Visit a Living Room Designed for Art, Beauty and the Grandkids Too

This Melbourne couple wanted to combine their passion for beauty and family in a sophisticated, comfortable space. They were keen for fabrics and furniture to stand up to four visiting grandchildren, and they wanted to highlight their art collection in an open and entertainment-friendly space.

Melbourne interior designers Massimo Speroni and Andrew Frost collaborated on the room's neutral palette, statement furniture and mix of design styles, injecting elegance and individuality into a previously blank space.

Considered design often starts with one hue. This design's jumping-off point was the aubergine upholstery on the bergère chair.

Speroni and Frost divided the sitting portion of the great room into two zones. They designed the smaller zone with light in mind; the custom sofa and scattered cushions invite guests to soak up the Melbourne sun.

Mirror: Boyd-Blue; table lamp: Diez; side table: Saarinen Tulip Table, Dedece


This artwork, titled "Madigan Gulf," by Judith White, represents an aerial view of a bushland river stream. The acrylic frame connects with the obelisks on the coffee table.

Italian coffee table, obelisks: supplied by Speroni and Frost


A cozy oversize rug connects both seating zones. The larger area exudes warmth and comfort. A white palette highlights the room's 10-foot high ceilings; the neutral colors make the couple's furniture and art collection the heroes of this design.

Custom four-seat sofas look elegant, but their durable fabric will stand up to the wear and tear of visiting grandchildren.

Black and white photo: Stu Morley


Patterned ottomans break up the solid, neutral tones. The fabric colors harmonize perfectly with the striking statement painting by George Raftopoulos above the sofa.

Rug: custom, The Rug Establishment; ottomans: custom


The designers mixed several styles for a brave design. The open-plan living room exercises restraint with elements of traditional, modern and eclectic design. The stunning portrait of Maria de Tassis, a reproduction of Anthony van Dyck's 17th-century original, partners perfectly with the custom dining table's Corian top and polished stainless steel base.

Chairs: Zanotta, Space Furniture


This beautiful great room has good flow and plenty of natural light, encouraging everyone to spend plenty of time here. The exquisite European oak flooring — stained in a dark brown-black — contrasts the neutral colors and brings a lush, timeless feel to the room.

Drum pendant lights: custom; accessories: Italian, supplied by Speroni and Frost

More: Browse thousands of living room photos by style

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