Insights from our featured designer Samantha Milne
Meet Our Featured Designer: Samantha Milne
Imagine growing up surrounded by the hum of construction and the scent of freshly cut wood. For Samantha, this was the norm. "My dad was a builder and a draftsman," she reminisces. "I spent countless hours on his drawing board, sketching out floor plans, dreaming up spaces." This early exposure naturally led her to architecture. But it wasn’t the vast structures that captivated her; it was the intimate, detailed interiors.
"After a while working in an office, I realised my heart lay in the intricate details of interior design," she says with a smile. Pursuing further studies and starting her own design studio, she has never looked back. "Creating spaces that are both beautiful and functional is what I live for," she shares. "A well-designed space enhances the quality of life for its inhabitants."
Introducing Haus 3:
Haven Gooseneck Pullout Mixer - Gun Metal Brushed
Her inspiration started with Walnut cabinetry. "I’ve always loved the rich, warm tones of Walnut," she notes. "It brings a timeless elegance that feels both sophisticated and inviting." Complementing this were carefully chosen finishes that enhanced the natural beauty of the wood, creating a cohesive and stylish environment.
The Charm of Gun Metal Brushed Tapware:
Choosing Gun Metal Brushed tapware was a deliberate decision. "I wanted to introduce darker elements that would create a striking contrast with the Walnut and white cabinetry," she explains. "The deep, rich tones of the tapware complemented the warm hues of the Walnut while adding a modern edge. It’s a timeless finish that ensures a sophisticated and enduring appeal."
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The Heart of the Home: The Kitchen
"The kitchen is the heart of any home," says Samantha. For Haus 3, she opted for a blend of functionality, affordability, and visual appeal. "Combining Walnut cabinetry with white cabinets introduced both warmth and brightness," she explains. "The Laminex benchtop was a practical choice that provided visual interest while managing costs."
The Gun Metal Brushed tapware added a modern and sophisticated touch to the kitchen's design. "Against the Walnut and white cabinetry, the dark finish created a stylish contrast that enhanced the kitchen's contemporary look," she says. "It’s sleek, sophisticated, and simply stunning.:
A Sanctuary: The Bathroom
Haven Wall Mixer and Tap - Gun Metal Brushed
The bathroom in Haus 3 was designed to be a blend of timeless style and functional design. "I aimed to create a space that seamlessly integrates into daily life while offering a luxurious feel," she shares. The Gun Metal Brushed tapware took centre stage here. "It’s the hero of the bathroom, perfectly complementing the other finishes."
In the main bathroom, she chose Walnut cabinetry paired with grey terrazzo floor and wall tiles. "This combination worked beautifully with the Gun Metal tapware," she notes. For the ensuite, she opted for a black woodmat vanity and added a dark grey kit kat tile behind it, maintaining the terrazzo floor tile for a consistent look.
Designer’s Insight:
Reflecting on the project, Samantha shares her favourite part: "Seeing the joinery and tapware installed. Watching my vision come to life and seeing all the elements come together is incredibly rewarding."
Her advice for homeowners considering Gun Metal Brushed tapware? "Just do it! It's a timeless choice that adds contrast to lighter palettes or blends well with darker homes. In my honest opinion, Matte Black is out and Gun Metal is in!"
Looking forward, she’s excited about her next project: "We’ve just settled on renovating a 100-year-old home. It’s quite small and comes with many challenges, but I’m so excited to get started!"
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Additional Tips and Advice:
To those embarking on a renovation journey, Samantha offers some sage advice: "Plan well. Start with a clear vision and detailed plan. Know your budget, timeline, and design goals before beginning. Hiring quality trades with good reviews is crucial. If it’s within your budget, an interior designer can save you both time and money. Prioritise what you need versus what you want and think about what will increase resale value."
When choosing tapware and fixtures, she emphasises the importance of seeing u samples in person. "Each brand’s colours differ slightly, and seeing samples in person is a must," she advises. "And always research quality. Don’t just go for the cheapest or trendiest. Look for quality products with good warranties."
Ready to transform your space with timeless Gun Metal Brushed tapware? Visit our website to explore our range or contact us for more design inspiration!
Book a consultation with Samantha via her webpage and follow her on instagram