“Take your pleasure seriously,” said Charles Eames. Belinda and Glen Bath have taken this favourite design quote to heart as they’ve applied the philosophy to their home
It was purely the architecture and design of this house that attracted die-hard mid-century lovers Belinda and Glen Bath at the outset. "There is something special about this style - the way the light flows through the windows, the open layout, and the generously sized rooms," Belinda says. "But it was the gorgeous frangipani tree in the front of the house that sealed the deal. They always remind me of my lovely grandmother.”
A recent move back home to Australia after 12 years in Hong Kong was certainly not without its challenges."My daughter was starting university in Melbourne, and my son wanted to finish high school there”, explains Belinda. “I don't think you can ever underestimate how hard it is for kids (and adults) to repatriate to their hometown after so long away. There are so many things to get used to and making new friendships can be really hard. My husband is still working in Hong Kong, so there are also the challenges of separation and commuting back and forth. Of course, COVID has made things more difficult. We wouldn't change it though as we love being back here with our friends and family,” she explains.
Fortunately, the house didn't need a lot of work other than re-painting and converting a room in the cellar to a guest bedroom and bathroom, as well as adding back a window for light. The last project to undertake is the back garden. Their landscapers had detailed a space, fully meeting their brief for a great entertaining area that seamlessly integrates with the style of the house. Says Belinda, “the COVID situation has put plans on hold for the moment, but are hoping to have it completed by Christmas.”
IMAGE CREDIT: Belinda Bath Images
This article first appeared online, on Home Journal's website, on September 30, 2020.