Kate Nixon has revitalised an established homestead in country New South Wales, responding to a client desire for practical comfort and cohesive furnishings within a much loved rural estate. Kate Nixon was tasked with refreshing finishes and harmonising interiors to celebrate the Australian landscape while supporting relaxed, everyday living.
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Homestead
by Kate Nixon
Homestead
by Kate Nixon
Shortlisted: Interior Design Scheme - Asia Pacific Award
The International Design & Architecture Awards 2026
Kate Nixon introduced a strong material narrative centred on natural stone, incorporating it into the bathroom, central fireplace and kitchen to unify the home. The kitchen, reflecting the client’s passion for cooking and entertaining, became pivotal to the redesign. Kate Nixon added an island bench, substantial storage and a separate larder, while a stone wall behind the cooktop anchors the space and showcases treasured cookware passed down through generations. Tongue and groove panelled ceilings with rustic beams canopy the living area, seamlessly connecting to the open plan kitchen.
The central stone fireplace establishes the neutral palette that brings together eclectic antiques, mid century furnishings and significant artworks. Kate Nixon relocated the dining area to an intimate alcove, allowing an inherited pedestal table to take pride of place, and transformed the former dining space into a casual living zone with a large modular chaise. In the main bathroom, stone contrasts elegantly with marble slabs, wood and plaster walls.
Materials are inspired by the surrounding bushland and eucalyptus lined river, expressed through limestone tiles, polished floorboards, marble flagstone, custom stone, polished plaster, bronze hardware and iron. Large picture windows flood the interiors with light, keeping the landscape ever present.
Sustainability guided Kate Nixon throughout, with reclaimed materials, smart spatial planning and custom heirloom furniture reducing waste and resource use. The result is a holistic, grounded home that enhances wellbeing and connects seamlessly with its natural habitat.
Interior Designer: Kate Nixon
Associated: iBuild
Photography: Maree Homer
Kate Nixon has been shortlisted for Interior Design Scheme – Asia Pacific Award in The International Design & Architecture Awards 2026.
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