Sailors Whisk, situated in Flinders, an historic fishing village just an hour from Melbourne, is just one street back from the main coastal Esplanade. it leads off a quiet track - a few minutes’ walk to the beach, local eateries, shops, and to our local pub.
As you enter through the home's charming post and rail fence, the cottage sits nestled amongst indigenous plants, framed by a covered veranda that celebrates the best of outdoor living, regardless of season. With a landscape of gum and sheoak trees, the garden is alive with a profusion of birds (including cockatoos, eastern rosellas and galahs), lizards; and kangaroos on the nearby golf course, which overlooks the pier and reef – home to the protected weedy sea dragon.
A repurposed 1910 Federation heritage cottage, complete with hard wood timber floors and original weatherboarding - Sailors Whisk was saved from planned demolition in Melbourne. Transported in one piece to the site, the two bedroom cottage has been thoughtfully redesigned, but with respect for the original footprint.
Period features have been preserved and restored - such as the decorative plaster ceilings and original sash windows, and throughout all internal work has been carried out with the help of local craftsmen and artisans. Sustainable timbers have been used to upgrade flooring, and wherever possible original materials have been repurposed - including the old red pine architraves, transformed into picture frames for the property.
Throughout old is artfully combined with new: think traditional style Esse range and open shelf displays in the kitchen; contemporary concrete hearth and Cheminees Philippe wood burner in the sitting room; and stylish pizza oven and firepit in the garden, which add to the modern rustic vibe.
"We are passionate about the restoration of original features, and using products and finishes that are sustainable and kind to the environment’ says Laura.
Interior colours reflect the surrounding landscape – a mix of calm whites, combined with soft blues, inky blacks and touches of warm, earthier tones on paintings, textiles and furniture. The two relaxing bedrooms are dressed in special layers of soft linen and cosy textiles, which heighten the feeling of comfort. Whilst select artworks, antiques and foraged finds enhance the sophisticated alchemy.
Favourite finds include a beautiful pair of French Club chairs, discovered in France by Laura; a vintage walnut armoire that used to belong to Dan’s Aunt; and wonderful local artisanal touches, such as the handcrafted leather handles on the fridge and dishwasher drawer - made from Melbourne Horse Brigade bridle leather, repurposed by a family friend.
The project has been a labour of love and it is so rewarding to see guests unwinding here in the way we imagined,’ smiles Laura. ‘It is a very special place.’
-Excerpt of words by Ali Heath for Ariadne Magazine