If you've been on this journey with us for a while, you know we have a soft spot for 'Modern Mediterranean' style. Despite our roots being firmly planted in Australia, we can't help but be captivated by the architectural beauty, colours, and exquisite materials of the Mediterranean region. Our love affair with this look started way back at House 6, where Lana brought a slice of Santorini to Sydney. Since then, we've sprinkled a bit of Med magic in our projects, from our Hinterland Hideaway, House 10, to the Spanish flair of House 15, our Modern Mallorca gem.

So, imagine our excitement when one of our own students, Nicola Frayling, brings a deadset AMAZING Three Birds-inspired home to life, as close to the Mediterranean region as we’ll ever renovate!

In the stunning western Algarve, Portugal, Nicola embarked on a three-year journey to transform her family home of 14 years into a “Mediterranean home with a modern twist”. Her vision? To create a haven of open-plan living, where indoor and outdoor spaces flow seamlessly - the perfect abode for her family, including her husband and two teenage boys.

As a devoted student of our Reno School, Styling School, and a proud Fourth Bird, Nicola has shared her breathtaking home with us, and we couldn't be more thrilled to showcase it! Nicola told us all about her renovation…

“Our vision for the house was to infuse it with a “modern Mediterranean” aesthetic. We aimed to capture the traditional, elegant, and timeless essence of a Mediterranean home with a modern twist.”

— Nicola Frayling

AN EMPHASIS ON OPEN-PLAN

Our vision for the house was to infuse it with a "modern Mediterranean" aesthetic. We aimed to capture the traditional, elegant, and timeless essence of a Mediterranean home with a modern twist. A paramount aspect of our design was the emphasis on open plan living and a space that seamlessly connects to an outdoor kitchen and living area, fostering functionality and inclusivity. To instill a sense of tradition, we used natural stone framing for all windows and doors on the facade, utilized terracotta roof tiles, and incorporated arches both indoors and outdoors to define spaces and soften the overall look. The large curved staircase further adds a touch mediterranean living to the home.

THE HEART OF THE HOME

My favourite space within our home is the outdoor kitchen. This area is perfect for entertaining... its covered structure provides a welcome respite from the sun while still allowing for outdoor enjoyment. It overlooks the swimming pool making the space very sociable, creating a blend of functionality and leisure.

NOT OUR FIRST RENO RODEO

We have a property development company over in Portugal so we have done many renovations which is great as we have learnt so much along the way that we were able to bring to this project.

Impressed by the style of Three Birds images saved on Pinterest, I delved deeper into their approach. Convinced of its value, I made the decision to enrol in the Reno School, seeing it as a beneficial investment for both our property development company and our personal residence.

A COMMUNITY OF LIKE-MINDED PEOPLE

One of the most valuable lessons I've learned is the huge importance of creating and sticking to your vision board. In a world filled with an abundance of beautiful furniture and ideas, it's incredibly easy to get sidetracked. Without consciously sticking to your vision board, there's a risk of unintentionally creating a disjointed look that lacks cohesion. The commitment to your vision board ensures a harmonious and flowing aesthetic that truly reflects your intended style.

One of the main things I loved about Reno School was the amazing Facebook group. The opportunity to seek advice and opinions from a community of like-minded people and the Three Birds themselves proved to be hugely valuable. Whenever I found myself doubting my choices, I would ask advice from the group. Their insights not only provided reassurance but also offered alternative ideas that helped me navigate through moments of uncertainty.