Nestled among the rolling vineyards of the Shoalhaven area on the NSW South Coast, former Block contestants Rachel and Ryan Carr have transformed a tired rural property into a luxurious holiday retreat that feels like a slice of Italy. Surrounded by the natural beauty of gum trees and rural views, the property is designed to transport guests to the heart of Tuscany, blending the charm of the Australian landscape with the elegance and luxury of Italian design.
Built by the couple through their company, R&R Design Co., the renovation breathes new life into the home, redefining the experience to deliver a renewed blend of comfort and opulence. “We wanted to create the perfect hybrid between a home and a luxury hotel, with a contemporary Italian feel,” Rachel explains. What once was an outdated property is now a retreat where every detail speaks of indulgence and sophistication. “The goal was to make our guests feel like they’re stepping into something spectacular, with all the comforts of home and the elegance of a high-end retreat,” she added.
Creating a luxury holiday home isn’t just about lavish finishes; it’s about crafting an experience that leaves a lasting impression on guests. Rachel and Ryan’s approach goes beyond aesthetics – they’ve focused on how design choices elevate the experience for guests. From the natural warmth of the preserved blonde brick exterior, which bridges old-world charm with modern design, to the vibrant yet calming interior palette, these thoughtful design choices work to evoke a sense of escape and tranquillity throughout.
Every detail – from the materials to the colour palette – needed to work in harmony to ensure a sense of continuity throughout the home. “We wanted to make sure guests feel like they’re stepping into a world apart, where everything flows effortlessly from one room to the next, creating a sense of peace and relaxation,” Rachel notes. “It’s not just about luxury for its own sake but creating an environment that invites guests to unwind, reconnect, and fully enjoy the space.”
One standout feature of the transformation is the decision to preserve the original brick exterior. “We fell in love with the blonde brick and knew it was something we had to keep,” says Ryan. “It ties the whole design together, bridging the old with the new.” The brick’s natural warmth perfectly complements the Italian villa aesthetic, evoking the rustic charm of Mediterranean homes while maintaining a modern edge.
The interiors reflect bold and vibrant design choices in line with a modern Italian aesthetic. The extensive use of stone and tiles enhance a timeless yet contemporary feel within the space, while bedrooms are infused with character through striking colours including pinks, greens, blues, and yellows, and the living spaces maintain a moody sophistication through rich neutrals. “We wanted the bedrooms to really pop with personality, but the living areas needed to feel refined and calming,” Rachel explains. “The mix of colours throughout the house adds character without disrupting the flow.”
With large windows and glass doors framing much of Cinque House, Rachel and Ryan sought window treatments that would elevate the overall aesthetic without sacrificing practicality. “The Luxaflex sheers, curtains, and blockout blinds gave us everything we were looking for,” says Rachel. “They bring a sense of elegance to the rooms while offering privacy and comfort for our guests.”
Automated blockout blinds in the rich shade of Ginger Snap, add an extra level of luxury in key areas like the bedrooms, allowing guests to easily control light and privacy. Meanwhile, in the exterior pool area, the awning in striking black and white offers functional sun protection while seamlessly integrating with the outdoor living space.
The breakfast nook is one of their favourite spaces in the house as it’s bathed in beautiful natural light throughout the day. Whether starting the day with a cup of coffee or ending it with a glass of wine, the nook provides a serene retreat that perfectly captures the essence of the home. “There’s something magical about the way the light falls in that space at all times of the day,” Ryan explains. “It’s the perfect spot to unwind.”
Rachel and Ryan have once again demonstrated their ability to deliver high-end, thoughtfully designed spaces. This luxury holiday rental combines the best of Italian-inspired style with the comforts of home, offering guests an unforgettable experience of luxury and relaxation. “Every little detail was planned meticulously,” Ryan says. “We wanted this place to be a true masterpiece, and we have achieved that.”
See the before and after on Home Beautiful
