the marion house book

As promised, I’m starting a new feature called Hello! Neighbour. The community I live in, called Parkdale, is home to many old and beautiful houses that have found their way into the hands of some very creative people. I’m drawn to homes that reflect the individual tastes and personalities of their owners. I think it is fascinating to see what objects people choose to surround themselves with and what makes them happy.

First up is my friend and partner in crime, Yasmin. She and her husband live in a Victorian house just down the road from us…

Names

Lorne & Yasmin

Occupations

Lorne is a Photographer and Yasmin is a Prop & Wardrobe stylist as well as a Designer & Partner at Marion Melbourne (Interiors)

How long have you lived in your home?

5 years

Any animals, kids?

Yes, 2…

Neko

D’arcy

What is your favorite room?

Kitchen, definitely – it is so warm and inviting and light, you never want to leave.

What is your favorite object/thing/moment in your home?

We like to bring back souvenirs from our travels.  For example large silk cushions from Thailand, a bedspread from Mexico or rugs from anywhere they make kilims.  We have a gorgeous lamp from Morocco that creates beautiful shadows on the wall.  It is fun to mix these exotic elements with more modern or even antique furnishings.  We don’t want our house to feel like a tourist cruise around the world, but accents make interesting touches.

What are your future plans for the home?

Enlarge entry, create a 3^rd floor master bedroom suite in the attic, and the backyard needs help….2 dogs and grass don’t mix very well, and the cinderblock garage could be faced with something more pleasing to the eye.  Then there is the front yard…Let’s face it, these old houses are great project houses.

Anything you would change?

A couple more feet in width would be nice -  a common Victorian complaint.

What original feature(s) of your home will you never get rid of?

Wood burning fireplace, the stained glass, the mouldings…..and we would like to keep as many plaster walls as possible – their slight imperfections compared to drywall makes the house feel more organic.

Best thing about living in Parkdale?

It’s never boring and a lot of our friends live nearby.

How high are your ceilings?

Over 10ft on the first floor, and a little bit lower upstairs.