A couple with a passion for renovating knew just what to do in order to create the perfect beach house. Enny and Colleen Michels love to renovate, which is obvious in each and every corner of their magnificent Hamptons-style house in Sydney’s southern suburb of Sans Souci. Fifteen years ago, the couple bought a small, single-storey house on a large beachside block, removed the old carpets and dated wallpaper and embarked on a journey that would continue for over a decade. As a result, they now have a fabulous two-storey, four-bedroom family home with a relaxed and easy-going style that offers all the luxury and sophistication of a high-end holiday resort.
Rather than completely demolishing the original house, built in 1843 for the visit of the Prince of Wales, Enny and Colleen have kept the base and added to it in stages. Situated approximately 12 metres from the sand, the couple knew exactly what they wanted, incorporating large living spaces, high ceilings, white walls and surrounding glass windows to take in the view. Over time, the couple have lovingly developed the house bit by bit, enjoying the process just as much as the now-finished product.
The main entrance on the ground level leads through to a combined open-plan living and kitchen area that faces straight out to the water. The four bedrooms are also located on the ground floor, one of which is a self-contained flat with its own kitchen, bathroom and computer room. A large central staircase at the front door leads upstairs to a fabulous, sun-drenched entertainment area surrounded by glass and breathtaking views. Large sliding glass doors open to a wraparound balcony – a later addition to the house – for easy entertaining and full appreciation of the spectacular surrounds.
Not only is the structure of the house perfectly suited to its seaside location, but so too is the interior design with its crisp white walls and smart nautical theme. Enny and Colleen have chosen a clean and uncluttered look, with a collection of interesting pieces that come together in true Hamptons’ style. The living areas are bright and open with plenty of windows, large sliding doors, natural light and beautiful wide floorboards laid with no visible nails or screws – like on a boat deck. The furniture, comprising cane lounge suites upholstered with stylish fabrics, has a relaxed and casual feel. The kitchen with its white CaesarStone benchtop and stark-white cabinetry blends beautifully with the overall look, which is as laid-back and easy as a summer holiday.
To complete the seaside picture, the house has been carefully decorated with all sorts of bits and pieces, both old and new, that Enny and Colleen have collected over the years. Working in retail, they are constantly at trade shows where they find items from all over the world. Ample storage over the garage means they can stow items away to avoid over-cluttering and then change things around when they want a different look. Whether it’s the fisherman’s baskets used as stylish coffee tables, the fabulous lamp bases made of rope or the old-fashioned-style porthole installed in the wall, it all comes together to create a relaxed yet glamorous coastal look.
Story by Susannah Hardy Styling by Kirstin Randl-Katalinic