Project Feature | Coolamon House

Can you share a little bit about who you are and what inspired you to
create your dream home?

My name is Cara, and I am a ceramic artist. Fourteen years ago, my husband Zac and I moved from Melbourne to the Hinterland with our three young children, drawn by a slower pace and a deeper connection to nature. Since then, we’ve dreamed of renovating or building our own home—a space that reflects who we are and mirrors the calm, grounding beauty of the landscape around us.

How would you describe the style of Coolamon House, and what were your key sources of inspiration?

Coolamon House is a contemporary renovation, guided by a strong desire to create a sense of calm. Clean, simple lines and a warm, tonal palette were essential in shaping the interiors, allowing the space to feel grounded and timeless. The house was designed to sit quietly within its environment rather than compete with it. We wanted the eye to naturally travel outward, towards the view, without distraction from bold or dominant interior elements. Having dreamed of this place for many years, we were clear and confident in our decision-making process, ensuring every choice aligned with our original vision.

Were there particular materials, textures or colours you were drawn to
when shaping the look and feel of the home?

A consistent colour palette was carried throughout the home, creating a quiet sense of continuity. The warmth of timber cabinetry and the use of natural stone on the bench tops and accent pieces add subtle texture and depth, grounding the interiors without disrupting their calm.

Your ceramics practice, “Mud on My Hands,” is deeply connected to working slowly and intentionally. How does that way of living and creating influence the way you approach your home?

The connection between my home and my work is absolute. The way I live in a space and the way I work within it are seamless, guided by a philosophy I carry into every aspect of my life and practice. I want people to walk into our home and immediately feel a sense of calm and connection to the environment, just as I hope they feel when they pick up a piece of my work. Both my home and my ceramics invite a sense of space and quiet—an intentional pause away from the busyness of everyday life.

Do you feel your creative practice has shaped the mood or feeling you
wanted to create in this space? If so, how?

I’m not sure which influenced which—it feels a little like the chicken and the egg. For me, it’s less about distinction and more about a way of living. It’s a life philosophy of being present and mindful in all that I do, whether I’m cooking a meal for those I love, spending time with my family at home, or creating pieces in the studio. I’m always seeking a state of quiet and calm, as it creates space for creativity and connection. The clean lines and restrained colour palette we chose allow for this, supporting a way of living and working that feels considered, intentional, and deeply connected.

How does lighting support the design intention you envisioned for the
space?

Claire played an integral role in the lighting design. This was an area we had limited knowledge in, and she took the time to educate and support us, ensuring the lighting quietly enhanced the overall design and atmosphere of the space.

How did lighting design help enhance your home and overall space?

The lighting design enhances the home, bringing warmth and a sense of calm in the evenings. Layers of light were carefully considered for different purposes, balancing functionality with mood. This approach extends both inside and out, allowing the home to transition seamlessly from day to night while maintaining a strong connection to the surrounding environment.

How was your lighting consultation with Lighting Collective?

The whole process with The Lighting Collective was seamless and enjoyable. The team genuinely cared about our project, listening carefully to our goals and offering thoughtful advice and suggestions throughout. They visited the site, understood the plans, and communicated clearly with the electrician, ensuring we achieved the lighting outcome we envisioned.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Nuria Palat

LIGHTING DESIGN

Lighting Collective