Considering Design Scout\’s Jacinta Platt has such a signature eclectic style – she nominates tribal, coastal, modern and classic as some of her major influences – the Tweed Coast home that she shares with her husband is remarkably thematic, showing off her love of a neutral palette teamed with bold use of colour. It\’s a modern twist on the beach shack idyll that Australians so love.
The result is a little moody yet still bright and inviting, as Jacinta has masterfully mixed dark colours, natural materials and texture (including striking textile feature walls) to make the open plan, contemporary space feel cosy and polished. Adding layers of interest and intrigue to every corner are photos and quirky objects – mementos of the designer’s extensive travels.
Even the carefully curated collection of furniture and art in this “modern-day beach shack”, as Jacinta describes it, are sourced from all over the world. “I love to travel and I make a point on each trip to try to buy something local and bring it home,” she explains. “I feel like most of the items in my home have a story about them and they remind me of some wonderful memories.”
The designer has also made a point to include features that make her feel happy. A case in point? The home’s external black-and-white striped awnings – a chic finishing touch that bring a smile to Jacinta’s face every time she turns into the driveway.
Ideally located minutes from the beach, the house was built by Perry Homes just two years ago. “I have been fortunate enough to work on Perry Homes display homes for years, and as this was our first home, they were able to build to our requirements and our limited budget,” Jacinta says.
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The design of the home itself is simple, elegant and modern and just about as open plan as it comes, with the kitchen, dining and entertainment spaces all flowing into one another. This gives the home a spacious and welcoming feel, as well as being a totally customisable and versatile backdrop.
Jacinta is refreshingly honest when she admits it’s not her dream home, explaining that there are many more things she would like to try to push the boundaries of interior design. But, for now, she says, it’s an easy, low-maintenance home to live in that’s cute, fun and comfortable for friends and family.
Photography: Tanika Blair
