S P A C E DESIGNED INTERIORS From Drab to Fab Villa Styling founder, Louise Roche, explains her latest Byron Bay interior makeover. To transform the tired and outdated interior of a two-bedroom holiday unit on Belongil Beach, just outside of central Byron Bay, was my brief, and in its place create a tropical haven with a sophisticated take on coastal living. Using accents of tropical and tribal luxe, we wanted to create an interior that was in-synch with the laid back, yet vibrant Byron Bay lifestyle. Because there was minimal natural light through the main living space, it was important to keep both furnishings and walls as light as possible to brighten the apartment. I had the interior freshly painted in Dulux - White on White, and the colour scheme was kept fresh with layers of neutral textures and tones in luxe greens and midnight blues inspired by the gardens and ocean beyond. The addition of two large and stunning mirrors bounced more valuable daylight around the unit, and reflected the luscious greenery found outside back into the apartment. Old-fashioned frosted windows in the kitchen and second bedroom were further restricting the flow of natural light, so they were replaced with clear glass. When choosing the furniture, I looked for a mix of white and natural rattan, earthy timber tones in oak, and natural blondes – elements that are synonymous with coastal interiors. To set off the open-plan living space and create the important ‘wow factor’, I placed statement pendants around the room. Outside, the day bed was repainted, and I created a bespoke seat pad and cushions in Warwick outdoor fabrics. All of the products were sourced locally or from interstate. Theformerlydrabandoutdatedunitis now a picture of coastal living. Belongil Salt 2/34 Cavvanbah St, Byron Bay To book for holiday rental visit www.belongilsalt.com.au S P A C E DESIGNED INTERIORS 25 M B G C 24