When you enter the home of Howard Steeves and Simon Cary you might just forget you’re in Woollahra! The European ambience of this three-storey townhouse is the couple’s refuge from the bustle of Sydney. Having lived in their home of five years, Howard and Simon have transformed it into a stylish & elegant home. While they worked with Sydney interior designer Marco Meneguzzi, the two have added their own touches to make their home a reflection of themselves. I was invited in to spend some ‘down time’ in their beautiful courtyard.

What is your favourite room in your house?

The courtyard! It’s large (about 80m²), north-facing with a beautiful fountain; we also have an outdoor BBQ cooking area – and great seating and dining.

Why is it your favourite room?

We just love to entertain and the courtyard is perfect for having friends over for a meal, drinks and great conversation. It opens up from the dining and kitchen via French doors so it really is like an extension to the house. As it’s protected from the elements, we can entertain three seasons of the year.

How does your favourite room represent who you are?

We both have very chaotic work lives so it’s nice to have a quiet place to decompress after a long day. The house is very European and the courtyard has a Tuscan feel to it. We holiday in Europe once a year so the courtyard reflects our love of travel and we both love the outdoors.

What do you like most about your favourite room?

When we’re sitting out in the courtyard, it really is our little oasis. It is separated by two Oak gates, so it is very private. We can’t hear any noise from the street, no traffic. The European feel is wonderful and it is just expansive and lovely.

If you could invite anyone into your favourite room, who would it be?

Princess Diana!

What would you change about your favourite room?

Absolutely nothing. Well, maybe to have the gates open up to a beautiful view in France!

What advice would you give on how to create the perfect space?

Work to your priorities. Choose a place you can showcase the pieces that mean something to you such as your antiques, art and other collectibles. As a stylist/costumer (see Howard’s work here) I know how important it is to create the perfect look.

For property information and images click here

CHARACTER FILLED ART DECO APARTMENT AT REAR OF ICONIC BUILDING IN DOUBLE BAY

For images and more information click here

For property information and images click here