The Malvern East family home of former Good Food editor Ardyn Bernoth is a testament to her passion for food, entertaining, and creating a seamless blend of old and new. The house, located in the exclusive Gascoigne Estate, has been a labor of love for Bernoth and her husband, Rob Thomson, who purchased it for its prime location and emotional connection. Over the years, they've transformed it into a culinary haven, blending functionality with a touch of heritage. Here's a deep dive into the home and the insights it offers into Bernoth's world of food and design.
A Culinary Haven
Bernoth's love for food is evident in every corner of the house. The kitchen, a true centerpiece, boasts a spacious and elegant design with two Gaggenau ovens, an Italian stone island bench, and a butler's pantry for discreet mess management. Her dream pantry, complete with oversized cans of Italian tomatoes, packets of pasta, and canisters of olive oil, is a food stylist's paradise. The walk-in pantry, in particular, is a source of joy for Bernoth, who finds solace in its organized chaos.
Outdoor Paradise
The outdoor space is equally impressive, featuring a slate-paved barbecue area and an outdoor dining space. The garden, with its veggie gardens, orange, lemon, and lime trees, and a pomegranate tree, is a testament to Bernoth's love for nature and fresh produce. She even jokes about her idea of a wellness center, which involves a veggie garden with spinach, showcasing her unique perspective on health and wellness.
Architectural Harmony
When it came to extending the property, Bernoth and Thomson wanted to preserve the heritage of the 120-year-old home. They achieved this by creating a seamless flow between the old and new parts of the house. The rear extension, with its apex design, is mostly hidden from view, ensuring the original formal rooms maintain their stately feel. Working fireplaces and stained-glass windows add to the charm, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Family-Centric Design
The upstairs bedrooms and their versatile configurations reflect the family's evolving needs. The main bedroom's en suite, with its stained-glass-bathed large bath, provides a serene retreat. The upstairs space has transformed from a play area to a media zone as the children grow and host friends, demonstrating the home's adaptability.
Personal Touches and Preferences
Bernoth's personal touches and preferences are woven throughout the house. From her essential pantry items like Mutti San Marzano tomatoes and Rummo gluten-free pasta to her favorite cookbooks, including Simple by Yotam Ottolenghi and Cook by Karen Martini, the home reflects her culinary journey. Her love for coffee is evident with Allpress coffee beans, and her appreciation for Australian-grown products is showcased in her choice of olive oil and oats.
A Place for People
Ultimately, the Malvern East home is about creating a space where people love to gather. Bernoth's love for hosting is evident in the memories she's made, from feeding 30 kids pasta to hosting pre-formal drinks and sporting dinners. The house has become a hub for family celebrations and gatherings, a testament to Bernoth's ability to blend functionality, aesthetics, and a deep connection to the art of food.
In conclusion, Ardyn Bernoth's Malvern East home is a reflection of her passion, creativity, and love for life. It's a space that seamlessly blends old-world charm with modern functionality, creating a culinary haven that is both aesthetically pleasing and deeply personal. As an expert in her field, Bernoth's home is a testament to her ability to transform a house into a home, leaving a lasting impression on all who visit.
