Trit House Chronicles with Emily Yates

Tucked away in a laidback coastal town, Komorebi Home is the kind of space that immediately puts you at ease; warm, calm, and wonderfully lived-in. We caught up with the ever-inspiring Emily Yates to talk about creating a home that reflects your surroundings, the joy of mixing textures, and why the kitchen is the heart of her family life. From 70s surf shack nostalgia to Pinterest scrolls and slow mornings with her kids, Emily reminds us that good design starts with feeling.

How would you describe the feeling of your home in three words?

Warm, calm, homely 

What inspired the look and feel of Komorebi Home?

The mid-century beach shacks in the area. It’s such a cool and eclectic little surf town, we wanted to keep with the ramshackle 70s surf scene of the area.

^{Ethnicraft Mahogany PI Wall Shelf}

Where do you begin when styling a space?

The pre-existing tones and textures of the house dictate what kind of furniture to bring in, I think! The entire house is clad in spotted gum, so the interiors needed that wooden warmth as well.

Tell us about the Kabuki TV Unit — what drew you to it?

I love the Japanese style lines and the dark wood!

How do you approach mixing tones and textures?

The more the merrier. I don’t really think there are any rules, if it looks good to you, feels good to you, then it’s perfect.

What does “home” mean to you right now?

My kids helping me cook in the kitchen, lovingly tending to my garden, afternoons spend by the fireplace. Home means a place for my family to grow.

Do you have a favourite corner or ritual at home?

The kitchen for sure. My kids sit on our stools every single morning and every single afternoon and help me cook. They’re really into cooking! If they’re not helping, they’re just watching me or drawing there 

^{Ethnicraft Teak Osso Bar Stool}

How do you balance function with a calm, minimal aesthetic?

We don’t really have a lot of “stuff”. Me and my husband are very much less is more. Fewer things, but in just really great quality. We’ve always been that way so I guess we don’t really know any other way to function!

Where do you look for inspiration — interiors or otherwise?

Everywhere. I spend a lot of time on Pinterest, but I’m also lucky to travel a lot for my job. Every country and every hotel I visit, I feel like a little bit of inspiration comes home with me.

And lastly, what’s one piece of advice for creating a space that feels like you?

Don’t be boxed in by other people’s opinions of your space. Do whatever feels right for you, it’s supposed to be fun! Bring in pieces that bring you joy, that you love to look at, it doesn’t matter what’s right and wrong as long as it feels good to you.

You can see more of Komorebi on Emily’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/emelinaah/