Words by Natalie Bannister
There’s a certain kind of magic that happens when style and practicality strike a perfect balance—and House 17, the latest project from Three Birds Renovations, is a shining example of how Australian home design can feel both fresh and timeless.
This reimagined Californian-style Bungalow radiates relaxed charm and warm, lived-in appeal. Once a dark and dated three-bedroom layout, the home has been transformed into a light-filled four-bedroom retreat, designed to evolve with a growing family. A generous extension to the rear opens into an expansive kitchen, dining and living area, complete with vaulted ceilings and soaring windows that flood the space with natural light—celebrating the very essence of effortless indoor-outdoor living.
The interiors by Three Birds Renovations are a masterclass in layered texture and tone. Timber accents, rattan details, soft neutrals, and tactile fabrics create an inviting mix that feels both grounded and elegant. A wide central hallway connects each space, adding a sense of flow and calm from the moment you step inside. Every detail, from custom joinery to curated lighting, reflects a love of interior design that balances comfort with a coastal edge.
Light plays a central role in shaping the mood of the home. Collaborating with Luxaflex® Window Fashions, the Three Birds team were able to amplify the home’s natural light while introducing subtle elements of control and privacy. In the open-plan living space, Luxaflex® Kori Curtains in a soft Eggshell hue frame large doors leading to the alfresco area, gently diffusing strong afternoon light while enhancing the home’s relaxed palette. Smaller windows beside the fireplace are dressed with Pirouette® Shadings, adding a soft rhythm of light and shadow throughout the day.
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“There’s something special about how light moves through this home,” says the Three Birds Renovations team. “We wanted every room to feel connected to the outdoors, without compromising on comfort or functionality.”
Throughout the home, smart design choices elevate everyday living. The Luxaflex® PowerView® Smart Automation system adapts to the sun’s movement, adjusting window coverings to maintain ideal temperature and ambience year-round. It’s a quiet luxury—technology that works in the background to support modern family life while reinforcing the relaxed, grounded feel of the interiors.
In the kitchen and dining zones, natural stone finishes, marble benchtops and soft timber cabinetry are paired with sculptural lighting and curated decor. It’s a setting designed for family meals, casual entertaining and slow Sunday mornings. The styling reflects a deeper trend in Australian home design: homes that are as practical as they are beautiful.
The primary bedroom continues the story of quiet sophistication. With soft morning light filtering through Sheffield Roller Blinds in Cedar, layered under Kori Curtains in Ginger, the space feels cosy, considered and restful. Rich earthy tones and plush textures complete the sanctuary feel.
In the nursery, soft curves, Dulux® Terra Rose walls and block-out Kori Curtains create a nurturing cocoon. It’s a thoughtful blend of mood and practicality—designed for both day naps and midnight feeds, without sacrificing style.
The connection to the outdoors is ever-present. Large windows and sliding doors open onto a newly landscaped garden and swimming pool, with alfresco spaces made for barefoot afternoons and golden-hour gatherings. Every choice—whether architectural or decorative—was made with modern living in mind. The result is a cohesive, intuitive home that breathes with the rhythm of the seasons and the needs of the family within.
“House 17 is a place to gather, unwind and grow,” the Birds share. “It’s beautiful, yes—but it’s also deeply functional. It’s the kind of home that just feels good.”
Through thoughtful renovation, layered interiors and smart systems, House 17 has become a sun-drenched suburban retreat. A family home where light, comfort, and connection take centre stage—a true celebration of coastal-inspired living with an Australian soul.
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