Bertie Coad’s home is a rental, but that hasn’t stopped the interior stylist from making it her own.
Bertie and her partner Alessandro were attracted to the Newport, Melbourne property for its character, and generous spaces, well suited to entertaining. ‘We love to host and this is such a fantastic space for this,’ she says.
These elements were enough to overcome some of the less desirable assets in the property — namely the grey carpet and white walls. ‘If I wasn’t renting, almost every wall would be painted. Imagine burgundy, terracotta, cream and cobalt!’
Bertie grew up watching her father collect and source vintage furniture and wares, so she channelled this same energy into styling her own home. ‘I just buy what I love, even if it doesn’t match the other pieces that I love,’ she says.
The living room epitomises her style, which Bertie describes as loud, fun, and creative. Memorabilia lines the walls sourced far and wide from Facebook Marketplace, eBay, vintage bazaars, antique stores, op shops, auctions, garage sales, and markets
Glass is a key material of the home, as seen across the dining table, side tables, and decorative pieces displayed on living room shelves. Bertie’s favourite pieces are the 1930s handmade French glass tulips, and her growing collection of Murano handblown glass boots. ‘I have three and won’t stop until I have 100!’
Personal art adds a sentimental and unique touch, including works made by Alessandro and even a 1963 painting by Mirka Mora, who was a friend of Bertie’s father.
The home is busy, full of life, and a perfect reflection of the creative couple who live here!
