Bringing a generational vision to life.

Created as a generational home, this Victorian homestead blends authentic period character with a warm, lived-in feel.

This expansive home, set on a long-standing family farm, was designed to become a generational residence.

The homeowner arrived with a strong sense of the Victorian character she wanted to achieve, but also the pressure of getting every detail right, because Victorian homes rely so heavily on proportion, detail, and authenticity.

With plans and a builder already in place, she still felt unsure about how to translate her distinctive style into selections that would honour the era while remaining warm and liveable. She was also navigating many decisions alone, as her husband’s demanding workload meant he couldn’t attend most meetings, leaving her without the support she hoped for during such a significant project. Certain design elements added by others, like a dropped ceiling in the kitchen, also didn’t feel true to her vision.

Our Approach

We guided her through the full selections process, bringing clarity to her ideas and gently challenging choices that didn’t align with the Victorian authenticity she was aiming for. When revisiting the dropped ceiling, we helped her articulate why it felt wrong and confirmed that removing it would better honour both the architecture and her personal taste.

The joinery throughout this home was intricate and essential to achieving the correct character. We worked closely with the cabinet maker to refine layouts, colours, and details, ensuring each space felt cohesive, elegant, and true to the period. And doesn't it look amazing in such a wonderful high ceiling space.

With steady, compassionate guidance, she moved through the process with confidence instead of overwhelm.

Together with the builder, we shaped a home that reflected her vision, honours the farm’s history, and creates a sense of pride for the entire family, which the husband and her wider family were ever so grateful for.

When we went to see the home at handover, the whole family was so happy of what they had achieved and so grateful for our guidence to create such a beautiful home. They were beaming with pride.

Since having Dahlia Designs and Interiors working with our business, we have only had positive reviews from all of our clients.

Having an experienced designer to work with they are more versed in the decisions that are required with the home construction, making us more organised with orders and the homeowner more able to visualise their end result.

Susan has made the construction process more enjoyable for both our business, suppliers and the home owners.