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Melinda's home resides in the Gold Coast, which is located in the lovely state of Queensland, Australia. The Gold Coast is one of Australia's premier tourist destinations with its beautiful beaches, rainforest, shops and restaurants.
Even though it has been just a little over 3 years since they moved in, Melinda feels like this has always been her home. Her favorite place to be is out on her back verandah, otherwise known as her porch. She says "It's the perfect place to sit and relax, with the great view of the distant hills". With a landscape overlooking many gum trees, you can spot numerous native birds, such as cockatoos, galahs, rainbow lorrikeets, and king parrots.
Melinda has a keen eye for decorating, and incorporates the Shabby Chic look into her own personal style, which is elegant yet comfortable. "I just cannot go past white sofas, painted white furniture, or anything that is a little scrolly, carved or unusual" says Melinda who really caught the decorating bug when she first saw Rachel Ashwell's television show and "nearly fell over!" She felt it click right away with her, and she's been following the style ever since.
When on the hunt for great treasures, there are 2 antique malls that Melinda enjoys visiting. The first one is in a beachside town called Coolangatta, and the other is in Paddington, a suburb in Brisbane (capital of Queensland). If you are looking to browse through or purchase antiques, Melinda says this is the place to see. There are 50 antique dealers here offering everything that is old, from knick knacks to furniture.
You can visit Melinda on her Blog, as well as on eBay. If you drop by, please tell her Jennifer at The Old Painted Cottage sent you!
(Photographs contributed by homeowner. Article written by Jennifer Grey, owner of The Old Painted Cottage)
