Designer in Profile | Gazy & Bray
We spoke with Gazy & Bray about their approach to creating interiors that feel layered, considered and full of personality. Set within an original Darlinghurst terrace, the home balances heritage character with contemporary design, bringing together rich textures, sculptural forms, bold colour and carefully considered pieces,. Gazy & Bray share their approach to creating spaces that feel personal, inviting and designed for modern living.
Photography: Jas Higgins
Tell us about Gazy & Bray and what you do.
Designers, Business Partners & Best Friends.
We're Karina Gazy and Paige Robson-Bray the creative duo behind Gazy and Bray, a Sydney based interiors studio where no two projects are the same.
Working closely with our clients to design spaces that reflect their unique way of life, personality and that they can proudly share with their loved ones. We are driven by the belief that homes are to be lived in and loved in, and to love being in.
With a passion for transitional design, we focus on building interest and creating anticipation as you move through the home. Opting to design in a way that feels collected and intriguing, we share a passion for furnishing homes with a layered approach. Contrasting shapes, materials, finishes, colour and pattern.
A hallway is not complete without a statement pendant or incredible artwork to gasp at and be in awe of every day of your life. The details matter, and this is where we work closely to tie each piece together to form the story of you, for your home.
Can you walk us through how this project first came to be and what inspired the overall design direction?
Palmer Terrace first made its way into our creative psyche over a casual coffee catch up with an old colleague 18 months ago.
With the knowledge that an original 1880's Terrace in Darlinghurst was begging to be given a second life - with fixtures, finishes and furnishings that it truly deserved, we simply could not stop thinking & talking about it.
Our google search engine & Pinterest accounts felt the enthusiasm first hand.
When we were approached to undertake the transformation, the project felt very much aligned with our clients sharing in our vision - a celebration of the homes history & the introduction of modern luxuries.
What were the key goals of your design and styling choices for this property, and how did you ensure each selection supported that vision?
When designing Palmer Terrace, we had in three clear goals.
To honour the depth of history, meet the needs of a modern lifestyle and ground each space with natural materials.
Upon approaching the home you're met with a traditional Victorian front door, aligned with the front facade - our choice to modernise this draws a link to the updated interiors with the use of a bold Van Helsing Black, gloss finish.
Skirting, architraves and window frames were replaced with replica Victorian designs. Excitingly, the original staircase was retained and restored, remaining at the heart of the home - the intersect of all spaces.
Natural materials ground the terrace, adding warmth and dimension. Dynamic slabs of Bianco Lousia Granite act as a bold symbol of luxury in the kitchen and bathroom where they sit alongside handmade wall tiles.
Our love of natural materials and use within Palmer Terrace extends from foundation through to furnishings with this seen in side tables, sideboards and decor. The Halo Side Table has certainly made itself at home here.
When we think about modern living, we think about shared spaces and entertaining.
The living, dining and kitchen now meet the outdoor courtyard seamlessly, creating an extension of spaces designed around connection and togetherness.
What does your creative and styling process look like from concept to completion, and were there any standout moments or challenges during this project?
Meeting with our clients face to face on site, each project starts with genuine, human connection. Speaking with you, understanding your needs and desires for each space - our minds already inspired and engaged with the potential of creating change.
Advising on spatial planning, scale, functionality, colour and aesthetics - taking into account the architecture and location of the residence.
Once we have you engaged and excited by the prospect of redesigning your spaces, we share a customised project proposal with you for consideration.
With your 'Heck yes!' and acceptance of the proposal, creativity gets underway.
Sourcing, selecting, digitally designing and then presenting to you ahead of personal client showroom meetings.
We then provide you with additional confidence, viewing items in person so you can fall in love with the comfort, colour and design of each. It is here when you can really begin to see the design form for your home.
Once all items are approved, ordering and coordination of deliveries gets underway and before you know it - we're on site transforming your home, layering and styling each space.
A stand out moment when working on Palmer Terrace was pulling the completed design together through the installation of the furnishings and original artwork.
The bold introduction of colour acted as the finishing touch, highlighting the contrasting layers of contemporary furnishings and traditional architectural features. Two eras colliding.
"Bowie draws on the low-slung, relaxed geometry of 1970s lounge seating, refined with contemporary tailoring. The piped edges define the cushions, while the floating timber base brings lightness to the overall silhouette.”
Vanessa Di Francesco, GlobeWest Product Designer
What do you like about the Juno Bowie armchair and how does it sit within your design choices for this project?
The Juno Bowie Armchair caught our attention the moment we saw a cheeky sneak peak in the Sydney Showroom. The textural River Birch fabric meeting the thick, curved profile of the solid Ash, Walnut coloured legs is a match made in design heaven.
When sourcing arm chairs, we're always on the search for designs that not only make an impact with their front profile but also from the side and behind. Arm chairs are often moved around within living spaces over time and the Juno Bowie Armchair, having a stunning winged arm profile and fold-over back cushion absolutely meets the mark.
Featured in the living room of Palmer Terrace, the warmth of the Juno Bowie's timber legs contrast perfectly against the area rug we have selected, a bold Duck Egg Blue.
The original artwork positioned directly above, a vibrant statement by artist Peter Robson-Bray, grabs your attention before the Juno Bowie invites you into the space, to sit and take it a moment.
Where can people learn more about you?
Get in touch! We would love to connect with you.
View our portfolio at www.gazyandbray.com, connect with us directly at hello@gazyandbray.com and stay up to date by following @gazyandbray on Instagram.
