HOMEMADE

Mount Vernon Villa’s renovation began with an overhaul of its colonial innards: adding gas, rewiring, reconcreting the basement, adding sprinklers to the extensive grounds and a total rework of the plumbing. The one-and- only bathroom wouldn’t quite do for a home destined for entertaining; the couple removed some rooms to accommodate en suites for the six remaining bedrooms.

“I wanted it to be bright and have an energy to it, so it didn’t feel like you’re walking into a museum or the house of ‘ Miss Havisham’,” says Tim. But he couldn’t go too modern either, not with its heritage-listed pedigree. Tim paired practical touches — central heating and in-wall speakers — with classic furnishings that matched the building’s past. More than 2000 books are shelved in the library, most more than a century old and once belonging to the homestead’s original owner. Meanwhile, top- of-the-line appliances in the kitchen allow Duyen to whip up a spread 21st- century style. Mount Vernon is available for villa hire and selected private events. mtvernonvilla.com