My Space: 7 News journalist Rebecca Johns transforms neglected 115-year-old home into chic family abode

Although the 115-year-old home was neglected, had tiny living areas and badly painted walls, it wasn’t enough to deter Rebecca Johns from visualising her dream home.

“When we purchased the property we could see its potential. It was a small house on a big garden-filled block,” explains Johns. “We had been looking for a house in Cottesloe for a long time, it has always been our dream suburb to live in.”

The finished project is an ode to timeless design with a modern flair. With the help of Saltus Built and building designer Modern Ark Layout, the couple created their own slice of paradise, successfully blending the old with the new, while managing to preserve the original 1908 cottage.

“We always wanted to preserve the century old home as much as possible, but add a contemporary twist. To do that we used the juxtaposition of black and white,” explains Johns. “The heritage portion of the house and its coinciding extension is all white weatherboard, while the new contemporary extension is our ‘black box’, in a stained wooden cladding.”

The back extension is a bright and airy open-plan living space, with views of the back alfresco, garden and pool area. The attention to detail is impeccable with high windows, brass fittings, perfectly positioned sky lights, and Nood Co coloured concrete basins chosen to match tiles from Myaree Ceramics.

“The bathrooms and powder rooms are a mix of timeless neutrals, with a cheeky hint of bold colour,” she says.

The fusion of Hamptons and Scandinavian style, creates a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.

“Because we have a toddler, we were very conscious about our furniture selections being child-friendly, which is why we went with lots of curves. It also softens the space and brings a sense of flow,” says Johns.

In the main living area is a coffee table from Coco Republic, oval dining table and matching buffet from GlobeWest and wishbone chairs from Granite Lane. The interior colour palette is inspired from the couple’s love of art. The living area is based around two pieces by Jai Vasicek, and the master bedroom is based around a Kimmy Hogan floral piece.

“Unknowingly, the colour palette of our master bedroom is the same I had as a little girl. My mum noticed … and said she and Dad had picked the exact same colours for my childhood room. My beautiful Dad passed away late last year after his brave battle against cancer, so the room gives me a sense of comfort and memories of him,” explains Johns.

The laundry is also a highlight with ample storage, drying rail and inbuilt ironing board.

“It’s the biggest we’ve ever had,” she laughs. “While we were renting during the renovation, we had a washing machine in the kitchen, so this is definitely a luxury — and as a mum with a busy household, it’s a winner.”