Carmel Wylie of GIA Renovations

Working within constraints often leads to the most considered outcomes. For Carmel Wylie, Senior Designer at GIA Renovations, the Brunswick East project presented exactly that challenge. Set within a small Victorian home renovated in the 1980s, the project was constrained by strict spatial limitations.

“We had a very tight space to work within, and couldn’t extend beyond the existing walls due to site regulations.”

— Carmel

Rather than viewing these limitations as restrictive, the design was approached with clarity and intent. A statement wallpaper mural became the foundation of the scheme.

“The client suggested colours that she liked and didn’t like, and I found the wallpaper first and used that as my muse to create the space.”

— Carmel

The client’s preference for moody tones and gold finishes informed the material direction, with brushed brass tapware acting as a unifying element throughout.

“She really liked the darker side of things and wanted to have gold, that’s why we selected the brushed brass to go through everything and be the main tie through from all the spaces.”

— Carmel

In the bathroom, the shower was designed as a focal point; rich, immersive, and aesthetically striking. Glossy tiles were used to reflect light, while natural red travertine introduces warmth and variation.

“I really wanted something that was visually stunning and [luxurious] and glossy. Because it was going to be in a darker part of the bathroom, I wanted to lean into colour and get as much power into that space as I could. We did some clever things with LED strips in that space as well, so that it felt like it was still bright but not fake, artificial light.”

— Carmel

Throughout the home, the Elysian Collection was specified for its refined simplicity.

“I love the Elysian, it’s my go-to for everything. It’s very timeless to me; it just works in any kind of home, whether it’s a period home or a modern one, because it’s so simple. I also like that it’s a finer pin lever, and I feel that when people turn it on, they take more care and are a bit more considerate.”

— Carmel

Here, material restraint guided the design. Brown-toned tiles reference the home’s era, while finishes were selected to integrate rather than stand apart. The Elysian Collection was again chosen, this time in brushed nickel.

“With the brushed nickel, it was about going with the flow and letting some of the other finishes be the star.”

— Carmel

Across both projects, the role of tapware extends beyond function, supporting the overall experience of the space, both visually and in everyday use.

“I’ve been using ABI since 2021. I love the care they take in refining their tapware, and the ability to select a tap and know I can match it with shower hinges, handles, and everything else I need. The philosophy behind ABI is amazing. It’s also nice to work with a brand that feels local to me.”

— Carmel