed the light fittings, widened the steps from the back deck to the backyard so they are now like bleachers where people can sit when we have a party. And we've done a lot of planting," says Romy.
Favourite room
"I love sitting in the living room and looking out to the backyard. We're lucky that above the trees all you can see are the leafy hilltops beyond."
“I wanted the living room to be a calm space for us all to relax in,” says Romy. The photograph is by Mark Tipple. Photo: Jennifer Soo
"I grew up in Avalon and after moving to Bondi for a few years it's nice to come back. Everyone is chilled and unpretentious, which is really relaxing, and the area is very family-oriented."
What's next
"I'd love to change the traditional fireplace surround and move the fireplace into the living room. I have dreams about that!" Best tip "Having a nice big rug to anchor a zone is a good start," says Romy.
