In the world of modern living, where the dream of home ownership is often recast in the form of sleek, white-cube apartments, the challenge lies in infusing personality and character into these often-sterile spaces. It's a delicate balance between practicality and personal expression, and the key to success lies in a few strategic choices. From the finishes we choose to the furniture we select, every detail matters in creating a home that feels uniquely ours.
One of the most effective ways to add personality to an apartment is through the finishes we choose. For Ben Mazey, an off-the-plan apartment owner and artist, even the most basic foundations can be transformed with a bit of creativity. By replacing the original timber-veneer fronts in his kitchen with custom stainless-steel cabinetry and handles, and adding stone island bench and tiles, he created a space that felt both practical and personal. In his bathroom, he bypassed the taupe tile and opted for floor-to-ceiling white 'norm-core' square tiles, and even managed to accommodate his desired bath.
Finesse the finishes, and you'll be well on your way to creating a space that feels uniquely yours. But it's not just about the big-ticket items. Cat Yenn, a designer and artist, has transformed her studio apartment in Sydney with a few simple yet effective touches. By going 'curtain crazy' and making curtains to cover her fridge nook and exposed shelves, she introduced handmade touches throughout the house, adding softness and warmth.
In the realm of furniture, flexibility is key. Jono Fleming, a designer and stylist, has mastered the art of maximizing space with multi-functional furniture. By placing two of the same sideboards together in his open-plan living area, he created a stylish and functional space that's both cheaper and more grounded than bespoke joinery. Open shelves, too, offer opportunities to display potted plants, favourite books, souvenirs, artworks, and objects, adding a personal touch to the space.
But it's not just about the physical elements. Personal displays are the best way to bring character into an otherwise sterile space. Fleming's home, which he shares with his husband, the interior architect Ryan McGregor, is filled with knick-knacks on their sideboards and side tables: ceramics and sculptures grouped by tone, candles in glassware for colour, and a table lamp for height. Everything has a story, whether it's from a favourite shop, an artist they like, or a place they've travelled.
In the end, it's all about finding the right balance between practicality and personal expression. By making strategic choices in finishes, furniture, and personal displays, we can create a space that feels uniquely ours, a sanctuary that reflects our personalities and our lives.
