Yellowtrace: The Tamarama home that perfectly merges New York and the Australian coastline

Nestled into the picturesque Tamarama shoreline in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, Flack Studio’s latest residential project defies the commonplace ocean-inspired interiors.

“None of that wishy-washy wabi-sabi beige that is so often seen at the beach,” says David Flack, founder of his eponymous Melbourne-based practice.

He was tapped for the job by a New York businessman through a mutual friend’s recommendation, who felt both the client and the studio had a shared appetite for risk.

The aligned vision was evident from the first meeting, with the client being charmed by the studio’s approach to materials, textures, art and overall vibe.

Engagement was the keyword from the project’s inception. An emphasis on weight and substance was paramount, which led to the home’s transformation from a bland structure to a robust, anchored space that resonates with personality.

“We took inspiration from the client’s hometown New York – its non-stop hustle and ballsy attitude,” Flack says.

The resulting interior marries the best global aesthetics, from the energy of the Big Apple to the timeless allure of Italian materials like Venetian plaster and palladiano floors.

The thoughtful curation of materials allowed each room to develop its distinct persona.

“[This home] capitalises on the best of what might seem to be opposites: the warm glow of the Australian coastline, the avant-garde impulse of New York and the sumptuousness of timeless Italian materials,” Flack says.

He lists the kitchen – a fusion of an American diner, Mexican cantina and Milanese cucina – as one of his favourite spaces.

This melting pot of inspiration ensures a home where every room, down to the terrace with breathtaking views across the Tamarama shoreline, feels meticulously designed.

The client’s audacious personality motivated an adventurous approach to curating furniture and art.

Flack Studio incorporated 34 artworks, many of which were commissioned for this project. Notable commissions include Sanné Mestrom’s onyx and bronze coffee table shaped by body parts, Rod McLeish’s neon and sculpture installation, and an enormous Dale Frank painting that marks the arrival of the main part of the house.

The daunting task of craning in furniture and artwork due to the site’s steep conditions proved to be worth it.

Flack cites the many subtle design accents found throughout as something he’s most proud of – and this is precisely what makes this home so unique.

“For example, the thin, bright-red lining woven into the wooden stair railing, living room joinery and ceiling,” he says.

“This attention to detail is continued into the powder rooms, with the walnut wrapping around the Opus marble basin and Yves Klein blue flocking inside the accessories drawer in the main bedroom robes.

Yet, for all its grandeur, the studio always retained sight of the home owner’s unique needs.

“The client has a colour vision impairment, achromatopsia, which limits the perception of colours except for blues and greens,” Flack says.

“Instead of opting for muted colours as commonly advised, jointly with the client, we decided to use colours from the entire spectrum for the interiors.”

In addition, a thoughtful selection of artworks featuring blues and green ensures the home owner’s complete immersion.

Flack Studio’s Tamarama residence is a testament to collaboration, understanding client needs, and daring to venture beyond the conventional.

In every accent, of which there are many, this home exudes personality and character, standing as a beacon of fearless, individual expression.