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Karen Akers‘ perfectly appointed little workers cottage in McMahons Point Sydney is TINY. It is, however, a gorgeous and perfectly functional little house (and workspace too!) for Karen and her much-loved pup Oscar (a lhasa apso – shih tzu cross). Altogether, Karen has lived here for 12 years.
Both in her professional life and in her own home, Karen is drawn to bold colour, pattern, eclectic details, antiques and artefacts from Asia and the Middle East. Being an interior designer, she finds herself exposed to a constant stream of beautiful things (fabrics, art, furniture items, rugs and more!). The antique Chinese cabinet in her study is a much treasured piece – ‘I love chinoiserie detail and the simple lines of Chinese furniture’ she explains.
Karen is also a passionate art collector, and is particularly fond of painted portraits. ‘I admit to being slightly obsessed with art’ the designer says. ‘I feel right at home having it envelope me, adding it to every surface possible.’
Though her house is small in size, Karen explains that living in an older style home has allowed her to layer the rooms heavily with colour and texture, creating warmth and personality. ‘The house is very eclectic and boutique, a style that I adore’ she says. ‘I feel very attached to my home & can’t ever imagine relocating!’.
