Project Feature | The Fairview Project

Discover the story behind this Mediterranean inspired oasis

In this exclusive interview, we delve into the vision behind the Fairview Project - a minimalist, Mediterranean-inspired retreat by Lina and Phil Strati. Drawing inspiration from their honeymoon in the Mediterranean, the design incorporates travertine pavers, Venetian plaster, and natural stone in soft hues, evoking a serene coastal atmosphere. Key features include a custom floating spiral staircase, curved lines throughout, and exquisite lighting pieces. The result is a tranquil home-away-from-home just minutes from the city.

How would you describe your style?

Minimalist elegance. Embracing a neutral colour palette with classic, clean lines that create a timeless and sophisticated look. The focus is on simplicity and functionality, allowing each piece to stand out without overwhelming the space. This aesthetic balances form and function while evoking a sense of calm and order.

"The design concept was initially brutalism meets modern design. Byron was booming with Mediterranean style homes, white/bright spaces and arches & curves. We wanted to create something that wasn’t the “ordinary Byron” look”

Maria

"We aimed to create a "home away from home escape." We were captivated by the classic travertine pavers and cobblestones that adorn the streets of Europe, as well as the elegance of Venetian plaster"

Lina Strati

What inspired the modern Mediterranean vision for the Fairview Project?

The modern Mediterranean vision for the Fairview Project was inspired by our unforgettable honeymoon in the Mediterranean. We aimed to create a “home away from home escape.” We were captivated by the classic travertine pavers and cobblestones that adorn the streets of Europe, as well as the elegant look and feel of Venetian plaster.

The interplay of smooth and bold lines further influenced our design, helping to evoke that serene Mediterranean atmosphere. Incorporating natural stone marbles in soothing greens and creams, along with the elegant Chateau stone cladding on the exterior, allows us to create a serene atmosphere reminiscent of sun-soaked coastal escapes. This natural, neutral color palette evokes a calming holiday vibe, transporting you to a tranquil place far across the Mediterranean Sea.

Why this property? What do you like about the area?

We were initially drawn to this property because of its flat block, which made it a dream to work with—no heavy slopes to navigate. The location is ideal, surrounded by lush green parklands, offering a serene environment just minutes away from the city. Plus, the stunning city views from the master suite add a unique touch, blending tranquility with the vibrancy of urban life. It’s the perfect balance of nature and convenience.

From the expansive kitchen and master bedroom to the intimate living room overlooking a lush courtyard, The Pines offers a versatile living experience.

What was your must-have piece or feature within the space?

Some of our must-have features for the Fairview space include our custom-designed wine rack, the stunning spiral staircase, the fireplace and the exquisite lighting pieces from Lighting Collective. Each element adds a unique touch, enhancing the overall design and atmosphere of the home.

How have you used lighting? Why these pieces, what is their purpose?

Lighting was a non-negotiable aspect of the overall design at Fairview. You can have countless beautiful furniture pieces and design elements, but without thoughtful lighting—both artificial and natural—you’ve only completed half the space and its atmosphere.

To create a clean, minimal ambiance, we utilised Minimalist Glass Dome Wall Sconces throughout the hallways, perfectly complementing the flow of curved lines. For the en-suite bathrooms, we chose Minimalist Sphere Wall Lights, which harmonised beautifully with the other design elements.

In the master bedroom, we aimed for a romantic atmosphere, so we selected Organic Handmade Ceramic Wall Lights in a stone colour. For the makeup table, we wanted to add a striking touch, opting for the Coral Duo Glass Wall Light, which enhances the surrounding mirror walls and elevates the overall space.

How did you incorporate your vision of flowing, curved lines into the design of the home?

We incorporated our vision of flowing, curved lines into the design by centering the home around our stunning custom floating spiral staircase, which truly serves as the showstopper within The Fairview. The other curved elements were thoughtfully designed to complement the staircase beautifully. We ensured that curved lines continued in every space, from the outdoor bench area bringing everyone together around the BBQ entertainment area to the kitchen joinery, the gracefully rounded fireplace, and the curved wall in the ground bathroom. As you ascend the staircase, a massive circular skylight welcomes you to the next level, enhancing both the design and functionality of the home. This seamless flow of curves creates a cohesive and inviting atmosphere throughout.

How did working with our consultation team help bring your lighting vision to life?

The team at Lighting Collective was an absolute pleasure to work with. I can’t emphasize this enough! No matter how many emails or phone calls it took, they guided us through the lighting plan with such ease, helping us understand the importance of each decision. Although our home automation company was a bit challenging to deal with, Lighting Collective made the entire process much easier for us to navigate.

What do you hope people will feel when in the space? What was it designed for?

We hope people will feel a sense of tranquility and warmth when in the space. Our design was created to foster relaxation and connection, inviting guests to unwind and enjoy the beauty of their surroundings. Each element was thoughtfully chosen to promote harmony, making it a perfect retreat for gatherings or quiet moments alone. Ultimately, we want the space to feel like a true sanctuary, where every corner inspires comfort and joy. We have also designed this space to be available for brands to hire, whether for photoshoots, product showcases, or workshops. We carefully consider brands that align with our values, ensuring a seamless fit and enhancing the overall experience.

Why did you choose Lighting Collective?

We chose Lighting Collective for your strong credibility in the industry and our appreciation for Australian-made products. We genuinely love your offerings, and your team’s down-to-earth approach and generous expertise made the experience amazing.

Additionally, we prioritise working with businesses that help us establish a versatile foundation for building lasting relationships with reliable suppliers and fostering collaborative marketing efforts.

From the expansive kitchen and master bedroom to the intimate living room overlooking a lush courtyard, The Pines offers a versatile living experience.

Who are you collaborating with?

Just to name a few brands we are following and working with, such as; Artisan Exterior, Deco Batten Australia, Sussextaps, Windsor hardware, Marble Hub, Skyspan, Velux Australia, Ziptap, jetmaster and Plungie Pools.

SHOP THE LOOK

Interior Design & Furniture Curation: Aesthetic Developments & Alchemy Studio
Architect: Aesthetic Developments
Builder: Aesthetic Developments
Editorial Styling: Laura Rees Stylist
Builder: Aesthetic Developments
Photography: Nat Spada