Home Tour: The Block’s Deb and Andy Saunders Transform this Hinterland Home

When The Block 2019 favourites Deb and Andy Saunders of DNA Design took on the renovation of a 1980s Gold Coast Hinterland home that sits on a 7.5-acre plot, they knew the project would be a complex undertaking. 

But the transformation of the tired, run-down property into a laid-back, inviting family haven is testament to the power of the duo’s planning, communication, sensational eye for detail, and expertly selected materials.

From the outset, Deb and Andy knew the four-bedroom home, which features three bathrooms, a media room, a rumpus room, a triple-space garage, a pool and sprawling gardens, was brimming with potential.

“Our client’s brief was to lighten and brighten the dark dingy spaces and to make the floor plan flow and connect more successfully,” says Deb.

“Our initial vision was coastal with a hint of farmhouse. It’s since evolved into a blend of styles that suit the acreage location, which is close to the Gold Coast and its beautiful beaches,” she says.

MAKING SPACE

The first order of business was to iron out the clunky floor plan and realign the flow of the home. 

“It felt like a poky maze! Some rooms had several doorways that we closed to create more space for furniture layout. This made the rooms more functional,” Deb notes.

“All of the windows and doors were replaced. The biggest structural change was the ceiling in the living area that runs through to the outdoor area. We ripped the old roof off, changed the height, and pitch and pushed out the size of the living room and kitchen area. It made a huge impact on the way those rooms are used and the overall look of the area.”

Bringing in the golden natural light of the stunning Hinterland surroundings was also a key element to this project — and that’s where Luxaflex stepped in. 

COASTAL-COOL FINISHINGS

The duo used a combination of premium Luxaflex products, including window and door furnishings to ensure a cool, coastal vibe was brought to life in every corner of the home. 

“Luxaflex were a very important addition to the windows and doors in every part of the home. By bringing in all the natural light with the changes we made to the ceilings, windows, and floor plan, it meant we needed to control all that extra light for sleeping, watching TV and relaxing. Window coverings are always something we take time on getting right in our builds.”

“We used a mix of sheer curtains, block-out curtains and blinds to keep the spaces looking beautiful but functional as well. Sheer curtains are a great way to add depth, layers and texture to a room,” The Block star muses.

To complement the Luxaflex finishings, Deb and Andy opted for materials, textures and a warm colour palette of nudes, pinks and whites that would keep the coastal style of the house cohesive.

“Repetition of things like the stone in the fireplace and kitchen wall created balance and set the tone for the overall look. I also chose items like curved mirrors, bowls and vases to keep the curved details going throughout,” the stylist says. 

“Soft pastels and neutrals are calming and comforting, and we used them to make each room flow to the next. Hints of tan, pink and blush add warmth and the muted, earthy colours work with the greenery outside. Linking the spaces with colour is an easy way to create cohesive spaces no matter what colour palette you choose.”

Walking through the light, bright and airy space now, it makes you feel like you’re on holiday every day,” says Deb.

PROJECT CREDITS

Photographer: Tanika Blair @tanikablair_photography

Interior Styling: Deb and Andy Saunders of DNA Design @andyanddeb @dnaofdesign_ 

Words: Bella Brennan @bellarosebrennan

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