Design is often shaped by the details you don’t immediately notice, the layering of texture, the softness of colour and the stories behind each piece.
Geelong-based stylist and artist
Prudence Oliveri
was a natural choice for the Cottage By The Sea Charity Home, bringing a strong local perspective and working with artists from the region.
Working with a foundation of calm, coastal interiors, she approached the home with a clear intention: to enhance what was already there, rather than compete with it.
My approach was to build on what was already there — layering texture and introducing colour in a way that feels considered and cohesive.
Building on a considered foundation
“The home already had a beautiful base of coastal neutrals,” Prudence explains. “My approach was to build on that rather than compete with it.”
Texture became the primary tool for creating depth and warmth throughout the home. Through textiles, layered materials and carefully selected styling pieces, each space was designed to feel cohesive while still offering moments of interest.
Colour was introduced with restraint. Softer tones and muted pastels were chosen to sit comfortably within the neutral palette, allowing colour to move gently through the home without overwhelming it.
Vintage elements were also carefully integrated, adding a sense of history and individuality.
“Everything doesn’t need to be brand new or high-end,” says Prudence. “Collected pieces bring a lived-in warmth that’s difficult to replicate.”
Supporting local makers and meaningful design
A defining element of the home is its connection to local artists and suppliers. Each piece has been intentionally selected not only for how it looks, but for the story it represents.
“Every handmade object carries a connection to real people and craftsmanship,” Prudence explains. “That adds authenticity and character to the home.”
As a small business owner herself, supporting local creatives was a natural extension of her approach.
“A single opportunity to showcase your work to a new audience can be incredibly meaningful for a creative business.”
This layer of intention brings a deeper sense of purpose to the home — one that extends beyond design and into community.
Every handmade object carries a connection to real people and craftsmanship. That adds authenticity and character to the home.
A space designed for connection
Among the many considered spaces within the home, one stands out.
“The sunken lounge is such a special area,” Prudence says. “With the fireplace, bar and no television, it naturally becomes a place for conversation.”
The built-in seating creates a sense of intimacy, encouraging slower moments and shared experiences — whether that’s long conversations or simply spending time together.
It’s a space that reflects a broader design philosophy: homes should support how people want to live, not just how they want them to look.
A project grounded in purpose
The decision to be part of the Cottage By The Sea Charity Home project was driven by more than design.
“The work Cottage By The Sea does for children and families is incredibly important,” Prudence says. “Being part of something that supports that mission is genuinely meaningful.”
Bringing together design, generosity and community, the project represents a shared effort to create something with lasting impact, supporting Cottage By The Sea’s work with children and families.
For Prudence, it’s a reflection of what thoughtful design can achieve — not just in how a home looks and feels, but in what it can support beyond its walls.
More than just a home
In support of children’s charity, Cottage by the Sea – Boutique Homes, Warralily estate and principal & supporting partners have come together to deliver the recently launched Portofino 28 home design, paired with the stunning Alpine facade, within the award-winning Armstrong Creek community of Warralily.
100% of the proceeds from the home’s sale will go to Cottage by the Sea to assist in helping children in need.