Jason and Heather’s unassuming home, houses within its walls an interesting selection of vintage pieces. This couple understand how to team objects, art and furniture to create the unexpected. The treasures that fill their space have purpose, aesthetic value and a narrative that creates an atmosphere that is not stark or barren but has character and warmth.
Built in the 1930s, the house had been in the same family until Heather and Jason purchased it. “We were looking for something with character,” says Heather. Looking around their home, it’s clear to see they have successfully retained the sense of style of its original owners. The coloured glass window above the entrance way and the art deco fireplace are details from that era. It is obvious from the house’s present condition that its upkeep is a priority of its current occupants.
Throughout the house is an eclectic mix of décor which stems from Heather and Jason’s passion for second-hand and vintage items. The furniture suits the interior of the house perfectly. The warm hue of the polished boards compliments the striking designs of the woven and rattan rugs placed sparingly throughout the home.
“We knew that we liked mid-century furniture and we sourced some pieces when we moved in,” Heather states.
A seller on Gumtree had informed the duo that Newcastle was a goldmine for Parker furniture (an Australian manufacturer from the 1950s – 1980s). This style and other classic pieces could readily be obtained from deceased estates and private collections.
“It’s important when you buy a house, a piece of art or furniture that there’s a story about how it was created. It makes things more interesting,” Jason says.
“It’s important when you buy a house, a piece of art or furniture that there’s a story about how it was created. It makes things more interesting,” Jason says.
Central to their living space is a large piece by Novocastrian artist, Madeleine Cruise; a work that they purchased last year from her exhibition Theatre of Objects at Dungog Contemporary Art Gallery. “It was one of the first pieces we invested a decent amount of money in. It felt very adult buying an artwork,” Heather admits.
“We spoke to Madeleine and we came to know her and the meaning behind the work. It’s not just a print from Ikea and it was nice to support Madeleine and Dungog Contemporary Art Gallery,” Jason adds.
The mix of art adorning the walls adds another dimension to their home. A striking print of a matador and bull by Rico Tomasco takes pride of place above one of two fireplaces inside their home.
Heather points out the model of a ship above this fireplace and explains that it’s one of many hand-me-down pieces scattered throughout their abode. This one is of particular importance as it came from her father.
This creative couple have cultivated an abode that is uniquely them, choosing to fill their home not just with things, but with pieces they love.
The three-bedroom dwelling has become a factory of creativity, as Heather uses the front room as a sewing room where she makes and alters clothes for herself and close friends, outside of her nine-to-five role as a marketing manager.
Jason, an avant-garde noise musician with albums available on both Australian and international labels, has an in-house recording studio in the adjacent room.
An impressive array of indoor plants are present in every room of their home. An obsession that brings a further sense of life to their eclectic space.
Looking around Heather and Jason’s living room, at the art adorning their walls and unique homewares filling the space, it’s evident that the couple’s unique collection can’t be imitated. This creative couple have cultivated an abode that is uniquely them, choosing to fill their home not just with things, but with pieces they love.
House Profile
Age of house:
Built in 1930.
Who lives here?
Jason and Heather.
Favourite thing about living in ADAMSTOWN:
It’s close to town and the beach – with only a short bike ride to work. The locals are friendly and there are great coffee options.
The renovations so far, and what’s Next:
We built the front fence for more privacy and added a big bench seat that wraps around the backyard. Neither of us are very handy, so both ‘renos’ happened thanks to family and our mate, Simon.
Favourite room and why:
The small room off our main bedroom – we’ve filled it with plants as the light is so beautiful in there.
Favourite piece in your home and why:
The vintage gramophone in our dining room. Jason bought it for my (Heather) 21st birthday.
As seen in Swell Issue 5.
