RenovatingSally Fitzgibbons' Dreamy Gerroa Beach House
We can now add house renovations and interior design to the long list of things to love about Sally Fitzgibbons. Highline House is the breathtaking new beach abode of the surfing legend, a true renovation of the heart and nature.
And just wait ’till you see the view from the bedroom!
Inspired By History and Nature
Sally was born and raised on the Gerroa headland of NSW’s Illawarra region. So, it was only natural that the location would become the backdrop to her dream beach shack.
Inspired by the land, ocean and wildlife, the renovation was a true labour of love for the surfing champ, and one that was worth every drop of effort.
Working closely with her builder-friend, Simon Rees, Sally transformed an old weatherboard beach shack into a luxury coastal abode. It balances relaxed appeal with true Australian flavour.
“My builder Simon and I love nature so much and let it guide us through the project, capturing the essence and beauty of the view through many portals, viewing windows, balcony spaces and garden settings,” says Sally.
The Shack With The Works
The stylish revival is made up of a master bedroom with ensuite (and next-level views), main bathroom, guest bedroom, kitchen and dining area, a separate lounge and a light and airy study nook.
There’s also a swimming pool, deck and private gym for the perfect balance of functional living, health and wellbeing.
Let There Be Light!
It’s not just the rustic, white-painted facade and blue front door that celebrates light and nature. The interior of Highline House uses premium Luxaflex curtains and blinds to work seamlessly with the changing light throughout the day.
“Just like the moods in the weather we experience at Gerroa, the rooms in this house spoke to a mix of Luxaflex treatments. The result allows you to enjoy every room in the house and to make it your own private sanctuary,” explains Sally.
The kitchen and dining area feature floor-to-ceiling windows with full views of the ocean, and Luxaflex Pirouette Shadings beautifully diffuse the heavy sunlight.
Throughout the house, windows feature sheer curtains for a soft and flowing effect, just like the ocean itself.
Duette Shades feature in the entrance and bedrooms to help moderate the temperature all year round. Available in blockout fabric, they’re also energy efficient, which is a must for any Aussie beach home.
“One of my favourite parts of the design, is waking up in the master bedroom, rolling over and pressing the remote control for the shades, and watching them rise,” Sally says.
A Nod To The Original House
In reimagining the new abode, Sally celebrates the history of the house right throughout the interior.
“It is a beach house when categorised, but it’s also open to interpretation, from the visuals of the salt-crusted rock platforms becoming the inspiration for the kitchen bench tops, to the warmth of the Baltic pine flooring and the history of the restored pieces from the original house, including the front door, Oars and Lifesaving ring,” says Sally.
Plus A Deck To Unwind On
Knowing all too well the importance of balance in life, Sally created an outdoor decking area that is roomy enough for entertaining, but still cosy, inviting and sun-smart.
The deck zone uses Luxaflex Evo MagnaTrack Awnings, which provide supreme sun protection and loads of airflow.
And with all the hard work done, it’s time for Sally Fitzgibbons to kick back (after a surf) and enjoy the success of Highline House.
“It is so satisfying to reach the end of the road and sit on the balcony with family and friends, looking out over my favourite view in the whole world.”
Images supplied by Luxaflex.
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