Niki's house tour (part 1) - a home to inpsire...

Just recently I have met a wonderfully creative lady, Niki, who has a real flair for styling and decorating. What makes Niki's home extra special is that everything has a story: cherished items passed down from family, gorgeous handmade clothes, toys and artwork made by Niki, keepsakes from her travels, and furniture she has rescued from the roadside and added her special touch to. But don't think for a moment that it is like an old dusty museum or junk shop - far from it! Niki's home is fresh and breezy and grounded by a crisp white and neutral palate. From the moment you walk in the door, inspiration greets you round every corner and with so many gorgeous little vignettes and special touches you can see that it is a house that is lived in and loved. I wanted to stay all day!

Labelled vintage suitcases provide extra storage...

A friend found this magazine holder by the side of the road, and Niki painted it her favourite kelly green...

Niki and her husband designed this big sliding door to divide the living areas from the office. The large gallery wall is unified by the monochrome palette with the odd pop of colour and contains a mix of photos, momentoes and handmade items...

More vintage finds sit high on the office shelves...

Niki dyed old doilies in shades to match her artworks and they make a gorgeous display down the dining table and look just as pretty at night when lit with tea lights...

The comfortable living area looks both stylish and comfortable thanks to the restrained use of colours, combination of textures and plenty of greenery...

Niki revamped these second hand chairs and block printed the pretty aqua cushion herself..

Niki's serene main bedroom...

This big chest of drawers in the annex off the bedroom stores all Niki's craft supplies...

A pretty and personal vignette...

The doily in the frame belonged to Niki's grandmother and looks stunning in its simplicity...

The good news if you are a fellow Melbournite, is that Niki offers a service where she will come into your home and style up a creative storm using many of the things that you already own to give your house a fresh new look with personality. If you would like to know more, contact Niki on 0423 945 672, or visit her website at stylemyhome.net.au.

Next week we will post photos from Niki's childrens' rooms - they are gorgeous!