Some projects are about creating a vision. Others? They’re about protecting one. And this stunning new-build in Shoreham, Victoria, is the perfect example.
When my clients—a retired couple ready to settle into their dream forever home—started their journey, they worked with a building designer to map out their ideal house. But, like so many new home builders, they soon discovered that interior design wasn’t included in the process.
Cue the mild panic. How would they tie together all their ideas? How would they make sure every detail—from the bespoke window and door trims to the vintage-inspired finishes—felt intentional and not like an afterthought? And, perhaps most importantly, how would they ensure their builder (who just so happens to be their son-in-law) didn’t lose his mind and ruin every Christmas dinner forevermore when handed a collection of inspiration photos and told to “just make it happen”?
That’s where I came in.
My job? To take their love of classic American farmhouse design and help refine, elevate, and execute it with a cohesive interior design plan that blends old-world charm with modern-day comfort. Think shiplap walls, custom-designed trims, and timeless period details, all wrapped up in a detailed construction document set that ensures every nook and cranny is beautifully considered before the first hammer swings. No last-minute “uh-oh” moments, no rushed decisions, and no unexpected budget blowouts. Just a smooth, well-planned build.
An expansive open plan living, dining and kitchen area that opens out onto an enclosed sunroom.
A Bespoke American Farmhouse—Built with Heart
This generous two-story home is equal parts welcoming, functional, and steeped in nostalgia. Downstairs, the layout has been designed with family in mind, featuring:
✔ A private guest suite with an ensuite—so visitors always feel at home.
✔ Two additional bedrooms, including one with a custom-designed bunk bed (because grandkids + Nana sleepovers = non-negotiable).
✔ A classic main bathroom and powder room, packed with period charm and modern convenience.
All finished off with a very impressive “shotgun” entry and main hall offering a completely unobstructed view from the front door right through to the back door.
Upstairs, the attic-style retreat feels like something straight out of a storybook, with:
✔ A master bedroom and ensuite, offering a private sanctuary away from the main living spaces.
✔ A study nook, because even in retirement, life admin never really stops.
✔ A spacious second living area, designed for cozy nights in and long, lazy mornings.
✔ And a cheeky mini-bar—because some luxuries are essential, right?
The Heart of the Home
At its core, this home is built for connection. The open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area is warm, inviting, and designed to host everything from casual morning coffees to big family celebrations. A holographic fireplace (all the coziness of a traditional fire without the hassle) anchors the space, while bespoke interior details ensure that every inch of this home feels considered and beautifully curated.
And because no American farmhouse is complete without a traditional porch swing, you better believe there’s one—perfectly positioned for sunset iced teas and slow, peaceful evenings.
Why Interior Design (and a Solid Plan) Matters
For anyone embarking on a new build, here’s the biggest takeaway from this project: your building designer or architect may not include interior design—and that matters a lot. Without a clear interior plan, you’re left making high-stakes decisions on the fly, often under pressure, and usually at a cost (both financial and mental).
A thoughtfully crafted interior design plan:
✅ Ensures every detail is accounted for—from materials and finishes to lighting and joinery design.
✅ Prevents costly mid-build changes—because “let’s just figure it out later” almost always leads to budget blowouts and heartache.
✅ Keeps your builder sane—especially when your builder is also your son-in-law and family harmony is high stakes.
From Dream to Reality
This highly bespoke, meticulously detailed American farmhouse is proof that when interior design is considered from the start, magic happens. Every trim, every panel, every light fixture has been curated to create a home that feels as if it has always been there—timeless, welcoming, and ready for generations of memories.
So, if you’re about to build and wondering whether you need an interior designer, let this be your sign. Trust me—your future self (and your builder) will thank you.
Dave xx
