The home
A seven-year-old, single-storey house with high ceilings, expansive glass windows and a gallery-like flow of rooms in Kyneton, an hour north-west of Melbourne. A purpose-built artist's studio and a self-contained flat are also on the property.
Who lives here
Sculptor Peter D. Cole and painter Helen Cole with their lakeland terrier, Hugh.
Helen and Peter with Hugh in their gallery-like lounge. The “Wicker” chair Helen is sitting in and the “Super Guppy Lamp” were both designed by Marc Newson. The coffee table and large sculptures are all by Peter . Photo: Armelle Habib
What they did
"We demolished the existing dwelling, then built a home that I designed with the help of architect Bruno Rabl," says Peter.
"Helen and I wanted a modern structure with strong references to a Japanese townhouse through the use of space, the materials, the open plan layout and the strong connection between inside and outside."
Books and scale models of Peter’s sculptures line the shelves in the study. Photo: Armelle Habib
Our favourite room
"We really don't have a favourite – they all have their purpose."
Helen’s Chair and Flowers sits with its subject, a chair that belonged to Peter’s mother. Photo: Armelle Habib
The 'hood'
"Kyneton is a mixture of old Victorian farming families and young families from Melbourne and Adelaide," says Peter. "There is a strong overlay of creative lifestyles here, as well as some extraordinarily good places to eat."
Sliding glass doors open from the master bedroom to the pool and deck. Photo: Armelle Habib
Best advice
"Always try to research the history of furnishings and decorations before deciding what to use, no matter what your budget is," says Peter.
Artist Peter created many of the home’s features himself, including the red-cross drawer handles. Photo: Armelle Habib
The lounge features an eclectic mix of old and new pieces, plus art by Peter and the couple’s friends. Photo: Armelle Habib