Contemporary coastal-inspired homes are at the heart of Australian interior design. Based in Sydney Australia, interior designer Madeleine from Maden Studio perfectly embodies the effortlessly cool, natural textures, and relaxed style in her recent Darook Park project. Continue reading to get to know Madeleine and to get her top interior design tips.  

When did your interior design journey begin?

My interior design journey began at a very young age. I would say I have been obsessed with all things interiors for as long as I can remember. I have this memory of begging my parents for my birthday one year for this big bed that had steps walking up into a big wardrobe underneath, and I remember thinking that it was just the coolest thing ever. When I was a bit older, my sister and I were obsessed with playing the Sims, we would spend hours designing all of the houses making them perfect. But professionally speaking, I did a Bachelor of Interior Architecture at the University of Technology and then went from there.

What style is Darook Park and where did you take inspiration from?

I would say that the style of Darook Park is a contemporary take on a classic, coastal home, adding a bit of playfulness while injecting a bit of color. I definitely took inspiration from European travels, bringing in a lot of the natural elements such as natural stones and timbers.

What are your tips when choosing an overall style and color palette?

My favourite recommendation when choosing a color palette for an interior design project is to start in your own wardrobe and have a look what colors and style you resonate with. Consider what colors you're sort of drawn to, exactly what colors and shades, and then whatever you're most comfortable wearing, you'll feel most comfortable in your home.

What are your must-do's when designing a functional bathroom?

When it comes to designing a functional bathroom, one of the most important things you need to consider is making sure you've got adequate space in all the commonly used areas. For example, at least 900mm in the toilet area, so 450mm from centre to centre, and then I would say at least 1m for a shower opening, so you've got adequate space to move around.

What are your top styling tips?

One of my favourite styling tips is to make sure that you've got plenty of layering. When it comes to layering, this can be of materials, finishes, shapes, heights, mixing of old and new.

For example, when styling a coffee table, you would start with a rectangular coffee table book. In this instance, I would judge a book by its cover. I would be picking something that resonates with you, and then bringing in some sort of element of whether it be a marble tray or a metal tray to bring in that different textural finish. Then I would finish off with a taller more sculptural vase to introduce height while ensuring that they're cohesive and interesting in their own right, but then it'll work all together.

What is your favourite room in Darook Park?

My favorite room at Darook Park would definitely be the master ensuite. I think it definitely has that playful feel, but still feels super grand like the master ensuite should feel. I love the layout of the bathroom and how it's set out, where the shower and the bath are in the same area to make it feel super grand and luxurious. And, the view of the water from the bathtub is just to die for.

Find out more about Madeleine on the Maden Studio website or follow her on Instagram.

Shop the Waverley vanity collection.
Shop the Margot sink.