An Eclectic Cottage

living room. Interior Style In A Sydney Cottage credit: Nathalie Krag/Taverne Agency

Who would pass up the chance to live in a fabulous cottage in a national park that's within commuting distance of one of the world's great cities? Living surely couldn't get much better...

Legend has it that Guy and Lee Mathews' weatherboard cottage, deep in a national park just north of Sydney, was built as a folly in the 1920s by a wealthy eccentric. He'd employed his team of Italian winemakers to create a fanciful dream holiday retreat and he named the cottage Running Waters after the elaborate water fountains he had installed alongside it.

He also brought to the house all sorts of other quirky features that the new owners are gradually unearthing from their coverage of neglected and overgrown lantana in the terraced garden. An archaeological dig of sorts has so far revealed a small vineyard, faux-wood furniture, several more fountains and a wildlife park of sculpted animals (kangaroo, possum et al).

An estate agent's board, complete with Lee's brilliant cow drawing, dominates the vibrant red wall of the dining area. The mismatched table and chairs were picked up at local flea markets.

'When we moved in six years ago, the garden and cottage had fallen into serious disrepair,' explains Lee. 'The house was so unloved and depressing. I just cried. It defied description.' The decision to move in with their brood of children - Ella (14), Isabella (13), Tilly (8) and Charlie (3) - was hardly rational, but the dilapidated cottage's fantastic location and rustic charms were just too much to resist. Rambling rooms, outdoor hallways, spacious wrap-around verandas and a huge garden with amazing water views were enough to convince the couple to pack up and leave the busy city centre behind (although it's still only 40 minutes away). 'Everything about the house has a holiday 'weekender' feel about it,' says Lee. 'Fortunately we get to live here full time and enjoy the daily experience. We feel as if we're permanently on holiday.'