Talm Beach House by Jenn Bliss

Located in the sleepy enclave of Anna Bay in New South Wales’ Hunter Region, Talm Beach House mirrors the charm of a classic beachside dwelling. Interior designer and stylist Jenn Bliss employs a considered design approach to transform the space into a luxurious, rejuvenating and inviting haven.

Together with her husband Ryley Bliss, Jenn embraces the philosophy of slow, beachside living to create their dream coastal home. “Our inspiration for Talm was to create a space that felt highly luxurious and relaxing, but in the same breath, still comforting and family-friendly,” says Jenn.

“Our inspiration for Talm was to create a space that felt highly luxurious and relaxing, but in the same breath, still comforting and family-friendly,” says Jenn.

Designing and building the home was a true labour of love for the couple. The project spanned several years, complicated by logistical hurdles and the added challenges of building a home during a pandemic. While Jenn sees herself as the dreamer and Ryley as the lateral thinker, their combined talents resulted in a home bathed in natural light, radiating warmth and inviting calmness. It’s a place where their family and guests can savour relaxed, sun-soaked days by the ocean.

Embracing its context, Talm Beach House integrates indoor and outdoor living at every opportunity. The white cottage facade harmonises with the coastal neighbourhood, blending into an area dotted with charming oceanside cottages. Inside, an eight-metre void and floor-to-ceiling glass panels, framed by sheer curtains, flood the home with natural light and offer panoramic views. Expansive sliding doors ensure a continuous flow of sea breezes, keeping residents in touch with the beach just beyond the grassy hillside. The outdoor living areas are designed with equal care, featuring a private courtyard, an outdoor shower and a barbecue patio with a dining area – perfect for eating, relaxing and enjoying the view.

The home’s pared-back design reflects its relaxed nature, prioritising durable materials that can withstand the salt and sand.

Inside, the palette is both fresh and bright, with a focus on whites, creamy hues and warm tones. Where colour does appear, it is earthy and textured, complemented by timber stools, tables and chairs. Dark timber floorboards provide a striking contrast to the otherwise light and airy palette. These colours, tones and textures create a serene atmosphere that infuses every room, encouraging one to pause and appreciate the space.

Talm Beach House exemplifies restraint and simplicity. The furnishings are minimal and thoughtfully chosen, resulting in an open feel that remains practical. Rattan baskets and cosy throws add a touch of comfort, while soft lighting contributes to an understated elegance. The home’s pared-back design reflects its relaxed nature, prioritising durable materials that can withstand the salt and sand. Subtle touches of luxury, such as a bar area tucked under the stairs and ornate bathroom lamps, enhance the home’s refinement and charm.

The name of the house, Talm, is an Afrikaans word meaning ‘to linger in a place longer than necessary due to a reluctance to leave’.

The name of the house, Talm, is an Afrikaans word meaning ‘to linger in a place longer than necessary due to a reluctance to leave’. This sentiment perfectly captures the vision for the home: a tranquil haven for relaxed, beachside living. Here, people can unwind, rejuvenate and create lasting memories of slow, sun-drenched days where the soothing sound of waves is a constant companion.

Design by Jenn and Ryley Bliss. Interior design by Jenn Bliss. Build by Greenbuild Constructions. Landscape design by Ryley Bliss. Appliances by Fisher & Paykel.