The must-have features of a classic 'fixer-upper', according to guru Taliah Lowry

What’s essential in a fixer-upper? 

Taliah Lowry, of Byron Beach Abodes, explains why character and a story to tell makes for the perfect renovation project. 

Have you always been into fixer-uppers?

Pretty much. My stepdad was a carpenter and my mum a painter. The first home they renovated was a 100-year-old heritage property on a small island in Seattle.

That passion for preserving the essential character of a house and enhancing it with flourishes of luxury and contemporary design is at the heart of all my projects.

What was the first home you made over for Byron Beach Abodes?

The Cottage. It started as home for my husband Sein and I and our three boys. When that was done, we built Magnolia House on the same block of land. As soon as we moved into Magnolia House, Byron Beach Abodes was born.

What are some mistakes from that first project that you won’t repeat again?

Living in a home while renovating with three kids! And not trusting my own sense of style. I also realised that renovating can cost considerably more than starting afresh with a new build.

In The Cottage, for instance, we have a section of timber weatherboards featuring peeled-back layers of decades of original paint choices. We reused boards from the old house cladding to pay homage to the history of the old fishing cottage.

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How has the business evolved?

The business grew organically. It was never planned. What began with The Cottage is now Byron Beach Abodes, with nine bespoke luxury accommodation properties including The Villas of Byron and our latest addition, The Bower Byron Bay. Two more are being built.

What do you look for when you’re scouting for potential properties?

Character, a sense of history and a story to tell. Of course, location is crucial. You have to be close to the beach. The house must have good bones and elements that can be repurposed or restored to create those special points of interest. And we just love natural light.

You’ve spent most of your life in Byron Bay. How has it changed?

Like most coastal locations, once the secret’s out, the people come. With that comes change but it’s been for the good – more accommodation, more shops, more restaurants, more boutique businesses, more of everything. What has been retained is a respect for Mother Nature and appreciation of locals helping locals. The magic has stayed.

What’s your interior style at home?

Our home is a reflection of the many design elements and styles I love curated under one roof. Eclectic pieces repurposed, unearthed treasures, bespoke furniture, artisan rugs and homewares, metre upon metre of soft squishy linen, art and unique pieces from our travels. There has to be a muted colour palette, a mix of old and new, quality fittings and natural light.