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C R E AT E D B Y K Y L E C O N N A U G H T O N

CONTENTS I S S U E

1 6 9

W A R M

E M B R A C E

60 15

41 L OV I N G 12 HOME GROUND With just a few elements: raw timber, natural light and warm, touchable textures, you can make your home feel like a cosy sanctuary

2 1 FAVE FINDS Our monthly list of the things we love

2 4 MODERN HISTORY We shed some light on the story behind the iconic Akari paper lanterns and the man who designed them, sculptor Isamu Noguchi

2 6 LOOKBOOKS We’ve rounded up a stack of fabulous new reads to cosy up with, from funny memoirs and mystery thrillers to moving love stories

@reallivingmag

HOMES 3 0 GOOD FOR THE SOUL In search of a more relaxed lifestyle, a couple turn their inner-city home into a serene retreat

61 66

4 0 ON POINT The design of this holiday home on the coast of Victoria is an ode to the natural landscape

5 0 A LITTLE LOVE What this apartment lacks in space, it makes up for in character, charm and vintage decor

SHOP 6 4 LET’S GET COSY Inject winter style in every room with new mood-enhancing furniture and accessories

49 71

125

130

OUTSIDE 118 HOME GROWN REMEDIES

D E C O R ATE

A DV I C E

74 AWASH WITH STYLE

10 0 MASTERCLASS

Is a bathroom reno or revamp on the horizon? There’s loads of smart design and decorating ideas to steal in this stylish interiors lookbook

The Block’s Kyal and Kara invite us inside their latest project – their own newly-built family home on the central coast of NSW

8 9 TRENDS

10 8 WARM ’N’ TOASTY

Inspired by on-trend colour schemes, we’ve put together three visual moodboards to help you plan your next bathroom makeover

From draught excluders to wood burners, here’s how to heat your home this winter

110 AU NATUREL 9 4 HOLIDAY AT HOME An interiors expert shares some simple ways to create hotel-inspired winter staycation vibes

Make your own low-waste natural cleaning products with these super simple recipes

114 MONEY MOVES TO MAKE 9 6 AND THE WINNER IS... The winner of the real living x freedom Reader Decorating Competition is revealed

Many households are experiencing hardship due to the recent pandemic. Here, ﬁnance expert Efﬁe Zahos outlines the help available

A guide to some of the plants and herbs with healing properties that you can grow yourself

E AT 12 6 COMFORT BAKES These heartwarming, fruit-based desserts are guaranteed to have you going back for seconds

EV E RY M O N TH 7 8 28

WELCOME Bauer Media Privacy Notice SUBSCRIBE to real living and save 41% – that’s just $15 for three issues! 13 0 FULL STOP Interior and product designer Sarah Sherman Samuel takes our quiz

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hello STAYING HOME HAS BROUGHT OUT my inner homemaker even more than I thought possible. Seriously. It’s next level. I’m making my own labne, drying lavender, forming plant-protecting cloches out of chicken wire (those pesky possums are still dining out on my herb garden). I even baked bread! Completely unnecessary as I live within walking distance of four supermarkets and three bakeries. But I can’t stop nesting. It makes me feel calm amid all the chaos. And I suspect I’m not alone. This issue we wanted to get back to nature. The homes are all beautifully textural, earthy and full of warmth. There’s a wonderful story on making your own all-natural cleaning products on p110. I think the wood butter is next on my DIY list. If you want to explore natural home health remedies, check out the feature on medicinal plants you can grow yourself on p118. And should you want to use your oven for something other than bread, you’ll love the wintry bakes that showcase fruit on p125. We have lots on renovating and decorating this issue, too. A highlight is the story on Kyal and Kara’s new build on the NSW central coast (p100). The interior is amazing! I’m sure we’ll see the pics all over Pinterest in no time. Speaking of inspiration, our bathrooms lookbook on p74 is the perfect thing to get your design ideas going, should you be embarking on a reno or revamp sometime soon. And if you just want to add a little something to lift your winter decor, check out all the cosy buys for your living room, kitchen, bedroom and home ofﬁce on p64. I hope your start to winter is just that – cosy. Whether it’s some time spent in the kitchen or the purchase of a new throw, I think we can all do with a bit of comfort right now.

Dark and handsome Sometimes a space makes me swoon, and the kitchen beloning to cookbook author Mandy Lee is one of them. The forest green, the curtained storage. Sigh. To see more of her apartment, ﬂip to p30.

follow me on instagram @ellelovelock

photography mandy lee (kitchen); maree homer (elle)

This month I’m looking forward to…

1 Curling up on the couch! Santa Monica armchair in Jetty Sapphire, $3099; Plush.com.au

Decorating with indoor plants and cute pots. Ceramic planters, from $180 each; Pepite.com.au

3 Lighting candles all over the house. Carrière Frerès La Rose Aime La Menthe candle, $75; Libertineparfumerie.com.au

Cleaning up after cooking with the new Ecoya Kitchen Collection cleaning products, from $19.95; Ecoya.com.au

5 Weekend breakfasts of croissants and coffee. Vittoria Piccolo coffee machine, $137.50; Vittoriacoffee.com

Facebook.com /reallivingmagazine / homestolove.com.au /rl / @ reallivingmag real living

Editor Elle Lovelock Creative director Sandy Dao

art & style

content

Art director Andrea Healy Market assistant Lisa Burden Image retoucher Matus Kundrat

Senior features editor Lindyl Crabb Copy editor Laura Barry Copy/production editor Tamarah Pienaar

thanks to Sophie Wilson Acting homes group coordinator Matilda Ringrose mringrose@bauer-media.com.au; (02) 9282 8456

production Title controller & production planner Advertising controller

Sally Jefferys Dominic Roy

advertising Head of brands Homes commercial manager Brand executive Advertising production manager NSW director of sales Sales director Vic, SA, WA Victorian head of direct sales Queensland head of sales Head of creative NEW ZEALAND

Anna Mistilis (02) 9282 8111 Rhonda Maunder (02) 9282 8687 Mikayla Skarzynski (02) 9282 8142 Kate Orsborn (02) 9283 8364 Karen Holmes (02) 9282 8733 Jaclyn Clements (03) 9823 6341 Will Jamison (03) 9823 6301 Judy Taylor (07) 3101 6636 Clare Catt (02) 8116 9341 Enquiries +61 2 9282 8505

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Brendon Hill Andrew Stedwell Sarah-Belle Murphy Shane Sutton Jane Waterhouse Georgina Bromﬁeld

Letters to: real living, Reply Paid 5252, Sydney, NSW 2000. Printed by Ovato, 31-37 Heathcote Rd, Moorebank, NSW, 2170. Published by Bauer Media Pty Limited (ACN 053 273 546), 54-58 Park Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, (02) 9282 8000. The trade mark real living is the property of Bauer Consumer Media Limited and is used under licence. Distributed by Network Services, 54 Park Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, (02) 9282 8777. *Recommended price, real living. No material may be reproduced in part or in whole without written consent from the copyright holders. Bauer Media Pty Limited does not accept responsibility for damage to, or loss of, freelance material submitted for publication. Allow several weeks for acceptance or return. © 2020 Bauer Media Pty Limited. All rights reserved. ISSN 1833-0398 Subscription sales and inquiries www.magshop.com.au EMAIL magshop@magshop.com.au CALL 13 61 16, 8am-6pm (AEDST) Monday-Friday POST Magshop, GPO Box 5252, Sydney, NSW 2000 real living magazine is published by Bauer Media Pty Limited VISIT

BAUER MEDIA PRIVACY NOTICE This issue of real living magazine, published by Bauer Media Limited (Bauer Media), may contain offers, competitions or surveys that require you to provide information about yourself if you choose to enter or take part in them (Reader Offer). If you provide information about yourself to Bauer Media, Bauer Media will use this information to provide you with the products or services you have requested, and may supply your information to contractors that help Bauer Media to do this. Bauer Media will also use your information to inform you of other Bauer Media publications, products, services and events. Bauer Media may also give your information to organisations that are providing special prizes or offers and that are clearly associated with the Reader Offer. Unless you tell us not to, we may give your information to other organisations that may use it to inform you about other products, services or events or to give to other organisations that may use it for this purpose. If you would like to gain access to the information Bauer Media holds about you, please contact Bauer Media’s Privacy Ofﬁcer at Bauer Media Limited, 54 Park Street, Sydney, NSW 2000.

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Get inspired with Choices Flooring Enjoy fresh inspiration with the latest trends in carpet, timber, laminate, luxury vinyl, rugs and window furnishings to transform your home this winter.

Product featured: Timber - Genero Longboard Design featured: Smoked Pine

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Make your retreat Searching for peace of mind? Surround yourself with raw, natural materials, plush seating options and warm, touchable textures and you just might ďŹ nd a little peace at home. Turn over the page for interiors full of cosy style ideas. A

S P A C E S

S T Y L E

LOVING

T A L E N T

real living

HOME GROUND Anchored by tactile, natural elements, your home sanctuary can provide a connection to, and shelter from, the outside world

loving

Back to nature With its timber ďŹ&#x201A;oors, heavy textile hangings and walls that look like baked earth, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d assume this townhouse in central London was a country retreat. Such is the power of tactile, natural materials. Retrouvius design studio created the calming interiors using recycled hand-dyed fabrics and reclaimed building materials while retaining the textures of their natural state. A

photography morten holtum/living inside design maria speake styling lykke foged words lindyl crabb

real living

MORE THAN EVER, we want our homes to make us feel protected and restored, the interiors equivalent of taking a deep breath at the end of yoga class. But that doesn’t mean isolating your home from the rest of the world – it’s good to have some sun on your skin, to feel the earth beneath your feet and to look around at things that inspire you. That’s where this London townhouse comes in. Designed with loads of exposed timber, earthy wall ﬁnishes, ample exposure to sunlight and snug seating, it’s a gorgeous example of how to create a cosy sanctuary without cutting out all the naturally good stuff. Here, we break down the key elements.

put down roots Timber is a great starting point because it feels dependable and grounding, but if your home doesn’t have wooden feature walls or exposed beams like this house, a coffee table, cabinet or joinery made from timber will evoke a similar sensorial response. To get the most visual texture from wood furniture, flooring or cabinet doors, go for a finish that lets the natural imperfections and grain shine through – those raw marks create character and tactility. Most of the timber here hasn’t been glossed or painted over and that’s why the result feels so authentic. A

loving

Whole grains Sticking to a palette of pale, ashy tones leaves room to be more experimental with ornate carvings including these incredibly cool kitchen cabinet doors. These decorative features serve as an elegant counterpoint to the rawness of the ďŹ&#x201A;oorboards. Oxidised metal hardware and visible kitchenware help warm up the rustic elements. Go with the glow The sunlight from a single window illuminates several rooms thanks to a cleverly placed entrance in the living area (opposite). Lights are also positioned at several heights so that the brightness and mood can be adjusted.

real living

loving

let the walls talk Walls rendered in lime or clay plaster will instantly create a natural, tactile scheme. This type of earthy ﬁnish is a wonderful alternative to paint, especially if you like warm, minimalistic interiors and want to create a seamless textural foundation. When it comes to decorating the walls, hanging a handmade textile will have the same visual effect as placing a rug on the ﬂoor or displaying an artwork. Plus, you can use delicate fabrics such as silk and linen with embroidery and beading because you’re not walking on it!

follow the light You may not be able to ‘touch’ light but you can certainly feel its presence, and that’s what makes it such an important textural element. It provides depth and dimension, enhances mood and creates the same warm embrace and ambiance as a physical material. This townhouse has a skylight and windows with sheer curtains that provide access to natural light without forgoing privacy, and the glass-panelled doors allow this light to travel from one room to the next. A

Take it easy Relaxing at home should come naturally and the way you plan each space should cater to your favourite pasttimes. For example, this corner has all the elements required for a lazy weekend: seating by a window so you can read in well-lit space, a deep sofa for movie nights and naps and ottomans and ﬂoor cushions for gathering round the coffee table to play boardgames. real living

soften up Adding texture doesn’t mean recreating The Princess and the Pea with cushions, blankets and rugs. In this home, soft furnishings have been layered with restraint but the interiors still feel tactile and warm, and that’s because the seating already has the cosy factor. A generously-sized sofa or armchair won’t need very many accessories because the voluminous, pillowy proportions will create an inviting feel. This is your sanctuary, so no furniture should be too precious to curl up on. As for the textiles, a few textural items will do the trick. No need to over-accessorise! R

@reallivingmag

loving

Bare essentials A soothing environment requires visual harmony. Hanging lots of art on a textural wall ďŹ nish will clash whereas a handmade textile hanging will complement the sensory scheme. You can use an easel to display a framed artwork and a timber trestle table for objects and vases. Touchy feely In the bedroom (opposite) every item counts when it comes to decorating with texture. The rug has visible ďŹ bres, the cushions are plump and the bedding has pom pom trims. The result is balanced, not busy. real living

loving

IN GOOD HANDS

Keep your paws clean and your olfactory senses pleasured with the new Lost in Amalfi sea mist-scented hand sanitiser, $29.95, made by the experts at Glasshousefragrances.com

sneak peek new

add to cart INTO THE WILD

Made from iron with a sleek matte ﬁnish and available in a range of sculptural forms, a vessel from the Mona Vase Collection by L&M Home is the only addition your winter vignettes need this season. We love the two newest colour additions, Chalk and Clay. Lmhome.com.au

Inspired by camping and the spirit of adventure, the latest collection by Finnish design house Marimekko is perfect for seaside walks, road trips and tranquil wilderness retreats . We love the Kyyti Pieni Unikko shirt, $350, and the Suunta coat, $695, Marimekko.com

staff pick

LINDYL CRABB Senior features editor

fave finds

A whole bunch of things we love...

staff pick

TIMELESS U P DAT E SANDY DAO

words laura barry

Creative director

organic matter Inspired by the rugged wilderness of Tasmania, ceramic artist Alice Bell has perfected the art of reﬁning raw natural materials into sophisticated functional art. Shop the range of products at Greenhouseinteriors.com.au

DINNER PARTY

Make an at-home date night special and serve your culinary creations on some super-sophisticated bone china Vera Wang ‘Blanc Sur Blanc’ dinnerware, $199 for a 4-piece place setting from Wedgwood.com.au A real living

loving BALANCING ACT Balance is the name of the latest range from outdoor furniture brand Kun Design. Symmetrical and striking, this dreamy collection can be used indoors or out – that’s what we call a wise investment! Domo.com.au

BEAUTY SLEEP

A good night’s sleep is the key to a healthy mind, body and soul, so it’s worth investing in a good mattress. From Sealy and Sleepmaker to Body Balance and Beautyrest, Harvey Norman has all the best mattress brands to choose from. Harveynorman.com.au

staff pick

ELLE LOVELOCK Editor

real living loves

fave finds

... and some more! ONLINE COURSE

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master class Learn about pattern, light, architecture and furniture by signing up to the upcoming interior design online master class hosted by award-winning designer Kelly Wearstler. Masterclass.com

TOP THREE

1 2 3 self care

tread lightly The lovely shoemakers at Allbirds are determined to make all footwear eco-friendly, and they’ve outdone themselves with their latest creation, the Dasher athletic shoe. Made from eucalyptus and merino wool with a sugarcane sole, these babies will withstand even the toughest run. $225; Allbirds.com.au @reallivingmag

1 Glow up Avène eau Thermale Soothing Radiance Mask, $39.95; Avene.com.au 2 Hydrate Laneige Water Bank Moisture Cream, $56; Sephora.com.au 3 Body works Rodan+Fields Active Hydration Body Replenish, $89; Rodanandfields.com.au R

Watercolour Stripe Roller Blind

let there be light

Enlightened design Isamu Noguchi was passionate about creating art that could be used and shared. His Akari light sculptures, which marry traditional art forms and materials with functional modern design, embody this philosophy. Pictured here is an Akari E ceiling lamp.

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loving

MODERN HIS T ORY

words lindyl crabb | photography richard powers (main image); alamy; courtesy of artists rights society and living edge; nicholas knight © the isamu noguchi foundation and garden museum/artists rights society (lantern and table images) design kelly behun studio (main image)

Isamu Noguchi’s ethereal Akari lighting designs are among the most ubiquitous and accessible sculptures in the world YOU DON’T OFTEN HEAR the words design icon and flat pack in the same sentence. After all, iconic design objects are often thought of as exclusive and very expensive. But it’s not hard to get your hands on an Isamu Noguchi light sculpture. Although these light-as-a-feather paper lanterns are traditionally handcrafted in Japan, they can be bought online, flat packed and shipped to your door, and in doing so have become a universally iconic household item. Born in California to an American mother and a Japanese father, Isamu Noguchi lived in Japan until he was 13 before returning to America with his mother. Isamu’s first profound foray into the arts occurred when he began taking evening sculpture classes while studying pre-medicine at university – it wasn’t long before he’d abandoned his studies and was on his way to Paris on a scholarship to work for the sculptor Constantin Brâncusi. This formative experience influenced Isamu’s aesthetic and methodology and he would continue travelling and gathering inspiration across Europe, Asia and Mexico for much of his young adult life. In 1951, Isamu was travelling through the town of Gifu, an area in Japan known for manufacturing paper lanterns and umbrellas made from mulberry bark and bamboo. Here he learned the traditional Gifu art of paper construction and sketched the first Akari light sculpture designs. Akari are still made using the same materials. The fine washi paper, which is derived from the bark, is cut into strips, glued to a bamboo frame, and when the glue has dried the wood framework is removed, leaving a delicate lamp that can be collapsed and folded into a box. Isamu designed many more Akari ceiling, table and floor lamps of all shapes and sizes, some with metal stands, and they’re still made at the Ozeki & Co workshop in Gifu. They are the subject of countless exhibitions, but Isamu believed his “poetic, ephemeral, tentative” light sculptures belonged in the home. “All that you require to start a home,” Isamu once said, “is a room, a tatami and an Akari.” R

1904

Born in Los Angeles in 1904, Isamu Noguchi was one of the 20th century’s most proliﬁc sculptors. His work not only encompassed sculptures, which include his iconic Akari lighting designs (left), but also furniture, gardens, playgrounds, ceramics, architecture and set designs.

1947

In 1947 Isamu collaborated with the Herman Miller company. The result was a catalogue of modern furniture including the Noguchi coffee table (right), which is still in production.

1951

Isamu began developing his Akari light sculptures in 1951 and in the following years created more than 200 different models. The name Akari, which means ‘light’ in Japanese, perfectly describes their weightless luminosity.

2018

In 2018 the Noguchi Museum held an exhibition titled Akari: Sculpture by Other Means. The installations presented Isamu’s light sculptures in new, immersive ways.

real living

loving

cabin fever reads

Apeirogon by Colum McCann A powerful, heartbreaking novel based on the author’s experience meeting two men, one Palestinian, one Israeli, who became friends amid conflict. Cleanness by Garth Greenwell At the heart of this evocatively written book is a man’s search for intimacy, belonging and healing in a foreign country. Leading Men by Christopher Castellani This sophisticated work of historical fiction about love, fame and the glamorous literary and film circles of the 1950s will take you from New York to Rome. Funny Weather by Olivia Laing Now’s the perfect time to tuck into Olivia’s essays on why art matters more than ever. There are profiles on Basquiat, Georgia O’Keeffe, and a love letter to David Bowie. Daisy Jones and The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid This fictional story about lead singer Daisy Jones and her band captures the sex, drugs and rock’n’roll of the ’70s. Girl, Woman, Other by Bernardine Evaristo A portrait of womanhood and modern day Britain as told through the perspectives of 12 characters with intertwined lives. The Mirror and the Light by Hilary Mantel The final book in Hilary’s epic trilogy reimagines the last days of historical figure Thomas Cromwell, Henry VIII’s right-hand man. Raven Smith’s Trivial Pursuits by Raven Smith Witty, laugh-out-loud observations on life, popular culture and the topics we consider taboo. Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid Race and privilege are put under the microscope when a young black babysitter is accused of kidnapping the white child in her care. The Glass Hotel by Emily St. John Mandel In the mood for a mystery? Fortunes, an international fraud scheme and past identities unravel in this crime novel. The Topeka School by Ben Lerner Adam, a popular and gifted but morally confused high school student navigates the demands of his family, his peers and his own toxic masculinity. Topics of Conversation by Miranda Popkey A woman’s experiences of desire, motherhood, infidelity and pain are revealed through the conversations she has over two decades. The Body Politic by Brian Platzer Set against the 2016 US presidential election, four friends must face their pasts and their futures. Cat Person and Other Stories by Kristen Roupenian Contemporary horror stories by the author of Cat Person, a tale about the dark sides of dating that went viral online. The Jetsetters by Amanda Eyre Ward Old wounds, secrets and relationships surface when an estranged family go on a European cruise. R @reallivingmag

words lindyl crabb

Need a break from Netflix and social media? Why not bury your nose in one of these books instead...

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S T Y L I S H

I N S P I R A T I O N A L

C L E V E R

HOMES

Date night The intimate ambiance of a restaurant has been recreated in this serene inner-city apartment. Turn over the page to see more. A

real living

GOOD FOR THE SOUL This recently renovated apartment in Hong Kong is a calming breath of fresh air amid the hustle of the city with a kitchen worthy of its culinary owner photography mandy lee words lindyl crabb

homes Source material Most of the furniture and finishes are from independent manufacturers, from the sofa and fixtures to the flooring. Homeowner Mandy Lee also sources vintage decor – the coffee table is made from an old door – and is inspired by design duo Jersey Ice Cream Co. Portola Paints ‘Roman Clay’ lime plaster adorns the walls and ceilings. Succulent palette Mandy wanted her kitchen, which features custom green paint by Eico, to feel “as if it was lived in by a generation before me – the darkness gives a sense of mystery, intrigue and security”. A

real living

NOT ALL HOMES are a mirror image of the people who decorate them. Take the solaceful interiors of Mandy Lee’s inner-city apartment. “I’m not a calm, relaxing person,” confirms Mandy, whose irreverent food blog Lady and Pups has a global following. “Instead of reflecting me, the apartment balances me out. I want my home to feel calm and relaxing, to create the sense that I’m somewhere other than Hong Kong, which is a stressful city to live in,” she explains. “But I love old things and the apartment is filled with them, which brings me joy.” TAKE TWO Mandy and her husband Jason Tsang bought the apartment about a decade ago and spent several years moving between global cities. In 2016 they settled in and started renovating. “It was very old, there was no doubt that we would have to gut it completely,” Mandy says. But after three years living in their new home the couple’s needs had changed, and so began reno number two. “We wanted more living space and no unused rooms, so we turned the two bedrooms and den into a single bedroom apartment,” she says. “The first renovation was industrial with concrete floors, distressed wood and metal. I yearned for a space that could quieten me down instead.” SLOW COOKED The grounding, natural palette and vintage decor soulfully reflect that desire for peace and calm. However, the renovation wasn’t quite so relaxed. “We gutted and redid everything a second time,” Mandy says. “We hand-stained the cheap plywood panelled wall to make it look vintage and applied the lime plaster throughout the entire apartment ourselves after moving in because our contractor could not finish it on time.” Now, there’s space for Mandy’s dogs to play and those seamless plastered surfaces create visual height. Of course, her new forest green European-style kitchen is the chef d’oeuvre, an inspiring ‘home office’ befitting a successful cookbook author. R

@reallivingmag

homes

who lives here? Mandy Lee, a cookbook author, her husband Jason Tsang and their three rescue dogs Shrimpy, Sesame and Sticky Rice Ball. Ladyandpups.com | @ladyandpups A

Comfort food The couple eat together in this elegant dining space. They made and hand-stained the plywood wall while all of the furniture, including the banquette, is from makers in China. Cook up a storm The kitchen joinery, benchtops, pantry cupboard and sink (opposite) are custom made. The oven is from Ilve and the stovetop is made by Bertazzoni.

Green screen A curtain softly separates the kitchen from the open living area. “I’m not a big colour person,” Mandy says. “Since my kitchen took on a bold, dark Victorian green, the rest of the apartment stayed neutral to balance it out.” Plate up! Mandy displays her vintage copper and Japanese clay pots along the open shelves (opposite). “My kitchen has to strike a balance between functionality and aesthetics.” A

@reallivingmag

style tip Aged or brushed brass hardware will add a touch of timeless European style to cabinetry in dramatic shades of navy or green

homes

real living

FROM LEFT Test of time “Where possible I go for vintage furniture. Otherwise, I choose pieces with natural ﬁnishes,” Mandy says. A fan from eBay and Zara Home ceramics decorate the sideboard. Drink it in “Our apartment has pretty good natural light compared to other buildings in Hong Kong,” Mandy adds. A vintage cabinet by the living room window doubles as a bar. Silver service Curtains add a layer of soothing texture to the interiors and in the bedroom they disguise a closet. The vintage teapot and tray on the bed are from Marrakesh.

3 ways to make a space feel bigger

Renovating? Now’s the time to examine how you use each space. There could be potential to turn an empty study into a bigger living area or master bedroom.

Mandy treated the ceilings and walls with the same finish and colour. This will create a smoother, seamless look and “a feeling of height and continuity.”

Hang floor-length curtains higher than the top of the window frame to create the illusion of height, and opt for a lightweight, unfussy fabric. A @reallivingmag

homes

real living

Bathed in light Those textural plaster-ďŹ nished surfaces and sophisticated brass accents continue throughout the bathroom. A woven basket, wall hooks and vintage stool bring storage and visual warmth to the compact space. The towels are Ikea; the shower curtain is custom made.

@reallivingmag

homes

shop it! Balance vintage finds and aged finishes with classic hero pieces 2

1 3

24 CLASSIC SHAPE

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still-life styling lisa burden

1 Camilla 1 light wall bracket in Brass, $129, Beacon Lighting. 2 Lucia 2 artwork by Fiona O’Byrne, $1800 unframed, Instagram.com/obyrnefiona. 3 Dominic metal table clock, $269, LivingStyles. 4 Clare 12-piece tableware set, $109, Castlery. 5 Kungsfors net bags in Natural, $7.99 for pair, Ikea. 6 Rara Studio vase with handles in Brown, $110 for medium, Elph Store. 7 Home Design ‘Antica’ pendant light, $83 for small, Bunnings. 8 Amalfi 2.5 seater sofa in Ivory, $3450, Papaya. 9 Henri square cushion in Grey, $99, Papaya. 10 Gretel Corrie ‘Pedestal’ bowl in Speckled Stoneware, $175, Modern Times. 11 Double espresso cups, $36 each, Elph Store. 12 Rara Studio square mug in Apricot, $60, Elph Store. 13 Vintage Indian display cabinet, $2650, Few and Far. 14 Lally woven baskets with loop handles, from $19.95 for small, Papaya. 15 Razi raw mini bench, $189 for small, Inartisan. 16 Gretel Corrie ‘Wild Flower’ vase in Toast Stoneware, $66, Modern Times. 17 Galley drawer pull in Brass, $22, The Society Inc. 18 Georgina Proud urn in Cream Stoneware, $185, Modern Times. 19 Ella Bendrups faceted bud vase in White Stoneware, $80, Modern Times. 20 Mauviel copper 5-piece cookware set, $1420, Williams-Sonoma. 21 Tela tumbler in Clear, $45 for medium, Hay. 22 Bottle in Clear, $85 for large, Hay. 23 The Water Monopoly ‘Lonsdale’ basin on Aged Brass stand, from $3050, The English Tapware Company. 24 Tinker candle stands, from $39 for short, Few and Far. 25 Sierra rug in Chalk (1.7m x 2.4m), $1190, Armadillo&Co. Colours and finishes FROM LEFT Bullnose paver in Oyster Grey, $44.95 per sq m, National Tiles. Interior Expressions low sheen acrylic paint in Hunter Green, $84.04 for 4L, Haymes. Lejongap curtain in White (1.45m x 2.5m), $69 for pair, Ikea. HI-MACS surface in Evergreen, $336 for standard sheet, Laminex. real living

a little love This calm and cosy art nouveau apartment is home to one of Swedenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest florists with a penchant for pre-loved pieces photography andrea papini/living inside styling alexandra papini/house of pictures words ida magntorn & lauren steel

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Gallery gathering Homeowner Sophie Wiking’s art collection features a unique mix of works including a furry artwork made from Swiss Alpine goat skin that she purchased from an artist in Berlin, a movie poster of Fellini’s Roma, which is her dearest possession, and pieces found on the street including the poster featuring musician Nils Frahm. A daybed by Danish furniture designer Börge Mogensen has been transformed into a cosy sofa with colour-matched cushions from Granit. Making history Every piece of furniture and lighting in the bedroom (opposite), including this cabinet, is a secondhand ﬁnd that Sophie has given new life to. A real living

FORGET SPACE AND PRACTICALITY, finding the perfect home came down to a ‘feeling’ for Sophie Wiking. When the renowned Malmö-based florist and her husband Gustaf first stepped foot inside this light-filled 1904 art nouveau apartment, she immediately knew it was the perfect place for them. Located in the heart of Malmö, a coastal city in the south of Sweden, Sophie says the area has a warm atmosphere, too. “It’s a very cosy neighbourhood with lots of small cafes, bakeries and restaurants,” she tells. GETTING INTIMATE Despite downsizing from a 95 sq m apartment to this smaller 53 sq m place, the bright and airy interiors have everything the creative couple want in a home. Though there are just two rooms, one bedroom and a second multi-purpose space, their home is blessed with high ceilings, vast windows that invite natural light in all day and a leafy outlook of the building’s verdant courtyards. Sophie can even poke her head through the window and wave to her friend who lives in the house next door. In fact, Sophie and Gustaf love entertaining in their home and most evenings they invite friends who live nearby over for dinner. BREATHING SPACE The apartment’s minimalistic palette of crisp white walls and timeless timber floors have been transformed from a rather bare scheme into a warm, cosy and tonal home decorated with a considered mix of antique finds, original artworks, natural textures and pre-loved family treasures. “I like to live minimally, it’s like walking into a warm embrace,” Sophie says. “Before I had items all over, but now that I work, and the more stressful it is, the more I need some space and air around me.” That also includes plants, because despite being a florist, Sophie has decided not to bring her work home with her. This apartment is, first and foremost, a place where Sophie and Gustaf enjoy relaxing and unwinding after a long day. R

Antique arrangement Apothecary bottles, ceramic plates and pieces with personality adorn the kitchen shelves. Dreamy dinnerware Built along a windowed wall, the kitchen counter is home to all the essentials. Blooming business Sophie’s shop Florista (opposite) is fortuitously nestled between two antique stores. “It’s easy to pick up something on my way home,” Sophie says, pictured standing out the front with Gustaf.

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who lives here? Sophie Wiking, a florist, with her husband Gustaf and their three-year-old Cocker Spaniel, Grandpa. @florista_malmo A

In a new light A previous owner tore down the wall separating the kitchen and living room, so the couple turned the open design into a smart kitchen space with a counter along the wall. “I wanted the kitchen cabinet doors in brown sheet metal but I realised that it would become too heavy and too expensive. So, the solution was to paint the wooden hatches with an oxidising bronze colour,” Sophie explains. She introduced the round dining table – bought at auction – and stools to contrast with all the angular edges and straight lines in the apartment. “We replaced the chairs we had with stools and it instantly felt more spacious and airy,” she says.

how to shop for vintage like a pro

Look for reputable secondhand and vintage stores in your area and visit them often so you have a better chance of finding a bargain, or the perfect piece.

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Go for furniture that’s in good condition with good bones to ensure you invest in pieces that not only look great, but have excellent functionality, too.

Always consider size before you purchase. Take measurements with you when you go shopping to ensure you only buy items that will fit perfectly into your space. A

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style tip If you have a space-challenged dining area like Sophieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, consider swapping traditional dining chairs for easy-to-move stools that will make the room feel more versatile and open

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Artist’s own The dried flowers in the bedroom are the only floral display in the apartment. “I brought them home from a workshop I held in Berlin,” Sophie says. “The bouquet has been filled in over time and is now a collection of all sorts — the new dried flower trend is fun. Such an arrangement becomes an art piece, like a sculpture or painting.” Cabinet of curios A rustic white wardrobe (opposite), which Sophie describes as an “old-school Ikea cabinet,” is the bedroom’s main storage unit. The boxes, hats and trunks on top turn it into a design feature. A

Hushed tones “I love wood,” Sophie says of the timber decor throughout her home. In the bedroom, the wood is softened with textiles and a pillowy 1960s pendant. “And I love patina,” she adds. “It sounds cliché, but it feels as if old items have more soul.”

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shop it! Display ornate vintage wares against a soft and refined scheme 4

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1 Bolia ‘Balloon’ pendants in Ivory, about $988* for large and $770* for small, Slow Store. 2 Vintage 1950s pharmacy jars, $175 for set of 4, Pamono. 3 Shadows of Self framed artwork by Liam Haley, $550, Modern Times. 4 Radiant Nature Part 32 framed artwork by Ria Green, $650, Modern Times. 5 HK Living ‘Kyoto Ceramics’ Japanese salad bowl, $59.95, House of Orange. 6 Column pillar candles in Peach and Eucalyptus, $14 each, Black Blaze. 7 Muuto ‘Unfold’ pendant in Terracotta, $315, Finnish Design Shop. 8 Vintage book stack, $32.50, Tara Dennis Store. 9 Florabelle ‘Orleans’ brass candle holder, $77, Temple & Webster. 10 Authentic Models ‘Stateroom’ trunk side table in Gardenia, $959, Zanui. 11 Himalayan goatskin rug in White, $231, Hides of Excellence. 12 Arch vanity mirror in American Ash, about $1417*, Douglas & Bec. 13 Ishi tray, $59.95, Country Road. 14 Memphis 3 seater sofa in Rust, $1795, Life Interiors. 15 Membrane sculpture, $650, Milly Dent. 16 Kipling glass top coffee table, $529, Brosa. 17 La Verde ‘Zuriel’ side table in Mahogany, $239, Temple & Webster. 18 Rara Studio stone vase, $275 for extra tall, Elph Store. 19 Northcote Pottery ‘Italian’ antique terracotta pot (23cm), $6.60, Bunnings. 20 Purple Japanese maple plant (25cm), $75, Bunnings. 21 Julian ceramic bust statue, $55, LivingStyles. 22 Supreme sculptural vase, $140, Milly Dent. 23 Skultuna ‘Lovisa Ulrika’ chamber candlestick, $143, Amara. 24 Bourgogne condiment bowl, $9.95, salad plate, $14.95, and serving plate, $24.95, Provincial Home Living. Colours and ﬁnishes FROM LEFT Quick-Step ‘Compact’ timber ﬂooring in Natural Oak Extra Matte, from $82 per sq m, Premium Floors. Metallic laminate surface in Korten, from $198.88 per sq m, Laminex. Chalk paint in Original, $54.95 for 1L, Annie Sloan. Whisper Sheer blinds in Brilliance (90cm x 1.8m), $1083 including installation, Wynstan. real living

ON POINT A cosy retreat on the Victorian coast evokes nostalgic memories of holidays past while paying homage to its rugged landscape setting photography derek swalwell architect kennedy nolan words stephanie hope

Olive overture Walls painted in Dulux ‘Spores’ tie in with this home’s bushland surrounds and provide a neutral backdrop for the rounded light ﬁttings and white ceramics. Group setting The space has been designed to ﬁt multiple generations, and the large Mark Tuckey dining table (opposite) provides ample seating for whoever is staying. Meanwhile, an artwork by Jörg Schmeisser creates visual contrast against the green. A

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who lives here? Fiona Leahy and her husband Tony Swingler enlisted the help of Patrick Kennedy from Kennedy Nolan to design a holiday home to comfortably accommodate their three teenage children and extended family. Kennedynolan.com.au | @kennedy_nolan

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ON A BLUSTERY STRETCH OF COASTLINE three hours south of Melbourne, you’ll find this exquisitely crafted holiday home sitting pretty on the dunes. Both the property’s owner, Fiona Leahy, and her architect cousin, Patrick Kennedy of Melbournebased firm Kennedy Nolan, share a deep connection with Sandy Point, having spent childhoods holidaying in the seaside hamlet. And so, with visions of a coastal retreat reminiscent of her childhood, Fiona bought a vacant block in the area. There would be room for the whole family, with places to meet or retreat, and it should be robust enough to be used in all seasons. And with his nuanced understanding of her style and connection to this place, Patrick was the obvious person to design it. TRICKY TERRAIN The project posed a few challenges, not least the remote location, in a bushfire zone on a steeply sloping block. But as Patrick says, “Some challenges are really opportunities.” He designed the house like a pinwheel, incorporating a series of twists, turns and stepped levels between zones to follow the natural undulations of the sloping land. A central cloister-like courtyard connects the different zones and serves as a common area for guests, while also providing constant reminders of the coastal surrounds. “You are always circulating between rooms via this protected outdoor space, which keeps you in touch with the sounds and smells of the coast and the spectacular vault of stars overhead,” Patrick explains. TRUE COLOURS The surrounding landscape also informed the home’s palette. Fire-resistant silvertop ash cladding on the exterior will grey off over time and recede into the indigenous setting. While inside, curved timber batten ceilings are a nod to the rolling sea and circular windows give off nautical vibes. Olive green walls echo the bush surrounds and are a subdued backdrop for understated furnishings. “The intensity of the green imprints on the memory and ensures that family times here will have distinct associations, which reverberate over a lifetime,” Patrick says. Needless to say, Fiona was thrilled with the finished result. “She said the house felt instantly familiar and just right, which is the very best compliment,” he says. R

Green scheme “We’ve used a range of green shades as a complement to the natural surfaces of timber and slate,” says architect Patrick Kennedy of the harmonious palette. Comfort factor Homely touches and personal items are dotted throughout the holiday hideaway. The surrounding environment also provides decorative inspiration in the form of twigs, foliage and shells. Walk this way A series of sheltered corridors connect the different living zones and treat guests to a gust of sea air or a glimpse of twinkling stars as they traverse them. Three dimensional The open-plan entry, kitchen and dining space (opposite) is a natural place to congregate. Hard-wearing Castlemaine slate ﬂoors tie the three areas together and a large blackbutt-framed window overlooks the central courtyard. A real living

style tip Use the same finish on kitchen cabinet doors and drawer fronts as the surrounding walls â&#x20AC;&#x201C; in this instance, ply lining boards â&#x20AC;&#x201C; for a seamless finish

homes

how to create a home at one with its surroundings

Call in the experts! If you’re building on a tricky block like this, a technically clever design that’s sympathetic to the setting is key.

Provide constant reminders of where you are by installing windows in every room. They’ll give you views from all angles, as well as helping with air flow.

Choose colours and materials that reflect the outside environment. Think timber, stone and woven fabrics, and neutral greens, greys and creams. A

Raise the roof Curved elements feature throughout – in the corridors, windows, lighting and the ceilings. “The draped ceilings make the level changes feel ﬂuid,” Patrick explains. They’re lined with radially cut Victorian hardwood battens for improved acoustics and a cocoon-like effect. real living

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT All together now While everyone has private quarters, the courtyard offers a shared outdoor dining area protected from the harsh coastal winds. Teen’s retreat The sunken family room features a Paris Au Mois Daout lantern from Hub Furniture and a built-in sofa upholstered with ikat fabric from Walter G. Plant potential The owners’ work-in-progress garden will eventually grow to around two metres, merging the house and its landscape. Best seat Integrated joinery by builder Gene Laity provides curated zones throughout the home for sitting, reading and soaking up those magniﬁcent views. Perfect match Timber-clad walls and ceilings inside the home achieve a sense of cohesion with the exterior, and bring warmth and robustness to the interiors. Simple style From the timber table to the handcrafted objects and simple light ﬁttings, the home’s understated aesthetic is incredibly inviting. Cosy corner In the living area (opposite), an artwork by indigenous artist Shirley Purdie hangs next to the Nectre slow combustion wood heater. A real living

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Curves ahead In the parents’ quarters, an ensuite features a curved shower and Artedomus-tiled sewing bench, with low windows looking out onto the garden. Splash zone The communal bathroom (opposite) was inspired by the multifunctionality of a caravan park shower, but executed in a more reﬁned way. It features a curved shower (not shown) “to elevate the experience of washing so it feels pleasurable rather than perfunctory”, Patrick explains. A

real living

Rest assured The cave-like master bedroom has been designed with seclusion and sleep-ins in mind. A Kip&Co quilt cover and Indian woollen throw keep things comfortable and cosy in winter.

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shop it! Take inspiration from the colours of a coastal landscape 1 3

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12 1 Summer at home II print by Victoria Aguirre, from $285 for unframed small, Pampa. 2 Andrew Carvolth ‘Splice’ round serving board in Maple, $130, Jam Factory. 3 Double Crossed merino throw in Green, $349, Waverley Mills. 4 Muuto ‘The Dots’ coat hook in Oak, $179 for set of 5, Designstuff. 5 Lally woven tote, $69.95 for large, Papaya. 6 Dampier 70 lantern, $110, The Society Inc. 7 Le Corbusier B9 armchair in Golden Oak, $336, Thonet. 8 Wide leather pull tab in Saddle Tan, $20, MadeMeasure. 9 Mk2 freestanding pedestal radiant/convection wood heater, from $2499, Nectre. 10 Bath towel in Lilac Moss, $49, Kip&Co. 11 CM Studio ‘Louis’ sofa in Ranchero Leather (2.4m), $11,880, Project 82. 12 Home Republic ‘Rio’ basket in Natural, $99.99 for large, Adairs. 13 Clay by Khoa stoneware bowls, $63 each for large, Koskela. 14 Velvet pillowcase in Garden Green, $99 for set of 2, Kip&Co. 15 Swell cushion in Garden Blue, $195, Bonnie and Neil. 16 Loop slim table, from $3250, Mark Tuckey. 17 Nino bowls/planters, from $14.95 for small, Papaya. 18 Lamina merino throw in Blue, $325, Waverley Mills. 19 Artemide ‘Dioscuri’ wall lamp (35cm), $417.97, Salbini. 20 Milan adjustable LED switch wall light in Black, $169, Beacon Lighting. Colours and ﬁnishes FROM LEFT Ikat linen upholstery in Indian Teal, $264 per m, Walter G. Inax ‘Yohen Border’ tiles in YB32, Artedomus. Jakarana slate tiles, $55 per sq m, RMS Traders. Wash&Wear low sheen paint in Spores, $91.55 for 4L, Dulux. real living

ELLE ExCluSivE! notebook French Kiss

two designs to collect valued at $29.95

Provence Bouquet

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TERMS AND CONDITIONS: ONLY AVAILABLE WHEN YOU PURCHASE THE JUNE/JULY ISSUE OF ELLE IN SELECT RETAILERS FOR $10.99. WHILE STOCKS LAST.

Down to earth Ferm Livingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new Haze sideboard and Opal shade pendant from the SS20 collection create an elegant yet grounding tone. Turn the page for furniture and decor buys to cosy-up your home. A

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1 Organic cotton velvet rectangle cushion in Sage, $100 with insert, In Bed Store. 2 Block grid cushion cover, $59, West Elm. 3 Ficus 5 framed artwork by Jennifer Tarry-Smith, $455, Modern Times. 4 Claude wafﬂe blanket/bedspread in Celadon, $269 for queen/king, Papaya. 5 Spectra Lighting ‘UI’ marble & glass table lamp, $152.90, Temple & Webster. 6 Topaz throw in Mocha & Taupe, $129.99, Adairs. 7 Curved boucle bedhead in Ivory, $1299 for queen, McMullin & Co. 8 Vintage stripe quilt cover in Mink, $229 for queen, Aura Home. 9 Halo Organic cotton European pillowcase in Tobacco, $49.95, Aura Home. 10 Jolie ceramic bust statue, $55, LivingStyles. 11 Le Soleil incense sticks, $39, Maison Balzac. @reallivingmag

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It’s time to show your bedroom some love with layered textiles and mood lighting still-life styling lisa burden

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12 Hamill metal frame arch wall mirror in Antique Gold, $659, LivingStyles. 13 Sandy Beni M’Rirt rug, $5990, Tigmi Trading. 14 Wanderful cushion cover in Donkey/Oats, $89, Pony Rider. 15 House of Hackney ‘Gaia’ ﬂoral-print velvet cushion, $292 for large, Matchesfashion. 16 House of Hackney ‘Anaconda’ ﬂocked-velvet cushion, $247, Matchesfashion. 17 Tricolour diamond cut velvet cushion cover in Dark Horseradish, $59, West Elm. 18 Zel table lamp in White, $89, Freedom. 19 10 Years From Now print, $59 for unframed A3, Jasmin Dowling. 20 Vintage linen fringe round cushion in Tobacco, $69.95, Aura Home. 21 Tekla Fabrics ‘Checked’ merino-wool blanket in Brown, $450 for large, Matchesfashion. 22 Marley bedside in Natural Oak, $1445, GlobeWest. 23 Bodyclock Spark 100 alarm clock, $128.99, Lumie. 24 Cubic oil burner in Limestone, $189.95, Addition Studio. A real living

A cosy living room feels both luxe and lived-in. Think furniture upholstery in velvet and

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1 Middle of Nowhere ‘Pebble’ mirror in Brass, $495, Life Interiors. 2 A Midday Movie and a Friend Called Red artwork by Rachael McCully, $4000 unframed, Curatorial+Co. 3 Fenton two-toned lumbar cushion cover, $79, Pottery Barn. 4 Lil Safari stripe cushion cover in Rusty Desert, $79, Pony Rider. 5 Hampi cushion in Azure, $122, Walter G. 6 Mark Tuckey ‘Slat’ round oak bedside table, $279.99, Adairs. 7 Rikki metal adjustable ﬂoor lamp in Brass, $1485, LivingStyles. 8 Cassis cushion in Olive, $147, Walter G. 9 Jan Vogelpoel ‘Ultra Lounge’ ceramic sculpture in White, $665, Becker Minty. 10 Gus circuit centre sofa in Himalaya Cloud, $1950, GlobeWest. 11 Lido ottoman in Burgundy Velvet, $695 for small, Coco Republic. 12 Neue Void incense burner, $349.95, Addition Studio. 13 Home Republic ‘Malmo’ linen throw in Chartreuse, $119.99, Adairs. @reallivingmag

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bouclĂŠ, woven textures and an oil burner or lantern so you can curl up by candle light

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14 Carver marble vase, $155 for tall, Coco Republic. 15 Bleecker ottoman in Teal Velvet, $935, Coco Republic. 16 Stripe knitted cotton throw in Clay, $69.95, Temple & Webster. 17 Organic cotton velvet rectangle cushion in Camel, $100 with insert, In Bed Store. 18 Cushion in Forest & Natural, $69.95, Provincial Home Living. 19 Groceries Beni Mâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Rirt rug, $4100, Tigmi Trading. 20 Metal pot and big stand combo in Blush, $300, Bendo. 21 Amara round leg coffee table in Brown Vein Marble, $2760, GlobeWest. 22 Soundbar 700 speaker in Arctic White, $1199.95, Bose. 23 String lantern, $79 for small, West Elm. 24 Lily lamp in Cream, $499, McMullin & Co. 25 Paradiso taper candle holders in Clear, $19 for small, $24 for medium and $29 for large, West Elm. A real living

Your home office should cater to the way you like to work, so bring in some colour, a few 1 3

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1 30 Day Challenge calendar, download free, An Organised Life. 2 Manila folders in Vintage Rose, $12.99 for set of 6, Kikki.K. 3 Harper charging tag in Dark Rye, $49.95, Oroton. 4 Kaleido tray in Dark Red, $45 for extra small, Hay. 5 The Ultimate Workspace stationery set, $75, An Organised Life. 6 Kvarnvik storage boxes in Beige, $19.99 for set of 3, Ikea. 7 Modern photo custom notebook, $42.99 for hardback, Papier. 8 The baskets in Mustard, $59 for set of 3, Mustard Made. 9 Ishi holder, $39.95, Country Road. 10 Ishi storage container, $49.95, Country Road. 11 Ishi tray, $79.95 for large, Country Road. 12 No.5 pencils in Warm Yellow, Mint and Light Grey, $10 each, Hay. 13 Marimekko ‘Socks Rolled Down’ pitcher, $101, and tumbler in Clear, $54.55 for set of 2, Finnish Design Shop. 14 Potato chair, from $602, DesignByThem. 15 Brass clip holder, $126.90, Speciﬁed Store. @reallivingmag

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16 Bullet pen in Golden, $15, Hay. 17 LEDlux ‘Poppy’ LED wireless charging lamp, $69.95, Beacon Lighting. 18 365 journal in Maple, $32.95, Kikki.K. 19 The Things We Can’t See Now Will Last Forever poetry book, $44.95, Blacklist Store. 20 Kartio pitcher, $179, and tumblers in Linen, $34.95 for pair, Iittala. 21 Muse texture 15” slim laptop bag in Walnut Texture, $399, Oroton. 22 Tofu solid wood stationery set, $49 (pencils not included), Animi Causa. 23 Annual Reminder A6 greeting card in Maple, $5.99, Kikki.K. 24 Colour crate in Nougat, $15 for small, Hay. 25 Bekant storage unit on legs in Mesh White, $189, Ikea. 26 Stitch A6 notebooks in Multi, $15.99 for set of 5, Kikki.K. 27 LEDlux ‘Smith’ LED table lamp in Aged Bronze, $189, Beacon Lighting. 28 Drönjöns magazine ﬁles, $12.99 for set of 2, Ikea. A real living

This season’s comfort foods call for visually nourishing kitchenware, from earthy linens

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1 Dante brass condiment spoons, $59.95 for set of 4, Papaya. 2 Hallmark footed bowl, $44.95, Provincial Home Living. 3 Aspen satin brass 3 light pendant, $199, Early Settler. 4 Epicurious oven mitt, $19.95, and double oven mitt in Taupe, $29.95, Maxwell & Williams. 5 Deep utility bowls in White Ochre, Rose Quartz, Poppyseed and Banksia, $72.95 each, Robert Gordon. 6 Admiral tea towel in Donkey/Oats, $39, Pony Rider. 7 Grind ‘Andes’ salt and pepper mills in White and in Black, $39.95 each, Salt&Pepper. 8 New York Collection 4 slice toaster in White Gold, $169, Sunbeam. 9 Strand 2-piece fondue set in Stone, $34.95, Salt&Pepper. 10 100% linen napkins in Chestnut, $40 for set of 4, In Bed Store.11 Risatorp basket, $14.99, Ikea. 12 Signature cast iron shallow casserole in Coastal Blue (30cm), $619, Le Creuset. 13 Jim timber long board, $59.95, Country Road. @reallivingmag

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and oven-baked ceramics to decadent metal finishes and stylish sets made for sharing

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14 Vintage linen napkins in Khaki, $59.95 for set of 4, Aura Home. 15 Nest Mini speaker in Sky, $79, Google Store. 16 Okuvlig bamboo drinking straws, $6.99 for set of 12 and 2 cleaning brushes, Ikea. 17 DOIY ‘Chef 30 Day Challenge’ recipe cards, $19.95, Milligram. 18 Wild Stripe apron, $39.95, Raine & Humble. 19 Bastien Thomas blown glass cups in Red, Yellow and Purple, $70 each for tall, Pépite. 20 Menu kettle teapot (1.5L), $118, and kettle heater, $68.10, Finnish Design Shop. 21 Xave tea towels in Moss Green, $34.95 for set of 3, Country Road. 22 Epicurious deep quiche dish, $24.95, Maxwell & Williams. 23 Epicurious canisters in White, $39.95 for set of 3, Maxwell & Williams. 24 Echo Dot 3rd-gen smart speaker in Plum Fabric, $79, Amazon. 25 Filt net bag in Natural Beige, $24.95, Milligram. 26 Coffee grinder in Pastel Blue, $349, Smeg. 27 HK Living ‘Bold & Basic Ceramics’ breakfast plate in Salmon, $19.95, and tray in Blush, $89, House of Orange. 28 Hay marbled teapot in Brown, $83.50, Finnish Design Shop. R real living

Clean lines Our latest bathroom style guide features beautiful colour schemes, statement ďŹ xtures and a totally fabulous outdoor tub! Turn for more bathroom inspiration. A

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AWA S H WITH STYLE

Planning a bathroom renovation or revamp? Here are seven stylish spaces to inspire

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G R A PH I C D E TA I L S interior design lot 1 design & sydesign

try it

photography katherine lu | styling tammy miconi

Use matte black shower framing, tapware and fixtures to get an industrial look. Want to liven up a monochrome palette? Add colour with some pretty window treatments.

the look A masculine aesthetic with a soft edge was the design brief for this home, and Tammy Miconi, Principal at Lot 1 Design, delivered. The bathroom features a combination of contemporary and industrial design styles. The graphic elements â&#x20AC;&#x201C; namely the black fixtures, tile border and shower screen frame â&#x20AC;&#x201C; are softened by a dreamy pink curtain from Tigger Hall and the tactile limestone floor tiles from Surface Gallery. Ceramic mosaic tiles in a mixed-white finish from Artedomus were used on the walls to amp up the texture and reflect natural light throughout the room. A real living

HISTORY LESSON design chan + eayrs

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the look This tactile bathroom is the perfect example of how to bring a contemporary aesthetic to an older property. Designed by husband-and-wife design duo Chan + Eayrs, the space combines traditional materials and techniques with clean lines and a fresh take on colour. The original pine floors and soft lime plastering are a nod to the homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s past, while teal paint, green Verde Luana marble and wabi-sabi antique marble basin ensure the style is set firmly in the present. Mixed metals feature throughout, with tapware in chrome, doorknobs in brass and a gold mirrored candle sconce over the bath. A @reallivingmag

photography michael sinclair

Recreating this look is all about mixing materials and being bold with colour. Here, green and teal are used to make a style statement, while lime plaster, timber cabinetry and marble flooring create textural contrast.

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BARE NECESSITIES interior stylist romi weinberg

try it

the look Bright, white and calming, this Mediterranean-style bathroom by stylist Romi Weinberg celebrates texture and the beauty of raw materials. Terracotta floor tiles and Moroccan tadelakt plaster has been used to produce a peaceful colour palette that can be updated to suit any trend. The walls, benchtop and basin are all coated in this plaster finish, a simple yet effective way to put the gentle undulations of every surface on display, while brushed stainless-steel tapware fits smoothly into the design theme. Plantation shutters in a raw timber finish are the cherry on top of this dreamy bathroom. A @reallivingmag

photography maree homer | styling romi weinburg & kirstin rawson

Terracotta tiles, raw timber and a white-washed room guarantee a Mediterranean vibe, and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be afraid to put natural flaws on display when using raw materials, as the uniqueness of the grain or patina can add character.

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ART POP interior design lucy bock design

try it

photography derek swalwell | styling lucy bock

When using colour in large quantities, go for a muted shade thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy on the eyes and pair it with a pale neutral. Also, make a small bathroom feel larger with clean lines and a simple design.

the look Despite its small size and lack of natural light, this bathroom by interior designer Lucy Bock has oodles of personality. A muted colour palette, pared-back aesthetic and layered textures soften the geometric lines in the room. Matte lilac INAX Japanese tiles give the bathroom a playful yet sophisticated edge, while the Elba marble vanity top and white joinery make the space feel brighter. The polished concrete floor and brushed chrome fittings donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t compete with the lilac tiles for attention, ensuring this space feels beautifully calm and uncluttered rather than small and dark. A real living

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N AT U R E CA LL S interior design rebecca boykett

try it

photography maree homer | styling kristin rawson

An outdoor bathroom requires weather-resistant natural materials and metal fittings that develop a pretty patina when exposed to the elements. Just add luxe bathroom essentials to finish.

the look The centrepiece of the outdoor bathroom at luxury accommodation property Byron Bay Black is the antique French oak wine barrel bath. Designed by Rebecca Boykett, the alfresco bathing area focuses on natural materials and tactility. Characterful old railway sleepers have been recycled into steps and locally sourced river pebbles ensure mess-free water drainage in the secluded courtyard. Copper shower and bath fittings were custom-made to enhance the rustic vibe in the bathroom, and the entire look is pulled together with some well-placed pot plants and luxe bath towels. A real living

MONOCHROME interior design sally caroline builder mrb constructions

try it

the look Calm yet moody, contemporary yet timeless, lacking sunlight yet well-lit, this pair of monochrome bathrooms seem to contradict themselves, but beautifully so. Full slabs of Savoir limestone are used on the walls, but cut into rectangular pieces and laid in a brick bond pattern on the floor â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a neat design trick that adds depth to the bathrooms. Tapware in an aged iron finish, from Brodware, complements the palette and extends the tones found in the stone to the metal fixtures for a totally resolved aesthetic. In one space, the blue painted-timber-veneer vanity adds a surprise of colour. A @reallivingmag

photography anwyn howarth | styling sally knibbs

Trying to do too much in one space can lead to a visual mess, so simple design and consistency is key to achieving this look. Extend the same finish from floor to walls and keep the finishes minimal to get a seamless result.

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real living

EASY ELEGANCE interior design bower architecture and interiors builder fortem projects

try it

the look Sunlight spills into this elegant bathroom from a skylight situated over the shower – an unusual but truly delightful design feature that adds height and space to this small bathroom. Signorino Duma natural limestone in soft grey tones is used on the floor and vanity top, while two types of satin-finish tiles in different sizes were applied to the walls. It’s this mix that supplies just the right amount of visual movement and warmth to ensure the bathroom feels inviting and serene rather than cold and clinical. Rogerseller’s Arq tapware in brushed nickel perfectly fits the muted colour scheme. R @reallivingmag

photography martina gemmola | styling paige anderson

Aim to keep the colour palette restrained and instead use texture to create visual depth and contrast. Another style trick to try is running tiles from floor to ceiling to increase the feeling of space in a small bathroom.

decorate

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Discover brand new buys for every room in your home, plus loads of clever design ideas

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still-life styling lisa burden

cool as a cucumber

This month, we’ve pulled together three mood boards to inspire your next bathroom makeover

Update a classic white and chrome scheme with refreshing tones of jade and sage green 1 Lini pendant light, $859 for small, Lighting Collective. 2 Metropolis wall set on Chrome backplate, $698, Astra Walker. 3 Joseph Giles ‘Irvine’ cabinet pull handle, from $120, The English Tapware Company. 4 Artwork matte tiles in Deco 01, $480 per sq m, Di Lorenzo. 5 Stone 2.0 Marﬁl smooth tiles, $110 per sq m, Di Lorenzo. 6 Elvire robe hook, $89, Caroma. 7 I.D Advanced Ultra-Low VOC interior paint in Rhino, $71.90 for 4L, Wattyl. 8 I.D Advanced Ultra-Low VOC interior paint in Cloud, $71.90 for 4L, Wattyl. 9 Low sheen paint in Paper Plane, $79 for 4L, Tint. 10 Low sheen paint in Old School, $79 for 4L, Tint. 11 Artwork matte tiles in Deco 07, $480 per sq m, Di Lorenzo. 12 Bath Brew bath soaks, $17.95 each, Addition Studio. 13 River Jade Marble long subway tiles, $189 per sq m, Teranova. 14 Aura 1600 freestanding bath, $2233, Caroma. 15 Smeraldo Quartzite stone slab, Artedomus. 16 Kristin Ess ‘Micellar’ scalp purifying shampoo, $21.99, and ‘Weightless Hydration’ daily scalp and hair mask, $24.99, Priceline. 17 Paros cotton hand towel in Olive, $24.95, Aura Home. 18 Elvire 400 enamelled steel wall basin, $1349, Caroma. 19 Bejmat tiles in Avocado, $290 per sq m, Tiles of Ezra. 20 Gardano Quartzite stone slab, Artedomus. A real living

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palette earth Take a trip to the Mediterranean and warm up with tones of terracotta, turmeric and pink 1 Santa Caterina travertine, POA, Artedomus. 2 Low sheen paint in C.R.E.A.M, $79 for 4L, Tint. 3 Eggshell acrylic paint in Mustard Matte 6, $130 for 4L, Porter’s Paints. 4 Eggshell acrylic paint in Mustard Matt 7, $130 for 4L, Porter’s Paints. 5 Interior Expressions low sheen paint in Chiffon, $84.40 for 4L, Haymes. 6 Trilogy vitamin C polishing powder, $39.95, and vitamin C revitalising eye gel, $34.95, Chemist Warehouse. 7 Chagrin pull, $60, The Society Inc. 8 Stepp circle basin in Custard, $890, Nood Co. 9 Zaragoza marble slab, POA, Artedomus. 10 Exclusive terrazzo tiles, $170 per sq m, Tiles of Ezra. 11 Albus Lumen ‘Casa Alana’ porcelain plate, $225 for small, Matchesfashion. 12 Natural Gobi tiles, $180 per sq m, Jatana Interiors. 13 Bullo towel holder, $150, The Society Inc. 14 Solitude ‘Invigorate’ bath cookies, $48, Oliver Thom. 15 Paros bath towel set in Mustard (includes 2 x bath and hand towels and 1 x mat), $179, Aura Home. 16 Valencia bath in Nude, $4990, Concrete Nation. 17 Bejmat tiles in Clay, $240 per sq m, Tiles of Ezra. 18 Plastrella ceramic tiles, $89 per sq m, Academy Tiles + Surfaces. 19 Original BTC ‘Fin’ pendant light in Bone China, $698, Dunlin. 20 Fez Matt tiles in Mustard, $115 per sq m, Di Lorenzo. 21 Yokato wall set in Brushed Nordic Brass, $997, Brodware. A @reallivingmag

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SEGMENTS â&#x20AC;&#x201D; A tactile porcelain collection with strong visual impact

DI LORENZO TILES Pty Ltd Tile Merchants | www.dilorenzo.com.au

On sale now for a limited time!

Storybooks Collection

6 Disney© Storybooks in total to collect! Only $2 when you purchase a participating magazine*or $6.99 when sold separately. Oﬀer available from 13/05/20 - 09/06/20 or while stocks last. © Disney

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Stormy blues and moody greys are given a contemporary edge with cool black hardware

1 Redfern terrazzo-look tiles in Charcoal, $49 per sq m, Tile Cloud. 2 Low sheen paint in Bubble Bath, $79 for 4L, Tint. 3 Interior Expressions low sheen paint in Thunder Bay, $92 for 4L, Haymes. 4 Interior Expressions low sheen paint in Midnight Sky, $92 for 4L, Haymes. 5 Interior Expressions low sheen paint in Copen Blue, $92 for 4L, Haymes. 6 Artetech ‘Marmietta Onyx’ porcelain panel, POA, Artedomus. 7 Liano Nexus double towel rail in Black, $290, Caroma. 8 Zimi wall basin/bath mixer set in Matte Black (20cm), $506 (base only), Phoenix Tapware. 9 Andrée Jardin matchbox, $20 for 120 matches, Oliver Thom. 10 Peacock Marble tiles, $189 per sq m, Teranova. 11 Stirling terrazzo-look tiles in Charcoal Matt, $87 per sq m, Tile Cloud. 12 Scandal wall sconce in Mid Bronze with Navy Leather, from $6850 for tall, Articolo. 13 Santa Maria Novella ‘Oceania’ room diffuser, $189 for 250ml, Libertine Parfumerie. 14 The Water Monopoly ‘Rockwell’ bath in White with White Feet, from $12,885, The English Tapware Company. 15 Sospiri diamante tiles in Avio, $90 per sq m, Di Lorenzo. 16 Luxury Egyptian towels in Ocean, from $19.95 for face washer, Sheridan. 17 Nagoya Mosaic Tile Co ‘Mini Iriede’ tiles, $125 per sq m, Academy Tiles + Surfaces. 18 Devon wall tiles in Sky, $74 per sq m, Earp Bros. 19 Nood Co ‘Box’ basin vanity set in Copan Blue, $1980, Di Lorenzo. 20 Decor Walter ‘Kristall Collection’ tumbler in Anthracite, $189, Becker Minty. R real living

H O L I DAY AT H O M E Want to set up a cosy winter staycation? Kate Hopwood from freedom shows us how changing rooms Rethink what you use each room for. Your bedroom doesn’t just have to be for sleeping – with a beautifully made bed complete with a comfy headboard for reading support, you can create a whole new space to unwind in as well as gain a restful nights’ sleep. Your living room is a great place to gather and share precious time with family and friends. Essential furniture pieces include a comfy sofa and a great coffee table for placing magazines and cups of tea on, and even playing board games.

the accessories

STICK TO A CALM AND COHESIVE COLOUR PALETTE

Scents can transform an experience, so add a scented candle or diffuser and it will instantly change the way your home feels. Layering cushions and blankets on sofas and beds will soften lines, creating calmness and comfort – plus, they offer a lovely invitation to snuggle up and watch your favourite movie. Stepping out of bed in the morning onto a beautiful rug always makes a great start to my day. As for clutter, consider storage baskets to hide frequently used items and create a tidy hotel-room feel.

colour and texture

TOP ROW Kamaria 12-piece dinner set in Stone Blue, $169. Fierro vessel in Charcoal, $49.95. Zuri vessel in Black, $89.95. Cactus vessel in Grey, $24.95 for 18cm, $39.95 for 30cm. SECOND ROW Tammy cushion in Natural, $49.95. Valentine cushion in White, $49.95. Laurens cushion in Yellow, $69.95. Zaada cushion, $99.95. THIRD ROW All Time Adored painted canvas (1.05m x 1.05m), $229. Ace of Spades framed canvas (1.22m x 82cm), $399. Ovie Leaner mirror in Black (1.8m), $399. On the Other Side painted canvas (95cm x 1.25m), $199. BOTTOM ROW Senoia vessels in White, $39.95 for 26cm, $59.95 for 44cm. Delgado ﬂoor rug (2m x 3m), $699. Jose planter in Black, $24.95. Azalea baskets in Natural, $79.95 for large, $59.95 for small, freedom. @reallivingmag

Colour helps to signify the change of season and visually shifts us into more of a hibernation mode. A simple colour injection means you won’t need to replace everything. Find a new palette to mix and match, or play with similar tones but combine different materials. I like to start with my favourite decorative piece and pull out complementary colours for cushions and throws. As for texture, warm, soft knits, velvets and faux fur feel comforting in the cooler months. R

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DOWN TO EARTH Neutrals offer a wonderful way to inject warmth and cosiness into a room. Natural materials and earthy textures will lend a health-retreat vibe, so look for pieces in timber, linen, jute and lovely plaster or stone ﬁnishes.

style tip Nothing says ‘hotel’ like a beautifully made bed, so layer yours with textural linens, cushions and blankets

DECOR ATING COMPETITION

and the WINNER IS… This year we were spoilt for choice with incredible entries, and we thank you all so much for showing us your beautiful homes. But there can only be one winner… Congratulations Nicky Mabbett – @nickyhousesnaps – you’ve won the real living x freedom Reader Decorating Competition!

ELLE LOVELOCK

KIRSTEN BOOKALLIL

K ATE H O PWO O D

Editor, Real Living

Interiors stylist

Head of Design, freedom

“I loved how Nicky carried her look throughout the whole home without being matchy-matchy. It’s a really resolved scheme. Even the bathroom grout is pink!”

“Nicky’s natural capture of details and colour was so strong. There is definitely a love for composition and a graphic setting, which was a definite highlight.”

brought to you by @reallivingmag

“Nicky’s sophisticated use of colour was a real stand out. Her choice of materials and the compositions used were the perfect mix of subtle and bold.”

A LITTLE PEEK INTO @nickyhousesnaps WINNING HOME

Attention to detail As you can see from these snippets of Nickyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home, the look was cohesive from room to room: a palette of blush pink, clay and shades of blue complemented with white and timber real living

Ready to level up your interior design game? Take a peek inside the home of Kyal and Kara Demmrich, winners of The Block 2014 and the masterminds behind this Mediterranean-inspired home on the NSW central coast, where every room is an opportunity to put personality on display â&#x20AC;&#x201C; even the kitchen! Turn the page for lots of great design ideas and top tips for managing a new build. A

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COASTAL NSW AUSTRALIA

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MASTERCLASS This family home puts an Australian spin on Mediterranean style in a masterful mash-up of materials and textures photography grace picot styling kara demmrich words laura barry @reallivingmag

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who lives here? Kyal and Kara Demmrich, renovation superstars, entrepreneurs and the winners of The Block in 2014, with their children, Ziya, three and Vada, two, plus Jonah the Kelpie.

KITCHEN

Kyalandkara.com.au | @kyalandkara

Style statement The centrepiece of the open kitchen is the 100mm slab of Cosentino Dekton Taga stone on the island bench. “Its lovely muted tones complement the oak cabinetry,” says Kara. The oak and leather bar stools are from GlobeWest, and the urn on the island bench is from Drift Home & Living. Stairway to heaven While the earthy, sandy colour palette with touches of sage green and blue is a lesson in visual serenity, it’s the curvaceous staircase (opposite) coated in a touchable limewash that truly steals the show. “We actually didn’t plan the stairs. We were going to build a traditional staircase to the rumpus room, but found doing it this way saved us ﬂoor space. It’s now the heart of the home,” says Kara. A real living

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KITCHEN

Group effort Kyal and Kara worked with Jasper Design Group and Loughlin Furniture to custom design the oak joinery.

STUDIO

Pocket sized It may be small in size, but the guesthouse kitchenette makes up for it in style. Oak cabinetry is topped with a luxe stone benchtop and matte chalky-ﬁnished tiles have been used for the splashback. The ﬂoating shelf is the perfect place for Kara to put some of her favourite handmade ceramics and art on display in the studio.

ALL THAT’S LEFT OF THE BATEAU BAY SHACK Kyal and Kara bought with their Block winnings in 2015 is a four poster bed made from salvaged pieces of the original house frame. As the existing property was ﬁlled with asbestos and riddled with mould, the couple decided the best thing they could do was demolish it and rebuild on their lovely plot, located just metres away from the pristine beaches and national parks on the central coast of New South Wales. “We had a demolition crew come and remove everything,” says Kara. “We’ve found it’s safer and more cost-effective to leave it to the professionals.” The husband-and-wife team didn’t start work on the project until May 2019. “We love turning something old into something new. In this case, we loved the block and position and we wanted to build a family home to raise our kids.” The new three-bedroom (plus guest house) home is a sprawling L-shaped open-plan design that hugs a central garden, allowing every room on the ground ﬂoor a view of the lawn, pool or paved outdoor entertaining area. Kara describes the look as ‘Australian coastal meets Mediterranean villa’, and they’ve achieved this by masterfully mixing a variety of materials and emphasising texture both outside and inside the home. The roof is Colorbond ‘Ultra Steel’ in Dune, which both withstands and visually references the home’s coastal environment. A @reallivingmag

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style tip Kara says if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not 100 per cent happy with something, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best to wait for that perfect piece to come along and get what you really want

The guest house Located on the same block as the family home, the studio provides a luxe place for friends and family to stay when they visit, and functions as a holiday rental. Paint is a cost-effective way to make a statement. Here, a soft grey colour has been used on the bottom third of the walls, with the remaining two-thirds painted white. Floor tiles have been laid in a herringbone pattern.

STUDIO

Clever thinking Curtains are a smart way to create a private bedroom zone within an open studio ďŹ&#x201A;oor plan

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Design school This room is less about the colour palette, and more about the abundance of textures, all working cohesively within the sandy colour scheme and coastal theme.

Heads up The beaded dome pendant lights over the dining table from African Trading Port are one of Kara’s favourite pieces in the house. “They have hundreds of tiny hand-rolled clay beads, and bring lots of warmth and texture to the room. They really zone the dining space and make it feel intimate.” A

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DINING ROOM

White weather boards and Australian blackbutt cladding cover the exterior, while sandstone is a major feature inside and out. In fact, one of Kara’s favourite design features, aside from the exposed laminated timber ceiling beams, is the stone feature wall in the living room. “We allowed extra depth in the wall, cladded it and had a stonemason set the sandstone in place. It was very time consuming,” says Kara. “I also love the large void over the room; it lets in beautiful north-eastern light all day.” The biggest challenge of the build was ﬁtting the curved internal walls, exposed ceiling beams and staircase seamlessly into the building plan, and ensuring all the interior design features felt cohesive rather than disjointed. The only way to solve most problems was to trouble-shoot big issues on-site as they arose. “We have always found the best way to deal with problems is to listen to each other’s ideas and marry them together, or come to a compromise, and we are usually happy with the result,” says Kara. “After 12 years of renovating, we have learned to surround ourselves with excellent tradespeople, our supplier base has increased dramatically, and we don’t just settle for what is available in the local stores,” Kara adds. “We know our own style now and aren’t afraid to push boundaries when it comes to design.” R

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Bright idea Two Velux skylights and a two-metre louvre window maximise the natural light in the bathroom.

M A I N B AT H R O O M

Match maker Look for any opportunity to use varying textures that complement one another, says Kara.

Ahead of the curve Curving the tiled feature wall was a clever way to subtly incorporate the rounded theme that ﬂows throughout the rest of the home into the bathroom, while also providing a point of interest in the room – plus, it’s functional! It acts as a shelf for storing soaps, candles and even bath toys for the kids, while hiding plumbing for the bath spout. The key to this look is textural contrast. Large format tiles in a matte ﬁnish were used to minimise the amount of visible grout lines in the bathroom and make the walls appear seamless. The glossy bone-coloured tiles on the curved feature wall contrast nicely with the matte white bathtub in front of them. “It has a really relaxing feel in this bathroom and we love it,” says Kara.

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get the look Sandy tones, natural materials and textural elements are a must for any coastal look. 2

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Double vision The two arch doorways make a design feature of the walk-in robe and ensuite zones.

WA L K I N RO B E

1 Kyal & Kara x Loughlin Furniture â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Alura Archâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Mirror, from $1290, Kyalandkara.com. 2 Brugge textured tile in White, $97.19 per sq m, Beaumont Tiles. 3 Fleet drawer pull, $40, The Society Inc. 4 Stone Raku wall light in White Clay, $539, MayClay. 5 Endure interior paint in Big White, $43 for 1L, Taubmans. 6 Lehariya marble bowl, $360 for large, Bisque Traders. 7 Sketch Odd leather bar stools, $745, GlobeWest. 8 Craquel gloss tile in Bone, $109.65 per sq m, Beaumont Tiles. 9 Hannah vessel in Terracotta, $139, McMullin & Co. 10 Lone Ranger cushion cover in Tan/Oats, $99, Pony Rider.

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HOW TO HE AT YOUR HOME

WA R M ’ N ’ T OA S T Y Snuggle up with these clever heating solutions to suit every home and budget KEEPING YOUR HOME WARM during winter requires a multi-pronged approach. If you’re renovating, consider appropriate insulation in your roof and walls. If you’re not, adding curtains, blinds or shutters is easy. “With the right window coverings, much of the heat inside your home can be stopped from escaping,” says Amelia Taylor, head of product and communications at Wynstan. She says the best types are blinds with a honeycomb structure that traps air – like their Whisper Cellular blinds – which could save you 32 per cent off your heating bill. “The next level of insulation would be with plantation shutters,” she says. Soft furnishings, too, such as rugs and upholstery, will keep heat inside, while a good old draught excluder, aka the door snake, will prevent chilly breezes from sneaking through doors and windows. But how about the actual heaters? Here, we've rounded up some of the best on the market from woodburners (atmospheric) and reverse-cycle air conditioners (cost-effective and versatile), to oil heaters (compact and portable) and nautral gas (the clean-energy option). R

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Mitsubishi reverse cycle split system, $1949, The Good Guys. Norseman ‘Forestor’ wood heater, $1195, Barbeques Galore.

Kambrook 7-ﬁn oil column heater in White, $79.95, Myer.

natural gas

Omega Altise ‘Brigadier’ gas heater in Black Marble, $899, Betta.

Rinnai ‘EnergySaver’ gas heater, $2253, Winning Appliances. Nevada ‘MKII’ wood heater, $1495, Barbeques Galore.

Panasonic ‘AERO Series’ split system, $2299, Harvey Norman.

Delonghi ‘Radia S’ digital oil column heater, $199, Bing Lee.

Omega ‘Altise Lancer’ gas heater in Black Marble, $699, Bing Lee.

Supreme 25 freestanding wood heater, $3195, Ultimate Fires. @reallivingmag

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Ronson 11-ﬁn oil column heater, $116, The Good Guys.

photography sharyn cairns | still-styling sophie wilson

Rinnai Inverter split system air conditioner, $699, Harvey Norman.

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a song of ice and fire Wood heaters are an atmospheric choice, but they require a little more TLC. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need to sweep ash from the hearth, keep a ready store of timber and look out for hot sparks that can spit past the grate onto your floor. Even so, we absolutely love them.

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au naturel

WOOD BUTTER

Julia Watkins reveals her secret tips, recipes and remedies for living well and creating a natural, low-waste home that’s beautiful inside and out.

LEMON LIQUID DISH SOAP When it comes to hand-washing dishes, I like to use a wooden handled scrub brush and a bar of Savon de Marseilles. A traditional olive oil-based soap, Savon de Marseilles has been around for six hundred years and makes an excellent alternative to chemical and petroleum-based soaps. Culturally, we’re in the habit of using liquid soaps for dishwashing, but bar soaps work just as well in terms of cleaning. That said, if you really love your liquid soaps, which I do understand, here is one recipe that is simple and sudsy - perhaps not quite like a big dollop of Palmolive – but definitely more so than plain Castile soap. INGREDIENTS ½ cup water (preferably distilled) 2 tablespoons distilled white vinegar ½ cup Sal Suds 1 tablespoon jojoba or almond oil 1 tablespoon vitamin E oil (optional) 10 drops lemon essential oil (optional) DIRECTIONS Using a small funnel, pour the water and vinegar into a glass soap pump dispenser. Cap and shake well. Add the Sal Suds, jojoba oil, and vitamin E oil and lemon oil, if using. TO USE Tip the bottle upside down and right side up a few times to gently mix ingredients before using.

@reallivingmag

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As I like to say, love your things, and they’ll love you back. When it comes to wood, nothing could be closer to the truth. Before I knew better, I used to toss wooden spoons and cutting boards in the dishwasher and then wonder why they cracked so easily. I learned the hard way that they last a lifetime only when they’re well cared for. Nowadays, to prevent mould and moisture, I hand-wash them in warm water with mild soap and dry them immediately with a dish towel. For deep cleaning, I rinse them in distilled white vinegar or lemon juice. And to prevent cracking and splitting, I condition them with this simple, natural, low-waste wood butter. INGREDIENTS 2 tbsp beeswax 6 tbsp unreﬁned coconut oil 1 wooden popsicle stick DIRECTIONS Pour 5cm of water into the bottom of a double boiler and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Combine the beeswax and coconut oil in the top of the double boiler and heat until they melt. Stir with the popsicle stick, then pour the mixture into a glass jar. Let the mixture set at room temperature, then cap the jar with an airtight lid and store the wood butter in a cool, dark place. TO USE To condition wooden utensils and cutting boards, make sure they are clean and dry, then apply a thin layer of wood butter to the surface, buff with a clean, soft cloth, and allow to soak up the oils overnight. A

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LEMON LIQUID DISH SOAP

WOOD BUTTER

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Eco-friendly ďŹ nd Do your part for the environment and pick up a copy of the book for more genius ideas worth trying at home. This is an edited extract from Simply Living Well by Julia Watkins. $39.99, Hardie Grant.

photography julia watkins | styling julia watkins

REUSABLE DRYER SHEETS

@reallivingmag

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REUSABLE DRYER SHEETS I mostly line-dry our clothes, but I know plenty of eco-conscious people who still use dryers. If you fall into that group and love dryer sheets for softening fabrics, reducing static and adding fragrance, here’s a recipe that will do all of that without creating waste or exposing you to artificial fragrances and harmful toxins. MATERIALS 100% cotton rags, T-shirts, or washcloths 2 ½ cups water 2 ½ cups distilled white vinegar 3 tablespoons vegetable glycerin 10 drops essential oils (optional) DIRECTIONS Cut old cotton rags, T-shirts, and/or washcloths into 13cm × 20cm rectangles, about 20 is a good quantity. If necessary, stitch around the edges to prevent unravelling. Combine the water, vinegar, and glycerin in a 1L jar. Close the lid and shake vigorously. Add the essential oils and shake again. Place the rags in the jar and seal it until you’re ready to use them.

TOILET BOWL CLEANER

TO USE Remove 2-4 dryer sheets from the jar, wring them so they’re not dripping, and add them to the dryer load. When the cloths are dry, simply put the sheets back in the jar and use them again. Launder with towels and linens once every 2 weeks, depending on usage.

TOILET BOWL CLEANER In general, there are three ways to clean—chemically, mechanically, or thermally. When you choose to avoid harsh chemicals, sometimes you have to make up for it by using a little muscle. I like to use this recipe once a week to give the toilets a deep clean. INGREDIENTS 2 cups distilled water 1 a cups baking soda a cup liquid Castile soap 20 drops eucalyptus, lemon, or tea tree essential oil 1 bottle hydrogen peroxide DIRECTIONS Combine the water, baking soda, and soap in a large bowl and mix thoroughly. Using a funnel, transfer the mixture to an empty squeeze bottle. Add the essential oils, cap, and shake well. TO USE Turn off the toilet water by turning the knob on the wall under the toilet clockwise, all the way. Flush the toilet once or twice to drain the water from the bowl. Squirt the solution under the rim of the bowl and allow to sit for 5 minutes. Scrub with a toilet brush, turn the water back on, and ﬂush. To disinfect the toilet, ﬁll a spray bottle with hydrogen peroxide, spritz the toilet bowl, and swish with the brush. R real living

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HOW TO EARN & SAVE

money moves to make Struggling to make ends meet during the pandemic? Finance expert Effie Zahos says that help is available, if you know where to look

what if... The coronavirus pandemic is having a great impact on all Australians. There are emergency measures in place to assist those of us who have lost our jobs or are experiencing ﬁnancial hardship. Here are a few options that may help you stay aﬂoat.

I lose my job... A coronavirus $550 supplement payment is available to those receiving beneﬁts. Those who are on, or who apply for JobSeeker payments, formerly known as Newstart, could receive up to $1100 a fortnight under the changes. Those with children may be eligible for more. Payments began on April 27 and will be available for at least 6 months. However, you can’t access employer entitlements, such as annual leave, sick leave or income protection insurance while receiving JobSeeker payments or Youth Allowance for job seekers. If you lose your job and your partner earns more than $1850 a fortnight, you aren’t eligible for the JobSeeker Payment. Stay updated by visiting servicesaustralia.gov.au.

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I can’t pay my mortgage... Australia’s major banks are allowing customers to defer home loan repayments for up to six months. Paused repayments gives a homeowner with a $400,000 mortgage and an average variable interest rate of 3.61 per cent access to an additional $10,926 over six months. However, interest during this period is capitalised to the loan and can cost you more. Canstar research shows a six month mortgage holiday on a $400,000 loan can set you back up to $21,833. This assumes you recently took out the loan over a 30 year term, defer repayments for the full six months, and keep your repayments the same without trying to catch up with the accrued interest.

Little luxuries Ted Baker ‘Vivaah’ card holder in Pink, $69.95, The Iconic.

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I can’t pay my bills... If you can’t pay your electricity, gas, phone or water bill, contact your service provider straight away. They will explain your repayment options, which may include giving you an extension to pay the bills, allowing you to pay back outstanding bills in installments, deductions from Centrelink payments, or they may even direct you to apply for a utility rebate or voucher.

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I move my super into cash... The share market has experienced some large falls, which has a knock-on effect to superannuation funds. Thanks to diversification, it’s unlikely that all your super is invested in the share market. Remain calm and remember that super is a long-term savings vehicle, performance needs to be considered over the long term. Also, individuals who change their investment choice to a more conservative option after equity prices fall normally do worse in the long term, as they may not be in a position to benefit from share price recovery. Seek financial advice before making any changes to your super investment strategy. R

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JOURNALISM

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Plant life Nature has a way of providing all that we need, and this month weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve discovered the secrets of plant-based health and healing, thanks to the work of Erin Lovell Verinder. Turn the page to learn something new. A

F O R A G E

G R O W

OUTSIDE

P L A N T

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MATRICARIA CHAMOMILLA

GROW N

REMEDIES If you want to grow herbs with healing properties, Erin Lovell Verinder’s new book Plants for the People: A Modern Guide to Plant Medicine is a must read. Here’s a snippet… photography georgia blackie words erin lovell verinder

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The term ‘whole plant medicine’ is a little misleading to some. It does not mean that the entirety of a plant is used in every herbal preparation; rather, it refers to a wholeness in the approach. With so much emphasis currently on the biochemical qualities of herbs, I worry we are losing our understanding of the dynamism in whole plant medicine. But the efﬁcacy of whole plant medicine can never be surpassed. Western herbalism, Chinese medicine, Ayurveda, Greek medicine, folk medicine, Indigenous medicines – these cultures have imparted knowledge and continue to shape our understanding of the powers of plant-based healing.

chamomile |

Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile is a deep exhale for the nervous system, speciﬁcally for restlessness, irritability and sensitivity. Chamomile calms digestive concerns such as indigestion, bloating, gastritis, diarrhoea and motion sickness by easing intestinal spasms, healing gastric ulcerations and soothing an anxious belly. parts used Flowers cautions Avoid if allergic to the Asteraceae family. golden tip Chamomile aids digestion while soothing the nerves to unwind for a night of sound sleep.

echinacea |

Echinacea spp

Echinacea is commonly prescribed for viral, bacterial and parasitic infections. It is a powerful remedy for conditions of the upper and lower respiratory systems, combating colds, ﬂus, fever, pneumonia, conjunctivitis, ear infections, sinusitis, tonsillitis, coughs and bronchitis.

ECHINACEA SPP

parts used Roots, seeds, ﬂowers, leaves cautions Asthmatics, autoimmune conditions and those allergic to the Asteraceae family should avoid. golden tip Taste a little; if your mouth begins to water and tingle, you have good-quality echinacea! A

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ORIGANUM VULGARE

SAMBUCUS

SALVIA

CANADENSIS

OFFICINALIS

elderflower | Sambucus nigra

oregano |

Elderberry and elderflower are kindred to the immune system; both parts of the plant bring potent immune support with antiviral action. The berries and flowers are used for upper respiratory congestion, coughs, colds, flu and sinusitis. The flowers can bring on an active sweat to assist with breaking a fever, while simultaneously stimulating the immune system.

Oregano throws out a supercharged defence against viral or bacterial bugs, with strong antibacterial and antimicrobial actions that ease colds, inﬂuenza, fevers and upper respiratory tract infections. Oil of oregano is commonly used to treat fungal infections of all sorts topically and internally, and is generally renowned for combating digestive yeast (such as candida) and parasitic overgrowths.

parts used Berries and ﬂowers, leaves and bark cautions Avoid eating the raw berries as they can bring on digestive discomfort if too many are ingested. Not all elderberries are edible. Please identify your plant with accuracy when out wildcrafting! golden tip Cooked elderberries are a delicious addition to the culinary repertoire. Also, the ﬂowers are the most beautiful edible decoration.

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Origanum vulgare

parts used Leaves, ﬂowers cautions The tiniest of quantities packs a punch, so be careful with dosing the oil. Take oregano oil encapsulated to maximise the effect on gut ﬂora and to avoid burning the mucous membranes. If using the oil topically, dilute it. golden tip The whole oregano leaf is perfect to add to steam inhalations to shake congestion.

sage |

Salvia officinalis

With strong antimicrobial abilities, sage defends inﬂamed mucous membranes and immunity, offering a tonic-like effect to fortify and protect against colds, fevers and ﬂus. A simple infused throat gargle will bring much-needed relief and healing for canker sores, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, laryngitis, glossitis, stomatitis and gum disease. parts used Leaves cautions Avoid use during pregnancy and lactation. Contains thujone, which in large amounts can be toxic. It is advised not to use high medicinal doses for extended periods of time – best to adhere to the daily recommended doses. golden tip Combine fresh sage, oregano and thyme in a strong infusion to ward off the bugs and lift an undernourished immune system.

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red clover |

Trifolium pratense

Red clover’s flower head is the prime medicinal part used in Western herbal medicine. Red clover is incredibly nutritious, containing a mineral-rich cocktail of iron, calcium, copper, magnesium, manganese , selenium, an array of B vitamins and vitamin C, beta-carotene, bioflavonoids, isoflavones and inositol. It is a fantastic rebuilder and detoxifier, a fitting herb for colds, coughs and bronchitis, indicated to clear respiratory complaints and shake up deep-set congestion. This pretty plant impacts the skin positively, clearing lymphatic congestion and chronic skin presentations, wonderful for acne, eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis. parts used Flowers, less commonly leaves cautions Recommended to avoid during pregnancy. Be cautious with oestrogendominant conditions such as endometriosis and uterine fibroids, or hormone-sensitive cancers. Caution with use in haemophilia and those prone to heavy bleeding; avoid using with blood-thinning medications. golden tip The sweet, fresh blossoms of red clover taste delicious raw and can be added to salads.

TRIFOLIUM

Plant-based healing This is an edited extract from Plants for the People: A Modern Guide to Plant Medicine by Erin Lovell Verinder, $39.99, Thames & Hudson. R

PRATENSE

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Winter warmers This cake is one of the many delectable bakes youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll ďŹ nd in the new book Grow Fruit & Vegetables In Pots: Planting Advice & Recipes From Great Dixter. Absolutely delicious! Flip the page for more sweet treats. A

S H A R E

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S A V O U R

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RHUBARB, ALMOND AND GINGER TART

180g unsalted butter, room temperature, diced 180g golden caster sugar 140g ground almonds (almond meal) 40g plain ﬂour 4 medium eggs, beaten 60g stem (preserved) ginger, coarsely chopped

PASTRY 2 Put the flour, ground almonds (almond meal), icing sugar and butter into a bowl then, using your fingertips, rub in the butter until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs. Add beaten egg and mix very briefly until a dough has formed. Shape into a ball, cover with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes. 3 Grease a 27cm loose-bottom tart pan with butter. Roll out the pastry on a lightly floured work counter until it is large enough to line the bottom and sides of the tart pan. Let rest in the refrigerator for 20 minutes while you preheat the oven to 200°C. Slide a baking sheet into the oven. 4 Meanwhile, put the blanched almonds in a bowl, cover with boiling water and let soak for 10 minutes. Drain and dry well, then cut lengthwise into thin slivers. Sprinkle over a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 8 minutes until lightly golden. You can also use the same amount of flaked/slivered almonds, toasted quickly in the oven or a dry frying pan. 5 Line the pastry case (shell) with a crumpled sheet of baking paper and fill with baking beans (pie weights). Place the pan on the hot baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes until the edges are a gentle gold colour. Remove from the oven, let cool slightly and then very carefully remove the paper and beans (take care as the pastry is very short). Protect the edges of the pastry case with narrow strips of aluminium foil and return to oven for 5–7 minutes until the bottom is golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool. Lower the oven temperature to 180°C.

RHUBARB JAM 1 Put rhubarb into a pan with the sugar and stem ginger and cook, covered, over low heat until juices start to run from the fruit. Uncover and continue to simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring regularly, until the excess liquid has disappeared and it has a thick, jam-like consistency. Set aside to cool completely.

TOPPING AND FILLING 6 Cream the butter and sugar together in a bowl until pale and fluffy, then beat in the ground almonds, flour and eggs, one-third at a time. Fold in the stem ginger. 7 When pastry case has cooled, spread the rhubarb jam over the bottom of the tart. Then gently spread the almond filling over the jam, sprinkle over the toasted almonds and bake for 45 minutes, or until golden and a skewer pushed into the centre of the tart comes out clean. If it looks like the tart is browning too quickly, cover with a loose sheet of aluminium foil towards the end of cooking. Serve warm or at room temperature. A

Serves 8 Prep + cooking time 2c hours When I heard Michael Morphy, the nursery manager at Great Dixter, talk about this tart, I knew I had to include it in the book. It was the marzipan layer that sealed the deal – it is one of my passions.

FOR THE RHUBARB JAM 450g forced rhubarb, cut into 1cm pieces (3 cups prepared) 2 tbsp caster sugar 100g stem (preserved) ginger, coarsely chopped FOR THE PASTRY 200g plain ﬂour, plus extra for dusting 60g ground almonds (almond meal) 100g icing sugar 160g chilled, unsalted butter, diced, plus extra for greasing 1 tbsp beaten egg FOR THE TOPPING AND FILLING 40g blanched almonds

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BAKED APRICOTS WITH BAY AND HONEY Serves 4-6 Prep + cooking time 60 mins My friend Louise gave me this recipe. While there is very little better than fresh apricots eaten straight from the tree, if you are lucky enough to have a good crop you will need to be a little more imaginative. Baking apricots is a great idea as it intensifies the flavour and will bring the best out of any fruit that is not quite perfectly ripe. The combination of spices in this syrup really does seem to bring out different aspects of the apricot’s flavour, herbal and even a little spicy. Baking them whole, with the pits still inside adds another layer of complexity, with nutty, almond flavours emerging. Try this alongside a scoop of good-quality vanilla ice-cream or with double cream. This recipe would also work well with fresh peaches.

100g runny honey 5 cardamom pods, cracked open Generous pinch of saffron threads

60 mins

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1 tsp coarse sea salt 3 small bay leaves 10 apricots

Preheat the oven to 180°C. 2 Put the honey, 100ml water, the cardamom pods, saffron, salt and bay leaves into a small pan. Place over medium heat and cook until the mixture comes to a boil. Simmer gently for 3 minutes and remove from the heat. 3 Place the whole apricots in a small baking dish big enough to hold the apricots quite snugly – you don’t want too much space between them. Pour over the honey mixture, using a wooden spoon or rubber spatula to scrape out any saffron threads that have stuck to the side of the pan. 4 Roast the apricots in the oven for 40 minutes, removing them to baste and turn every so often, or until they are very soft, but still hold their shape. 5 Remove from the heat and either serve immediately or set aside until cool and then store in the refrigerator until ready to serve. 1

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55 mins

PEACH COBBLER Serves 6 Prep + cooking time 50-55 mins

photography andrew montgomery | words aaron bertelsen

My friend Linda Smith is a true southern girl and her cooking style reﬂects this. This cobbler reminds me of staying with her on her farm outside Memphis, where she grows the most wonderful fruit. The great thing about this dish is that you can enjoy it at all times of the year, using whatever fruit is in season, or stashed away in your freezer. I’m thinking apricots, apples, ﬁgs, blueberries, raspberries, the possibilities are endless. It’s also quick and easy to make, so perfect for unexpected guests. I like to serve it warm with plenty of cream.

3 large ripe peaches 50g (4 tbsp) butter 160g self-raising ﬂour ¼ tsp ﬁne salt

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Halve the peaches, remove and discard the stones (pits) and cut the fruit into wedges. 2 Put the butter into a 23cm x 33cm shallow oven-proof dish, place it in the oven and let the butter melt. 3 Meanwhile, sift the ﬂour and salt into a bowl and stir in 1 cup of the sugar. Make a well in the centre, add the evaporated milk and gradually whisk together to make a smooth batter. 4 Take the dish out of the oven and pour the batter evenly over the bottom of the dish. Arrange the peach slices on top and sprinkle with 1 tbsp of the sugar. Bake for 40-45 minutes until the peaches are cooked through and the batter is puffed up and golden and crisp at the edges. The batter will rise and the fruit will sink. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with the remaining sugar and serve hot with cream. R 1

Eat seasonally This is an edited extract from Grow Fruit & Vegetables In Pots: Planting Advice & Recipes From Great Dixter, $49.95, Phaidon. R

250g caster sugar 240ml evaporated milk Thickened cream, to serve

the end

Mover & shaker Sarah Sherman Samuel’s refreshingly cool, colourful style has made her one of the most in-demand designers in LA and her popular collab collections include cabinetry, wallpaper and pendants. Sarahshermansamuel.com; @sarahshermansamuel

full stop. Let’s play a game with interior designer Sarah Sherman Samuel. A few words from real living and she fills in the rest… HOME …

I DESIGN BEST…

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END… MY FAVOURITE WAY TO SPEN D THE WEEK

I FIND INSPIRATION…

THE BOOK I CAN’T WAIT TO READ…

TO… THE LAST DESTINATION I TRAVELLED

CHOOSING FURNITURE IS LIKE …

NATU RAL LIGHT IS…

MY BIGGEST DESIGN MISTAKE…

Reﬁned palette This collection of Quarterline cabinet fronts is part of Sarah’s ongoing collaboration with Semihandmade. @reallivingmag

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photography courtesy of semihandmade

MY BEST DESIGN DECISION…

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