Deeply treasured

Every family owns items rich in personal meaning whether it is an heirloom or a new bit of kitsch. What makes these pieces precious is their histories, and such items can be the basis of highly individualised interior design.

Pieces significant to the owners formed the starting point for the bold design of this high-rise apartment. Interior designer Shaynna Blaze of Blank Canvas Interiors built around the clients' collection of Murano glass and other pieces acquired during the couple's travels. She brought together diverse influences from Europe, Australia, Bali and New York. The result is a blend of texture and colour that makes a dramatic statement.

"The style is eclectic with a European influence. I started with a few important pieces and went from there," Blaze says.

The rooms are intended to complement the panoramic view from the apartment. Therefore, the furniture is placed to allow space to access the windows and enjoy the ever-changing city outlook.

For this apartment, the palette was kept neutral grey, black and white to allow texture full rein. Each room links to the other with repeating colour or texture for example, the fabric from the dining chairs reappears on scatter cushions in the formal sitting room.

"To successfully mix very different textures, you need to have a bit of similar texture in each room and keep the colour palette simple," Blaze says.

A Louis Vuitton trunk and a Murano vase formed the basis of the sitting room, the first room visitors see on entering the apartment. Because the clients loved the vase, but aren't fond of the colour yellow, its influence is subtle. Yellow appears on some of the scatter cushions and in the gold leaf on the niche beside the kitchen.

Murano glass also inspired the dining area, which features a black glass chandelier. The area is defined by soft grey paint, which was custom-mixed to match a strip of wallpaper with raised, metallic beads. The rich surface is echoed in a custom-made filigree mirrored table, which separates the dining area from the formal living room. A recessed light placed above the table can be switched on to create a patterned reflection on the ceiling, which adds another layer of texture, Blaze says.

Removed from the activity of the main rooms, the master bedroom's palette of tan and soft chocolate creates a restful atmosphere. A Venetian influence comes from an ornate mirror, given to the owners as a wedding gift. A modern, mirrored vanity, paired with a perspex and leopard print chair, sits below. The headboard and side tables are also mirrored. The lush possum-fur throw adds a pampered feel.

The ensuite provides another oasis, capturing the feel of a Balinese day spa. The tub and shower benefit from the view, and white stone accents create a sense of serenity. The wooden shower floor also functions as a practical bath mat.

Story by: Lori Nims

Photography by: Andrew Ashton Deeply treasured Carefully chosen items acquired by family members