As Styled By - Narraweema Guesthouse
Nestled in the hinterland of the NSW Barrington Coast, Narraweema Guesthouse is a place where heritage charm meets quiet, contemporary luxury. We spoke with the owner & designer Benita Elliott about her vision for the property, the interplay between old and new, and how thoughtful design shaped both the original homestead and its newly imagined Cottage.
What was your vision for Narraweema Guesthouse, and how did you want guests to feel within the space?
From the beginning, the vision for Narraweema was to create a retreat that feels both elevated and deeply grounding. I wanted guests to arrive and immediately exhale - to feel a sense of calm, warmth, and belonging. The King Suite, a self-contained space adjoining the main house, was designed as an intimate, refined space for two, where heritage details and soft layers encourage rest and reconnection. In contrast, the Cottage offers a slightly more expansive experience for up to four adults, while still maintaining that same sense of ease. Across both spaces, the intention was always to balance luxury with comfort - nothing overly formal, just beautifully resolved and quietly inviting.
How did the character of the home influence your design direction and overall palette?
The original home really set the tone. Its period features - the proportions, the detailing, the history - naturally guided a palette that felt soft, timeless, and respectful of its past. For the King Suite, I leaned into those heritage cues with gentle neutrals, subtle textures, and pieces that feel considered but not overstated. When designing the Cottage, the goal was to complement rather than replicate. We really leaned into the height of the space, adding ornate cornicing and ceiling roses as a subtle nod to the main house, while keeping the overall feel relaxed and contemporary. The palette flows seamlessly between the two spaces, creating a cohesive experience across the property while still allowing each to have its own identity.
What drew you to the Rekindle Chloé collection, and how did these pieces fulfil both a functional and aesthetic need within the home?
The Rekindle Chloé collection felt immediately aligned with the Narraweema ethos - understated, tactile, and beautifully crafted. Functionally, the pieces bring comfort and usability. Aesthetically, they introduce softness and depth without competing with the architectural features. I was particularly drawn to Rekindle’s use of natural timbers and their refined, character-filled pieces - they sit effortlessly within the spaces, enhancing rather than dominating.
How did you approach layering materials, textures, and details to create a sense of warmth and cohesion?
Layering was essential to achieving that sense of quiet luxury. I worked with a restrained palette, then built depth through natural materials - linens, timber, stone, and soft textiles.
In both the King Suite and the Cottage, you’ll notice a consistency in how materials are used, even if the spaces themselves differ in scale. It’s those subtle repetitions - a tone, a texture, a finish - that create cohesion across the property. At the same time, each layer was chosen to invite touch and comfort, ensuring the spaces feel lived-in rather than styled.
What was your favourite room to create in the Cottage, and why?
The main living space in the Cottage was particularly special to design. It really embodies the dialogue between old and new - the high ceilings and ornate cornice give it a sense of heritage, while the furnishings and layout bring a relaxed, contemporary ease. It’s a space designed for slowing down, whether that’s a slow morning, an afternoon with a book, or an evening shared with friends. I love how it feels generous yet still intimate - it captures the essence of what Narraweema is all about.
The result is a home & guest experience defined by quiet beauty and ease - where the King Suite offers a serene, romantic retreat for two, and the Cottage extends that experience for up to four guests. Together, they form a thoughtfully composed escape, where every detail feels intentional and every stay feels effortless.
Photos provided by Narraweema Guesthouse
Featured as part of our 'As Styled By' series, celebrating the spaces touched by Rekindle Design Co. pieces.
