Kilmory House by Jillian Dinkel

Kilmory House by interior design studio Jillian Dinkel is set within a grand Arts and Crafts estate in Sydney’s Point Piper, a space that blends historic charm with modern design, formal grandeur with casual comfort and elegance with functionality.

Acquired as a second residence to support the owners’ social and creative endeavours, the design honours the home’s original character while offering rooms to entertain, create and relax. “The use of space was reconsidered entirely to align with the homeowners’ desire to entertain on a grander scale while also maintaining space for private retreat,” reveals principal and creative director Jillian Dinkel.

Materiality plays a pivotal role in the project, as it honours the home’s history while introducing layers of depth and drama.

The studio’s thoughtful approach reimagined the dwelling’s original living room as a formal dining area, creating an ideal setting for both intimate dinners and large gatherings, complemented by a professional kitchen and custom wine cellar. Former bedrooms have been repurposed as a private Pilates studio, a children’s art room and a dedicated play area. Through a seamless flow between private and entertaining spaces, the residence’s open layout “balances practicality with elegance and reflects the family’s dynamic lifestyle,” says Dinkel.

Materiality plays a pivotal role in the project, as it honours the home’s history while introducing layers of depth and drama. A curated palette of solid oak, natural stone and rich metal finishes speaks to the craftsmanship of the original residence, while a ‘Draculean’ colour scheme – deep burgundy, inky blues and cool steel – imbues the interiors with moody intensity, inspired by the atmospheric beauty of English heritage homes.

Enlivened by lush gardens designed by Myles Baldwin Design, Kilmory House offers an idyllic retreat from the demands of daily life and a vibrant setting for moments of celebration.

Original details are juxtaposed with contemporary design elements, unexpected features and whimsical accents, showcasing Dinkel’s compositional prowess – shaped by her background in fashion. Moments of artistic expression respect the home’s Arts and Crafts heritage, with curated furniture, art and decor adding layers of richness and visual intrigue. This approach is exemplified in the main lounge, where a Tufty-Time sofa by Patricia Urquiola for B&B Italia sits alongside an iconic Vitra Akari floor lamp by Isamu Noguchi and a Mazer side table by Australian maker Tom Fereday, all grounded by a custom silk and wool rug designed by Jillian Dinkel.

Enlivened by lush gardens designed by Myles Baldwin Design, Kilmory House offers an idyllic retreat from the demands of daily life and a vibrant setting for moments of celebration. Effortlessly luxurious, practical and deeply personal, “the project embodies the essence of our work – honouring a home’s storied past while seamlessly reflecting our clients’ unique story and lifestyle,” says Dinkel. For the busy, creative clients, the design extends beyond aesthetics. “It’s a thoughtful journey that bridges the history of the home with the possibilities of their future.”

Interior design by Jillian Dinkel. Build by Venari Projects. Landscape design by Myles Baldwin Design.