Making a case for eclecticism, this fun Sydney penthouse is colourful, charming & chic

The vision for the Dream Weaver penthouse by YSG Studio was to be an expression of its experimental, open-minded owners, and a home that refused to play into contemporary trends. As such, the interiors are a kaleidoscopic cacophony of colour and texture, almost cinematic in scale, and pulling from a vast array of inspiration. From a nod to the tonal tiles found in traditional Spanish tapas bars to a material expression of the Northern Lights, to a futuristic, 2001 A Space Odyssey vibe with a twist of Mies van der Rohe’s Barcelona Pavillion thrown in for good measure, Dream Weaver is rich and layered and full of life — which is really what all homes strive to be.

Here, there is a compelling tension created between the straightforwardness of the penthouse’s boxy construction and pared-back (but essential) glass facade and its “Pantone party” interiors, in which oversized soft furnishings, plush deep-piled rugs and swirling stone surfaces collide in unexpected harmony. And while the intriguing material layering offers a fascinating masterclass in courageous design, it also serves to demarcate the apartment’s spaces, lending depth and dimension via tactile warmth.


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The home’s interior also benefits from its Darlinghurst location and floor-to-ceiling windows that not only offer unbeatable views across Sydney Harbour but act as conduits for natural light. As a result, the colours used here, from deep blue, red and purple, to splashes of citrusy orange, bright yellow, brass and soft pink, come alive when illuminated by the antipodean sun.

Really, the charm of this home lies in its disinterest in fitting into any kind of mould. And while there is a lot going on here, it miraculously never feels too much. (Such is the skill with which those at YSG Studio have ensured that everything feels perfectly balanced.) It is also refreshing to see a home in which fun and creativity have been allowed to take centre stage — a timely reminder of the wonderful things that can happen when our spaces truly reflect who we are.

Dita Stools from Grazia & Co.

Cipria Armchair by Fernando and Humberto Campana for Edra. Brand available locally from Design 55.

Grande Soffice Sofa by Edra. Brand available locally from Design 55.

Cortina Outdoor Armchair by Gordon Guillaumier for Minotti from ECC, Volley Loungers from Tait.
Harp chairs by Rodolfo Dordoni for Roda from ECC.

28 Series Pendant Lights by Bocci from ECC.

Saarinen Womb Chair by Eero Saarinen for Knoll from Studio Italia and the 28 Series Pendant Lights by Bocci from ECC.

Press Mirror by Tim Webber from Tim Webber Design.

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