Coastal Calm: Georgina Jeffries’ Lorne Cottage

Images by Rubin Utama

This week’s Journal makes the case for a sea change as we visit interior designer Georgina Jeffries in Lorne, a surf outpost on Victoria’s Great Ocean Road. Here, the former Melbourne resident lives life at a slower pace with daughter, Dusty and partner, Troy in a thoughtfully renovated weatherboard cottage. Her signature approach, designing with an emotive and honest connection to how people live, can be seen throughout this family home; from Dusty’s artwork to Troy’s landscaping — everyone has left their imprint on this warm and welcoming space. On a bright winter’s day, over coffee & pastries, we discover the journey of Georgina’s eponymous design practice, and find out where to drop in next time we’re on the coast.

On the discovery of this coastal gem…

“My partner and I were living in Anglesea when we stumbled across this old weatherboard home in 2015. It had a pokey layout and a bare patch of grass out the back, but was so full of charm and we just knew it had to be ours. Set amongst the trees and on the surf coast of Victoria, the goal of the renovation was to open up the existing spaces to the landscape. Re-planning was key to attracting light and openness to the kitchen and family rooms, whilst ensuring the sanctuary-like feel of the home was not lost. The spaces are calm and quiet, and decorated with a mix of new and vintage pieces to create a lived-in, and honest interior. It’s a slower pace in Lorne, and the house feels like it embodies this way of living somehow.”

It’s a slower pace in Lorne, and the house feels like it embodies this way of living somehow.

Our 100% Organic Cotton Bath Sheet in Oxblood & Peach in Georgina's bathroom.

On Georgina’s bedroom…

“The main bedroom feels quite grand in proportion to the home. I wanted a space that opened out onto the garden so we woke up with a view of the trees. My teddy chair is the perfect place to read a book and the ledge behind the bed holds some of my favourite artworks in the home.”

Georgina & Troy's bed is dressed with our Heavy Linen Bed Cover in Natural & Sheet Set in Dove Grey.

On what holds significance in her home…

“At the moment I would say that Dusty's artworks are my most treasured possessions. I would frame them all if I could.”

On her style evolution...

“My style has changed over the years. I had a very minimal aesthetic starting out and feel that now I’m confident layering materials, textures and colours. I think style evolves and grows with confidence and age.”

I think style evolves and grows with confidence and age.

On her namesake interior design practice, and how it came to be...

“I grew up in a very creative family. My mum was a fashion designer and my dad had various ventures in art and fashion. After completing my Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design I jumped straight into work, and after 7 years in the industry decided to take the leap into a private practice. I met Pip McCully at Hecker Phelan and Guthrie (now Hecker Guthrie) and together we set up Wonder, a small boutique practice that delivered residential, retail, hospitality and event interiors.

“We had a ball together, took on every project that came our way, but after 3 years of complete burn out I decided to take some time out. My partner and I travelled around the west coast of Australia for 6 months in a camper trailer and it was a journey of personal discovery and a time out that I needed to renew my passion for design. I decided to move down the Victorian coast when I returned, and was super excited to start over in the industry. As soon as we settled in Lorne, everything fell into place and my practice was established.”

Georgina wears our 100% Cashmere Robe in Nutmeg & 100% Linen Pant in Cocoa.

On current projects…

“We have a wonderful mix of work. A Noosa villa renovation, located footsteps from the beach; A new-build moments away from my own home in Lorne. We are working on some great heritage homes in Melbourne alongside, a retail store, and a series of apartments.”

On her time outside of work...

“What time? Ha! Seeing my friends and family makes me happy and if I can tie it in with a gallery visit, a nice dinner or a weekend walk, my cup is full. Travel is my biggest passion and such an inspiration so I always love to have a trip on the horizon.”

Travel is my biggest passion and such an inspiration so I always love to have a trip on the horizon.

On the appeal of living in Lorne…

“It’s a pretty special place to raise a daughter. The pace here is slower, and so much time is spent outside. Our weekends are full of walks in the amazing landscape, swims, and great food with friends.”

On her favourite locals…

“Our friends own the most amazing greek restaurant in town, Ipsos and we probably spend a bit too much time there. There is a wonderful cinema in the main street and plenty of good food in Lorne. Apart from the obvious amazing beaches, bushwalks and surrounds, we do love to entertain and have everyone over to ours.”