In Heidelberg Heights, a 1940s California bungalow at 390 Waterdale Road has been transformed by interior stylist Kelly Thompson, who single-handedly renovated the property before listing it for sale. Thompson, who also works as an illustrator, discovered the weatherboard home in a stark, white state, seeing potential beneath its lackluster exterior.
The property’s original elements, including stained glass windows and art deco ceilings in the original section, provided a foundation for Thompson’s vision. She emphasized the home’s sturdy bones, noting that a fresh coat of paint could address its initial blandness. Baltic pine floors and a bay window further complemented her efforts to infuse character into the space.
Thompson’s renovation began with strategic use of color. Soft blue tones now permeate much of the interior, creating a cohesive and calming atmosphere. Ochre accents were added to the office and spare room, introducing warmth and visual balance. “The house unintentionally became quite blue,” Thompson explained. “Once I painted the hallway, I found the soft blues so relaxing they ended up unfolding into other rooms in various tones.”
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Beyond the interior, Thompson focused on the garden, removing layers of old concrete and gravel to create a lush outdoor space. The covered alfresco deck, now framed by self-landscaped greenery, serves as a gathering spot for family and friends during warmer evenings. “I like having plenty of greenery around me and not sitting in my neighbour’s back pocket,” Thompson said, reflecting her preference for a private, natural setting.
Over time, the home evolved through countless hours of manual labor. Thompson described the process as an “ever-evolving labour of love,” with the primary change being the shift from a white, barren space to one filled with bold color and cultivated foliage. “I’ve chipped away a lot over time; the main change is that it’s all colourful now instead of white, and it has a lush garden instead of concrete and weeds!” she added.
Now ready for a new owner, the renovated bungalow combines mid-century features with Thompson’s distinctive aesthetic. Listed by Nelson Alexander Ivanhoe, the property sits at 390 Waterdale Road, Heidelberg Heights, VIC, 3081.
