Patchwork House: Decus Interiors Creates a Chameleon Home in Sydney’s Vaucluse.

From “80s Don Johnson/Miami Vice meets Gold Coast Barbie Dreamhouse” to sophisticated multi-generational residence, this striking transformation in Sydney’s affluent Vaucluse is pretty spesh. The team at Decus, led by founder Alexandra Donohoe Church, has woven together diverse design influences with a signature rebellious spirit to create a space that flows between intimate pockets and expansive volumes. Following architectural alterations by KA Design Studio that added an extra level, the original minimalist box-like property now stands as a three-level residence with views across Vaucluse and Watson’s Bay.

“We’re polyamorous with design influences,” says Alexandra with a signature cheeky smile, explaining why the project is named ‘Patchwork House’. Drawing on Brazilian and Mexican architectural screening to carve intimate zones within the grand, minimalist shell, the design team also introduced rich burgundy, ink, terracotta and mauve as playful nods to the home’s original 80s vibe. These elements are skilfully interwoven with Decus’ layered approach to furniture, art, styling and décor.

Contemporary Classicism with an Attitude: Monsieur G House in Bellevue Hill by Decus.

Decus' design scheme for Monsieur G speaks to a character reflecting the young couple's identity—"social, fashion-forward and well-travelled," explains Alexandra Donohoe Church.

The journey begins at a striking central cupola—a double-height circular volume flooded with dancing natural light that serves as the home’s central axis. “The cupola is a space for special events, that feeds movement into the adjacent library, living spaces and up the sweeping staircase,” Alexandra explains. Beyond, a sculpted 20-seat dining table and oak-lined kitchen with a bespoke gouge bronze rangehood offers vibrant entertaining space against lush garden views.

An elevated lounge area features a ribbed ceiling and a custom tiered sofa with undulating lines that soften the formal geometry, while an arched opening lined with Flemish glass connects to an intimate library with full-height bookshelves and a hidden stairwell to the home’s private lower level. “There’s a sense of push/pull, compression/expansion, or rhythm and tempo in the layout, with spaces to wrap you in an embrace and others to free you,” reflects Alexandra.

Below, a horseshoe-shaped wine cellar anchors a generous rumpus space complemented by a pool table and ping-pong table, leading through to a kitchen and expansive outdoor terrace. Guest quarters, a gym, a sauna and a cinema room complete this level—“a place to party, party, party,” as Alexandra puts it while accommodating three generations under one roof.

Studio Doherty's South Yarra House Celebrates Mindful Design.

When Studio Doherty took on this South Yarra project, what began as a decorative refresh of a 1930s home evolved into a much more comprehensive project.

Ascending the stone-lined stairs from the central cupola, the home’s upper level accommodates the family’s primary bedrooms. A generous main suite swathed in timber opens onto a north-facing terrace with bay views, while the children’s rooms—each with its own ensuite—feature bespoke wardrobes and built-in window seats.

Throughout, Decus has layered conspicuous texture and detail: figured natural stone, polished plaster walls, hand-trowelled accents and European oak floors create a sensory landscape elevated by changing plays of light. The studio collaborated with numerous Australian makers to bring their bespoke designs to life, including custom banquettes, bedheads, and an entry bench crafted by Atelier Furniture.

“The ethos is laidback but not lazy,” Alexandra explains, capturing the balance of effortless sophistication and meticulous attention to detail that defines this project. Patchwork House balances liveliness and grace by embracing a private, inward-looking tone, delivering an intricate portrait of its clients. “It’s a beautiful stage for living, executed with playfulness and defiance—a party house and an introvert’s paradise,” Alexandra concludes.

A Spirited Home in Melbourne's Middle Park with Killer Bay Views.

This Middle Park renovation features ambitious architectural elements, including a sculptural marble kitchen and carefully positioned living spaces that maximise bay views.

[Images courtesy of Decus. Editorial styling by Joseph Gardner. Photography by Anson Smart.]