When the owners of a striking coastal property in Bingie, NSW, decided to transform it into a luxury holiday rental, they knew the interiors needed to feel every bit as inviting as the architecture was beautiful.
They had already invested in several major pieces: black sofas, tan leather sofas, dining tables, and upholstered bedheads. But while these anchored the property, they also posed a styling challenge—especially in the main living area, where the abundance of black threatened to overpower the space. The polished concrete floors, reflecting the deep tones of the seating, created an expanse of monochrome that risked feeling cold and impersonal.
The owners weren’t sure how to soften the look or what direction to take to make the space feel warm and welcoming so they called in the expert help of interior designer and stylist Silvia Rajek.
“In the second living area, which cleverly doubled as a cinema room for watching TV and films, the existing tan leather sofas sat against an orange-red timber cladding, creating a warm but a visually intense palette that needed balancing,” Silvia says.
Time constraints dictated that the styling phase would be carried out entirely remotely. For Silvia, of Silvia Rajek Interiors, this meant no tactile walk-throughs, no in-person consultations, and no opportunity to “feel” the space in real time. Instead, she relied on photographs and detailed floorplans, a digital toolkit, and a keen intuition for interpreting both the physical and emotional potential of each room.
Silvia curated each detail remotely, coordinating every purchase and delivery so the finished look could come together in one seamless installation.
“In the main living room, I focused on layering in softness, adding colour and bringing the outdoors in with artificial plants,” she says. Silvia introduced a woven rug for texture, and cushions in earthy tones to soften the strong black elements. Botanical artwork and lush greenery brought life to the space, turning it into a welcoming hub for future guests.
“The second living area and entertainment room’s bold palette was balanced with black-and-white photographic art, a textured grey rug with cool tones softening the overall space, and considered accessories, creating a space that still felt cosy but far calmer.
“An adjacent empty room lined with shelving was transformed into a library, complete with resort-style chairs, a simple coffee table, and soft lighting — the perfect spot for reading or morning coffee.”
The bedrooms were layered with rugs, cushions, throws and fresh bedding for a boutique feel, while bathrooms were elevated with plush towels, woven baskets, and spa-inspired details.
By the time Silvia stepped foot in Somnium for the first and only time, on installation day, the design vision she had crafted from a distance came to life exactly as imagined. Every cushion, artwork, and accessory found its place, transforming the property into an inviting and memorable holiday escape.
For more on Silvia Rajek Interiors
After photos: Matt Horspool, Etchd Photography | To book a stay At Somnium at Bingie
