Walt Collins is quickly becoming one of Australia’s most sought-after lifestyle TV presenters, bringing his energy and warmth to homes around the country through hit Channel 10 series like Healthy Homes Australia, Buy to Build, and Country House Facelift. As Season 2 of Country House Facelift films in Kilmore, Walt partnered with About Space Lighting and lighting designer Cassandra to create something truly special—an elevated lighting design that blends nostalgia, warmth, and modern sophistication.

A Personal Connection to Light 

For Walt, lighting has always been more than functional—it’s emotional.

“I grew up in a little cottage filled with lamps. Mum would click them all on by 4 PM in winter, and the house would just glow. That feeling stuck with me.”

It’s that sense of comfort and mood that Walt carried into his Kilmore renovation. But this time, he wanted lighting that could deliver both ambience and elegance, suited to a modern country home with a rustic soul. His brief? No harsh downlights, no cold glare—just intelligent lighting with warmth, soul, and purpose.

Lighting That Transforms 

Working closely with About Space, Walt was surprised at how dramatically lighting shaped his spaces.

“From the exterior glow at night to the subtle downlights warming my brick chimneys—everything feels designed with purpose.”

Track lights and adjustable fittings gave him flexibility and control, while statement frosted pendants brought softness to larger rooms. Even hallway lighting was meticulously placed to illuminate flooring and artwork, adding depth and movement as you walk through the home.

“It’s the difference between a good renovation and a great one.”

A Collaborative Process with Heart 

What stood out most to Walt was About Space’s collaborative, client-first approach.

 “They didn’t just follow my brief—they elevated it. Their ideas added layers I hadn’t even considered.”

Beyond creative insight, Walt was also surprised by the affordability of working with a lighting designer. The result? A million-dollar look, achieved within a realistic budget.

Advice from Walt: Start with Lighting 

Walt’s biggest tip for renovators?

“Plan your lighting from the start. It can shape entire spaces.”

Whether you’re building a nook around a pendant or using a well-placed light to transform an awkward corner, lighting is the secret ingredient that can make or break a renovation. And if you’re selling, great lighting creates the emotional connection that buyers feel the moment they walk in.

“When we turned on that first downlight over the brick chimney, I just felt emotional. That one light brought months of hard work to life.”