This is a home inspired by coastal living, mid century design and contemporary Australian Art.
The layout was originally designed with 3D modelling in SketchUp, while mood boards supported colour palette and decor selections. The saturated colours of an abstract landscape by local artist and friend Jane Tangney welcomes you into this three level townhouse in North Fremantle.
Emma’s formative years designing for Australia’s most iconic brands honed her colour practice. She uses a warm neutral base palette to highlight colour pops to greatest effect. I’m always striving for a balance between colour, texture and form - whether it’s fashion or interiors. While I’m consistently drawn to colour, and love combining clashing or unexpected levels, I find they really shine when paired with the right neutrals.
My design vision for Siska Lane was inspired by childhood memories of my grandparents’ mid century home. The Snelling chairs originate from there, I added the vintage sideboard and ponytail palms to remain true to that era. An impressive taxidermy cray, caught by partner Greg, presides over this vignette.
In the upper floor bedroom a limestone relief by sculptor Lucas Wearne, provides a moment of quiet contemplation, positioned opposite the luscious tones in abstract landscapes by another WA artist and friend Melissa Boughey. Similarly the soft curved forms of Lauren Lea Haynes limestone sculpture in the living area keeps fine company, by the expressive brushstrokes of a Diana Miller painting.
The low rainfall and scorching summers experienced in this narrow pocket between Leighton beach and the Swan River are ideal for succulent gardens. While the overall site occupies a lean footprint, the open plan living dining area opens onto a generous size patio garden where plantings are clustered in terrazzo pots. Taller palms draw the eye up, creating a sense of space. Set with a vintage travertine table, wire frame chairs, and a southerly aspect, this is a favourite spot to enjoy summer meals.
A home office within walking distance of Leighton Beach, was reconfigured as a self-contained guest suite designed for short term rental stays.
3D renderings in SketchUp were instrumental in the design process, optimising the space to greatest effect. The bedroom overlooks a courtyard garden, while the adjacent living and dining zone is separated with a partition wall. Together with the ensuite bathroom and kitchenette the guest suite feels generous, whilst occupying a modest footprint. The earthy colour palette, natural fabrications, and rattan elements lend a relaxed coastal style, with feature artwork by Jane Tangney, and aerial photography by Emma.
Within six months of launching, The Laneway guest suite was fully booked, and flagged as “one of the most loved homes on Airbnb”.
“Possibly the best Airbnb I’ve ever stayed in! … I honestly could not ask for more.” Vanessa, June 2024
“We enjoyed our stay at Emma’s immensely right from the very start. Located near beautiful Swan River, Leighton and Port Beach and close to Fremantle… as well as being greeted with some fresh beautiful oranges and bottled cold water in fridge. We will definitely be coming to stay again! All in all was a beautiful stay”. Matt, June 2024
“Emma is an amazing host and so lovely to deal with. The studio exceeded my expectations. It was spacious, comfortable and a great location… I highly recommend this place and would definitely book a stay here in the future.” Kyra, May 2024
“Emma’s place could not be more perfect! Cosy space and felt right at home. It was absolutely spotless and had everything we needed. Emma was super helpful and gave us lots of great recommendations. We had our car and there was easy parking nearby. Highly recommend staying here. Thanks again for your hospitality Emma!” Laura, April 2024
“Amazing - I stayed here for 2 ish months while working remotely and had an incredible time. Emma was a super friendly and helpful host and the unit was conveniently located, well furnished, and very comfortable. Could not recommend the location highly enough!” Sam, April 2024