Gina Lasker owns the floral studio Georgie Boy, so there were some key features she was looking for in a home/workspace.
‘I was specifically looking for a space where I could live and work, and being a floral studio I needed loading access, ground floor access, water sources, an office and storage!’ Gina says.
In a twist of fate, it turned out the perfect space was actually somewhere she used to work – the former Northcote studio of fellow florist Katie Marx!
‘When it came up [for sale] just as I was looking for something in 2018 I couldn’t believe it really!’ says Gina. ‘I knew it was perfect from having already spent time in it.’
The ground floor now serves as Gina’s floral studio, and the office of her partner, photographer Dan Roberts, while the upper storey has been transformed into their home. What was essentially one large, open space has been defined into liveable areas, including two bedrooms, achieved with the expertise of Dan’s retired architect mum, Glenys!
‘Our brief to Glenys was basically to give us a bedroom that fits into our space and can incorporate lots of clever storage,’ says Gina. ‘She did all of this from New Zealand with measurements from us and dodgy FaceTime calls.’
This main bedroom is insulated, contains plenty of storage space, and the floor is raised to take advantage of the windows opposite. The second bedroom is a mezzanine level located above the main bedroom (accessed via the wrapping timber staircase!) allowing space for overnight visitors.
Aesthetically the home is bright, sunny and utilitarian, reflecting a combination of Gina’s love of colour, and timber elements made by Dan. ‘We love the balance of these two things on our neutral base of white walls and concrete floors,’ says Gina. ‘If we had to distill [our style] down, we’d go for contemporary meets mid century.’
The couple say their place is still very much a work in progress. Future plans include creating a small courtyard, extending the kitchen, and better separating the work and live areas.
‘There is still plenty more to do, but for now, during a pandemic, we’re made it very liveable!’ Gina says. ‘The beauty of doing it slowly is you get to slowly figure out what is best for the space by being in it.’
