BEFORE AND AFTER: THE BEECHMONT CHALET + INTERVIEW WITH GEORGIE STEVENSON
Whether it’s occasionally or constantly, unplugging from the commotion of our busy lives is a necessary mission to undertake. We often seek higher ground, where the air is fresher, and the beauty is unmatched.
The Beechmont Chalet in the Gold Coast Hinterland is a picturesque Airbnb that facilitates that journey. Surrounded by dramatic valleys and ancient trees, the newly renovated home by Georgie Stevenson and her partner Tim retains the essence of humble mountain living whilst combining it with contemporary touches.
We take a step back and look at the property before it was revamped and compare it to its finished state. Georgie Stevenson also generously lent her time to answer some questions about the renovation process, highlighting key information for those looking to use their project as an Airbnb as well.
BEFORE & AFTER
Q1. WHAT FIRST INSPIRED YOU TO RENOVATE?
We were tossing up between building and renovating. We fell in love with the structure of The Beechmont Chalet and the little details of the house, which is why we opted to renovate! Building also seemed to be a lengthier and more expensive option, which is another reason why we opted for renovating, so we could incorporate both and add our touches to an already beautiful home!
BEFORE & AFTER
Q2. WHAT WAS MOST IMPORTANT TO YOU WHEN DESIGNING THE BEECHMONT CHALET?
When designing The Beechmont Chalet, it was really important to us that we kept the history, design and special quirks of the original house.
IT HAD SO MUCH PERSONALITY, SO WE WANTED TO KEEP THE BEST PARTS OF THE OLD DESIGN WHILST ALSO MAKING IT OURS.
The biggest feeling we wanted to have when either us or our guests walked into the Chalet was that it felt homey.
BEFORE & AFTER
Q3. IS THERE A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FURNISHING A PERSONAL HOME VERSUS A PROPERTY FOR AIRBNB PURPOSES?
There is definitely a difference. We wanted to make sure we had all the touches Tim and I wanted, but we also considered what other people would want when they rented an Airbnb. We kept in mind the functionality of the home and also anything that made it more special. The Beechmont Chalet was designed as a weekend home and an Airbnb you would rent for special occasions, so it was important we kept this in mind when designing it!
BEFORE & AFTER
Q4. HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR INTERIOR STYLE?
The look we were going for when designing The Beechmont Chalet was farmhouse/minimal with black finishes throughout the house. Of course, Pinterest helped me a lot with this inspo!
BEFORE & AFTER
Q5. WAS THERE AN UNFORESEEN CHALLENGE THAT YOU ENCOUNTERED, AND HOW DID YOU RESOLVE IT?
Absolutely, renovating isn’t always easy, but it’s what makes the process exciting and fun (and, of course, challenging at times). We ran into problems such as the floors being uneven and not being able to fit a barn door because the roof was so low. But we just did some research on what else we could do and worked with it, trying to find the next best option. It all worked out in the end, and we now have our dream holiday house!
BEFORE & AFTER
Q6. DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE ABI PRODUCT IN THE BEECHMONT CHALET?
We absolutely love all of our ABI products, but my favourite is definitely the bath! You just can’t beat a nice relaxing bubble bath overlooking the hinterland. It does wonders for the soul!
BEFORE & AFTER
Q7. DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR THOSE WANTING TO RENOVATE A PROPERTY TO TURN INTO AN AIRBNB?
Yes, think of quirks or details someone would want on a weekend getaway. Make it special! For example, having a bath in our bedroom right next to the window isn’t something we would do in our everyday home, but having that there makes a weekend away in the hinterland all the more special!
