Posted January 3 in Display Homes

How to create a country retreat made for relaxed modern living

Our Barcelona 27 at Kinley Estate in Lilydale is a masterclass in how to combine the warmth and openness of a country retreat with the light and bright appeal of a modern coastal design theme.

By far one of our most popular exterior design choices, the Southampton façade is an ode to crashing waves and the feeling of sand between your toes. But it’s the way that the classic Hamptons exterior complements the interior country style that showcases the versatility of the Southampton façade.

‘A countrified style works seamlessly with the Southampton façade,’ says Senior Interior Designer, Mitra Whittle.

‘A light, organic palette creates the perfect setting to relax and unwind while remaining contemporary and on-trend.’

Whether you’re dreaming of a tree-change or a young family looking for a calm and tranquil atmosphere to come home to, this may be the interior design for you. With raked ceilings and an outdoor fireplace, you’ll easily feel relaxed in your country retreat.

Below, Mitra steps you through her top three tips for creating a modern country retreat in your next home.

Keep the colour scheme tone-on-tone

The beautiful creamy tones of the Southampton façade can be used as a springboard to create a light and airy interior design of light greys and off-whites, particularly throughout your hard surfaces.

‘At the Lilydale display, the Oyster Grey cabinetry offers a beautiful feature against the slightly darker shades of grey found in the flooring in the wet areas,’ says Mitra.

‘To ensure continuity and a cohesive feel, I’ve extended the finishes in the kitchen through to the laundry and bathrooms.’

Incorporate natural accents

Next step? Provide a little relief to the predominantly grey/white palette by introducing one or two soft accent colours. Just remember to pay tribute to the surrounding countryside.

Read more: Choosing the perfect paint for your new home.

‘Stick to natural hues that aren’t too dark or contrasting,’ says Mitra.

‘For example, I’ve opted for the Dulux Goyder Green to bring a real sense of tranquillity to the tactile VJ panelling in the master bedroom and home theatre.’

Another design tip to achieve the country retreat aesthetic is to weave muted tones of blue, mustard, and caramel through your soft furnishings, bedding and artwork.

‘I also love the considered use of timber to add texture and an organic feel, such as the Maison Oak timber grain cabinetry used in the bathrooms,’ adds Mitra. ‘Oaky wood-look floors are also a must in any countrified scheme.’

As always, incorporate plenty of potted greenery to ensure a warm and inviting space.

Play with feature patterns

Complete the ‘countrified retreat’ feel by inserting little niches of patterned tiles or wall panelling.

‘I love the beautiful classical patterned floor tiles we incorporated into the bathrooms,’ says Mitra.

The feature tiles in the kitchen also balance the dark and light tones within the home to create a bright and relaxing atmosphere.

‘Opulent marble also works well in key areas such as your kitchen bench. Or liven up a bedroom with a textured, tactile feature wall in one of your chosen accent colours.’

Nestled in the footsteps of the Yarra Valley and the Victorian wine region, the Barcelona 27 display home is equal parts classic, coastal and country.

Discover the modern country retreat up-close and in person with this beautiful four-bedroom, two-bathroom home in Kinley Estate, Lilydale.

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