HOME TOUR | SALLY MCGARRY

For this home tour we take you to the second project of Sally McGarry and her husband Matt (@las_palmas_properties), a relaxed 1920s heritage cottage in Byron Bay. Their first project was a large palm springs inspired mid-century modern new build in the Byron Hinterland.

The couple and their children moved in earlier in the year and have plans to add another dwelling to the back of the property and also make some minor changes to the cottage to make the space more functional while keeping all of its heritage charm.

Although they have plans to renovate, Sally has made the home the best that it can be in the interim by bringing in meaningful and well-made pieces that the family feels a connection to. Come peak inside this beautifully curated home and read more about Sally’s approach to design, the biggest lessons she’s learnt from creating homes and the importance of staying true to your vision.

 

SHOP THE LOOK

Hemp linen lounge chair | Ceramic mug | Linen round ivory pendant — medium | Handwoven cotton cushion — grey square | Handwoven cotton cushion — stripe square | Ceramic serving bowl | Handwoven cotton mattress — stripe | Round elephant grass basket

Who lives here?

Sally McGarry - Town Planner & Project Manager
Matthew McGarry - Electrician 
Jasper McGarry - 11
Duke McGarry - 9
Sonny McGarry - 6


Home is...

For me, home means memories, it means a shared experience and it means a way of life more so than possessions or belongings and a place to rest our heads.

Home to me is my family and any place we fill with our laughter, fun and spirit.

 

My home story...

Our home is an original heritage cottage from the 1920s and with the exception of some minor changes, such as the pool area, remains as original.

I would describe the house as being friendly and understated in its beauty which makes you soften and relax with its easy laid back essence.

We moved into the property in February 2022, so it is still relatively new to us as a family home.

We have plans approved to build a second dwelling at the rear which will become our main residence.  We also plan to undertake renovations to the cottage to make the layout more functional, whilst still maintaining its heritage charm.

 

How did you approach decorating your home?

Whilst I don't adhere to a particular design philosophy, my approach to decorating is more about a slow curation of elements I feel connected to, both within the space and to those living in it.  

To me, decorating and design is the ability to create a space that is functional and considered.

 

What are some of the biggest lessons you've learnt while creating your home?

One of the biggest lessons I've learned is to stay true to my vision and not be swayed by trends. By incorporating those little elements that are integral to you are key to building a space that resonates with the soul.

Another key lesson I've learned is to source well made, durable pieces. With three little wildlings, this is very important and also a reflection of how we live in our home. Nothing can be too precious.

 

What do you love about your home?

First and foremost, we love the location. We are walking distance to the beach and town, which has allowed the children to explore their own independence. We relocated from the hinterland, so this was a real noticeable change. We feel like we have hours more time in our day.

We love the relaxed charm of the house, its natural light and leafy outlook. We are excited about unlocking the potential the house and its surroundings hold.

 

What do you enjoy about living in Byron Bay?

Byron is equal parts beautiful beaches and lush hinterland and both make it an incredible place to live and explore. We are big ocean dwellers so for us the amazing beaches are the best bit without a doubt.

Byron is also incredibly inspiring creatively with so many fashion, design, architecture and sustainability projects in the mix. There is an inspiring buzz in this town and it really does get under your skin, push you further and make you think a little more about needs, wants and perceptions. 

 


What does simple living mean to you?

To me, simple living is a mindset that incorporates a less materialistic state of living.  For our family, it is remembering to live with only what we need.

 

If you were to have a spare free morning, how would you spend it?

I would spend it surfing or enjoying the ocean in any shape or form.

 

What are three words that best describe you?

Kind, passionate and fun.

 

What book can you recommend?

My favourite inspirational book for styling and design is Natalie Walton's new book, Style.

I'm just about to start Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens, it's been highly recommended to me!

 

My 3 favourite products from Imprint House...

The striped mattresses, seagrass rugs and linen round ivory pendants

 

 Follow Sally on instagram @las_palmas_properties
Photography by Lynden Foss