The Melbourne home of GlobeWest co-founder Stephen Mendel is a testament to the power of art and texture, where every room tells a story of careful editing and recalibration. This project, led by interior designer Simone Haag, is a fascinating case study in how to transform a space while respecting its history and the client's personal touch. The house, originally a modest 1960s single-storey dwelling, was renovated to create a four-bedroom home with a split-level layout. The brief was less about transformation and more about refinement, as the house already had a strong identity. The process became one of careful editing and recalibration, with a focus on reimagining underutilized spaces and enhancing the existing pieces. One standout space is the living room, which now features statement wallpaper on the ceiling, plush carpet, a curated art wall, and a strong use of texture throughout. This room draws on the home's modernist roots and showcases two GlobeWest limited-edition pieces, the Legacy dining table and Pippa Stripe coffee table, enhancing the personal feel. The project also involved rethinking underutilized areas, such as the whisky room, which was transformed with patterned wallpaper, softer textiles, and a more intimate palette. Similarly, the bar was reimagined with a large skylight and new bar, and a children's rumpus room was turned into a gym. The cohesive palette used by Haag, including earthy neutrals, softened greens, rich timbers, and tactile textiles, grounds each space and creates a sense of warmth and depth. The owners' art and collected objects, including African artefacts, contemporary works, antique ceramics, and hand-carved sculptures, remain the focus and anchor each room. The project paid off, as Stephen and Tanya Mendel feel that the outcome reflects them, not just their work in the industry, but their personal history and way of living. This Melbourne home is a beautiful example of how art and texture can transform a space while respecting its history and the client's personal touch.
