A SISTERLY JOURNEY
Interior Designers Exploring the Australian Countryside
As two sisters and passionate interior designers, our recent road trip from Brisbane to Sydney was more than just a creative excursion; it was a heartfelt journey to honour our late mother, who passed away from cancer a year ago. In every town we visited, we sought inspiration from the landscapes, the stories of local artisans, and the memories that flooded back as we traversed this beautiful country.
Our adventure began in Brisbane, where we packed our car with essentials and headed towards Warwick. The drive was adorned with rolling hills and sweeping farmland, each view inviting us to pause and appreciate the beauty of the countryside. Warwick greeted us with its charming historical buildings where we admired the intricate details of old storefronts, which sparked ideas for our own designs. It was a bittersweet reminder of our mother’s love for antique shops, where she often found treasures and stories that enriched her life.
Next, we made our way through to Stanthorpe, known for its lush vineyards and stunning scenery.
Tenterfield was our next stop, and it did not disappoint. The town’s antique shops beckoned us in, filled with hidden gems that told tales of the past. We sifted through vintage furniture, pottery, and retro décor, each piece evoking memories of our mother’s passion for design. We found a beautiful Bendigo Pottery vase that we just had to bring home—a reminder of those cherished pieces our mother was an avid collector of. We stopped at a café for some tea and cake, where we shared stories of our childhood, remembering the times we spent with our mother, exploring local markets and boutiques.
Our first night’s stay was in Armidale, a town rich in history and culture. We checked into a beautifully renovated hotel, the kind that felt like a warm hug. The decor was charmingly eclectic, with antiques that complemented the modern touches. It was the perfect place to unwind and reflect on the day, sharing a bottle of wine at the local pub and appreciating our first day in the stunning countryside.
The next morning, we drove to beautiful Uralla, where we spent time antiquing again and chatting with local business owners. Each conversation felt like a connection to our mother, who had a way of making friends wherever she went. The warmth of the community reminded us of her spirit, and we were inspired to incorporate the local stories and handmade items into our future designs.
Our journey continued to Tamworth, where we stopped for lunch. We reflected on our travels so far, appreciating how each stop brought us closer to our mother’s memory and the lessons she imparted about savouring life’s little moments.
As we drove through the Hunter Valley, we felt an overwhelming sense of nostalgia. This was our mother’s birthplace, and the rolling vineyards held a lifetime of stories. We met up with family, sharing meals and laughter, creating new memories while reminiscing about old ones. The vineyards, with their stunning views and rich history, inspired us to consider how we might incorporate elements of this beloved place into our designs.
After a couple of days in the Hunter Valley, we made our way to Manly Beach in Sydney. This place was very dear to our mum and we have many childhood memories of holidaying here. The coastal scenery was breathtaking, and we spent our time soaking in the sun. The vibrant energy of the beach was invigorating, and we felt a sense of closure as we honoured our mother’s love for adventure and beauty.
This road trip was not only a tribute to our mother but also a chance to reconnect with each other and draw inspiration from the world around us. From the antique shops of Tenterfield to the vineyards of the Hunter Valley, every stop taught us something new about design and the importance of community.
As sisters, we learned that even in our grief, there is beauty and creativity waiting to be discovered. Our mother’s spirit will forever guide us as we continue to design spaces that reflect love, history, and the memories we cherish.
Here’s to more journeys that celebrate life, beauty, and the bonds that hold us together.