The iconic fashionista speaks about extending her style to her beautiful Sydney terrace.
What has informed and inspired your interiors style? Has this evolved over time?
In terms of information, I travel a huge amount and with something of a photographic memory, I take mental snapshots of every place I visit. They stay in my head like a catalogue so that I can retrieve the information when I need it. I’ll admit, my memory isn’t quite what it used to be, but it’s still strong. In terms of style, it is constantly evolving. It is versatile. I am a big believer in design to suit the environment. Same with fashion. So the desire to create spaces that will last and that I will love more with time is paramount to me because I prefer less change as time goes on.
A crisp white backdrop with vibrant splashes of colour, creates a playful palette.
Is your home a sanctuary or does it double as a work space?
A sanctuary to spend quality time with family and friends. The reality is, it’s also a work space. With Europe’s time difference, I’m on my computer until late many nights after my kids go to sleep.
What initially appealed to you about the space? Did it require significant alterations?
I love the area and also the natural sunlight, high ceilings and open-plan layout. There’s space for the kids to run around and swim. We painted the entire interior white, removed the carpet and whitewashed the floorboards then completed three bathroom renovations. More recently, we have also renovated the pool area.
Adam Cullen Ned Kelly (2007) artwork and Andy Warhol limited-edition Chanel prints created for a film set hang in the dining room. Upholstered bench from King Living.
What are some of your favourite pieces?
The bathroom tiles. Each of the bathrooms have their own unique Moroccan-themed floor tiles. I also love our artwork – it’s a collection that has formed over many years with each piece having its own memory, story and special significance.
Where do you spend the most time in your home?
The living room and our bedroom.
Kartell ‘Louis Ghost’ chairs by Philippe Starck make a statement in the dining area.
Is there a particular period or style that appeals to you?
Structurally, I like modern architecture. Harnessing the natural light and surrounds. But I do love eclectic references to all periods in history, particularly art deco. My taste for interiors isn’t pigeonholed. I love clean lines so Scandinavian design references appeal greatly. However, our home is also filled with influences from the 70s and 80s, perhaps a poignant reference to my childhood and adolescence.
In the bedroom, a holograph print of Kate Moss above the bed was originally the invitation to an Alexander McQueen runway show, which arrived as a large-scale poster. Florence Broadhurst ‘Honeycomb’ rug from Cadrys.
What couldn’t you live without?
My dressing room and its contents.
If you didn’t live in Sydney, where else would you live?
Paris.
Eva’s beloved dressing room with a Kartell ‘Prince Aha’ stool by Philippe Starck.
Which designers, architects or interior designers do you admire?
Le Corbusier, Frank Gehry, David Collins, Philippe Starck.
Who are some of your favourite artists and do you collect anyone in particular?
I love Australian contemporary art. We collect Del Kathryn Barton, Adam Cullen, McLean Edwards and my father’s works. I also love Albert Tucker, Russell Drysdale, Graham Townsend, Imants Tillers. And, of course, I love history − Henri Rousseau, Max Ernst, Salvador Dali, Frida Kahlo, Pablo Picasso, Edward Hopper, I could go on. I also love photography.
Artwork by Del Kathryn Barton. Orange chair from King Living.
What projects are you currently working on?
We plan to do a big renovation but in stages. We have just finished the pool area and we’re about to renovate our entire frontage − the garage and front terrace.
