Steve Cordony has style in spades. Bright-eyed, bushy tailed and immaculately put together Cordony has a reputation for being the consummate professional in all that he does. He lends this signature magic to a range of projects; from Belle’s Style Director At Large, to styling some of Sydney’s smartest homes as well as working on corporate events, interiors and editorial content for the likes of Ralph Lauren, Land Rover and Georg Jensen. If we waded through all Steve’s prestige clientele we’d be here all day. Suffice to say, he has quietly worked his way up to become one of Australia’s most sought after aesthetes with his keen eye, fresh ideas and personable charm earning him a following across the corporate, public and social media universe.

“He lends this signature magic to a range of projects; from Belle’s Style Director At Large, to styling some of Sydney’s smartest homes as well as working on corporate events, interiors and editorial content for the likes of Ralph Lauren, Land Rover and Georg Jensen.”

Steve has lent his classic meets contemporary style to yet another project, albeit of a more personal nature. After purchasing a property in the New South Welsh town of Orange, Cordony and his partner Michael now spend most weekends amid the clip clop of the resident Clydesdales and the pitter patter of the gaggle of geese just chipping away at a passion project of magnificent proportions, Rosedale Farm. With a grand white veneer and matching verandah, prim hedging and an organic, sustainable garden this delicately renovated 1877 Georgian farmhouse retains its old world charm with an air about it that feels regal and of the now. So covetable is the pied-a-terre, Cordony notes that Rosedale Farm has become a persona in its own right with a tidy following of those in-the-know paying close attention to its every development, and perhaps, patiently waiting for their invite to an alfresco Sunday lunch. Really, who can blame them? The Polo Project had the good fortune of one such invitation.

What is the most important element to making a space feel like a home?
The most important element to making a space feel like a home is to add you own sense of style and personality. Your home shouldn’t feel like a showroom, even if your style is contemporary and slick. Your space should always tell the story of who lives there, by adding objects from travels, photography and whatever pieces represent your personality and aesthetic.

How did you approach renovating your farm and what was your inspiration?
My first approach was to look at the heritage of the building. It is an 1877 Georgian style house so I wanted to be empathetic to this period, while still injecting our style and personality with a slightly more contemporary edge.

What is your favourite way to spend a Sunday?
Most Sundays now are spent renovating or tending to the animals when we are at the farm, (which I love) but if we’re in the city a sleep in, a great brunch, Bondi to Bronte walk followed by a swim and an afternoon nap would be heaven.

If you could wake up anywhere in the world, where would it be?
I have to say a few places! Capri for summer holidays, Maldives for the ultimate relaxation and New York or Paris for my inspiration fix. And Rosedale farm.

How would you spend your last $50?
On the best pasta I could get my hands on!

“So covetable is the pied-a-terre, Cordony notes that Rosedale Farm has become a persona in its own right”

When it comes to dressing for a day out (a la the polo or a wedding) what are your do’s and don’ts?
Everyday I decide on what I am going to wear based on what I have on that day and how I am feeling. I always prefer to overdress than underdress, and prefer to coordinate colours rather than contrast them. Its all about the details, so a great pair of cuff links, pocket square, tie or hat can make the difference between good and great. I never leave the house without a perfectly steamed outfit that has been specifically tailored.

What is your idea of perfect happiness?
A sunny weekend at Rosedale with Michael and our dog Louie – and the rest of the animals. And Christmas day with the family.

Drink of choice?
Seed-lip.

What is your greatest extravagance?
Travel. Travel inspires me like nothing else and staying in beautiful hotels or villas around the world is one of life’s great luxuries. And also Goyard and Louis Vuitton luggage.

Was there a back up plan if your career in interior design didn’t work?
Actually never thought about a backup career. It never crossed my mind that interiors wouldn’t work out – not because it couldn’t, but I think when your born to do something, you will make it work no matter what it takes.

What philosophy do you live by?
In a world where everyone seems to be chasing more and more, be thankful and give gratitude for what you have.

What up and coming interior designer are you most excited about?
Amber Road and Ritz and Ghougassian. They’re not up and coming, but I love Dimore Studio and Apparatus Studio.

How has the advent of digital and social media influenced your industry?
Like most industries, the digital age has shifted and influenced the interior industry in a huge way. Projects and inspiration and designers are so accessible now and you feel connected to people you have admired for years, who may live on the other side of the world.

What is the most common mistake people make when decorating a space?
The most common mistake people make when decorating a space is overlooking scale and proportion. A small space doesn’t necessarily need small scale furniture and similarly as large space doesn’t need gigantic scale pieces. Its about finding a balance with all the different elements such as lighting, objects and accesories and creating focal points to draw the eye in.

Is there something people would be surprised to discover about you?
Most people will know I have a Beyonce obsession, maybe not so much that I have a phobia of chewing gum! Weird I know…