Lina Strati, co-owner and creative director of Aesthetic Developments, shares the inspiration and process behind the Mediterranean-influenced Fairview Project. From material selection to the seamless indoor-outdoor flow, discover how they transformed their vision into a serene and timeless retreat.
What inspired the Mediterranean design for the Fairview Project?
The modern Mediterranean vision for the Fairview Project was inspired by our unforgettable honeymoon in the Mediterranean. We aimed to create a 'home away from home escape' with elements like Valo Travertine Pavers and Vari Quartz Mesh Cobbles with Venetian plaster to evoke a serene, coastal atmosphere. The interplay of smooth and bold lines further influenced our design. Collaborating with brands like Artisan Exterior for natural stone and complemented with thoughtful lighting pieces from Lighting Collective allowed us to achieve a cohesive, calming ambiance reminiscent of sun-soaked coastal escape.
How did you envision the indoor-outdoor flow of the home?
Aesthetic Development aimed to create a seamless connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces. We chose a neutral colour palette that flows seamlessly between the interior and exterior, visually connecting the two spaces. Soft tones in the upholstery, flooring, and finishes create a calm, unified feel, while framed sightlines allow the outdoor scenery to be visible from inside. This design approach makes the outdoors feel like a natural extension of the home, enhancing the overall sense of continuity.
We envisioned this flow through the careful selection of materials, such as the gorgeous Valo Travertine Pavers for instance that we sourced via Artisan Exterior. We’ve used this stone throughout the outdoor areas and carried it through to the bathrooms, ensuring that the materials are interconnected and maintain a consistent, harmonious flow throughout the home.
What factors influenced your selection of Artisan Exterior products for the project, and how did they align with your design vision?
The Artisan Exterior products were a natural fit for our Mediterranean design brief, offering a premium range of natural materials that aligned perfectly with our vision. I was immediately drawn to the Vari Quartz Mesh Cobblestone, Valo Travertine Pavers, and Chateau Organic Stone Wall Cladding – these elements were non-negotiables in the design of The Fairview. It’s the use of these beautiful, organic materials that truly brought our mood board to life and helped us create the desired atmosphere for each space.
Could you share your experience working with Artisan Exterior throughout the selection, sampling, and order fulfilment processes?
Our experience with Artisan Exterior has been exceptional from start to finish. From the moment I stepped into their showroom in Artarmon, I was warmly welcomed by Daniel and the team, who made the entire process enjoyable. They have a unique ability to make you feel like part of their family. Their expertise and prompt communication were invaluable throughout, and Kathie was equally fantastic—always going above and beyond. Even on her days off, she’d reach out to ensure our order was on track, and if any challenges arose, the team was quick to assist and find solutions, making the entire process smooth and stress-free.
How did natural stone contribute to the project's varied textures and enhance the home's aesthetic?
Natural stone played a key role in bringing depth and texture to the project, enhancing the home's overall aesthetic in a way that feels both timeless and organic. Each stone, from the Valo Travertine Pavers to the Vari Quartz Mesh Cobblestones and Chateau Organic Stone Wall Cladding, has its own unique character, adding warmth and visual interest to the spaces. The natural variations in colour and texture create a sense of authenticity, while also grounding the design in nature. This use of stone helps to create a rich, tactile experience that flows throughout the home, elevating the overall atmosphere and making each room feel connected to the outdoors.
How did you approach the use of natural stone materials in both interior and exterior spaces to create a cohesive design throughout the Fairview Project?
For The Fairview Project, our approach to using natural stone was all about creating a seamless connection between the interior and exterior spaces. We carefully selected stones that could work harmoniously across both areas, ensuring that the materials felt cohesive and natural. The Valo Travertine Pavers, Vari Quartz Mesh Cobblestone, and Chateau Organic Stone Wall Cladding were key choices that we carried throughout the design. We used Valo Travertine Pavers for the outdoor paving, which we then brought into the bathrooms to create a consistent flow. Similarly, the Vari Quartz Mesh Cobblestone was incorporated into the driveway and seamlessly integrated with the bluestone steppers used throughout the landscaping. This continuity of materials helps to blur the lines between indoors and outdoors, reinforcing the Mediterranean-inspired feel we were aiming for and creating a sense of calm, unified elegance throughout the home.
How has winning the MBA award impacted your perception of the Fairview Project and its significance within your portfolio?
Winning a MBA Award has meant the world to us—not because of the shiny plaque on our wall, but because it acknowledges the hard work, passion, and dedication that everyone involved in the project poured into it. While it doesn’t define the project, it certainly provides a sense of validation for all the effort we’ve put in. The industry is full of extraordinary talent, with so many incredible builders and designers, so to be recognised for our work is truly meaningful. It’s a reminder that what we do resonates, and that’s incredibly rewarding.
