Symphony of Craftsmanship – Lucky Charm by YSG

In the vibrant coastal suburb of Sydney’s Coogee, Lucky Charm by YSG sees a cold townhouse remarkably transformed into a warm and textured sanctuary. Combining the clients’ experiences and interests, the interiors are rich and personal, harmonising with and reflecting the lifestyle of those who call the spaces home.

YSG, renowned for its richly layered designs, was approached by a family who recently relocated from the West Coast of America to breathe life into their newly built home. Inspired by the functional simplicity of Japanese design and Frank Lloyd Wright’s integration of timber furniture and joinery, the studio embarked on a conceptual journey to marry these influences with its client’s vision. “With their deep appreciation for Japanese crafts and art nouveau combined with a love of reading plus music and dancing, we created a Frank Lloyd Wright meets experimental conservatorium haven for our clients where the vinyl collection spins on rotation whenever the piano lid’s closed,” says Yasmine Saleh Ghoniem, Founder of YSG.

Inspired by the functional simplicity of Japanese design and Frank Lloyd Wright’s integration of timber furniture, the studio embarked on a conceptual journey to marry these influences with their client’s vision.

Layering became the guiding principle, with handcrafted pieces and rich hues adding depth and tactile appeal to the formerly stark and two-dimensional shell. Custom joinery, crafted from varied timber species, along with woven elements like rattan and wicker were carefully integrated to create a tactile sanctuary. Gem-toned rugs and upholstery, as well as an array of ceramic pieces, brought additional layers of colour and texture.

Key design elements include custom shelving and storage units that line the walls of several rooms, displaying esoteric pieces and treasured books. These units, adorned with intricate drawer pulls, feature tactile elements such as cork faces and a custom shoji screen covered in patterned wallpaper that conceals the television. The eye is encouraged to explore and wander, discovering whimsical vintage wall sconces and sculptural pieces that seem to sprout from the floors.

Layering became the guiding principle, with handcrafted pieces and rich hues adding depth and tactile appeal to the formerly cold, white and two-dimensional shell.

The selection of furniture, art, fittings and finishes was driven by the client’s appreciation for the artist’s touch and a love for unique pieces. The dining table, repurposed from their original table imported from America and transformed in Victoria by Hugh McCarthy, became a showpiece with its sculptural pedestal planes. The grand piano, also belonging to the clients, inspired the concept of musical notes floating throughout the space, reflected in the placement of sconces and ceramics. Window treatments in shades of tangerine and lilac were carefully designed to soften the intense sunlight filtering through and add an ethereal touch.

The project also boasts several standout custom elements. A nouveau-inspired stained glass window, commissioned and created in the Blue Mountains, depicts gum tree branches with wattle among the leaves, representing the couple’s new Australian roots. Its emerald tones are enhanced by the rich olive shade of the painted timber fence behind it. A bespoke rug in the lounge area custom designed by YSG and crafted by Tappeti, inspired by art nouveau but without overt floral flourishes, adds an artistic touch while maintaining a contemporary charm. In the piano room, a stunning joinery unit with an integrated lounge provides a tranquil spot to unwind while listening to music.

With a modest footprint of 188 square metres, the scale was carefully considered to avoid cluttering the space with oversized furniture. Instead, practical pieces were chosen to serve dual purposes, adding sculptural elements and maintaining a sense of openness. A Floris Wubben ceramic stool with a vibrant orange glaze, a woven wicker floor lamp and a transparent bottle green glass coffee table all contribute to the eclectic and artistic ambience.

In Lucky Charm, YSG has created a unique and enchanting haven in Coogee. By skilfully blending its clients’ appreciation for art and crafts with their love for reading, music and Japanese design principles, the designers have transformed a once soulless townhouse into a sanctuary of warmth, texture and inspiration.