Harkaway Residence banner

Classic European with a Modern Twist

A home with a terrace or courtyard accessible from almost every direction.

A curated interior that celebrates both the old and the new world.

The result is a glamorous yet livable home fit for the love of entertaining the European way.

Tuscan aesthetic and indoor-outdoor connections

Designed by architect Louis Chiodo about 10 years ago, this house was built by another family. Our client snapped it up in 2019. Our client engaged us to deliver an entirely new scheme that included swathes of custom furniture to make the most of the generous floor plan and soaring ceilings.

To fill the height, we sourced dramatic decorative lighting which graces the entrance foyer. This 4 bedroom home has become an entertaining magnet for hosting family events. Wedded to the gardens, there’s a resort-like feel complete with a tennis court, professional poker table, basketball court and gym. With the pool deck and cabana, there’s no need to go on vacation. It’s all right here.

The timely project coincided with our Creative Director and founder Penny del Castillo’s seasonal visit to the trade show in Paris where she was exposed to suppliers and artisans from around the world. We made changes with beautiful furniture and decoration while still retaining its original features and keeping its soul intact.

Photography: Timothy Kaye

Products used in
Harkaway Residence

About the
Professional

Penny Del Castillo is the creative mind behind Studio Del Castillo, a multi-disciplinary, award-winning interior design studio with offices in Melbourne and Noosa.

Penny draws inspiration from eclectic cultures throughout the world, while meticulously maintaining the balance between style and function. This allows Penny and her team to create environments tailored to the multifaceted needs of each client.

For the past twenty years, Penny del Castillo—backed by her team of daring creatives and innovative thinkers—has systematically created unconventional solutions to achieve one-of-a-kind results. Together, they have established a whole host of uniquely unforgettable luxury residences, hotels, restaurants, wellness retreats, and spas.

“We are passionate about creating functional spaces that reflect and enhance the lives of those fortunate enough to live, work, and grow within them,” says del Castillo.

“Every opportunity and every challenge allow us, as designers, to fulfil the brief for clients—to make that dream come true. A lot of the time, it’s [just] problem-solving.”

“I hear [the phrase] ‘it can’t be done,’ a lot. But I’ve spent over two decades standing up for clients to make sure they get exactly what they want.”

Despite setbacks, contrary opinions, and seemingly insurmountable odds, del Castillo and her team have consistently produced world-class results.

“When we ask the unexpected questions,” she explains, “infinite possibilities reveal themselves.”