Happy days

One approach to design in a large home is to attribute differing personalities to each room. Self-referencing and surprising, a one-off decor can provide a mood specific to the room's use.

This vibrant pool house has the look of a 1950s diner and is part of a grand residence built in the style of a French Chateau. The diner is set within an extension to the home and, together with a whole-house interior remodel, was drawn together by designer Nieves Millar with input from the owners, Bruce and Sherry Burrow. The cheery decor indulges the husband's love of everything '50s his father owned a soda shop in that era.

"The pool house was designed as a fun and nostalgic space to entertain in," says Millar. "Fifties pieces feature throughout, such as the pendant lights above the tiled benchtop and the retro ceiling fan."

Booth seating in a Big Bopper vinyl finish with a V-shaped headrest is accompanied by Formica laminate tables, with metal banding all true to the period. The revolving bar stools are finished in polished chrome.

Behind the benchtop, the rounded cooktop, range, hood and refrigerator are all in North Star candy-apple red and might have come straight from the set of Gidget or Grease.

Well catered for indoors, the colourful pool house also features a second food service area outside the French doors. Besides a barbecue, the poolside space includes sun loungers, dining tables and chairs with umbrellas, all adding to the options for entertaining.

"Taking 1950s taste a step further, the owners often serve anything from hamburgers, hot dogs, and French fries to root-beer floats," says Millar. "All around the pool and pool house, the feeling is light and relaxed."

Story by: Charles Moxham