Let's talk about the fascinating story of Ardyn Bernoth and her family home in Malvern East, a place where food, heritage, and a unique lifestyle come together. This is a tale of a house that has become a haven for a food writer and her family, and it's an absolute delight to explore.
A Home with Heart
When Ardyn Bernoth and her husband, Rob Thomson, stumbled upon this heritage house in Malvern East's Gascoigne Estate, it was love at first sight. The plane tree-lined street, the proximity to excellent schools, and the original stained-glass windows all played a part in their decision. But, as Ardyn puts it, it was an 'emotional connection' that sealed the deal. This house, with its unique character and potential, became a blank canvas for their dreams.
The Kitchen as the Heart of the Home
As a food writer, Ardyn knew that the kitchen had to be the focal point of their renovation. With Rob's winemaking background and Ardyn's passion for food writing, entertaining and cooking were non-negotiables. The result? A cook's dream come true! A spacious, elegant kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances, an Italian stone island bench, and a butler's pantry for efficient post-dinner party cleanup. But the true masterpiece is the walk-in pantry, a food stylist's paradise, filled with every ingredient a culinary enthusiast could desire. It's a space that inspires creativity and, as Ardyn's daughter's friend rightly pointed out, a place she'd happily live in!
A Garden of Wellness
The outdoor space continues the theme of wellness and connection to nature. With veggie gardens on both sides of the property, Ardyn tends to a variety of produce, from tomatoes and lettuces to strawberries and herbs. She even has an orange, lemon, lime, and pomegranate tree! Ardyn's idea of wellness is a far cry from the typical spa or gym; for her, it's about the joy of growing and harvesting fresh produce, and the satisfaction of cooking with ingredients straight from her garden. It's a philosophy that brings a unique charm to this home.
Preserving Heritage, Embracing Modernity
When it came to extending the property, Ardyn and Rob were determined to maintain the heritage charm of their 120-year-old home. They wanted a seamless flow, an extension that would complement the original structure without jarring contrasts. The rear extension, with its apex mostly hidden from view at the front, achieves this beautifully. The original, formal rooms have been opened up, yet they retain their stately feel, with special features like working fireplaces and a window seat under stained-glass flowers. It's a delicate balance of old and new, a testament to the couple's vision and respect for the home's history.
A Home for Memories
Ardyn reflects on the joy her home has brought, especially when hosting pre-formal drinks and sporting dinners for their daughters and their friends. With 30 kids in tow, she'd feed them all with massive vats of pasta, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. This house, for Ardyn, is a place of love and community, a place where people feel at home and well-fed. It's a sentiment that resonates deeply and adds a layer of emotional depth to this already captivating story.
A Culinary Journey
Ardyn's pantry and cookbook collection offer a glimpse into her culinary world. From San Marzano tomatoes grown in volcanic soil near Mount Vesuvius to gluten-free pasta and Chinese sauces, her pantry is a treasure trove of flavors. Her cookbook collection, featuring authors like Yotam Ottolenghi, Karen Martini, Neil Perry, and Nagi Maehashi, showcases her appreciation for diverse cuisines and her passion for cooking. These choices reflect her everyday approach to cooking, making it accessible and enjoyable.
In conclusion, Ardyn Bernoth's Malvern East home is more than just a residence; it's a testament to her family's lifestyle, values, and passions. It's a place where food, heritage, and community converge, creating a unique and inspiring living space. Personally, I find it fascinating how a home can become an extension of one's personality and interests, and Ardyn's story is a beautiful example of that. It's a reminder that our homes are not just bricks and mortar, but a reflection of who we are and what we love.
