Interior designer Jacqueline Butler turned a modest semi‑detached house in Bondi North into a lively family home that defies the typical white‑and‑oak beach aesthetic.
Listening to the owners shaped the design
Butler, who leads Jacq Interiors, says the most rewarding projects improve daily life, not just look impressive. “Every family is different, and I don’t believe there’s one design style that suits everyone,” she explained. The approach began with Abi and Mark Staniford, who had already lived in the house with their two daughters for several years. Their familiarity with the space highlighted both its strengths and its shortcomings.
“Abi works in the fashion industry and brought a creative confidence to the project, so we weren’t afraid to explore colour,” the designer noted. That confidence manifested in a bold burgundy kitchen, where deep tiles meet a speckled granite island bench. Australian blackbutt joinery adds warmth, while the team affectionately called the granite “salami stone,” a piece that set the tone for the rest of the palette.
Rather than follow the coastal trend of bright whites and light oak, the designers deliberately chose richer hues. “We deliberately stepped away from the typical white‑and‑oak coastal palette to create something that felt more individual and genuinely reflective of the family,” Butler said.
Structural changes created flexible living areas
To address the narrow footprint, a third storey was added, freeing space on the lower levels for a series of interconnected rooms. The kitchen now opens onto a dining area with a built‑in banquette seat, and the flow continues onto a balcony that captures ocean views.
Related: Northern Beaches Home Transformed in Four Months
The previously damp lower ground floor was transformed into a lounge lined with terrazzo tiles. A curved staircase links this new hub to the rest of the house, making the space feel cohesive rather than compartmentalised.
Bathrooms received a splash of personality as well, featuring either peach or sage green tiles that echo the home’s overall colour story.
Adding an extra level not only expanded the living area but also improved natural light penetration, a benefit that families with young children often appreciate.
The new layout encourages movement and interaction, allowing the Staniford family to transition smoothly between cooking, dining, and relaxing.
Balancing playfulness with practicality
Butler’s work illustrates how a playful interior can still serve practical needs. The bold colour scheme may feel daring, yet each element was chosen with the family’s routine in mind. The kitchen’s “salami stone” island, for instance, provides ample workspace for meal preparation while also acting as a visual anchor for the room.
Related: Improv Comedy Drives Business Innovation
Even the choice of materials reflects this balance. Blackbutt wood, known for its durability, ensures high‑traffic areas withstand wear and tear. Terrazzo flooring on the lounge offers a resilient surface that’s easy to maintain, an advantage for households with kids.
In a neighbourhood where many homes cling to a uniform seaside look, the Staniford renovation stands out as a personalized statement.
Homeowners may find bold hues work well with custom layouts.
With the redesign complete, the Stanifords enjoy a home that reflects their personalities while offering functional spaces for everyday moments. The ocean views across Bondi, highlighted by the new balcony, serve as a reminder that a well‑thought‑out interior can complement, rather than compete with, the natural scenery.
