Let's dive into the captivating story of Ardyn Bernoth, a renowned food writer and former Good Food editor, as she parts ways with her beloved family home in Malvern East. This isn't just a real estate listing; it's a glimpse into the heart and soul of a home that has been meticulously crafted to reflect the passions and priorities of its owners.
The Emotional Connection
Ardyn and her husband, Rob Thomson, fell head over heels for this heritage house nestled in the exclusive Gascoigne Estate. Beyond the picturesque plane tree-lined street and proximity to excellent schools, it was the original stained-glass windows and the potential for a bustling, food-centric home that sealed the deal. As Ardyn puts it, "We had an emotional connection with the house." It's a powerful reminder that sometimes, it's not just about the features or the location, but the feeling a home evokes.
A Home for Entertaining and Cooking
When the couple embarked on a major renovation in 2018, they had a clear vision. With Ardyn's background in food writing and Rob's winemaking family, the kitchen became the heart of the home. The result? A cook's dream come true. From the spacious kitchen with its Gaggenau ovens and Italian stone island bench to the backstage support of a butler's pantry, every detail was carefully considered. But it's the walk-in pantry that truly steals the show. Ardyn's pride and joy, it's a food stylist's paradise, stocked with an impressive collection of ingredients and cookbooks. Her daughter's friend was spot on: this pantry is a home within a home!
A Garden Oasis and a Wellness Centre
Step outside, and you'll find a slate-paved barbecue area and an outdoor dining space leading to a lush garden with a pool. But it's the veggie gardens that truly shine. 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! For Ardyn, her veggie garden is her wellness centre, a place of nourishment and connection to nature. It's a beautiful reminder that sometimes, the best investments are the ones that feed our souls.
Preserving Heritage, Creating Flow
When extending their 120-year-old home, Ardyn and Rob were determined to maintain its heritage charm. They wanted a seamless flow, a blend of old and new, without sacrificing the character of the original house. The rear extension rises to an apex, hidden from view at the front, preserving the stately feel of the formal rooms. Working fireplaces and a window seat under stained-glass flowers add to the home's charm. It's a testament to their vision and respect for the home's history.
A Home for Hosting and Creating Memories
Ardyn reflects on the joy of hosting pre-formal drinks and sporting dinners for her daughters and their friends. With 30 kids in tow, she'd feed them pasta and create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. "I have loved being that house, saying, 'Come in and we'll feed you all.' That's what I will remember this house as being, a place where people love to come." It's a heartwarming testament to the power of hospitality and the role a home can play in creating lasting memories.
Ardyn's Pantry Essentials and Cookbooks
Ardyn shares her pantry essentials, from Mutti San Marzano tinned tomatoes (grown in volcanic soil near Mount Vesuvius!) to Rummo gluten-free pasta and Megachef Chinese sauces. Her cookbook collection is equally impressive, with titles like "Simple" by Yotam Ottolenghi, "Cook" by Karen Martini, and "Everything I Love To Cook" by Neil Perry. These books, she says, are her go-to guides for everyday cooking with a twist.
A Fond Farewell
As Ardyn and Rob list their beloved home for $5.8 million-$6.2 million, it's clear that this isn't just a house. It's a testament to their love for food, family, and creating a warm, welcoming space. Personally, I think it's these emotional connections and personal touches that make a house a home. And while Ardyn and Rob are moving on, their legacy of love and hospitality will remain in the walls of this beautiful Malvern East residence.
