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Honouring Heritage: Inside Danielle Symes’ Journey of Restoration

12 March 2025

For Danielle Symes, restoration is more than a hobby—it’s an art form. From breathing new life into an 1870s Coach House to revamping second-hand treasures, she lovingly restores each piece, preserving its history while seamlessly integrating it into modern living. With a keen eye for detail and a love for European-inspired design, Danielle has transformed The Coach House into a timeless family sanctuary. But her journey extends beyond this historic home—it’s a philosophy that shapes her entire approach to design and life.

From DIY Newbie to Restoration Expert

It’s hard to believe that Danielle had barely picked up a drill or a paintbrush before embarking on her restoration journey. In 2021, she and her husband, Brad Symes, took a leap of faith when they purchased The Coach House. With no formal renovation training, Danielle turned to YouTube tutorials and hands-on experimentation to bring her vision to life. From knocking down walls to sanding floors and restoring antique furniture, her DIY approach has inspired thousands to embrace restoration through her social media presence.

A Home That Almost Wasn’t

Danielle and Brad discovered The Coach House during the height of the COVID-19 real estate boom. At the open house, the street overflowed with cars, and competing buyers measuring walls and placed offers above asking price. “I left feeling defeated,” Danielle recalls. But something told her to try anyway. After a nerve-wracking back-and-forth, they submitted their best offer—and to their surprise, it was accepted. “I was in complete shock. I drove straight to the real estate agency to sign the papers ASAP, and I genuinely don’t think I’ve stopped smiling since.”

The History of The Coach House

Situated in the Adelaide Hills and surrounded by English cottage gardens, The Coach House is one of Adelaide’s oldest homes, dating back to 1870. Originally a stable, it still retains its historic character with original cart bumpers and iron rings once used to tie up horses. From the start, Danielle knew she wanted to honour the home’s heritage while transforming it into a warm, functional family space.

The main updates included a kitchen renovation, minor structural changes, fresh paint, and new hardware, including period-appropriate light switches, door handles, and window fasteners.

“I’ve always believed that the little details make a big difference. For example, our TradCo period light switches always get noticed, and they look like they’ve been there for decades.”

The Kitchen & Custom Island

The kitchen is the heart of The Coach House, where creamy cabinetry in Buff It (Half) by Dulux sets a warm, inviting tone. The space is elevated by TradCo’s Dome Cupboard Knobs in Unlacquered Brass, adding a touch of period charm while ensuring practicality in a high-use space.

At the center of it all sits a custom farmhouse island, sourced and finished by Danielle herself. But finding the perfect piece was no easy task. “I searched high and low, but everything was either too small, too big, too expensive, not quite the right style, or couldn’t be shipped to Adelaide,” she recalls. Determined to bring her vision to life, she designed the island from scratch—sourcing turned legs from a local supplier and having it built in Adelaide. To ensure both durability and an authentic aged look, she then hand-stained and sealed the piece, achieving a natural matte finish that feels right at home in the space.

Beyond The Coach House

A Love for Restoration

Danielle’s passion for restoration extends far beyond home renovations. She has a knack for uncovering pre-loved treasures and breathing new life into them, ensuring their stories continue. One of her most recent projects—a vintage dollhouse—has become a special family endeavor, as she and her daughters carefully select paint, materials, and reimagine its layout together.

Her admiration for European homes also shapes her design philosophy. She’s drawn to their effortless layering of textures, the charm of mismatched furniture, and the balance of silver and brass—elements she has seamlessly woven into her own space. “I just love that homely, lived-in feel European homes have. There’s clutter, but it never feels cluttered,” she reflects.

Experience a Day in the Life at The Coach House

Curious about what life is like inside this lovingly restored home? Danielle’s day-in-the-life reel offers a glimpse into the charm and beauty of The Coach House.

Watch the reel here.

Danielle’s Selects: Timeless Hardware & Finishes

TradCo hardware played a crucial role in restoring The Coach House with authentic period details. Some of Danielle’s favourite selections include:

Inspired to Restore?

Whether you’re embarking on your own home renovation or simply looking to add vintage charm to your space, TradCo’s timeless collection has the perfect finishing touches. Explore their range of exquisite hardware and fixtures to bring your restoration dreams to life.

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