There’s a new address for style inspiration in Toowoomba.
The Lot Seventy-Nine blog serves up practical, and most importantly, pretty, interior design and style trends. It’s named for the block of land Shantinie Murphy bought and built on herself at the fresh age of 23.
While she should probably be running seminars about how Gen Ys can crack the property market, Shantinie doesn’t have time for any extra side hustle. She worked two jobs for three years to save money to build her home, and while she’s given up the second job, she’s replaced it with the responsibility of being an Airbnb host.
I had a sneaky mid-week wine with Shantinie to find out more about the three-bedroom, two-bathroom home she shares with her boyfriend, dog, and steady stream of Airbnb guests.
Shantinie Murphy
Tell me about the process to build your home
I bought the land early in 2014 and finished at the end of 2015 so, for me, it was a two-year process. I bought a small corner block and Pam at Fusion Building Design created a custom floorplan.
I gave her an initial concept and after a few revisions I had my house! One of the best things about the house is the high ceiling. It’s a smaller home and it just opens up the living area beautifully.
In terms of the interior I was very hands-on with that. I sketched the kitchen and bathroom joinery and worked with Toowoomba Kitchens to bring it to life. I went in to all the suppliers and chose the fixtures and fittings myself. Because I went with a custom builder (Gleeson Building Group) I had the flexibility to do that.
How would you describe the style of the house?
I would describe it as quite fresh. I have high ceilings with rectangular windows that let the light in and it’s so bright and airy. I’m not sure of my ‘style’. I guess I am still working on that one.
I’m really happy with how it turned out. I love the kitchen, the high ceilings, and even though I don’t use the main bathroom because of the Airbnb guests, it’s one of my favourite rooms. Think woodgrain tiles, a walk in shower and freestanding bath!
Shantinie’s home
How long have you been an Airbnb host?
Just under a year. I’ve currently got my 47th guest at the moment. My boyfriend and I were thinking about getting a roommate because we both lived in share houses for years and we don’t mind having people in the house. I thought I’d give it a go – with no expectations I put it up and someone booked and it went from there.
We usually get people here for work or study and they will normally stay for about four nights. There are a lot of students who come here for res school or pracs and need an affordable place to stay. I offer a queen bed, desk, wifi and a large modern bathroom.
We’ve had several USQ engineering students stay with us who come up for their residential school. At the moment I’ve got a radiology student doing her prac for five weeks and staying with us during the week.
Many haven’t used Airbnb before, so it’s important to develop a good guest/host relationship.
How far have people come from?
The only ‘tourist’ we have had is a guy from Kentucky in the US. He drove all through the outback, which is not what Americans usually do when they come to Australia. He had a classic southern accent was one of those people who could talk all night with endless stories!
I will always take the opportunity to get to know people. Many haven’t used Airbnb before, so it’s important to develop a good guest/host relationship.
Have you had any bad experiences?
Despite the horror stories, I haven’t had a bad guest experience. As a host, there are always things I think I can improve. Good communication with your guest before and during the visit is the key to having a good experience on Airbnb.
Shantinie’s Airbnb room for rent.
What’s your tip for first time home builders?
I think the main thing is not being afraid to ask questions. Every single question I had in my head, as annoying as it might have been, I just asked. I ended up starting a knowledge base that I continue to build on. Take time to find inspiration through Instagram or create ‘boards’ on Houzz or Pinterest. A favourite of mine on YouTube is the Three Bird Renovations series. Check them out you won’t regret it. Oh and put in a high ceiling!
And where do you want to take the blog?
I love interior design and sourcing products but I’m not in a position to go back to uni. I enjoy writing and it’s something creative I can do right now. That’s why I started the blog. My favourite thing is learning about all the faces behind my favourite magazines, products, stores and design businesses. Instagram is amazing for blending business and personal posts.
This year my boyfriend and I are embarking on a new build together and he has let me have free reign over doing the interiors. I’m excited to do it all again so I’ll be on Instagram looking at suppliers and brands and sharing my journey on the blog.
Follow the #lot79finds hashtag to see all the beautiful products Shantinie sources for this next build and check out her blog lotseventynine.com and Instagram @lotseventynine
You can also view Shantinie’s beautiful home on Airbnb.
And, in very exciting news, Shantinie will be popping up on Toowoomba Living from time to time with some guest blogs. Stay tuned, the first one is coming soon!
Photos courtesy of Lot-Seventy Nine
