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COLOUR SCHEMING Decorating with fresh palettes
Town & Country
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GREAT HOUSE, GREAT UTE
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CL A S SIC S you will love FOR E V ER KNEAD THE DOUGH Baking breads and bagels GARAGE BAND A photographer’s stylish workshop conversion
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Town and country
AUGUST
Photography by Kim Woods Rabbidge.
Cover stories
20 Garage band A photographer’s stylish workshop conversion. 35 Colour scheming Decorating with fresh palettes. 65 100 classics you will love forever Design for keeps. 82 Great house, great ute 93 Town & Country 60+ pages of modern Australian style. 171 Knead the dough Baking breads and bagels.
Decorating & design
20 Family Ties Fond memories and together time are at the heart of this Melbourne home. 35 Little Treasures Keepsakes and collectables, unified with colour. 46 How Inviting Kick-start your social life in style. 59 Home Comforts Fabulous fittings and finishes for your home. 60 On Trend Modern Country. 62 On Trend Blush.
82 Workaday Hero A super-practical 1970s Sandman ute is entrepreneur Amanda McPherson’s best friend.
Shopping
49 Laundry looks to love from Harvey Norman 65 100 Classics You Will Love Forever 76 9 By Design Chaise longues. 77 9 By Design Bedside tables. 78 Smart Shopper: Book Storage 176 Where To Buy Stockists’ details.
94 New Purpose A well-travelled pair breathe new life into a heritage property on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula. 108 Flow On On the NSW Central Coast, a freshly updated beach house lives in harmony with its spectacular surroundings. 118 Land Of Plenty This rural weekender in NSW gives its owners a great escape. 128 Warming Layers Now beautifully refreshed, this Blue Mountains retreat is the epitome of comfort.
On our cover There’s space and style in spades at this refurbished heritage property in coastal Victoria. Turn to page 93 for more. Photograph by Kristina Soljo.
138 Natural Attraction In northern NSW, a sympathetic renovation has transformed a tired project home into a serene sanctuary. 146 Escape Plan A cabin-style design delivers comfort for all in Victoria’s Macedon Ranges.
Gardens
155 Whimsy And Wild Patience paid off for the owners of this garden in southern WA. 162 Creative Haven An inspiring new courtyard transforms an innerSydney terrace turned workplace.
166 Tuft Love The beauty – and versatility – of clumping grasses and plants. 169 Clippings Garden news and to-dos.
Living
171 What You Knead Master the art of bread baking. 178 The Creative Type Robyn Cosgrove.
For our readers 8
Subscription Offer Subscribe to H&G and you will receive a mystery gift box, valued at more than $200! 18 Your H&G Readers’ letters. 177 Privacy Notice
Photography by Kim Woods Rabbidge.
Houses
EDITOR’S LETTER H G
Photograph by Kristina Soljo. Hair and make-up by Samantha Powell.
Y
“TIME in the garden is meditative and a GREAT way to turn over problems WHILE reaping something TANGIBLE.”
ou will always find me in the garden at weekends. What is it about digging, planting and mulching that has such a calming effect? I guess it’s the nurturing, the tracking of progress over a week, and the satisfaction of seeing that the controversial, pungent worm tea you’ve been brewing really has helped new growth and unexpected flowers. Time in the garden is meditative and a great way to turn over problems in your mind while reaping something tangible. This is our country-themed issue and while my garden is a modest patch of metro green, the homeowners featured in these pages enjoy vastly more substantial verdant expanses. I love the way they describe their houses: one owner says that walking inside is like a giant hug, another says they exhale as they approach the driveway of their rural getaway. I am content trying to parterre, espallier and fragrantly floralise my city oasis but I can appreciate the draw of the country. Have a look at the enchanting floral wonderland that Cathy and Eric Wright have designed and created on the border of their vast country property in Western Australia. It is evident that garden appreciation begins at a grassroots level. We are pleased to report that by the time you read this, the young winners of our recent garden competition held in collaboration with Australia Post – the students of Townsville South State School in Far North Queensland – will have installed their new kitchen garden, designed by the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation. We hear that the whole school community has been involved in this project and there are plans for chickens, an arid garden, a pizza oven and a talking circle. Wonderful news. While we are all still dealing with the far-reaching effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, there have been excellent examples of tech-led innovation and adaptability. Acclaimed portrait photographer Hugh Stewart shot a series of portraits for Ralph Lauren’s Pride campaign, using Zoom. He shot me and many others via our phones, all proudly wearing the chic Polo Pride shirt. A percentage of the sales of the capsule collection go towards The Stonewall Community, supporting the most vulnerable in the LGBTQIA+ community. Most of the H&G team are working from home and I am very impressed by their adapatability and can-do attitude. This is our third issue during Covid isolation and, in the words of Kate Moss, this fabulous little team doesn’t ‘explain or complain’ they just get on with it and the results as you will see on the following pages are always captivating and inspiring.
Tanya Buchanan, Editor in chief TOP PICKS
Tanya’s yas top ffive
INDULGE
COLLECT
Perrier Jouet Blanc de Blancs My Country A14568 painting by Champagne, $133, Kudditji Kngwarreye, $6200; vintagecellars.com.au. mitchellfineartgallery.com.
BEAUTIFY
Skin Caviar Perfect Concealer, $260; www.laprairie.com.au.
SHINE
Sarah Lavoine ‘Tokyo’ table lamp, $895, bastilleandsons.com.au.
TAKE PRIDE Ralph Lauren ‘Pride’ capsule collection; ralphlauren.com.au.
EDITORIAL Editor in chief Tanya Buchanan Creative director Antonietta Panuccio Deputy editor Elizabeth Wilson Interiors editor Kate Nixon Senior features editor Sarah Pickette Content/production editor Tamarah Pienaar Homes group coordinator Matilda Ringrose ART & STYLE Art director Shayne Burton Junior designer Sophie Wilson Image retoucher/designer Matus Kundrat CONTRIBUTORS
Yvette Caprioglio, Steve Cordony, Lynton Crabb, Stephen Crafti, Elise Elliott, Meryl Hare, Maree Homer, Swee Lim, Karen McCartney, Shannon McGrath, Georgia Madden, Tim O’Connor, Judy Pascoe, Ashley Pratt, Anson Smart, Kristina Soljo, Claire Takacs, Alicia Taylor, Nicholas Watt, Dave Wheeler, Jen Wilding, Kim Woods Rabbidge, Helen Young ADVERTISING & PRODUCTION Group commercial brand manager Rhonda Maunder (02) 9282 8687 Advertising production manager Kate Orsborn (02) 9282 8364 Victoria, SA & WA sales director Jaclyn Clements (03) 9823 6341 Director of sales, NSW Karen Holmes (02) 9282 8733 Victoria head of direct sales Will Jamison (03) 9823 6301 Queensland head of sales Judy Taylor (07) 3101 6636 General manager – production services Ian McHutchison Production controller Sally Jefferys Advertising production controller Dominic Roy (02) 9282 8691 Senior event manager Cate Gazal (02) 8226 9342 MARKETING & CIRCULATION Marketing director Louise Cankett Senior marketing manager Jillian Hogan Circulation manager Lauren Donikian Subscriptions campaign manager Jesvin Vincent Brand manager Sarah Webster Marketing enquiries homes@bauer-media.com.au
ON SALE NOW Available in most supermarkets and newsagencies or buy your copy online at magshop.com.au for direct delivery to your door.
BAUER MEDIA CORPORATE Chief executive officer Brendon Hill Chief financial officer Andrew Stedwell Executive general manager – publishing & digital operations Sarah-Belle Murphy Publisher – homes titles Shane Sutton Director of sales Andrew Cook Acting head retail ^ circulation Andrew Cohn General manager – subscriptions & e-commerce Sean McLintock Business manager Georgina Bromfield Syndications syndication@bauer-media.com.au New Zealand enquiries +61 2 9282 8505 SUBSCRIPTION SALES & ENQUIRIES
Magshop GPO Box 5252, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia Phone 136 116 (Mon-Fri, 8am-6pm AEST) Web magshop.com.au All other Australian House & Garden enquiries: (02) 9282 8456
Published by Bauer Media Pty Limited (ABN 053 273 546), 54 Park Street, Sydney, NSW 2000. The trademark AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN is the property of Bauer Media Pty Ltd and is used under licence. © 2020. All rights reserved. Printed by Ovato, 31-37 Heathcote Road, Moorebank, NSW 2170. National distribution by Gordon and Gotch Australia Pty Ltd. 1300 650 666. ISSN 0004-931X. No material may be reproduced in part or in whole without written consent from the copyright holders. Bauer Media Pty Ltd does not accept responsibility for damage to or loss of freelance material submitted for publication. Allow several weeks for acceptance or return. For enquiries regarding subscriptions, call 136 116 Monday-Friday 8am-6pm AEST, email magshop@magshop.com.au or mail letters to: Australian House & Garden, Reply Paid 3508, Sydney, NSW 2001 or subscribe online at magshop.com.au/ hg. Subscription rate*: Australia $79.99 (one year, 12 issues); NZ A$120 (one year, 12 issues); other countries A$180 (one year, 12 issues). All overseas subscriptions sent air speed. *Recommended price, Australian House & Garden.
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H G LETTERS
Your H&G
H&G social The posts that made your month Facebook
Treating myself to a subscription of H&G prior to Covid-19, I never could have imagined what was about to happen. I’m in hospitality, so my worklife ceased to exist. I was filled with joy when the next month’s magazine arrived in my letterbox – it was something that had fallen to the back of my mind. I have never treasured the arrival of my monthly escape more than now. In particular, June’s issue with its ‘As You Please’ and ‘Classic Notes’ stories. These houses are so stunning I think I have browsed this issue at least 10 times. That’s value for money! Meredith Holden, Claremont, Tasmania
Escape route
Old meets new
After years of cutting back on all things remotely luxe (including avocado toast) and stressing about the ever-rising property market in Sydney, my partner and I finally secured our first home in November. A lick of paint, some colourful art collected while we were dreaming of buying and a few creature comforts made our 1887 terrace liveable. Eight months down the track, as we navigate fertility issues and pandemic-related job-stability nerves, we can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel and start thinking about making a mark on our home. H&G is a constant source of both inspiration and heated discussion. We’ve been confused by the design options out there, but H&G seems to focus the mind. You make our bathroom and kitchen ideas feel attainable. Thanks H&G! Alex Tomasetti, Rozelle, NSW
Your ‘Old Is New Again’ decorating spread (July) gave a modern lens to the elegance of yesteryear and it made sense to my oldfashioned eyes. There is always room for improving a space filled with beautiful memories, but to step back and think of it as modern is something I never thought I’d see. Thank you for the stylish nudge. Johanna Parker, Gordon, ACT
The author of each letter published receives $50. Our favourite also wins a prize. This month, Meredith Holden receives a limited-edition Marble Signature 24cm casserole, valued at $719, courtesy of Le Creuset; lecreuset.com.au. Email your letter to H&G@bauer-media. com.au or post to Your H&G, PO Box 4088, Sydney, NSW 1028. Please include your full name and address.
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Soak it all in Sinking into a hot bath with H&G used to be a regular occurrence in my single days. Now with three needy cherubs of my own (a 2-year-old, a 9-month-old and handsome hubby) and plans to build a new house, these sessions have become few and far between. This year I received a gift from a friend that included the latest issue of H&G – hooray, an excuse to relax in the bath once again! Christina Guzman, Lobethal, South Australia
A clever renovation found fans on Facebook, the charming exterior of interior designer Terri Shannon’s home won hearts on Instagram, while Pinners took a shine to a beautiful butler’s pantry. Facebook facebook.com/ australianhouseandgarden Highlights from each issue plus links to tours of our favourite homes. Instagram @houseandgarden View the most inspirational images of the month from H&G headquarters and out and about. Pinterest pinterest.com.au/ houseandgardenau Picture-perfect images from our pages and sensational products to covet. For weekly news and inspiration, subscribe to our free e-newsletter at newsletter. houseandgardenmag.com.au.
Letters may be edited for length and clarity.
WRITE IN TO WIN
FURNITURE & HOMEWARES | INTERIOR DESIGN | PROPERTY STYLING | DESIGN SCHOOL WWW.COCOREPUBLIC.COM.AU
H G at home with
EXTERIOR The roofline of the first-floor extension echoes the shape of the workshop, now a separate but connected apartment. Screens by Rock Martin. LIVING Owner Shannon McGrath with her daughters Sybil (left)
and Jos. Gebrüder Thonet Vienna ‘Targa’ lounge chair, Space. Palais stool/table (pink), Great Dane. White side table, District. Artwork by Valerie Sparks. Wall painted Haymes Paint White Marble. Rug, Halcyon Lake.
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Family
T IE S
Converting a mechanic’s workshop into an inter-generational home was a labour of love for Melbourne photographer Shannon McGrath. STO RY Karen McCartney | STY L IN G Swee Lim P H OTOG RA P HY Shannon McGrath
SHANNON’S LIVING/DINING Banks lantern, The Society Inc. Gebrüder Thonet Vienna ‘Targa’ lounge chair, Space. Palais coffee table and stool, Johanson dining table and Vilda 3 dining chairs, all Great Dane. Puffalo sofa, Ross Didier. Roly Poly outdoor chair, Hub Furniture. Wall-mounted hydronic heating, Nissl Eichert Hydronic Heating. James Dunlop ‘Kyoto’ curtains made by Lovelight. Rug, Halcyon Lake. Artwork by Valerie Sparks. Pink ceramics by Bettina Willner-Browne. All ceramics from Modern Times. Walls painted Haymes Paint White Marble.
at home with H G
H
ow does a photographer who hascapturedsomeofAustralia’s most compelling interiors farewhenitcomestorenovating her own home? “It wasn’t easy,” saysShannonMcGrath.“Ihaveanewlevel of respect for architects and interior designers. The homes I photograph seem soeffortlesslyputtogether,butInowknow the finished product is the result of immense skill and really hard work.” This home is one of a pair of airy apartments carved out of the carcass of Shannon’sfather’soldworkshop.“Dadwas a mechanic and the workshop was part of thefabricofmychildhood,”shesays.When heretiredtohisfarmin1993,Shannonand her mother Wynne decided to convert the workshop into their home. They engaged Tim Jackson from Jackson Clements
Burrows Architects and interior designer HamishGuthrie(Shannon’sthen-husband) of Hecker Guthrie to help. The plan was for an inter-generational setup: two apartments that were separate but connected by external walkways. “Having Mum and her partner Danny Rae (who was also the project builder) in an adjacentspacewouldenablemydaughters – Sybil, seven, and 11-year-old Jos – to enjoy the company of family when I couldn’t be there,” says Shannon. The plan was approved by council but soon stalled as life and lack of funds intervened.Shannonandhermotherhung onto their dream, however, and the project finally got underway in 2017. “It was always important to hold onto the heritage of the building, with its memories and its characterful brick. >
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H G at home with
LIVING Lantern, The Society Inc. Targa lounge chair,
Space. Palais coffee tables and Vilda 3 dining chairs, all Great Dane. Puffalo sofa, Ross Didier. Rug, Halcyon Lake. KITCHEN This image and right Pietra Lavica lavastone benchtops and splashback, Vicstone. Wire sculpture, Beatrix Rowe Interior Design. Oven and rangehood, Fisher & Paykel. Tapware, E&S. DC09 stool, Great Dane. Joinery by Guy Phelan. Colchester European oak flooring, Woodcut (throughout). STAIRWELL Walls painted Haymes Paint White Marble. Earth wall light, Anchor Ceramics. Balustrade designed by Jackson Clements Burrows Architects and made by Rock Martin.
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AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN
We created what I describe as a two-storey extrusion, which echoes the garage’s original pitched roof,” says Shannon. Natural light was a key driver in the design of both apartments. “For me, the best homes are those that still feel bright on the greyest day,” says Shannon. Her apartment, on the top floor, enjoys abundantlightthankstotheglasswalland offersbeautifulcityvistasoverthetreetops. On the ground floor, Mum’s apartment, there is a lovely connection with the outdoors via views of the park opposite. Building complete, Hamish and his business partner Paul Hecker set to work on the interiors. The nature-inspired palette includes blond-timber furniture, soft linen curtains and upholstery and a tactilemoss-greenrug.Thisschemeboosts the natural light without creating glare. “I was so well supported during the selection process by Paul and Hamish,” says Shannon. “The design of the interior reflects their wonderful aesthetic that combines craft and considered detailing.” Prior to taking up photography as a profession,ShannonstudiedFineArtswith a focus on ceramics. There is something ofthatraw,tactilesensibilityin the choice of materials. In the kitchen, for >
SHANNON’S STUDY This page and opposite bottom right Trinidad chair and
Cache table lamp, both Great Dane. Joinery by cabinetmaker Guy Phelan. Artwork by Julia Powles. Curtain in James Dunlop ‘Satori Celadon’ by Lovelight. W Collection ‘Zeus’ carpet, Whitecliffe Imports. SHANNON’S BEDROOM Clara bedhead, Dio side table and Model 375 table lamp, all Great Dane. Bedlinen, Hale Mercantile Co. Artwork by Ron Thackeray. SHANNON’S ENSUITE Opposite, top right and bottom left Inax ‘Sugi’ wall tiles, Artedomus. Basin, Collective. Tapware, E&S. Lavastone benchtop, Vicstone. Keyside side table, District. Vase by Cassie Hansen, sculpture by Ben Umemoto. Bowl, Modern Times. Heated towel ladder, Nissl Eichert Hydronic Heating. Towel, Hale Mercantile Co. Floor tiles, Urban Edge Ceramics. >
“FOR ME, THE BEST HOMES A R E T H O S E T H AT S T I L L FEEL BRIGHT ON THE G R E Y E S T DAY.” S H A N N O N M C G R AT H , O W N E R
at home with H G
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H G at home with
“ T H E I N T E R I O R R E F L EC TS T H E WO N D E R F U L H EC K E R G U T H R I E A E S T H E T I C T H AT C O M B I N E S C R A F T A N D C O N S I D E R E D D E TA I L I N G .” S H A N N O N
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example, the island bench and splashback are made from Italian lavastone, which Shannon says she admires for its robustness and modesty. The lavastone also features in the bathrooms for continunity. The furniture comes from a range of favourite local stores including Great Dane and designer/makers such as fellow Melbourne creative Ross Didier. The furnishings – made from leather, rattan, linen and more – are highly tactile and neatly accented by Shannon’s collection
of handmade ceramics. “Among my favourites are pieces by David Ray and Bettina Willner-Browne,” she says. Many ceramics and artworks are by artists local to the Kyneton area(inVictoria’sMacedon Ranges), where Shannon has a farmhouse retreat.“Asenseofconnectionisimportant to me and I like to support people I know,” she says. Pieces by Kyneton artists Mark Howson, Karen Hayman, Peter Cole and Cassie Hansen are earmarked as future additions to her ever-growing art collection.
You might have thought photographing her ownhome wouldbeeasy,but Shannon says she found this shoot particularly challenging. “I am used to appreciating another person’s taste and style and communicating that in images, but trying tocapturemyownspacemademequestion everything.” Shannon’s good friend, designer Swee Lim, brought an impartial eye to the spaces and helped her focus on whatissosuccessfulabouttheapartments > both individually and as a unit.
WYNNE’S KITCHEN/DINING/LIVING Klassik sofa, Cache floor lamp,
Palais side table (grey), DC09 kitchen stool and Vilda dining chairs, all Great Dane. Cushions and throw, Hale Mercantile Co. Side table, District. Pendant light, Hub Furniture. Rug, Halcyon Lake. Kitchen joinery painted Haymes Paint Chimney Ash. Rangehood, Fisher & Paykel. Lavastone island bench, Vicstone. Artwork (on wall) by Shannon McGrath. Ceramics (on island) by Cassie Hansen.
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WYNNE’S DINING/LIVING This image, below left and opposite Shannon’s mother Wynne. Pendant light, Hub Furniture. Paola Paronetti vessel (on dining table) from Fanuli. Dining table, dining chairs, Cache floor lamp, Pon side table and Frederica armchair, all Great Dane. Curtains by Lovelight. Artwork by David Band. Vase from Modern Times. WYNNE’S BATHROOM Wall tiles, Artedomus. Towel ladder, Nissl Eichert Hydronic Heating. Basin, Collective. Lavastone benchtop. Side table, District. Wall light, Euroluce. For Where to Buy, see page 176.
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AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN
at home with H G
Many of Shannon’s decisions were intuitive, driven by the desire to maximise light through the high ceiling pitch. Not only does that roof shape echo the form of the original garage, it also references herbeautifulcountryfarmhouse,bringing country and city together and serving to keep memories alive. > Hecker Guthrie; www.heckerguthrie.com. Jackson Clements Burrows Architects; jcba.com.au.
“ I T WA S I M P O RTA N T TO M E TO H O L D O N TO T H E H E R I TAG E O F T H E B U I L D I N G .” S H A N N O N
H G AT HOME WITH 2
1
LIFE & ST YLE Shannon shares some first and favourite things.
FIRST ADULT HOME? An apartment in a 1960s block. It had a wonderful northerly aspect and a lovely community feel in the block. BUCKET-LIST DESTINATION? I would love to walk along the Great Wall of China (2) and visit Egypt (8) to see the pyramids. FAVOURITE MEAL? Pasta with bolognese. It’s a staple in our household. DREAM CAR? A Range Rover (6). Any model, old or new. I’D CROSS THE WORLD TO SEE…
9
8
I GENERALLY PREFER BESP OKE PIECES AND UP-ANDCOMING DESIGNERS TO BIG BRANDS.
My extended family in South Africa. I LOVE A VASEFUL OF... Dried hydrangeas. I adore the way they keep their form after drying but soften to a more subtle shade of their original colour. FAVOURITE ARTIST? US artist Donald Judd (3). No one beats his minimalist ways. FAVOURITE FASHION LABELS? I generally prefer bespoke pieces and up-and-coming fashion designers to big brands. FAVOURITE MOVIE? It’s wonderful to indulge my inner child by watching the Harry Potter series or The Chronicles of Narnia with my daughters. My all-time favourite movie, however, would have to be High Society (1), featuring the serenely beautiful Grace Kelly. FAVOURITE SCENT? Fresh flowers of any kind (9).
4
WHICH INTERIOR DESIGNERS INSPIRE YOU? 7
Top of the list has to be Hecker Guthrie (4, 5). The craftsmanship in all of the firm’s projects is understated and simply stunning. A DESIGNER PRODUCT I ADORE IS…
My wonderful Inabi bath and sinks from Collective (7). The lines are so classic that they will forever feel contemporary. I AM PLANNING TO PURCHASE… A shed for my farm so I can have a place for my motor mower, tractor and storage for all my stuff! # Shannon McGrath; shannonmcgrath.com
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DONALD JUDD IS MY HERO. NO ONE BEATS HIS MINIMALIST WAYS.
AUSTRA ALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN
5
Photography from Getty Images (1, 2, 3), Range Rover (6), Shannon McGrath (4, 5, 7, 9) & bauersyndication.com.au (9).
3
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Styling by Kate Nixon. Photograph by Kristina Soljo.
FOCUS ON FOREVER PIECES
D e c or at i ng
Plantation Kai iron and rattan dining chair, $520, Contents International Design. Living Divani ‘Inari’ steel console, $4915, Space. ON CONSOLE From left Dahlias from Bloomey’s. Natalie Rosin ceramic vase, $325, Becker Minty. Patung sculpture, $70, and calligraphy brushes, from $20 each, all Orient House. Ceramic vase, POA, McMullin & Co. ON WALL Phillip Jeffries ‘Savanna Weave’ woven-paper wallpaper in Heritage Tan, POA, The Textile Company. BASKETS Clockwise from top right Zimbabwean double-weave tonga baskets, $90 (50cm) and $45 (40cm), Orient House. Vintage makenge basket, $80, Garden Life. Zambian geometric basket (30cm), $85, and striped tonga basket (47cm), $130, both Orient House.
Little T R E A S U R E S
Beautiful arrangements of collectables and palettes of calming neutrals will elevate the experience of every corner of your home. ST Y L I N G Kate Nixon | P H OTO G R A P HY Kristina Soljo
FURNISHINGS Clockwise from bottom left Friends & Founders ‘Denmark Le Pipe’ swivel chair with velvet upholstery, from $5907, Fred International. Marzotto ‘Acero’ wool-polyamide throw, $220, Casa by Studio Kate. Inari steel console, $4915, Space. Vintage makenge basket, $80, Garden Life. Patung sculpture, $70, and calligraphy brushes, from $20 each, all Orient House. Ceramic vase, POA, McMullin & Co. Sancal ‘Interchange’ oak bench, $2921, with detachable seat pads, $225 extra each, and side table, $814.60 extra, Ke-zu. Inlay box, $160, Contents International Design. Vitra ‘No. 10’ wooden doll, $235, Space. Dahlias from Bloomey’s. Natalie Rosin ceramic vase, $325, Becker Minty. Handvark ‘Denmark Studio’ metal floor lamp, from $1980, and Fogia ‘Bollo’ armchair, from $3960, both Fred International. Javanese stool with rattan seat, $550, Orient House. SP01 ‘Louie’ terracotta side table with metal top, $1030, and Paola C ‘Monkos’ tealight holder, $115, both Space. ON WALL Phillip Jeffries ‘Savanna Weave’ wallpaper, POA, The Textile Company. Assorted Zimbabwean tonga baskets, $45-$130 each, Orient House. ON FLOOR Indian cotton dhurrie rug (150x240cm), $150, Water Tiger. For similar herringbone parquetry, try Carpet Court (throughout). >
Stylist’s assistants Nicholas Bryan-Brown, Kate Lincoln, Paloma Maine.
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ON TABLE Clockwise from top left 2002 stoneware vessel by Mel Lumb, $260, Saint Cloche via Showroom X. Animal Print cotton tea towels in
Mustard, $9.95/two, and brass napkin ring, $7.95, all Florabelle. Pressed-brass leaf dish, $30, Planet. Brass napkin rings, $225/six assorted, Becker Minty. OPPOSITE Foreground, from left Shell and cane planter, $89, Florabelle. Arflex ‘Botollo’ chairs with polyester slipcovers, $2570 each, Poliform. Cushion in Tamsin Johnson ‘Bochier’ fabric, POA, South Pacific Fabrics. Visual Comfort ‘Cleo’ brass and marble pendant light by Kelly Wearstler, $1650, Bloomingdales Lighting. Javanese rattan dining table with glass top, $920, Orient House. Door painted Eggshell Acrylic in Dusty Mule, $130/4L, Porter’s Paints. Square Well brass door pull, $28.35, Delf Architectural. Faux cycad, $129, and Lena planter, $69, both Florabelle. ON TABLE From left Ethiopian nickel-plated Coptic cross, $260, Orient House. D&R Wave Edge napkins, $235/four, Becker Minty. Expose aluminium footed bowl, $159, BoConcept. 2008 stoneware vessel (left), $390, and 2012 stoneware vessel, $380, both by Mel Lumb, Saint Cloche via Showroom X. Wattle foliage from Mandalay Flowers. Other items, as before. ON WALL Starburst mirror, POA, McMullin & Co. Betty artwork by Vynka Hallam, $2300 (framed), Fenton & Fenton. Paint, as before. ON FLOOR Antalya Hali wool rug (200x100cm), $1025, Orient House. >
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FROM LEFT Ladder 200, $1575, Space. Organic-cotton bath towels, $110 each, Planet. Cissus plant, $30, Garden Life. Parure 1 glass bowl
with brass base, $620, Space. Face cloths, as before. Hermitage toilet, $2150, Parisi. Bullo brass and leather toilet roll holder, $150, The Society Inc. Pitara timber vanity with marble top, $2650, Orient House. Texline Essence ‘Mineral’ loose-lay vinyl flooring, from $40/m² (supply only), Gerflor. Doormat, as before. ON VANITY From left Khan Hat sculpture, $595, Contents International Design. DW gold soap dispenser, $325, Becker Minty. Envy II mixer tap set, $555, Parisi. Marble sink, $1800, The Society Inc. Other items detailed opposite. ON WALL Clockwise from top left Vintage mirror, $4200, Tamsin Johnson. Heron wall hanging, $66, Florabelle. Mystic Isle artwork by Yvonne Bridges, $850, Becker Minty. Seguso Spiky wall light, $3700, Tamsin Johnson. Framed tile by Jan Vogelpoel, $840, Becker Minty. Lighthouse Rope mirror, $495, The Society Inc. By the River painting by Emma White, $1200, and Autumn in Preston painting by Carissa Kamarko, both Fenton & Fenton. Palm Tree block stamp, $33, Water Tiger. HDDM2 painting by Daniel McClellan, $350, Saint Cloche. Olive, Eclipse Mini art print, $89 (unframed), and Rimi pressed-glass frame, $99, both Inartisan. A Lasting Impression III (tree) by Ingrid Bowen, $450 (framed), Saint Cloche. Set Up woodblock carving by Isobel Rayson, $704, Fenton & Fenton. Eggshell Acrylic paint in Irish Linen, $130/4L, Porter’s Paints.
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Rabitti ‘Cannolo’ leather napkin holder, $185, Becker Minty. Pink glass spritzer, $49,
Pigott’s Store. Vintage lidded pot, $325, Becker Minty. Cyclamen, Bloomey’s. Acqua de Sicilia eau de cologne, $193, Libertine Parfumerie. Brass leaf dish, $30, and resin bracelet, $195, and organic-cotton face cloth, $16, all Planet. Seagrass doormat, $15, Garden Life. Indian stone plate, $95, Orient House. ON TRAY Clockwise from top left Clive Christian ‘No.1 Masculine’ eau de parfum, $809/50ml, Penhaligon’s ‘The Favourite’ eau de parfum, $289/100ml, and Mizensir ‘Musc Eternal’ eau de parfum, $299/100ml, all Libertine Parfumerie. Hermetica ‘Jade888’ molecular fragrance, $299/100ml, Becker Minty. Penhaligon’s ‘Portraits: Lady Blanche’ eau de parfum, $389/75ml, Santa Maria Novella ‘Crema Idralia’ day cream, $149/50ml, Trudon ‘Médie’ eau de parfum, $299/100ml, and Santa Maria Novella ‘Idralia Essence’ facial moisturiser, $95, all Libertine Parfumerie. Kartell ‘Roy’ thermoplastic stool, $435, Space. Shaving brush, $88, and scallop dish, $39, both Planet. > AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |
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Phillip Jeffries ‘Zebra Cloth’ wallpaper, POA, The Textile Company. Rattan sconces, POA, Tamsin Johnson. Barnacle mirror, $525, Orient House. For similar shutters, try Wynstan. Shutters painted Eggshell Acrylic in Irish Linen, $130/4L, Porter’s Paints. Carved-timber console with marble top, $4200, Florabelle. Antique Chinese rattan trunk, $365, Water Tiger. Ceramic umbrella stand, $535, Orient House. ON CONSOLE From left Shard porcelain boxes, $135 (left) and $160, and Indian bronze candleholders, $105 each, all Orient House. Mizusashi ceramic pot with lacquer lid, $310, Planet. Christopher Spritzmiller ceramic planter, $990, Pigott’s Store. Vintage Japanese ikebana vase, $310, Planet. Calligraphy brushes, $20 each, Orient House. Dahlias from Bloomey’s. Monstera ceramic planter, $155, Florabelle. Ceramic jar, $535, Orient House. >
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ON WALL From left Antique Chinese noodle spoon, $150, Orient House. Hallway painting by Laura
Thomas, $850 (framed), Fenton & Fenton. Eggshell Acrylic paint in Wet Cement, $130/4L, Porter’s Paints. FOREGROUND From left Cotton throw with tassels, $155, Florabelle. Moroccan rattan ottoman, $95, Water Tiger. Dama walnut side table, $4405, Poliform. Vintage Indian teak and glass cabinet, $2900, Water Tiger. Xanthorrhoea johnsonii plant, $235, Garden Life. Antique Chinese bamboo and elm basket, $300, Water Tiger. IN CABINET, TOP SHELF From top left Block-printed linen cushion, $139, Planet. Sunflower king-single cotton quilt in Red, $330, Pigott’s Store. Multicolour queen-size block-printed cotton quilt, $560, Planet. Ludwig Morning Sun cushion, $185, Contents International Design. SECOND SHELF FROM TOP From left Block-printed silk cushion in Indigo, $149, Planet. Abby Stripe cushion in Olive, $44, Florabelle. Queen-size cotton blanket, $195, silk coverlet, $890, block-printed silk quilt, $850, and block-printed cotton quilt in Blue Chevron, $250, all Planet. THIRD SHELF FROM TOP From top Embroidered-silk cushion, $149, and embroidered-silk quilt, $1150, both Planet. BOTTOM SHELF From top Vintage American cotton quilt, $885, Planet. French linen cushion, $275, Water Tiger. ON FLOOR Usak cotton kilim, $1025, Orient House. For Where to Buy, see page 176. #
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Ask an expert
HOW IN V ITING
Beautiful styling sets the scene for great entertaining, writes Kate Nixon.
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Lovely Linen napkins, Casa e Cucina. Grey dinner plate, Studio Enti. Conifere dinner plate, Noritake. Goa cutlery, Francalia. Ferm Living ‘Ripple’ Champagne saucers, Urban Bureau. Olivewood napkin ring, Pottery Barn. Arcadian tapas bowl, Ecology. Elysee Stripe wineglass, Francalia. OPPOSITE Upholstered seating and cushions, all Studio Kate. Rug, Robyn Cosgrove. Foliage from Mandalay Flowers.
Room design and styling by Kate Nixon (this page). Styling by Sarah Maloney and Sara Sleeman (opposite). Photography by Maree Homer (this page) and Kristina Soljo (opposite).
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pending more time at home is a great excuse for entertaining. What better time to polish the silver and invite friends and family (social restrictions permitting) for a chic soiree. With the weather cool, think cosy and dress your dining zone in moody palettes of ink, rust and slate. Mix and match napery and tableware within a cohesive palette for a lovely, layered spread. don’t forget to iron the linen and put out the napkin rings! now is the moment to embrace the formal dining room with mood lighting and a spray of elegant foliage. if your dining space is the kitchen bench, as it is for me, take time to tidy the everyday clutter, light a candle, put out the placemats and savour the moment to dine in style. # Send decorating questions (with name and address) to H&G Advice, PO Box 4088, Sydney, NSW 1028 or email H&G@bauer-media.com.au.
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Fresh ideas & easy updates
✚ Dress to impress, regardless of the occasion. Everyday essentials are easily elevated to special pieces by pairing plain plates with brass cutlery or cut-crystal glassware. ✚ A statement platter is very versatile, working equally well for dinner-party canapes as it does a serving dish for weekend brunch. Invest in an artisan piece – I like handmade details and classic tones. ✚ Foliage and flowers instantly add a sense of occasion. Opt for sculptural vessels in translucent materials to hide the stems. ✚ Put some thought into gifts for the host or as party favours for your own guests. Some embossed stationery, a special bottle of olive oil or a box of the recipient’s favourite tea make a personal and very thoughtful addition to the requisite bottle of wine or bubbly. ✚ Break out the best table linen. Iron napery (including tablecloths and fabric placemats). Fold napkins or pull them through napkin rings for an extra touch of glamour. Finish with a sprig of foliage. ✚ Polish cutlery and glassware as you lay the table. #
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FROM TOP Modern Tribal platter,
$880, Dinosaur Designs. Busatti kitchen towel, $42, Casa by Studio Kate. Marmoset Found tulip vase, $49, Norsu Interiors. Crosses vase, $265, Great Dane. Marquis by Waterford ‘Lacey’ tumbler, $130/ four, Amara. Colo knife rack, $245, The Society Inc. Gold stainless-steel cutlery, $40/4-piece place setting, Délicors. Canvas dinnerware, $86/3-piece set, Robert Gordon.
Styling by Sarah Maloney. Photograph by Nic Gossage. For Where to Buy, see page 176.
“Entertaining, like all worthy endeavours, requires work to make it look effortless. Prepare ahead as much as possible but don’t be afraid of the spontaneous get-together. Ask for help and cherish the time with loved ones.”
H A R V E Y
N O R M A N
P R E S E N T S
T O D A Y’S
LA U N D RY Embrace the latest technology and trusted brands to wash and care for your clothes at home. Use wash, steam and refresh functions to care for active wear, delicates, wool, suits, workwear and dry-clean only products, resulting in clean, fresh and bacteria-free garments, bedding and towels
TRUSTED
BRANDS
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I N N O VAT I O N
HN.COM.AU/LAUNDRY
online | mobile | in store
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CARE
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CAPACITY
BEST IN CL A S S E NE R GY EF F ICIENCY
M I E L E 8 K G H E AT PUMP DRYER $2,499 (TWF720)
A 10 star energy rating makes this one of the best-in-class heat pump dryers on the market. 12 drying programs including bed linen and add-to-load feature.
MIELE 9KG WASHER $2,299 (WWG360)
4.5 star energy and water rating and a choice of 17 wash cycles including a SteamCare option for removal of bacteria and allergens. Also features Extra-quiet and PowerWash options. WiFi connected so you can choose your cycle or monitor the time left to run. WELS 4.5 stars, 76L/wash on Cottons 40C programme.
WOOL MA RK CERTIF IE D WOOLLE N CARE AEG 10KG WASHER $2,499 (LF8C1612A)
10kg capacity washer features OKOMix technology, which premixes detergents and softeners with water before they are introduced to the garments. ProSense optimises the energy and water consumption to suit your selected cycle and automatically adjusts time to suit. Steam refresh cycle for all of your dry clean only garments, offering convenience and saving you money on trips to the dry cleaners. WELS 4.5 stars, 84L/wash on Cotton 40C Eco programme.
A E G 8 KG H E AT P U M P D R Y E R $2,499 (T8DHC862B) AbsoluteCare system ensures every fabric receives the optimum level of drum action and temperature, while SensiDry heat pump technology makes sure your clothes are not exposed to unnecessary heat. Woolmark accredited so you can trust this machine to look after your hand wash only woollen garments. This model also offers a Silk program to reduce wrinkles and look after your silk garments, and features a reversible door so you have the convenience of having your washer open towards your dryer regardless of whether you stack them or have them side-by-side.
HYG I ENI C S TEEL SEAL ASKO 8KG LO GIC WASHER $1,999 (W4086P)
Endorsed by the National Asthma Council Australia Sensitive Choice for the SteelSeal solution, which provides a more hygienic wash. Tailored cycles for wool/hand wash items, cotton, darks, shirts and bedding amongst others, making your clothes fresh, clean and blemish-free at the push of a button. WELS 5 stars, 56L/wash on Normal 40C programme.
ASKO 8KG LO GIC H E AT P U M P D R Y E R $2,199 (T408HD)
8 star energy rating. Fast and effective drying for better health and hygiene with no damp clothing, mould or waiting for a load to finish. Quick Pro drying for people on-thego and over a dozen personalised programs including those for bedding and other large items.
SA NI TISING STE AM CLEAN HISENSE 9KG PURESTREAM W A S H E R $899 (HWGE9014)
H I S E N S E 9 K G H E AT PUMP DRYER
European designed and made premium 4.5 star energy and water rated washing machine by Hisense. Sanitised wash with Steam Mix and Allergy Steam wash finish to remove allergens, pollens and other nasties. Dose assist allows the exact amount of detergent and softener to suit the garments in the machine for optimal wash efficiency. Variable spin speed up to 1400rpm and Eco Power Save wash cycle, pause and add-to-load functions. 16 programs in total to care for all garments from cottons and delicates through to your woollens.
$1,299 (HDGE90H)
WELS 4.5 stars, 70L/wash on Cotton 40C programme.
8 star energy rated king size heat pump dryer with choice of 16 programs to care for a huge range of garments. Cycles include: Easy Iron, Wool, Delicates, Bedding, Sportswear, Baby Care and Shirts. Twin air flow technology to deliver efficient air distribution during cycles, sensor dry with flexible dryness level and delayed start to take advantage of off-peak energy rates.
U LT I MAT E L G S TEA M LAUND RY LG 9 KG H E AT P U M P DRYER IN BLACK S T E E L $1,999 (DVH9-09B) Super-efficient 9 star energy rating with an auto-cleaning condenser to maintain overall dryer performance. Drying cycles include Cotton, Duvet, Towels, Sportswear, Wool and Delicates. Smart diagnosis capability and ThinQÂŽ app to monitor cycles and timing.
LG 10KG WASHER IN BLACK STEEL $1,399 (WV9-1410B)
Large capacity with Turbo Clean 360 lets you easily take care of all your laundry needs with a thorough wash while Allergy Care and Steam+ Cycles open up fabric fibres and remove allergens. 10 wash programs including Activewear and Woollens, 6 spin speeds, 6 temperature settings and delay start, offering the best in convenience and wash results. WELS 4.5 stars, 86L/wash on Cotton Eco 40C programme.
LG STYLER STEAM CLOTHING CARE S Y S T E M $2,999 (S3BF) The LG Styler allows you to conveniently sanitise, deodorise, steam and dry your coats, jackets and blazers in one userfriendly appliance with optimum garment care. Remove allergens, dust and odours without the use of detergents or chemicals. With a 5.2kg capacity, you can refresh up to three garments and 1 x trousers/ pants in one go. SmartThinQ lets you monitor cycles, control operating times and download additional cycles via the LG Styler app.
JETSTE AM CLOTH ING CARE SYS TEM S A M S U N G 9 K G H E AT PUMP DRYER $1,699 (DV90N8288AX)
Large capacity with Optimal Dry™ system which continually adjusts drying time and temperature to protect clothes. Equipped with a drying rack. Ideal for heavy garments, delicates, shoes or soft toys. Smart laundry assistant allows you to monitor and control the dryer remotely from your compatible mobile device.
SAMSUNG 8. 5KG QUICK DRIVE WASHER WITH ADD WASH FUNCTION $1,499 (WW85M74FN00)
Hygiene Steam cycle to protect your clothes from allergens and bacteria and AddWash™ door for easy addition of fabric softener or additional items during the wash cycle. QuickDrive technology delivers a quicker, more efficient and effective wash and carries a 4.5 star energy rating. 15-minute Quick Wash and 39 minute Super Speed cycle, Q-rator app for cycle selection and monitoring time of cycle. BubbleWash™ generates foam by premixing detergent with air and water from the start of the cycle, while BubbleSoak is an optional pre-treatment where clothes are thoroughly soaked in active bubbles before the wash cycle. WELS 4.5 stars, 73L/wash on eCotton 40C Intensive programme.
PER FECT WA SH & DR Y R ES ULTS
B O S C H 9 KG H E AT PUMP DRYER $1,899 (WTW87566AU)
Energy efficient premium dryer with 9 star rating and sensitive drying system that provides soft and even drying utilising its gentle drum structure. Self-cleaning condenser saves the chore of manual cleaning and ensures dryer performs economically with optimal energy efficiency. Sensitive drying system is fabric friendly as laundry is dried by mild warm air coming from all sides and gently mixed by the curving soft carriers.
BOSCH 8KG A C T I V E WAT E R P L U S WASHING MACHINE $1,199 (WAW28460AU)
EcoSilence motor that’s powerful and durable yet quiet and Vario Perfect high performance wash programmes which allow you to clean your laundry with 50% less energy or reduce your cleaning time by 65%.ActiveWater™ Plus is a pressure and water sensor that measures the washing load and adjusts intake to precise levels for cost and water savings. WELS 5 stars, 57L/wash on EcoPerfect 60 programme.
A CTI VE I NTEL LIG ENCE TE CHNOLOGY
F I S H E R & P AY K E L 9 KG H E AT P U M P D R Y E R $2,199 (DH9060C1) 8 star energy rating and 18 dry cycles including 5 extra-care cycles. Auto sensing detects moisture levels to avoid under or over-drying. Intuitive controls with clever drying hints to get the best results. LCD display provides a simple interface to select the required cycle. Select from cycles including: Outdoor for high performance fabrics, Ultra-delicate for lace and silks, Warm-up cycle for towels during colder times, Jeans for everyday essentials and Soft Toys for those special items.
F I S H E R & P AY K E L 12KG ACTIVE INTELLIGENCE W A S H E R $1,999 (WH1260FI) Active intelligence means almost automatic washing. Simply load the washer up to the huge 12kg capacity, select your cycle and the machine will adjust the water level required based on load. It will also test the water to adjust the detergent required for an efficient clean. Auto dispensing detergent and fabric softener saves water by using the precise amount required based on level of soil. 4.5 star water and energy rating and 14 wash cycles, including: Sportswear, Allergy and Woollen specific cycles. One of the smartest washers on the market. WELS 4.5 stars, 103L/wash on Cottons 40C programme.
REM O VE AL LERG ENS W ITH VAPOUR C LEAN ELECTROLUX 10KG SENSORWASH WASHING M A C H I N E $1,299 (EWF1041ZDWA)
ELECTROLUX 9KG H E AT P U M P D R Y E R
King size capacity with an extra large door opening for convenience. SensorWash feature keeps colours bright and Blacks dark by automatically detecting soil and detergent levels to adjust the washing time for optimal, energy efficient results and reduces unnecessary wear on fabrics.
Ultimate Care heat pump dryer with 7 star energy rating. Wi Fi enabled and features Woolmark Certification, advanced SensorDry, Refresh cycle and reverse tumbling action. Large reversible door for added convenience and installation options. Woollen and silk programs and special easy-iron cycle.
$1,499 (EDH903BEWA)
WELS 4.5 stars, 86L/wash on Energy Saver 40C programme.
SHOP ONLINE WITH YOUR LOCAL STORE HN.COM.AU/LAUNDRY OR CALL 1300 464 278 Harvey NormanÂŽ stores are operated by independent franchisees. Ends 06/09/20.
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HOM E C OM FORT S Add the touches that will transform your home into the haven you’ve always wanted. Cooking goals
Perfectly blending form and function, Miele’s H7464 BP pyrolytic oven in Graphite Grey features a TasteControl setting to avoid overcooking plus wi-fi connectivity. $5699; miele.com.au.
LIGHT AND SHADE The Luxaflex LumiShade (above) is a great option, says design expert and Luxaflex ambassador, Neale Whitaker. “It combines the versatility of a vertical blind with the elegance of a soft window furnishing.” luxaflex.com.au
EYES DOWN
Text by Elizabeth Wilson. Styling by Heather Nette King (Carpet Court) and Natalie Turnbull (Laminex). Photography by Cubed Studio (Laminex).
Herringbone flooring is a beloved classic. Carpet Court’s Herringbone laminate comes in five colours, including Ferrara Oak (above), in an easy-to-install tongue-andgroove system, $59/m2, supply only. carpetcourt.com.au
SURFACE APPEAL LAMINEX’S ‘LANDSCAPE SERIES’ OF LAMINATE SURFACES CONSISTS OF 13 NEW COLOURS DRAWN FROM AUSTRALIA’S NATURAL ENVIRONMENT, INCLUDING SPINIFEX (BELOW LEFT), WINTER SKY (RIGHT) AND KORTEN (PLINTH). FROM $81.10/M²; LAMINEX.COM.AU.
WELL HANDLED “It’s jewellery for your doors,” says Zuster’s Wilhelmina McCarroll of the brand’s stunning new handcrafted Doorware Collection, including handles in American oak and marble, $750, (left) and two-tone marble, $1250. zuster.com.au.
MODERN CLASSIC
TAKE A SEAT
Fine-lined yet sturdy, the gorgeous Belvedere day bed (below, $1999) is crafted from smooth American oak with a 10cm-thick foam cushion in natural linen. Provincial Home Living; provincialhomeliving.com.au.
Italian appliance brand Smeg has reimagined its Classic collection of ovens. The range retains the original elegant design aesthetic while adding new technologies, intuitive touch-screens and a matt-black finish. smeg.com.au
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Nature-inspired colours and textures deliver rustic charm with a contemporary twist. 1 Chelsea bronze outdoor wall light, $1068, Dunlin. 2 Flowering Gum linen tea towel in Black, $39, Bonnie and Neil. 3 Freya ceramic jug, $49.95, Provincial Home Living. 4 Alain lantern, $139.95, Provincial Home Living. 5 Chiara timber side table, $2950, Domo. 6 Massika Diamond
jute rug (280x190cm), $590, Miss Amara. 7 Bushwalk artwork by Jud Keresztesi, $1900, Martine Gallery. 8 Noble Souls ‘Sanctum’ timber dining chair with leather seat, $2145, Coco Republic. 9 Jasper Conran ‘Chinoiserie’ fine bone china teacup and saucer set, $249/pair, Wedgwood. 10 Dune Hale linen cushion, $64, Canvas+Sasson. 11 Babbington Flange linen cushion, $156, Canvas+Sasson. 12 Room design by Andrew Economos Custom Builder. Granite fire surround by Andrew Economos. Coffee table with recycled-ironbark top by Jake Economos. Artwork by Liesel Mott. For Where to Buy, see page 176. #
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Produced by Sophie Wilson. Styling by Natalie Johnson (12). Photograph by Kristina Soljo (12).
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Soft, muted, warm: this palest of pinks is so versatile it might be the perfect neutral. 1 Marset ‘Bicoca’ polycarbonate and teflon table lamp, $306, Finnish Design Shop. 2 Bleecker bench/ottoman with velvet upholstery, $935, Coco Republic. 3 Familia velvet and chambray dot cushion, $69, Canvas+Sasson. 4 L’Objet ‘Teo’ earthenware vase, $495, Becker Minty. 5 Moss linen
napkins in Blush, $15 each, Becker Minty. 6 Porcelain dinner plates in Sand (top) and Blossom, $53 each, Mud Australia. 7 Bloomingville ‘Anne’ stoneware mug, $14, Designstuff. 8 Rallye 20 porcelain tumbler, $215, Hermès. 9 Ferm Living faded velvet ottoman, $1499, Designstuff. 10 Mellow lounge chair with fabric upholstery, $439, Vorsen. 11 Marni ‘Borsa’ leather handbag, $2370, Incu. 12 Flower In Bloom limited-edition print by Adele Naidoo, $450 (unframed), Greenhouse Interiors. 13 Eggshell Acrylic paint in Baby Doll, $130/4L, Porter’s Paints. For Where to Buy, see page 176. #
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BRAND PROMOTION
Below image: Nutri-Lumière Revitalising Day Emulsion 50ml, $170; Nutri-Lumière Rejuvenating Night Cream 50ml, $180; Nutri-Lumière Renewing Treatment Essence 200ml, $88; Nutri-Lumière Nourishing Day Cream 50ml, $170.
NOURISHING BOOST Treat your skin to the revitalising benefits of Clarins’ new range for mature skin
PRODUCED BY STORY
W
hen our skin is mature, it needs nourishing more than ever – but that doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to natural luminosity. Renowned for its beautiful plant-rich formulas, Clarins has once again perfected a product that makes your skin feel as good as it should – no matter what your age. Nutri-Lumière is the new Clarins Pro-Ageing Innovative Skin Nutrition range developed specifically to revitalise, retexturise and enhance healthy-looking skin leaving you with natural illumination and a rosy glow. The range includes a Renewing Treatment Essence, Revitalising Day Emulsion, Revitalising Day Cream and a Rejuvenating Night Cream.
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PLANT-RICH SKIN NUTRITION Clarins Nutri-Lumière contains two key ingredients from the horse chesnut plant. The combination of the flower and fruit extracts from the one plant creates a unique formula which acts on the micro-nutrient network of depleted skin. The Nutri-Lumière range also uses plant extracts such as organic wakame, organic harungana, organic desert date, flower acids, hibiscus sabdariffa and organic oat sugar to create a powerful, nourishing and illuminating result for tired skin.
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Classics you will love forever
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WHETHER YOU’RE MOVING OUT OF HOME, MOVING IN TOGETHER OR M O V I N G U P, O U R L I S T O F D E S I G N B E A U T I E S W I L L H E L P Y O U S P E N D W I S E L Y O N P I E C E S Y O U W I L L E N J O Y A N D A D M I R E A L WA Y S . PR O D U C ED BY Antonietta Panuccio & Sophie Wilson
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PREVIOUS PAGE 1 Bartoli Design ‘1085’ timber armchair with leather upholstery, $7490, Fanuli. THIS PAGE 2 Fferone Glassware ‘May’ blown-glass
coupes, $375/pair, Becker Minty. 3 Cutipol ‘Moon’ stainless-steel cutlery, $843/24-piece set, Amara. 4 Rocket Espresso ‘Mozzafiato Cronometro Tipo V’ manual coffee machine, $3290, Coffee-A-Roma. 5 Cire Trudon ‘Abd El Kadr’ candle, $380/800g, Libertine Parfumerie. 6 Artisan iron candlestick, $44, Few & Far. 7 B&B Italia ‘Husk’ sofa by Patricia Urquiola, $17,035, Space. 8 ClassicCon ‘Bell’ glass side table with metal top, $5390, Anibou. 9 Franco marble cheeseboard, $422, Amara. 10 Herbarium porcelain 1.2L teapot, $915, Gucci. 11 Eva Solo glass carafe with wooden stopper, $99.95, Until. 12 9091 FM stainless-steel 2L kettle, $509, Alessi. 13 Performance crystal cabernet glasses, $99.95/pair, Riedel.
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19 18 17 14 ‘Oluce’ Atollo aluminium table lamp, $5104, Euroluce. 15 Ralph Lauren Home ‘Radnor Capetan’ king-size cotton quilt cover, $699, David Jones. 16 Amadeo Mini crystal decanter, $699.95, Riedel. 17 Cassina ‘Cab 413’ leather dining armchair by Mario Bellini, $5445, Space. 18 Ralph Lauren Home ‘Player’ cotton guest towel, $44.95, bath towel, $80, and bath sheet, $109.95, David Jones. 19 Angelina mild-steel fire pit, $1320, Robert Plumb. 20 A Walk In The Garden porcelain teacup and saucer set, $33/pair, porcelain 27cm dinner plate, $260/pair,
and porcelain 1L teapot, $1520, Hermès. >
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21 Fritz Hansen ‘Caravaggio’ metal pendant light by Cecilie Manz, from $1450, Cult. 22 Marc Newson mirror-polished stainless steel cutlery, $175/16-piece set, Noritake. 23 Lucia steel and acrylic bar cart, $559, Domayne. 24 Stelton ‘EM77’ stainless-steel 1L vacuum jug, $260, Top3 by Design. 25 Aalto blown-glass vase in Opal White, $199, Iittala. 26 Collective Tools stainless-steel cheese knife, $59.95, Iittala. 27 Model One BT bluetooth radio, $259, Tivoli Audio. 28 Fornasetti ‘High Fidelity’ porcelain teacup and saucer, $271/set, Amara. 29 KSM160 Artisan 4.8L stand mixer in Ink Blue, $949, KitchenAid. 30 Blue Elements 22cm porcelain plate, $99.95, Royal Copenhagen.
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31 Anna G. chrome-plated corkscrew, $195, Alessi. 32 Magimix 3200XL food processor, $519, Peter’s of Kensington. 33 Seagrass beach bag, $158, Dunlin. 34 Ruffoni ‘Vitruvius’ 1.4L saucepan, $199.95, Cookware Brands. 35 Indulgence stainless-steel Champagne cooler, $340, Georg Jensen. 36 Anglepoise ‘Original 1227’ floor lamp, from $310, Cult. 37 No. 18 bentwood chair with rattan seat, $225.50, Thonet. 38 Ardan Mara crystal flute, $139/pair, Waterford. 39 USM Haller System four-door storage credenza, $4810, Anibou. 40 Dualit ‘NewGen’ four-slice toaster, $549, David Jones. 41 Laguiole stainless-steel cheese set, $541 (includes leather case), Amara. 42 Limoges ‘Legle’ porcelain breakfast cup and saucer with gold trim, $219/set, Maison Living. 43 Eva Solo glass and stainless-steel garlic press, $130, Until. 44 Marble cake stand, $89, Pottery Barn. >
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53 45 Wolf ‘Gourmet High-Performance’ four-slice toaster, $599, Winning Appliances. 46 Roost steel egg cups by Adam Goodrum for Alessi, $79, Top3 by Design. 47 Moon resin cheese platter, $420, Dinosaur Designs. 48 Signature cast-iron casserole, $399, Le Creuset. 49 Beosound A1 waterproof bluetooth speaker, about $408.50*, Bang & Olufsen. 50 Jasper Conran ‘Chinoiserie Green’ fine bone china 14cm bowl, $79.95, Wedgwood. 51 Beosound 2 multi-room speaker, about $3268*, Bang & Olufsen. 52 ER3 cooker in British Racing Green, from $22,990, Aga Australia. 53 Eto Desk Select desk with smart accessories, $1690, Tom Fereday for King Living. 54 Smeg FAB32 Retro 326L fridge/freezer, $4290, Harvey Norman. 55 Brass incense holder, $38, Planet. 56 Architect teak dog bed, from $935 (includes cushion), Coco Republic. 57 HaptIQ stainless-steel 2.5L saucepan, $479, Scanpan. 58 Ralph marble dog bowl, from $155, Coco Republic.
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61 62 64 65 63 59 Original BTC ‘Christie’ bone china pendant light, $1288, Dunlin. 60 Architect teak and rope outdoor sofa, $3995, Coco Republic. 61 Float Hover blown-glass and brass wall sconce, from $2750, Articolo Lighting. 62 Miles timber bistro table with marble top, from $4525, Domo. 63 Ligne Roset ‘Togo’ fireside chair, from $3495, Domo. 64 Avalon wool-cashmere throw in Écru/Potiron (135x170cm), $2215, Hermès. 65 Eames moulded-plywood dining chair, $2145, Living Edge. 66 Moller 63 soaped-oak bench with paper-cord seat, $2650, Great Dane. 67 Ackland queen-size linen-cotton quilt cover in Frost Grey, $370, Sheridan. >
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68 Gervasoni ‘Brass 96’ pendant light by Paola Navone, $1947, Anibou. 69 Triplo Bourdon queen-size cotton poplin sheet set, about $1527*, Frette. 70 Vipp15 14L kitchen bin, $830, Cult. 71 Paris porcelain platter in Bottle, $294, Mud Australia. 72 Knoll Studio ‘Barcelona’ day bed with leather upholstery by Ludwig Mies Van Der Rohe, from $22,363, Dedece. 73 Eggcup radiata pine stool, from $650, Mark Tuckey. 74 Barrel ceramic planter, $790, MCM House. 75 Bistro cane chair, $199, Provincial Home Living. 76 Sahara jute rug (200x300cm), $2050, Armadillo & Co.
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77 Christofle ‘Essentiel’ stainless-steel cutlery, $1222/24-piece set (includes case), Amara. 78 Breville ‘The Juice Fountain Cold XL’ juicer, $469, Harvey Norman. 79 Cable Knit cashmere travel blanket (100x150cm), $377, Maison Cashmere. 80 Ilse stainless-steel 1.2L pitcher, $340, Georg Jensen. 81 Hawthorn Hill heated towel ladder, $4150, The English Tapware Company. 82 Pillivuyt ‘Toulouse’ porcelain cocotte with lid, $148, Peter’s of Kensington. 83 Estelle lacquer and brass bedside table, $995, Coco Republic. 84 Flexform ‘Lifesteel’ modular sofa, $27,995, Fanuli. 85 Sealy ‘Regalia Luxe’ uber-king size ensemble bed, $11,565, Domayne. 86 Shun ‘Classic’ kitchen knives, $660/3-piece set, Kitchen Warehouse. 87 Utility high-back chair with leather upholstery, $1400, Living Edge. 88 Burleigh Pottery ‘Blue Calico’ stoneware breakfast cup and saucer, $155/set, Tableking. 89 HydroTap Celsius Arc C mixer tap, $3495, Zip. 90 Kartell ‘Componobili’ ABS three-tier drawers, $280, Space. >
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91 Brass oil burner by Studio Henry Wilson, $195, Aesop. 92 Hilton ‘Superior 90/10’ goose-down pillow, $379, Pillow Talk. 93 Michael Anastassiades ‘Sconce’ glass and brass wall light, $2645, Hub Furniture. 94 Oly ‘Diego’ console with resin top, $5995, Coco Republic. 95 Linen napkins in Blue & White Stripe, $40/four, In Bed. 96 Flexform ‘Happy’ chaise by Antonio Citterio, from $11,650, Fanuli. 97 Saarinen ‘Tulip’ table with marble top, $6149, Dedece. 98 Diane marble and brass tray, $2250, Greg Natale. 99 Snoopy marble table lamp with enamel shade, $1944, Living Edge. 100 Misty C wool-silk rug, POA, Robyn Cosgrove. For Where to Buy, see page 176. #
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1 Adams chaise with polyester upholstery, $839, Castlery; www.castlery.com.au. 2 Timothy Oulton ‘Shabby’ chaise with leather upholstery, $6195, Coco Republic; www.cocorepublic.com.au. 3 Gubi ‘GMG’ chaise with fabric upholstery, from $3469, Cult; cultdesign.com.au. 4 Jacob chaise with polyester upholstery, $2015, Interiors Online; interiorsonline.com.au. 5 Allegra chaise with polyester upholstery, $1899, Plush; www.plush.com.au. 6 Flexform ‘Zeus’ chaise with velvet upholstery, POA, Fanuli; www.fanuli.com.au. 7 Wittmann ‘Vuelta’ chaise with velvet upholstery, from $12,450, Domo; www.domo.com.au. 8 Harper chaise in Bottle Green deco velvet, $399, Brosa; brosa.com.au. 9 Betty chaise with polyester upholstery, $1299, Temple & Webster; www.templeandwebster.com.au. #
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Produced by Sophie Wilson.
CH A ISE L ONGU E S
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1 Halo American-oak bedside table with brass hardware, from $3950, Zuster; zuster.com.au. 2 Hamilton laminate bedside table with rattan insert, $49, Big W; www.bigw.com.au. 3 Slim white oak bedside table, $379, Brosa; www.brosa.com.au. 4 Bali glass bedside table with rattan top, $250, April & Oak; aprilandoak.com.au. 5 HC28 ‘Fond’ timber and metal bedside table, from $1095, Domo; www.domo.com.au. 6 Home Republic ‘Barber’ ash bedside table, $376, Adairs; www.adairs.com.au. 7 Maxalto ‘Amphora’ smoked oak bedside table, $7165, Space; www.spacefurniture. com.au. 8 Oxford leather bedside table, $1595, Coco Republic; www.cocorepublic.com.au. 9 Sandpiper mangowood and iron bedside table, $565, Globe West; www.globewest.com.au. #
Smart shopper
BO OK S T OR AGE Readers rejoice: these clever storage solutions will make a feature of your favourite tomes, writes Georgia Madden.
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Photograph by Alicia Taylor.
eading is one of life’s greatest pleasures, but storing books can be problematic – particularly for voracious readers who are short on living space. “Books add warmth, texture and personality to a home, but they can certainly present a storage issue,” says Dana Goldberg, interior designer and director of Nido Studio. “If this is the case, you need to get creative.” Existing shelves straining under the weight of your collection? Perhaps you have towering piles of books that are threatening to topple. Don’t despair – there’s a raft of neat solutions that meet those book-storage needs head-on. Take your pick from freestanding bookcases, flexible wall-storage systems that incorporate everything from open and closed shelves and desks, revolving bookshelves that boost the number of books you can store in a corner, and modular units that can be mixed and matched to suit your room. “For contemporary spaces, slimmer shelves made with lightweight materials that have a finer profile and a more minimal look are trending,” says Fabio Fanuli, director at Fanuli. “For spaces where you’re looking to add warmth, timber is popular – particularly darker-toned timbers such as walnut, which are often mixed with lacquered materials for contrast. We’re also seeing asymmetrical designs that follow the lines of other elements in a room coming through in place of plain, linear shelving.” For Jane Novembre, marketing director at Domo, flexibility is the big draw in today’s designs. “Recent times have seen a rise in smaller bookcases that double as side tables or credenzas. These offer great storage and can be placed within easy reach of your favourite chair so books are always close by,” she says. “Conversely, there has also been an increase in the number of larger, modular bookcases. They’re easy to reconfigure or move according to your needs, and can be used against a wall or as a room divider.” To maximise your book-storage potential, a built-in bookshelf that’s customised to fit your room is hard to beat, says interior designer Sarah Comerford, founder and CEO of HOME by belle. > 1 Aston brass and hardwood freestanding shelving unit, $1995, Coco Republic; www.cocorepublic.com.au. 2 Butterfly oiled-oak wall shelves, from $499/pair, Great Dane; greatdanefurniture.com. 3 Riva 1920 ‘Password’ solid-timber shelving unit, POA, Fanuli; fanuli.com.au. 4 Ingrid bookcase in oak and white, $899, Freedom; freedom.com.au. 5 HC28 ‘Forest’ mixedmaterial bookcase, from $5425, Domo; domo.com.au. 6 Poltrona Frau ‘Albero’ rotating bookshelves, $29,800, Cult; cultdesign.com.au. OPPOSITE A sleek
metal frame is teamed with Parisian-style parquetry shelves in the Odessa shelving units (two are shown here) for a visually light look that won’t weigh a room down. They’re $1795 each from Coco Republic; cocorepublic.com.au.
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Storing old or precious books requires special care, says Jonathan London, manager of collection care at the State Library of NSW: ✚ Before storing books, check each one for insects or mould. Dust gently with a soft brush. Pack books in good-quality boxes made from ✚ archival card. Ensure they are packed flat, so they don’t warp or lean to one side. Store boxes off the floor and away from ✚ outside walls, in an area with good ventilation, minimal sunlight and a stable temperature and humidity levels. ✚ Keep books away from heat sources and damp. ✚ Check boxed books at least annually. AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |
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If you’re suffering from book overload, here are some places that will accept donations of pre-loved books in good condition: ✚ Lifeline Go to www.lifeline.org.au to find a local drop-off point or collection bin. ✚ Salvos Stores Find a store near you at www.salvosstores.com.au. ✚ Save the Children See www.savethechildren.org.au for op shops near you. The National Library of Australia lists organisations ✚ that accept book donations at nla.gov.au.
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“Built-in joinery will fit your space perfectly, without leaving any empty gaps. It’s also a safe choice if you have young children.” When specifying custom joinery, consider exactly what you need to store and whether you want the piece to stand out or to feel like part of the architecture, she says. “If you prefer a built-in to blend in, paint it the same colour as the walls or match the finish to the surrounding cabinetry. To make a feature of it, go for contrasting colours and textures, and consider touches of metallics.” In statement joinery, mixed-material styles are coming to the fore right now: “Matt-black and timber mixes are really popular, often with LED lighting to enhance display objects on shelves. Black joinery makes a bold statement and suits modern spaces,” says Sarah. It’s also important to make sure your custom design can accommodate your collection. “The thicker the shelf, the more substantial the joinery looks. Plus, thicker shelves can take heavier books,” she says. “I like to incorporate 25-32-millimetre-thick shelves in bookcases I design. If space in the home is tight, including closed cabinets and drawers for household items is a good idea.” There are other clever ways you can squeeze in extra book storage in a small home too. Start by looking around for any unused spaces, adds Dana: “Install shelving above doorways, along hallways and below and around built-in seating, making sure you use the full height and width of the wall. In bedrooms, book shelves can be put in below a bench seat or around the bed.” Or seek out multi-functional pieces that incorporate storage, advises Christine Gough, interior design leader at Ikea Australia. “Footstools with hidden storage compartments are perfect for storing smaller books and a coffee table with shelves makes books easily accessible. Bedside tables are another great option as they offer both open and closed storage.” Dana agrees, adding; “Multitasking wall systems that incorporate shelving, display and a desk in one are another space-saving idea. Or consider tying specially designed leather book belts around books to create a quirky side table or display. This way the books become the furniture.” And, just like that, your beloved collection is back in the good books. # 1 Preston American-oak bookcase, $4324, Jardan; jardan.com.au. 2 Coastal bookcase, $269, Harvey Norman; harveynorman.com.au. 3 Dorset Australian silvertop-ash freestanding bookcase, $1799 (made to order), Domayne; domayne.com.au. 4 Edge Amondo timber freestanding bookcase in Congo, $1900, King Living; kingliving.com.au. 5 Bermuda rattan freestanding bookshelf, $999, Oz Design Furniture; ozdesignfurniture.com.au. 6 Kartell ‘Bookworm Medium’ bookshelf in Opaline Wine Red, $1300, Space; spacefurniture.com. 7 Climb walnut and wire bookshelves, $1650, Living Edge; livingedge.com.au. OPPOSITE Poliform makes a range of shelving systems that are currently reduced by 20 per cent (until December 2020). The flexible Day system, POA, is shown here; poliformaustralia.com.au.
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“Large, modular bookcases are easy to reconfigure or move according to your needs, and they can be used against a wall or as a room divider.� Jane Novembre, Domo
Workaday HERO
Practical makes perfect for country girl and entrepreneur Amanda McPherson, writes motoring expert and WhichCar presenter, Elise Elliott. P H OTOG R A P HY Tim O’Connor
great house, great car H G There are two places Amanda McPherson feels most at home: at her rural property in central Victoria and behind the wheel of her Holden Sandman ute.
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In the living room, recycled timber, repurposed corrugated iron and stacked stone hint at the home’s former life as a barn. Amanda’s son Angus, co-owner of Dunc’s Trunks, is a lumberjack so there’s always plenty of firewood. Armchair, Space. Floor cushions, Storie. Painting by Martin Thompson. Similar wood heater, Bunnings. For similar jute rug, try Carpet Court.
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sIarriveatthis202-hectareproperty in central Victoria, I spot a pair of wedge-tailed eagles soaring above. It’s a sign that the farm, called Bunjil after an indigenous creator being that takes the form of an eagle, is aptly named. DressedinamaxidressteamedwithYSL boots and rocking an Akubra, owner Amanda McPherson looks every bit the founderofLaFaceBeautyClinicsheis.But Amanda is equally at home chopping firewood, tagging calves and putting the resident Charolais bull in its place. Amanda and her husband Duncan live in Melbourne but retreat to Bunjil at weekends. The ‘homestead’, a converted barn, feels warm and inviting despite its utilitarian origins thanks to Amanda’s deft decoration with the guidance of interior designer Jane Charlwood. Earthy textiles, farm relics and handcrafted timber furniture add to the ambience. Butthismulti-talentedladyhasonemore surprise in store: she’s a revhead at heart
and her tangerine 1977 HX V8 Sandman ute is a prized possession. Part of the Sandman’scharmisthatitwasalightbulb moment in car design: it was in this era that Holden began giving its ultrafunctional panel vans and utes a dash of surf-culture character and style, in effect making hard yakka cool. Tell us about your property… Duncan and I both grew up in the country and bought Bunjil about 10 years ago because we were craving a return to our roots. We also wanted our children [Cluny and Angus, now in their 20s] to enjoy the benefits of rural life – the wide-open spaces, the scent of the bush and the parade of local fauna – as we had. The weight of city life melts away the minute we drive through the front gate. I likethefact that phone reception is dodgy because it means people aren’t distracted by technology. Then there are the sunsets and star-filled night skies... >
great house, great car H G
The butcher’s block is a nod to Duncan’s family’s time in the meat trade. Painting bought in Prague. Pendant lights, Scout House. Cabinet handles, MadeMeasure. BELOW Amanda is all smiles when driving her beloved Sandman ute.
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H G gr at hous gr at car Handmade furniture and repurposed farm pieces add to the bucolic feel. OPPOSITE The eastfacing main bedroom is decorated with a chair from Storie and curtains from Barlow & Hunt. >
“We have several pieces of furniture that connect us to our family heritage but are still relelvant and useful today.� Amanda McPherson
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great house, great car H G
What are the interior highlights? The main room is really flexible. It’s spacious enough to be be used as a dining hall, yet still feels intimate thanks to cosy nookslikethechairinfrontofthefire.Each area in the house has a lovely connection with the environment. What are your favourite pieces? We have several pieces that connect us toour family heritage butarestill relevant and useful today. A carpenter’s bench that belonged to my late father is used as a mobile servery when we’re entertaining. In the kitchen, there’s an old butcher’s block that references Duncan’s family background in the meat industry. In the diningarea,there’salongtablemybrother, Brian, made from oregon beams salvaged from the renovation of our city home. I also love the bespoke outdoor table and bathroom vanities, all made by Brad Williams from Woodend Tables.
“This car takes me back to a time when summer days lasted forever and Fleetwood Mac was the soundtrack to our lives.” Amanda McPherson, owner
Have you always appreciated cars? The cars I most relate to reflect my youth in the 1970s, as does Duncan. I tracked the Sandman down as a surprise for his 50th birthday. I consider it my car though! It takes me back to a time when summer days lasted forever and Fleetwood Mac was the soundtrack of our lives. I also love the colour, the manual windows and the burble of the V8. Do you have a favourite drive? We love going on Sunday drives to explore the region. In summer, we often head to Lorne via The Great Ocean Road. There’s no greater feeling than driving along with surfboards in the back, windows down and the scent of the sea on the breeze. > @EliseElliott_Media @WhichCar WhichCar TV airs on Channel 10 at 4pm Sundays. For all your motoring advice, go to www.whichcar.com.au.
TOP LEFT Amanda says the workbench belonging to her late father, now a feature in the living room, is a daily reminder of the joy he got from working with his hands. TOP RIGHT In Amanda’s
bathroom with a view, a freestanding Apaiser bath is teamed with tapware from Rogerseller and floor tiles from Rock & Stone Outdoor Living. ABOVE Amanda (left) with Elise and the eye-catching Sandman ute. OPPOSITE Jock, the family’s blue heeler-kelpie cross, watches the ute down the drive. AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |
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H G GREAT HOUSE, GREAT CAR
THE KNOWLEDGE > VINTAGE STAR Model: Holden Make: Sandman ute Year: 1977 Engine: 4.2L V8 > MODERN CLASSIC Model: Holden Make: Sandman ute Year: 2015 Engine: 6.0L V8
“The weight of city life melts away the minute we drive through the front gate. The connection with the environment nurtures and rejuvenates us.” Amanda McPherson “I’m very lucky to have some wonderfully creative people around me,” says Amanda. “My fabulous interior designer and dear friend Jane Charlwood, our landscaper Jeremy Clark, and our builder, Glen Shearer Constructions, all helped bring my vision to life masterfully.” Outdoor dining setting by Brad Williams of Woodend Tables. For Where to Buy, see page 176. #
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Photograph by Kristina Soljo.
TA K E A T O U R T H R O U G H S I X D R E A M Y C O U N T R Y H O M E S
Hou se s
Lisa Zeigler and her chocolate labradors Baci (left) and Milo wander through the vineyard at her beautifully refurbished property on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula. Turn the page to see more...
H G houses VERANDAH Resident labradors Milo (front) and Baci enjoy the open
space as much as the owners of this heritage property, Lisa and John Zeigler. The bench is from the couple's previous home in New York. Jarrah decking. Zincalume roofing. Landscaping by Into Views.
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New purpose
Treasures collected from a life well-travelled give this refurbished Mornington Peninsula homestead real character and style. STO RY Yvette Caprioglio | ST Y L I N G Ashley Pratt | P H OTO G RA PHY Kristina Soljo
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“I’m always thinking about how we can reuse things. It’s really exciting to see old pieces come back to life and looking the best they can.” Lisa Zeigler, owner
LIVING This page and opposite top Lisa relaxes in the cosy living
room. Stools, Capocchi. The leather sofa is a vintage piece the couple bought while living in New York. Ottomans and armchairs upholstered in a Pierre Frey fabric. Limestone blocks (wall), Limestone Australia. Bluestone bench. Cheminées Philippe combustion stove, Wignells Heating & Cooking. Pendant light, Articolo Lighting. Side tables, Husk. Vintage rug, Tribe Home. Flowers by Victoria Whitelaw Beautiful Flowers (throughout). DINING Bespoke dining table. Vintage chairs with Ralph Lauren upholstery.
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elbourne couple Lisa and John Zeigler were taking an early morning motorbike ride to Cape Schanck, on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, when they came across this beautiful homestead. As it happened, the 13-hectare property, known as Maroolaba, was for sale. The Zeiglers decided it had to be theirs. “We just knew it was right for us,” says Lisa. “We both felt an instant emotional connection with it.” Built in 1863, the house felt rather tired after a long life as an office for a horse-breeding facility. Lisa and John are no strangers to building and renovation projects so were up to the challenge of making the homestead great again. The couple called on a regular collaborator, architect Iain Dykes, and set about transforming the buisnesslike house into an inviting home. Previously, the floor plan comprised two bedrooms, a study, one bathroom, separate kitchen and small dining/ living room, and a laundry/bathroom in a lean-to at the rear. The Zeiglers’ plan was to reinstate Maroolaba’s Victorian charm and to repurpose some of the rooms to make the layout more functional. When John decided >
KITCHEN A spacious butler’s pantry is located beyond the tiled wall. Lisa designed the rangehood with her interior designer friend, Jean-Pierre Heurteau. Lumi pendant lights, Articolo Lighting. Splashback tiles, Urban Edge Ceramics. Lacanche oven and cooktop. Sub-Zero fridge. Gioia marble benchtop, CDK Stone. Tapware, The English Tapware Company. Stools, Jean-Pierre Heurteau Design. Joinery painted a custom colour. Polished-concrete flooring (throughout). >
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The palette Dulux Natural White (main walls, throughout)
Dulux Black (trims)
Dulux Fish Net Blue
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Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.
“John and I knew instantly that this house was the right one for us. We both felt an emotional connection with it.” Lisa
GUESTROOM Above Ombré wallpaper, Designers Guild. Wall
light, Articolo Lighting. Side table, Jean-Pierre Heurteau Design. Bedlinen, Adairs. Bedhead in Pierre Frey ‘Namibie Indigo’. GUEST BATHROOMS Above right and right Vanity and tapware, The English Tapware Company. Wall tiles, Urban Edge Ceramics. Mirror and pendant light, Articolo Lighting. GUESTROOM Opposite The round window frames tree views. Curtains in a Pierre Frey fabric. Stool, Fenton & Fenton. Door hardware, Pittella. >
to retire in late 2015, the renovation became a much bigger project. The lean-to was demolished to make way for a 361-square-metre extension – more than doubling the home’s footprint. It accommodates three additional bedrooms, each with ensuite, plus a vast open-plan kitchen/dining/living space and a cantilevered infinity pool. The existing timber flooring was replaced with polished concrete to accommodate under-floor heating and create a unifying thread between Victorian and contemporary design. The glass-walled open-plan kitchen, dining and living room offers expansive views across the vineyard and olive grove planted by the Zeiglers in 2016. A sizeable marble-topped island bench anchors the space. “I wanted something over-scale as a focal point,” says Lisa. “We have five adult children and a two-year-old grandson so the island is often used for casual dining.” The charcoaltiled infinity pool adjacent to the living zone doubles as a meditative reflection pond. Lisa’s eclectic approach to decorating is the result of her experience living in different cities across three continents over the past 20 years. She also likes to recycle and repurpose as much as she can. “I’m always thinking about how we can reuse things and give them a new lease on life,” says Lisa, who rejuvenated all but one of her old sofas by re-covering them with fresh upholstery. The dining chairs – a constant presence in Lisa’s life for more than 25 years – were stripped, waxed and reupholstered in a smart Ralph Lauren fabric. “It’s really exciting to see old pieces come back to life and looking the best they can,” she adds. Many of the furnishings come from Lisa and John's previous homes in the US, Singapore and Melbourne and Eastern and Western pieces are thoughtfully combined throughout. “If I really like something, I’ll make it work,” says Lisa. The aesthetic of hotelier and designer Kit Kemp is a clear influence for Lisa, who artfully pulled together an intriguing mix of boldly patterned wallpapers. In ‘the blue room’, for example > MAIN ENSUITE Vanities and tapware, all The English Tapware Company. Wall tiles, Urban Edge Ceramics. MAIN BEDROOM Fornasetti ‘Nuvolette’ wallpaper, Cole & Son.
Bedhead upholstered in Ralph Lauren ‘Sacred Mountain Blanket’ fabric. Drawers, Manon Bis. Bench, Big Chair Living.
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“If I really like something, I’ll make it work.” Lisa
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THIS IS THE LIFE
Maroolaba gives Lisa and John the best of both farm and coastal life, with a number of beaches just a short drive away. They also like the community: neighbours share resources and are committed to supporting local producers, wineries and restaurants. “We love being part of this community,” says Lisa. “When friends come and stay we’ll often take them on a tour of our favourite local places.”
houses H G OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING Limestone blockwork, Limestone Australia. Dining setting, Harvey Norman. BeefEater Morso Forno barbecue, Wignells Heating & Cooking. Lights, Hinkley. EXTERIOR Opposite The spacious pavilion-like extension includes a cantilevered infinity pool
by Melbourne Pools. Landscaping by In Views. Construction by Daryl and James Tatnell. >
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example, an ombré design wallpaper by Designers Guild isteamedwithastrikingPierreFreyfabriconthecustommadebedhead. In the main bedroom, heavenly Fornasetti ‘Nuvolette’ wallpaper in the main bedroom is paired with a tribal-inspired Ralph Lauren fabric, Sacred Mountain Blanket. Lisa says she was delighted to be able to include pieces designed or made by talented friends throughout the hometoo.ExamplesincludelovelylightingbyNicciGreen (of Articolo Lighting) and various works by local artists Libby Pinkham and Mark Schaller. Today, Maroolaba’s distinctive mix of old and new is a tangible testament to a life well-lived. “It’s a wonderful place for the whole family to spend time,” says Lisa. “It’s just a really liveable, welcoming home.” # Iain Dykes Architect, East Kew, Victoria; (03) 9819 7488.
OUTBUILDING Above and left A disused outbuilding was converted into a ‘man cave’. Side table and sculptures by Mark Schaller. Vintage chair. Lights, Tarlo & Graham. Rug, Ikea. VINEYARD John and Lisa planted the vineyard and an olive grove in 2016 and produced the first vintage this year. For Where to Buy, see page 176.
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“It’s a wonderful place for the whole family to spend time.” Lisa
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F L OW ON This freshly updated beach house addresses and caresses the curves of the NSW Central Coast. STO RY Sarah Pickette | ST Y LI NG Steve Cordony P H OTOG RA PH Y Anson Smart
houses H G EXTERIOR Perched on a hillside overlooking the sea, this
beach house was radically transformed into a nurturing sanctuary without undergoing major structural changes. The outside of the house was painted by Denman Painting in Dulux Sea Deep with trim in Dulux Domino. Textures and colours found in the surrounding landscape informed interior designer Lynne Bradley’s material choices inside.
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DINING Star of the show in this space is the
Cladstone sandstone wallpaper. Jewel dining table and Husk dining chairs, all Zuster. LIVING Valley sofa, Jardan. Viv swivel chairs, West Elm. The rug was custom designed by Lynne and made by Designer Rugs.
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gianthug:that’swhattheownersofthisbeach house on the NSW Central Coast wanted it to feel like. “When you have a demanding, stressful job, it makes sense that you would seek out a place that acts as an antidote, a place where you can unwind,” says Lynne Bradley, the Sydney interior designer in charge of delivering this hug-made-tangible for a family of six. “The curve of the building evokes an embrace, so taking this approach to its interiors worked beautifully.” Built in 1983, the four-bedroom home is positioned in an incomparable spot that offers sweeping views out to sea and across to a headland. When the family bought it last year, the property was in need of a serious style update. Lynne knew immediately that one of her key goals on this project was better anchoring the house to its location. “Every time I visited the house, the >
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H G houses LIVING These images Previously, yellowed timber-veneer panels
dominated the living area’s arched ceiling. The panels were stripped to a neutral tone, enabling the ocean views to dominate. The joiner, Kastell Kitchens, and builder, Salv D’Albora of SGD Builders, worked together to install the ADF Linea fireplace and inset Sony television. Taccia lamp, Euroluce. Literal, Legible, Intelligible artwork by Antonia Mrljak from Becker Minty. Tribute coffee table, Zuster. Customdesigned rug. Glass vase from Spence & Lyda, travertine bowl from Greg Natale and RaRa Studio vase from Elph Store.
water would look a different colour,” she says. “I didn’t consciously bring the colours of the beach inside; I think perhaps they just seeped in. The silvery green foliage of the nearby national park, the many blues of the sea, the colours of the sand and the frequent stormy skies – these beautiful natural features informed my palette without me ever making a deliberate decision to use ‘beachy’ colours.” On the ground floor of the three-level home is the kitchen, a symphony of pale-blue joinery with softly rounded edges that offers an abundance of storage. The cabinetry is topped with Caesarstone Excava, selected for its boldly veined patterning and its nod to the eroded sandstone cliffs nearby. Flowing curves are a distinct feature of this home. A blade wall and barrel ceiling by the stairs had to be factored into Lynne’s design. Her ingenious solution for this tricky space was to use a very special wallpaper that’s essentially a 3-millimetre slice of sandstone with an adhesive backing that is applied to a surface and then sealed. “It’s heated with a blowdryer and can be wrapped to any shape. There are no load-bearing issues and it’s a great way to bring some texture into a space.” In the living area, situated upstairs from the kitchen, the sweeping arc of the ceiling is mirrored in the curved linesofthesofaandtwooccasionalchairsthatcanswivel to either face the all-important sea view or to be a part of a family conversation. The rug in this room is nothing short of a work of art. It was custom-designed by Lynne to represent the beach beyond the windows. “Headlands at each end of the beach are expressed in the geometrical aspect of the rug,” she says. “The curved area with >
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The palette
“ F U R N I T U R E WA S S E L E C T E D F O R I T S A B I L I T Y TO C R E AT E A C O C O O N I N G S E R E N I T Y. T H E S W E E P I N G S H A P E O F T H E S O FA R E S P O N D S TO T H E C O N C AV E C E I L I N G A N D C O N V E X B E L LY O F T H E S TA I R C A S E OV E R H A N G .” LY N N E B R A D L E Y, I N T E R I O R D E S I G N E R
Dulux Sea Deep (exterior)
Dulux Blue Spruce (kitchen joinery)
Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.
Dulux Domino (exterior trims)
THIS IS THE LIFE
“It was always intended to be a beach house but the owners have fallen in love with this home – and I believe they’re even talking about one day retiring there,” says Lynne. One of the aspects the owners like best is its flexibility. “It works well for the two of them, but it’s just as comfortable when their grown-up children and their partners are also visiting. This is a house that feels intimate and welcoming, but allows everyone their own space.”
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KITCHEN Installed by
Kastell Kitchens, the joinery features a half-cylinder profile and is finished in Dulux Blue Spruce. Door hardware, Kethy. Caesarstone Excava benchtop and splashback. Oven and cooktop, Smeg. The bowl on the table is from MCM House. AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |
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MAIN BEDROOM Bedhead, Naturally Cane. Heimur bedside tables and bed-end bench,
all Great Dane. Braid Hive rug, Designer Rugs. Quilt cover, Cultiver. Mustard cushions, Elk. Bolsters, Jardan. ENSUITE Joinery designed by Lynne and installed by Kastell Kitchens. Joinery painted Dulux Sea Deep. Door hardware, Kethy. Menta wall tiles, Di Lorenzo Tiles. Tapware and Kado ‘Lussi’ solid-surface bath, Reece. Pill basin, Nood Co. Where You Are Now Is Perfect artwork by Antonia Mrljak from Becker Minty. For Where to Buy, see page 176.
“ T H E B E D R O O M I S D E L I B E R AT E LY U N D E R S TAT E D B E C AU S E T H E M A I N AT T R AC T I O N L I E S B E YO N D T H E W I N D O W S .” LY N N E B R A D L E Y
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contrasting textures represents the shoreline and waves rolling onto the sand. It fills the negative space between the sofa and the television and fireplace, which proved to be quite challenging to put in!” The main bedroom suite is situated upstairs from the living area and features uninterrupted beach vistas. “I think of this space as the crow’s nest of the house – it has that kind of feel to it,” says Lynne. The decor here is deliberately understated so as not to distract from the view, but the ensuite has undergone a comprehensive renovation. A wardrobe ‘pod’ features clothes storage on one side and bathroom storage on the other, but ensures the ensuite remains open to the bedroom. Powder-blue irregular-edge glazed tiles add a textural element and bounce light around the room. They’re teamed with a teal vanity, which is shaped to echo the curves around the house. On the floor, white subway tiles are laid both horizontally and vertically to create a little pattern play. “Every element acknowledges the home’s natural surrounds positively – even its harsher properties. The brass tapware was selected for its oxidised look, while the ensuite mirror has already begun to patinate. They addawonderful,‘livedin’feeltotheall-newinterior.” # Lynne Bradley Interiors, Lindfield, NSW; 0412 192 929 or lynnebradleyinteriors.com.au.
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Land of plenty The textures and tones of the surrounding environment are subtly woven into the interiors of this rural NSW weekender. STO RY Elizabeth Wilson | ST Y L I N G Phoebe Nicol | PH OTOGR A PHY Dave Wheeler
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LIVING Generous picture windows perfectly frame views, ensuring the
landscape is a constant presence in the home. Custom sofa with Verona leather upholstery from Instyle. Cushions in Westbury Textiles Washed Luxembourg Linen in Oatmeal. Folded-steel coffee table by Phoebe Nicol Interior Architecture. Jute rug, MCM House. The armchair and side table were specially imported. ENTRY The timber bench was salvaged from the original farmhouse on the site. Recycled-oak floorboards.
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very second weekend or so, the Sydney-based owners of this home excitedly pack their bags and head north out of the city to travel here, their bush retreat. It’s been the same for the past 20 years, ever since they bought this beloved 50 hectares of undulating bushland. “We’ve always spent a lot of time here and it was a big part of our nowadult children’s childhoods,” says the owner. “It’s been our destination for Easters, Christmases and family celebrations.” The property is nestled into a valley in the NSW Central Coast hinterland, about 90 minutes’ drive from the Sydney CBD. The allure is obvious: it’s tranquil, the air is fresh, and there are unending bush views in every direction. But the magnetic pull has become even stronger since the recent addition of this gorgeous new home on the site. “When we bought the property 20 years ago, there was a log cabin here, which was our home for the first 18 years,” says the owner. “But we have a large family and it’s growing all the time – soon we’ll have eight grandchildren – so we wanted a house that could fit everyone comfortably. Renovating the cabin would have been a massive job, so we decided to build something more modern with a family focus.” They enlisted Sydney architect Michael Robilliard to design a two-storey residence that would sit harmoniously within the landscape. Built on the same site as the old log cabin, the new rendered-brick structure is designed in an L-shape, with the ground level consisting of an entry, two guestrooms, bathroom, and a large pitched-roof pavilion that accommodates an openplan kitchen, dining and living room. Upstairs are the main bedroom suite, family room and a study. Everyroominthehousefeatureslargepicturewindowsframing views of tree-covered hills. “It’s all about looking out and enjoying the nature around us, and being immersed in the landscape,” says the owner. The design encapsulates the owners’ aspirations: its footprint and materials are economical, but also comfortable and flexible enough to cater for the extended family. It easily sleeps nine and can accommodate more when needed. When it came to designing the interiors, the owners didn’t want anything too rustic, nor too slick, so they called on >
LIVING “The owners didn’t want the furniture to be precious,” says Phoebe. “They wanted their family to be able to put their feet up and not worry about marking the sofa. The leather will soften and develop a lovely patina over time, as will the steel coffee table, but they’ll get better with age.” DRIVEWAY The owners feel themselves exhale as soon as they drive through the gates. DINING Otway Trestle dining table, Cosh Living. Maki dining chairs, MCM House. Custom candlesticks by Phoebe. Bronze sculpture, The Vault Sydney.
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THIS IS THE LIFE
“This is our retreat from the city,” says the owner of this home hugged by bush. “It’s not a fancy property, you could even say it’s a bit rugged, but that’s what we love about it. We just love the peace and solitude of this place. When we come here, it’s not to socialise, it’s about spending time with family and in nature. My husband does a lot of work around the property – fencing and so on – but he loves it all.”
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The palette
KITCHEN This page and opposite top Joinery in American walnut veneer, Briggs
Veneers. Benchtop in Taj Mahal quartzite from CDK Stone. Can wall light, Anna Charlesworth. Highline pendant light, Rakumba. Door hardware, Pittella. Tobi stools, MCM House. Freestanding cooker, Ilve. Tapware, Winning Appliances. Large open-neck vase, Phoebe Nicol Interior Architecture. Hourglass sculpture and black footed bowl, Manyara Home. Sandy artwork by Mason Kimber. FIELD Cattle enjoying their bucolic surroundings.
Dulux Unforgettable (downstairs living, kitchen, dining)
Resene Linen (bedrooms)
Resene Triple Friar Grey (exterior)
“Against the concrete floor, the timber veneer brings in lovely warm, deep rich colours and textures, and the stone benchtop is perfect for a robust country kitchen.� Phoebe Nicol
Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.
the expertise of interior architect Phoebe Nicol, to strike the balance. Phoebe was engaged very early in the process, first visiting the site when it was nothing more than a concrete slab. She made many more trips during the two-year building process, overseeing the entire fit-out. The brief for the interiors echoed that for the build itself: “We wanted a modern country house that was simple and easy to live in, and that young children could feel at home in as well,” says the owner. Robust surfaces were part of that vision, and concrete flooring for the entire ground level was the perfect answer. Upstairs, the floor is recycled blackbutt – “You can’t build a country house without the presence of beautiful timber,” says Phoebe. Phoebe’s aim for the interiors was that they would sing in tune with the landscape. Her colour palette, materials, finishes and furnishings are all informed by the tones and textures outside. Her first task was to help select exterior colours. In keeping with the owners’ wishes for the house to sit unassumingly in its setting, she chose Resene Triple Friar Grey, which ties in beautifully with the Colorbond roof in Monument. “The browns and greens of the landscape continue inside,” says Phoebe. “It’s a palette of muted, natural tones”. This includes Dulux Unforgettable for the walls of the kitchen/living/dining > AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |
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GUESTROOM This page Linen quilt cover and sheets,
Cultiver. Felt cushions covered in James Dunlop Textiles ‘Mackenzie’ in Kea. Eggcup stool, Mark Tuckey. Iron lamp recycled from the original farmhouse with new linen shade. Curtains in Mokum ‘Satori’ linen. Custom iron curtain rod. Jute rug, MCM House. ENSUITE Domi wall sconce, Articolo Lighting. Vanity, mirror, tapware and basin, all Reece. MAIN BEDROOM Opposite, top right and bottom left Armchair in the style of Pierre Jeanneret, sourced overseas. Custom bedhead upholstered in Antwerp Stonewashed linen, Westbury Textiles. Linen quilt cover, Cultiver. Vintage wall light, The Vault Sydney. Side table, MCM House. Ceramic objects by Emma Gale. DAM A picturesque on-site dam is one of the property’s assets. >
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H G houses pavilion. The windows in this section of the house are undressed, the furnishing palette deliberately pared back. A beautiful caramel-toned leather sofa is the hero of the space, matched with felt and linen cushions and jute rugs. Phoebe describes the interior scheme as “farmhouse with a modern twist”. “There’s a mix of contemporary and fine finishes with touches of rawness and natural elements,” she says. In the kitchen,forexample,theconcretefloorandblacksteelrangehood are offset by joinery in a deep honey-toned timber veneer. A quartzite benchtop in beautiful toffee tones and soft veining, also brings warmth and texture to this space. Upstairs, the pared-back simplicity continues, giving the main bedroom a lovely sense of quietude, or what Phoebe describes
asa“natural,liveablepersona”. Beautifulbedlinensarecombined with felt cushions, a jute rug and linen curtains that pool luxuriously on the floor. The curtains hang from simple iron rods, a touch of metal that is subtly repeated in the bronzed metals doorknobs. “What I love about the house is the way we’ve brought natural elements into all the spaces,” says Phoebe. Now that travel and social restrictions have eased, the owners say they are eager to head to the retreat for a long-overdue family gathering. “This is where we love to spend time together and experience nature.” # Phoebe Nicol Interior Architecture, Rosebery, NSW; 0431 524 979 or www.phoebenicol.com. Michael Robilliard & Associates, Paddington, NSW; www.michaelrobilliard.com.au.
“We wanted a modern country house that was simple and easy to live in, where young children could feel at home as well.” Owner
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EXTERIOR “We feel like we’re
part of the valley,” says the owner of the home’s front-seat bush location. Colossal windows and sliding doors allow the residents to feel immersed in the landscape even when they’re indoors. The exterior colour is Resene Triple Friar Grey, the roof is Colorbond in Monument. “We chose darker colours because we didn’t want the house to stand out,” says the owner. “We felt these colours would help it to sit comfortably in the landscape. We wanted it to be subtle.” For Where to
Buy, see page 176.
Warming L AY E R S
Adding pattern and texture to its existing furnishings imbued this NSW Blue Mountains retreat with cosiness and comfort. STO RY Elizabeth Wilson | ST Y L I N G Studio Kate | P H OTO GR A P HY Maree Homer
houses H G FORMAL LIVING A gallery wall of works by Australian artists creates interest and gives the room narrative. The works were hung by Jonathon Lee of picture hanging service The Hangman. FRONT ENTRY Exterior painted in Dulux Rattlesnake; front door painted Dulux Submarine. Potted bay trees (Laurus nobilis) stand sentinel by the door..
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FORMAL LIVING Tartan wool rug, Robyn
Cosgrove. Stratten Slope Arm sofa with linen upholstery and Viscount William leather sofa, both Coco Republic. Lennon slipper chair and Alber coffee table, both Boyd Blue. Rattan drum table, Flamingo Rd Homewares. Grandma Pouf ottoman with fringing, Trit House. Luca Scacchetti ‘Teatro’ sideboard, Domo. Lamp from West Elm with shade from Bloomingdales Lighting. Custom egg ottomans, throw and custom cushions in Busatti fabrics, all Studio Kate. Curtains in Mokum Soho Concrete. Artwork by unknown artist.
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he Blue Mountains region of NSW, just 90 minutes’ drive west of Sydney, is a landscape of natural wonders. Here, it’s possible to walk deep into ancient forest where time stands still, then stroll to a smart cafe for a steaming bowl of nourishment. Living here is a conversation with nature. It’s about embracing the crisp, clear days and being wrapped in a good, warm coat. The owners of this mountain retreat love it all. They bought the property in 2014 as a weekender, but spend increasing amounts of time here, drawn to the tranquility and their love of cool-climate gardening. Built in 1990, their home is a single-level dwelling surrounded by magnificent gardens. From the outset, the owners loved the overall setting, but felt the interiors needed a refresh. In 2016, they engaged Dods and Zuccon Architects and designer Kerry Selby Brown to help them modernise the layout. They reconfigured the floor plan to improve the flow, enlarging several windows to maximise natural light AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |
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and views. The result is a spacious home where every room is generous in scale and outlook. There are two bedrooms and two studies, with the main bedroom suite at one end and the guestroom and studies at the other. In between are the living spaces, including separate formal living and dining rooms, the kitchen and casual living and dining zones. When the renovations wrapped up, the owners felt their existing furnishings didn’t quite look the part. They called on the expertise of designer Kate Nixon, director of Studio Kate, to add warmth, comfort and personality to their interiors. “Our brief was to pull together the existing art and furniture and create a comfortable, cohesive, beautiful interior,” says Kate. “We worked to soften the overall palette with sympathetic new pieces – soft furnishings, wallpaper, paint, lighting and accessories – throughout the house.” The starting point was the flooring. “We sanded, restained and waxed the original spotted-gum boards to a warm ebonised walnut and this formed our foundation,” says Kate. Area rugs and runners from Robyn Cosgrove followed, groundingeach room withtextured, softpalettes.Nextcame the key furniture pieces, all carefully chosen and placed, and then the all-important layering: custom bedheads, bedlinen, cushions, throws, occasional furniture and feature lighting draw each space together to create a warm, considered and inviting interior. It’s all woven together with a colour palette inspired by the spectacular landscape. “We used earthy, natural tones with touches of dirty blues and greens to allow the outlook to be the hero,” says Kate. The result is testament to “the transformative power of interior decorating”, says Kate. “It’s not necessary to replace every item. In some instances, we re-covered existing pieces that were comfortable and had good scale. In others, we made treasured heirlooms the hero.” In the formal dining room, for example, the existing dining table was retained and teamed with new low-profile club chairs, while the light fitting was replaced with a contemporary blown-glass pendant. In the casual dining zone, they opted to keep the Arthur G dining chairs but swapped the square table for a spectacular round one with marble top. There are bold interplays of pattern too. In the formal living room, a striking tartan wool rug anchors the room. TheguestroomboastsastrikingstripedCole&Sonwallpaper, while in the powder room a stunning fern-patterned wallpaper sings against the existing marble vanity. “The success of these interiors lies in the way existing pieces are gently drawn together within the overall scheme. Every room feels warm and inviting – just like the people who live here!” says Kate. > Studio Kate, Rushcutters Bay, NSW; (02) 9363 4318 or www.studiokate.com.au.
houses H G KITCHEN/CASUAL DINING Existing cabinetry and stone splashback. LA barstools and Rene Chyba ‘Clara’ dining table, all Domo. Dining chairs, Arthur G. Existing spotted-gum flooring. FORMAL DINING Opposite top Bryant dining chairs, Boyd Blue. Existing table. Line 02 pendant light, Douglas & Bec. CASUAL LIVING Opposite bottom Dune armchair, Contents International Design. Bilanciare floor lamp, Fanuli. Custom cushions in Busatti fabrics by Studio Kate.
THIS IS THE LIFE
As keen gardeners, the owners love the expanse of established gardens that encircle their home. every room is oriented to maximise views of greenery and the dramatic escarpment beyond. “Although it was planned that the home be a weekender, the owners definitely see themselves spending more time here. It has been a real haven during isolation!” says Kate, whose job it was to infuse the home with “warmth and comfort”. AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |
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“The success of these interiors lies in the way existing pieces are gently drawn together.� Kate Nixon
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MAIN BEDROOM Above left Custom bedhead in Lee
Jofa Bloomsbury Forest fabric by Oscar de la Renta, bedlinen and cushions, all Studio Kate. Happy Olivier table lamp, Domo. GUESTHOUSE This image and above right Cane wardrobe, Trit House. Serena cane bedhead, Naturally Cane. Bedside table and pendant lights, Bloomingdales Lighting. POWDER ROOM Opposite Martyn Lawrence Bullard ‘Royal Fernery’ wallpaper, Radford. Marble, Nefiko. Mirror, Domo. >
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GUESTROOM Above left Custom bedhead and bedlinen by Studio Kate. Bedside table, Great Dane. Cole & Son ‘DAN 1876’ wallpaper, Radford. STUDY Above right Custom bolster and scatter cushions by Studio Kate. Baskets and accessories, Orient House. GUESTHOUSE BEDROOM
Custom bedhead and bedlinen by Studio Kate. Pendant light and table lamp, Bloomingdales Lighting. Bench seat, Naturally Cane. Houghton dresser and mirror, Boyd Blue. Rounded shelves, Florabelle. Curtains in Westbury Textiles ‘Beauvais Toile’. BALCONY Parc rocking chair, Trit House. Angelina fire pit, Robert Plumb. Cushions, Eco Outdoor. For Where to Buy, see page 176. #
Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.
“These interiors are testament to the transformative power of interior decorating.” Kate Nixon
The palette
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Murobond Paint Patttern Maker Half (formal living, dining) Murobond Paint Dry Stone Half (kitchen, casual living)
Dulux Submarine (front door)
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Natural attraction out-of-the-box thinking transformed a tired project home in northern NsW into a sophisticated yet down-to-earth abode. Design doyenne Meryl hare shares the journey. STYLI N G Meryl Hare & Belinda Chippindale | P HOTOG R A P H Y Jen Wilding
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INDOOR/OUTDOOR ROOM
The homeowners did the landscaping themselves. Paola Lenti armchair, Dedece. B&B Italia table, Space. For similar Adirondack chair, try The Porch Furniture. Weber barbecue. The cladding is western red cedar.
H G HOUSES
ENTRANCE Above left and below right The front door was custom made by the builder. Wall shelf, Unearthed Garden. LIVING Above right and opposite Console and sofa, Hare+Klein. Molteni&C lounge chair (black), Hub Furniture. For similar rattan chair, try Domo. Gervasoni side table, Anibou. Grey rug, Cadrys (opposite). The kilim rug is an existing piece. Wall painted Porter’s Paints Panther. Artworks by Clifton Mack (left) and Elizabeth Cummings. DINING Below left Artwork by Derry Messum. Salt and pepper mills are special pieces in the owners’ existing collection.
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his beautiful property is situated near Armidale in the New England High Country of NSW, about half way between Sydney and Brisbane. The traditional owners are the Anaiwan people and the region is famed for its cool-climate wines, tree-lined streets and many fine examples of colonial architecture. The owners bought this home on impulse, having recently made the decision to leave life on the land and retire. The grounds were large but the existing home was a rundown and rather dated 1970s brick project home with dark timber ceilings, small rooms and little connection with the landscape. We had worked with the owners on the renovation of their farm a couple of years prior, so we understood their aesthetic, their love of beautiful art and artefacts, deep colours and natural >
DINING New timber cladding butts up to old painted walls; the subtle change in wall material delivers
texture and visual interest. Caravaggio pendant lights and Carl Hansen dining chairs, all Cult. The dining table and bench seat have been in the family for many years. Bench seat cushion by Hare+Klein. Wall painted Porter’s Paints Panther, ceiling painted Dulux Natural White. Rug, Armadillo & Co. Artworks by Derry Messum (left) and Julie Nangala Robinson. KITCHEN Caesarstone Raw island benchtop. Splashback tiles, Artedomus. Smeg and V-Zug appliances. Flooring, Precision Flooring. Artwork by Gail English. MAIN ENSUITE Custom plywood vanity with Caesarstone Raw benchtop. Wall tiles, all Academy Tiles. Brodware tapware. Kaldewei bath, Bathe. Floor tiles, Surface Gallery.
The palette Porter’s Paints Panther (feature walls, throughout)
Dulux Sun Dial
Porter’s Paints Engine Room
Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.
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textures, which gave us a head start on the design concept. However, the renovation wasn’t without its challenges. Belinda Chippindale [Hare+Klein’s concept designer] and I were slightly horrified when we first visited the house. But horror soon gave way to excitement about the possibilities. Belindaledtheproject,keepingfaithwiththeinteriordesign requirements that then influenced the exterior envelope. Essentially, it was decided that the basic rectangular footprint needed to increase in order to create comfortable, generous spaces for the couple’s furniture, art and lifestyle. The budget was limited, so that had to be factored into the design decisions. Instead of knocking down and rebuilding entirely, the home was thoughtfully extended. The additions take the form of extruded boxes, which give theexteriorelevationsanewrhythmthathadbeencompletely lacking. We retained the pitched ceilings in the original structure, with flat ceilings in the extension. After almost 50 years of neglect, there were structural, electrical and plumbing issues to be tackled before the interior transformation could begin. The entire house, including the extension, was clad in western red cedar to unifythestructureanddisguisetheoriginalpitchedroofline. The cladding adds an element of intrigue, too: the apex of the pitched ceiling is visible from the inside, making it seem as though it appears from nowhere. The cladding is stained a rich earthy colour that instantly nestled the building into the landscape. Our clients are enthusiastic and talented gardeners and enjoy the challenge of creating a lush garden from parched earth, and the blackened palette of the house is a wonderful foil to the new foliage. The layering of texture and depth of colour continues inside, where charcoal-toned walls create a soft yet dramatic backdrop for the owners’ eclectic art collection. Oak flooring ties in with the plywood joinery. Meanwhile, a wood-burning fireplace delivers ambience and physical warmth during the chilly highland winters. “The owners’ warm personalities, their enthusiasm for beautiful design and their complete trust in our process gave us a unique opportunity to be playful and creative,” says Belinda. “We chose honest and earthy materials, combining them with a bold depth of colour. The project came together with ease and it was a joyful experience for all involved, from start to finish.” Best of all, the owners are thrilled. “We’d rather stay at home than travel, as it’s better than any hotel we’ve ever stayed in,” they say. And that is music to our ears. > Hare+Klein, Woolloomoolo, NSW; (02) 9368 1234 or hareklein.com.au.
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“ W E ’ D R AT H E R S TAY H O M E T H A N T R AV E L . O U R H O M E I S B E T T E R T H A N A N Y H OT E L .” O W N E R S
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INDOOR/OUTDOOR ROOM Paola Lenti armchairs, Dedece. B&B Italia coffee table, Space. MAIN BEDROOM Opposite, top and bottom Artwork by anonymous
artist. Bedhead upholstered in Unique Fabrics ‘Kirubi’. Table lamp, Mondoluce. Bedside table, owners’ own. Wall light, Spence & Lyda. Gervasoni side table, Anibou. For similar cabinet, try Few & Far. For Where to Buy, see page 176. #
This is an edited extract from Hare+Klein: Interior by Meryl Hare ($65, Thames & Hudson Australia).
Escape PL A N
A Victorian couple’s desire for the perfect weekender produced a cosy cabin-style retreat they never want to leave. STO RY Stephen Crafti | ST Y L I N G Telha Clarke | P H OTO G RA PH Y Lynton Crabb
houses H G EXTERIOR A 4.5-metre high double-glazed wall enables the home’s occupants to enjoy the outdoors from the comfort of the living area. Window frames, All Seasons Windows. The wall is covered in slate shingles. ENTRANCE Opposite Entry to the home is via a ‘portal’ courtyard with flagstone path and a pair of Japanese maples for a splash of seasonal colour.
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“In terms of design, we preferred something simple. I believe we used the word ‘humble’ in our initial brief.” Max Waller, owner
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or the most part, Max Waller, his wife Tara and their newborn baby liveinawarehouse-styleapartment on the fringe of Melbourne’s CBD. But since their rural retreat was completed, in December 2019, they are increasinglyspendingmoreoftheirweek at Hepburn Springs, near Daylesford in Victoria’s Macedon Ranges. About 90 minutes’ drive from the Wallers’ city pad, it’s the perfect place for some solitude (or isolating)andanidyllicenvironmentfrom which to work if needed, says architect Tim Clarke, co-director of Telha Clarke. The house was sited to take advantage of a natural plateau and tranquil bush views. Located at the end of a drive that crosses a gully and is surrounded by maturegumtrees,thehomeitselfoccupies just 180 square metres – the same size as the couple’s city apartment. “Usually, it would be just us and our baby here so a large, sprawling home wasn’t necessary. Rather, we wanted a home that we could useregularlybutcouldalsoaccommodate gatherings with extended family and friends,” says Max. “In terms of the design, we preferred something simple – I believe Tara and I used the word ‘humble’ in our initial brief.” Theconceptofacabin-stylehomecame up early in the design discussions, >
HALL Armchair, King Living. Oak flooring,
Australian Hardwood & Decking Co (throughout). KITCHEN Rear joinery in white Laminex. Splashback and rear benchtop in Silestone Iconic White. Island joinery is in Bangadore veneer, New Age Veneers. Island benchtop is Caesarstone Sleek Concrete. Franke ‘Kubus’ sink. Tapware, Astra Walker. Stove, Ilve. DINING/LIVING Canyon dining table, Quay dining chairs and Zaza sofa, all King Living. Jetmaster fireplace.
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The palette Dulux Natural White (interior, throughout)
Navurban Baltic Oak
Dulux Black
Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.
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STUDY This image
and opposite Blue Pearl granite adds texture and visual interest to this nook near the home’s entrance. Joinery by Cutting Edge Joinery, made from Navurban veneer in Baltic Oak, New Age Veneers. WINDOW The black steel-lined window reveals are designed to match the pitch of the roof.
MAIN BATHROOM
Custom vanity unit. Tapware, Astra Walker. Kohler ‘Mica’ basin. Pietra di Savoia Avorio porcelain panels (walls and floor), Signorino.
THIS IS THE LIFE
The bushland setting provided plenty of inspiration for the design of the property, and it was also important to the Wallers that the building sit lightly in its surroundings. The architects worked closely with landscape designer Kathleen Murphy to achieve this. “The main pavilion is oriented to the west,” says Tim. “We would have preferred a northerly orientation for this area but that would have meant felling some beautiful old trees.” >
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MAIN BATHROOM Tapware, Astra Walker. Vasca
‘Tonda’ bath, Prodigg Bathrooms. Pietra di Savoia Avorio porcelain panels (walls and floor), Signorino. EXTERIOR Landscaping by Kathleen Murphy Landscape Design. For Where to Buy, see page 176.
“The surrounding landscape is an integral part of the home.” Tim Clarke, architect
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says Tim. “Max and Tara have a love of simple forms, but they weren’t shy of making a statement either.” The L-shaped house was conceived as twointerconnectedpavilions.Theprimary pavilion, oriented to the west of the site, is clad in slate shingles and contains a generous open-plankitchen/dining/living space and the main bedroom suite. The guest pavilion, in white rendered brick, contains two additional bedrooms, a bathroom,studyandalaundry/mudroom. “The pavilion design enables Max and Tara to partially close the guest wing off when it’s not in use, which helps reduce energy consumption and costs,” says Tim. The main living area, which overlooks a gully, features a 4.5-metre high wall of glass that is simply jaw-dropping. Extending the full height and width of the
south-west face of thehome, theglasswall gives the occupants the feeling of being at onewithnature. Tallwindowswithdeep reveals punctuate the length of the structure; another element designed to bring the outside in. “The surrounding landscape is an integral part of the home,” says Tim. “The windows frame views of the majestic gum trees so they can be enjoyed from every room.” The kitchen, also part of the open-plan area,isclean-linedandminimalyetvisually interesting thanks to its combination of contrasting materials – a wall of white laminatejoineryandanislandbenchmade from rich chocolate-toned timber veneer. Apart from the sleek stainless-steel stove, appliances are integrated into the white joinery. This joinery blends in with the surrounding walls, painted Dulux Natural
White, ensuring the kitchen recedes in the overall space. The island, however, is a focal point. Its large scale and robust Caesarstone top make casual dining and meal preparation a breeze, regardless of the number of cooks in the kitchen. A double-sided fireplace (one side heats the living spaces, the other services the outdoor entertaining area) brings visual and physical warmth to the home. “It can snow here in the depths of winter, so it was important to get the heating and insulation right,” says Tim. “It’s not just the thickness of the walls that makes this homeaninvitingplacetobe.It’sthefeeling of being in a cabin, where we are protected from the elements, irrespective of the weather,” says Max. # Telha Clarke, South Yarra, Victoria; (03) 8672 5999 or telhaclarke.com.au.
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ATTENTION ALL GARDEN LOVERS! If you admire a beautiful garden and the power of plants to transform a home, you’ll love Great Australian Gardens Volume 2. Featuring country and urban projects, this book showcases 25 diverse, beautiful and inspirational gardens that have appeared in the pages of Australian House ^ Garden magazine. While you’re staying at home pondering your next project in the garden, here’s all the inspiration you need!
On sale now
Only $59.99. Available where all good books are sold and bauerbooks.com.au
Photograph by Kim Woods Rabbidge.
P L A N T- F O C U S E D S PA C E S T H A T I N V I T E A N D D E L I G H T
G a rden s
A profusion of hardy and colourful plants characterise this garden in south-west WA. Tended by two generations of the same family, it’s a garden that grows harmoniously with the surrounding landscape. See more of this charming garden over the page...
W HIMSY A ND W ILD Thirty years of patience, nurturing and heavy lifting have gone into shaping this graceful country garden in southern WA. STO RY & P H OTOG R A P HY Kim Woods Rabbidge
gardens H G There are sweeping vistas of the countryside in every direction, on the perimeters of the garden. Here, the view is framed by the arching branches of a crabapple (Malus ‘Eleyi’). In the foreground is a bed of bougainvillea, purplespired echium, agaves and lime-tinged Sedum dendroideum praealtum. In the paddock beyond strategically planted oaks, robinia, ornamental plums and plane trees help create a sense of continuity with the garden.
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ocatednearKojonup,alittle townthreehourssouth-east of Perth, is a property called Pine Avenue. Sitting at the end of a drive lined with the venerable maritime pines is anuanced,elegantgardenofthesamenamethatis settled in the gentle undulations of the landscape. Cathy and Eric (known as ‘Lefty’) Wright have been gardening here since they married three decades ago. A few protective trees on the garden’s perimeter are the legacy of Lefty’s mother, Olive, who lived here when the house was built 40 years ago. “Olive was wonderful and a real plantswoman,” says Cathy. “I learnt so much from her – and from my own mother, who created a lovely garden at our family home at Kulin, in south-west WA.” The pretty garden at Pine Avenue occupies about 1 hectare of the4000-hectaregrazingandcroppingpropertythatissomething of a landmark in the region. While the Wrights have officially retired from farming and leased out their land, they chose to remain living in the family home they love in order to enjoy their garden and to stay close to friends in the district. The garden entrance to the north is defined by a waist-high, curved stone wall, with entry via a gravel path. The impressive stoneworkisLefty’slatestadditiontoanarrayofhandmadefeatures throughout the garden built using granite gathered from the property.“Theyaddstructureinthelandscape,àlaEdnaWalling,” hesays,referringtothepioneeringAustralianlandscapedesigner whosethoughtfulstoneworkbecameatrademark.Behindthewall there’s a claret ash (Fraxinus angustifolia subsp. oxycarpa) and revampedgardenswithaninformalmixofroses, statice, aeoniums, borage, valerian, euphorbia and poppies.
There’sawonderfulcollectionofdeciduoustreestoo,including maples, crabapples, Pyrus and Prunus, claret ash (“slow growing but worthwhile”, says Cathy), and desert ash (“not as colourful but good value”). Expanses of lawn to both the north and south are interspersed with gravel paths and flanked by perennials. The gravel is a recent addition. Cathy had to persuade Lefty to remove the crazy paving pathways he had installed some years prior as weeds had begun bullying their way through the cracks and loose stones had made walking a little wobbly. The compacted gravel delivers a different aesthetic: it’s visually soft and neutral, giving the impression that the surrounding perennials are growing wild. This is a garden that neatly segues into the surrounding landscape thanks to farm vistas from almost every angle. When the couple first began gardening here, they removed a driveway and shrubs along the western boundary to open up the view. Terracing of the front lawn creates the illusion that the garden disappears into the paddock beyond. Meanwhile, magnificent eucalypts – white gums, ironbarks and paperbarks – draw the eye to views of nearby fields and grazing sheep. To reinforce the connection between the garden and the grazing land beyond, Leftyplantedasprinklingofoaks,robinias,planetrees andPrunus in the paddocks within sight from the garden. Original farm fencing made from a white-ant resistant acacia known as the ‘jam tree’ (due to the timber’s raspberry jam scent) hasbeenrepurposedintogardenfencingtolinkthegardentothe wider landscape. “We always try to use materials from the farm in the garden,” says Cathy. >
Cathy and Lefty Wright take a late-afternoon stroll. OPPOSITE Clockwise from top left Acacia paddock fencing has been repurposed as garden edging. White gums frame the view to the grazing land beyond. Raised vegetable beds and pots of geraniums alongside the spacious chicken run. Duranta is trimmed into lollipop shapes in a bed behind one of Lefty’s stone walls. An allée of ornamental black cherry plums underplanted with silvery Cotyledon orbiculata. Spires of kniphofia.
Feature trees _______
Ornamental plum (Prunus cerasifera ‘Nigra’) Desert ash (Fraxinus angustifolia subsp. angustifolia) Claret ash (Fraxinus angustifolia subsp. oxycarpa) Ornamental pear (Pyrus calleryana ‘Capital’) Crabapple (Malus ‘Eleyi’) White gum (Eucalyptus wandoo) Snow pear (Pyrus nivalis) Box elder maple (Acer negundo) Portuguese oaks (Quercus lusitanica) Chinese elm (Ulmus parvifolia)
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Another technique favoured by Cathy is mass planting. Although native to the northern hemisphere, Prunus species grow well in Kojonup, so Cathy planted an avenue of Prunus cerasifera ‘Nigra’, an ornamental black cherry plum with burgundy foliage to bring eye-catching colour to the southern boundary of the garden. Beneath them grows Cotyledon orbiculata, the silvery foliage delivering a beautiful contrast to the surrounding plants. Plantings are grouped by colour: the arbour supporting a white rambling rose and surrounded by a collection of white-flowering plants is just one example. “I’m conscious not to have the garden too fussy on the periphery,” saysCathy.“Wekeepitsimpler and have more intense plantings closer to the house.” Over the last decade, the annual rainfall in the area has fallen from 550mm to 500mm. Mindful that water, or the lack of it, is always an issue in Australia, Cathy focuses on using less-thirsty plantsandregularlyenrichestheclayandquartzsoilwithsheep manure and barley-straw mulch. Roses are among her favourite plants,include‘SallyHolmes’,‘Crepuscule’(usedhereasahedge) and the gorgeous ‘Altissimo’ – she’s resigned to sharing her precious blooms with the cheeky Port Lincoln parrots. Latelastyear,thegardenprovidedafragrantbackdropforthe weddingoftheCathyandLefty’syoungestson,Nickandhisnew wife Lauren. The couple and Nick’s brother Tim, who returned fromLondonforthenuptials,arejustifiablyproudoftheirparents’ garden. Clearly, Pine Avenue enchants all who visit. # ABOVE Apricot-coloured crepuscule roses, red poppies and pink-toned
valerian line the gravel path leading to the eastern lawn where cedar ash trees provide welcome shade. RIGHT Relaxed beds filled with roses, blue-flowering borage, red poppies, blue-green euphorbia and more bring colour and a cottagey feel to the garden. The naturalistic pathway wends beneath a crabapple and a box elder maple on its way to the south-west lawn.
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C R E A T I V E H AV E N Business meetings are infinitely more enjoyable now that greenery has been invited into this workplace. STO RY Elizabeth Wilson | P HOTOG R A P HY Nicholas Watt
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here are countless studies on the positive effects of greening our workplaces. The presence of plants can help to clean the air, lift the mood, boost concentration and even assist with productivity. They also just look great. All of these benefits have flowed from the transformation of this courtyard at the offices of See-Saw Films, an internationally renowned film and television production company (award-winning movies Lion and The King’s Speech are among its credits). The small but busy company operates from an old terrace house in the inner-Sydney suburb of Paddington. Like many creative workplaces, it’s a non-corporate environment and refurbishing the courtyard garden was seen as an important part of fostering a pleasant, buzzy work culture. The brief to Rebecca Colechin, lead designer at Garden Life, was to create a lovely, leaf-filled space that could be used for multiple purposes. It also had to be low maintenance and easy to keep clean. “On a day-to-day basis it’s a break-out space for the 10 or so staff where they can hold team meetings around the ‘round table’,” says Rebecca. “It also had to accommodate evening gatherings and events.” When Rebecca first visited the site, the courtyard was dated: the paving was old and uneven, and the roof structure had been left to collect leaf litter and debris, which was blocking out >
A custom bench seat extends along one wall of the lounging area. The surrounding pine battens are painted Dulux Timeless Grey. The large pots are planted with long-leaf fig (Ficus longifolia); the hanging pots contain Monstera adansonii (left) and Hoya carnosa. Pots and plants, all from Garden Life. AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |
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the natural light. There were three trees and only a remnant understorey garden that was struggling in the low light conditions. Measuring 11x6 metres, the south-west facing courtyard is also shaded by surrounding buildings. Rebecca’s priority was to devise a palette of low-maintenance plants that would thrive in these conditions. Retaining the three existing trees – a peppercorn (Schinus molle), a grey myrtle (Backhousia myrtifolia) and a Song of India (Dracaena reflexa) – she focused on the lower plantings. “We selected species that thrive as understorey plants in subtropical to tropical areas.” These include the glossy, large-leafed Monstera deliciosa, Philodendron ‘Congo’ and Philodendron cordatum, sculptural foxtail ferns (Asparagus ‘Meyersii’), staghorns (Platycerium superbum) and walking iris (Neomarica gracilis). These plants are all mustered into a curved, raised garden bed that extends down one side of the space. The bed is shaped by custom-made six-millimetre aluminium edging painted Murobond Bridge Paint in Carbon. “We introduced the raised garden bed to increase the soil depth, which is essential for successful plant growth,” says Rebecca. “It also adds a third dimension to the space by lifting the plants up off the ground and gave us an edge to mount some subtle garden lighting on. I love how the curved shape leads the eye on a “The raised garden bed adds a third dimension by lifting the journey around the space.” plants off the ground; it also leads the eye around the space.” Clusters of potted feature plants help to enliven the courtyard, too, including large white cylinder pots planted with long-leaf fig (Ficus longifolia), Monstera deliciosa and snake plant (Sansevieria trifasciata). Rebecca split the courtyard into two zones – lounging and dining – and introduced a change of level between the two areas. “This eliminates the step down when you walk out of the office and gives each of the two zones its own identity,” she says. She also changed the flooring material between the two zones, using spotted-gum decking for the sitting area and black granite pavers for the dining. In the sitting area, Rebecca installed a 3.5-metre long built-in bench seat with cushions covered in a robust Sunbrella ‘Cast Granite’ outdoor fabric with charcoal piping. Behind the seat, the fence is disguised by a wall of pine battens, painted Dulux Timeless Grey. More battens – this time painted white – are used to line the underside of the pergola. “It hides the unattractive clear polycarbonate roof, while still allowing light in,” Rebecca says. To complete the design, she created a discreet area to hide bins and the airconditioning condenser. There’s also new garden lighting and heating for a seamless transition from daytime meetings to evening gatherings and events. It’s a design that could easily be adapted to an urban residential courtyard, says Rebecca. “This office is in a terrace house, so it was fitting for it to be non-corporate. The aim was to create a space where people enjoy spending time – and that’s the principle of all garden design.” # Garden Life; gardenlife.com.au.
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Greenery is a welcome participant in this meeting space. Hanging plants are Hoya carnosa (left) and Monstera adansonii. Pots from Garden Life. Trace coffee table and armchair by Adam Goodrum for Tait. Armchair covered in Mokum ‘Tropicalia’. House painted Dulux Namadji with trims in Dulux Antique White USA. OPPOSITE TOP The curved garden bed filled with lush subtropical plants. OPPOSITE BOTTOM Long-leaf figs form a green backdrop to the round table. For Where to Buy, see page 176.
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Tuft love
Some of the most worthwhile plants in the garden are the compact and easy-care clumping species and tufting grasses. Here, Helen Young’s top six picks.
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ne of the best ways to use tufting plants is as edging, which helps reinforce the ‘bones’ of a garden’s design. They also provide interesting texture, contrasting well with round-leafed shrubs and bold, sculptural plants. Tufting plants look good when mass-planted in swathes, and most have the densely matted roots needed for stabilising slopes or holding back soil or mulch next to paths and pools.
DWARF AGAPANTHUS agapanthus varieties have evolved to include petite sizes, exciting colours and two-toned foliage. The new cultivars are mostly sterile, doing away with the problem of weediness. They love sun, are waterwise and easy-care, and can grow in most soils and conditions. ‘Snow Storm’ and ‘Snowball’ grow to 30cm and produce large white flowers above the green foliage. ‘Tinkerbell’ and ‘golden drop’ have vibrant, striped green-and-cream leaves to 20cm with pale-blue flowers. dwarf blue varieties include ‘Baby Pete’, ‘Little Boy Blue’ and ‘Peter Pan’. ‘Blue Thunder’ is dark purple and ‘Baby Periwinkle’ palest mauve; ‘Silver Baby’ has white blooms, with ice-blue edges. MAT RUSH (LOMANDRA) native lomandras are a top option for low-maintenance, waterwise gardens. Most tolerate frost and coastal conditions. The original species are big with strap-like leaves, but newer cultivars offer smaller choices, with fine, grassy foliage that provides wonderful texture. ‘Tanika’ (50cm) is a proven performer with fine, bright-green leaves; ‘nyalla’ is bluer and a little taller, while ‘Lime Tuff’ is perkier and forms a neat lime-green mound to 50cm. ‘Little Con’ is smaller at 30-40cm. ‘Little Pal’ (40cm) has bright green, slightly weeping foliage. ‘evergreen Baby’, also 40cm, tolerates wet feet. 166 |
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SOCIETY GARLIC (TULBAGHIA VIOLACEA) You can tell this pretty plant is related to the onion and garlic tribe by the pungent aroma of its crushed foliage and clusters of edible lilac flowers on tall spikes. it flowers through the warm months and loves the sun, surviving heat, drought, coastal conditions and mild frosts. as a bonus, it never seems to get any pests or diseases. The original species has grey-green leaves to about 50cm tall but newer cultivars offer finer, narrower leaves, variegated leaves and different flower colours. ‘Silver Lace’ and ‘Variegata’ have cream-striped foliage that gives a silvery appearance. ‘Milky Way’ (40cm) has pale lilac blooms; ‘Fairy Star’ (30cm) and ‘galaxy’ (40cm) offer lovely pink flowers; ‘Starlet’ (20cm) is a vision with mauve blooms. BLUE FESCUE GRASS (FESTUCA GLAUCA) The fine blue-silver foliage of this tussocky grass forms a neat, rounded tuft to 20cm tall, making it highly ornamental. The feathery flower plumes are twice the height of the plant, starting blue-green and ageing to wheaten tones through autumn. The blue foliage colour is most intense in full sun – in shade it becomes greener. ‘elijah Blue’ is a cultivar of slightly deeper blue. While it grows well on the coast, blue fescue prefers cooler, less-humid climates. good drainage is essential; drought-tolerant once established. Older plants can die out in the centre, but dividing them every few years will keep them looking fresh. Use in borders or as an accent plant, contrasted with purple, bronze or burgundy foliage. LILY TURF (LIRIOPE) Closely related to mondo grass, liriopes have broadened the options for borders in shadier
spots. They have wider and longer leaves than mondo grass with the bonus of flower spikes in late summer and autumn. an older variety, ‘evergreen giant,’ reaches 50-60cm but newer cultivars are more compact. ‘Just right’ grows to 45cm and has pale mauve flower spikes, while ‘royal Purple’ (30cm), features fat spikes of deep-purple blooms. ‘isabella’ is 40cm tall and features finer leaves and pink flowers; ‘el Marco’ has purple spikes and reaches 40cm. if you’re after a white flower, try ‘Munroe White’ (50cm). ‘Stripey White’ offers striped 40cm-high foliage that gives a bright, silvery appearance to bounce light into shady places; it has white flowers. Liriopes burn in hot sun but work well as mass plantings under trees or edging for shady paths and beds. if the foliage becomes tatty, shear it off in late winter to allow fresh growth to rapidly renew in spring.
MONDO GRASS (OPHIOPOGON) Like the little black dress, mondo grass is a classic choice for formal and traditional gardens. it forms a neat, dark green and fine-textured edging for paths and beds, reinforcing the structure of the garden as well as providing a foil to mixed plantings behind it. it’s also good as a massed groundcover. in addition to the regular mondo species (Ophiopogon japonicus), which grows to about 30cm tall, there are a few variants. Mini or dwarf mondo grass (O. japonicus ‘nana’) grows only 10cm high, making it the best choice around stepping stones or as a lawn substitute. Black mondo grass (O. planiscapus ‘nigrescens’) is purple-black to 25cm tall, slower growing, with pale lilac flowers in summer. Team it with lime or silver foliage for high drama. Mondo grass is at its best in part- to full-shade; it tends to burn on the edges in hot sun. #
SMART EDGING
Photograph by Claire Takacs.
✚ Start with individual plants, usually in 14cm-diameter pots, at three or four per metre (25-30cm apart). For some species such as mondo grass, liriope, society garlic and agapanthus, each pot can be divided into two or three smaller segments to save money. ✚ If friends, neighbours or family have established clumps, you can lift and divide these into segments. Autumn is best. ✚ Over time, individual plants will spread to join up and form continuous edging. To control mondo grass edging that is beginning to spread sideways, simply renew the edge at the desired width with a sharp spade and remove excess plants. These can be used elsewhere or given away.
Massed plantings of lily turf (Liriope muscari ‘Royal Purple’ and ‘Monroe White’) create a lush meadow effect in this Melbourne garden designed by Eckersley Garden Architecture.
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Disney Ultimate colouring books $2.00 when you purchase a participating magazine or $6.99 when sold separately. Participating magazine titles include The Australian Women’s Weekly, Country Style, The Australian Women’s Weekly Cookbook, Better Homes and Gardens, Better Homes and Gardens Puzzles, Home Beautiful, Australian House and Garden, Inside Out, Marie Claire, New Idea, New Idea Royal Monthly, Take 5, Take 5 Monthly, That’s Life, That’s Life Puzzler on the Go, TV Week, Who, Woman’s Day, Woman’s Day Puzzler. On-sale 8/07/20 – 4/08/20 or while stocks last. Subject to availability. Not in conjunction with any other offer.
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C L I P PI N G S D E S I G N A N D I N S P I R AT I O N F O R G A R D E N S G R E AT A N D S M A L L PRO D UC E D BY Elizabeth Wilson
HANG IN THERE
These sleek wall planters are part of the Embers collection by designer Adam Robinson in collaboration with Zakkia. From $73. adamrobinsondesign. com; zakkia.com.au.
Dining pleasure Hosting a long-awaited lunch with family? Do it in style and comfort with the Orlando eight-piece round outdoor dining setting, $3999. Consisting of a 165 centimetre-diameter table, a lazy susan and six cushioned dining chairs, the Orlando setting is constructed from rust-resistant aluminium and elegant, hardy synthetic wicker. harveynorman.com.au.
Classic beauty
Inspired by the shape of classical columns, the 35 centimetre-high resin Scallop planter, $265, is part of a collaboration between The Plant Society and Capra Designs that explores architectural form. theplantsociety. com.au.
LIFE’S WORK For decades, landscape designer Rick Eckersley has experimented with a ‘painterly style’ of garden design at his property, Musk Cottage. His new book, Rogue ($95, Uro Publications), documents this wondrous landscape.
GROWING GAINS Millions of Australians have purchased indoor plants in the past year, according to research by horticultural group Plant Life Balance. The group commissioned a Plant Trend report, surveying more than 1000 Australians who’d bought a potted plant in the past 12 months. It found: ✚ Edible plants and low-maintenance plants are the top choices for home gardeners. ✚ Over 40 per cent of people struggle to know when to water their plants (27 per cent are unsure of why their plants have died, 1 in 5 suspect not enough water, 14 per cent say too much water is to blame). ✚ The majority of people feel a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment when in the garden. ✚ Those aged 45-65 years find their connection with nature and a sense of accomplishment are the major benefits of gardening. For more, go to plantlifebalance.com.au
Cute as Newly released by Australian Plant Management, Dreameria ‘Dreamland’ produces masses of large candy-pink, globe-shaped blooms on sturdy upright steams. Bred for Australian conditions, it’s a dry-tolerant, low-maintenance plant with lasting cut flower displays. Available in an array of colours and in nurseries now. AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |
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Terrazzo, concrete and stone-look floors are available at Carpet Court. The Elements collection offers the affordability and benefits of a hybrid floor – with the look of the real material. carpetcourt.com.au
KinCare is here to help older Australians remain independent at home and receive assistance with household tasks, shopping, transportation and more. Call 1300 883 592 or visit kincare.com.au
Australian made and exclusive to Domayne, the customisable Tiffany bed has a host of features you can select to suit your room, including size, fabric and bedhead height. domayne.com.au
H&G ESSENTIALS Wynstan Crimsafe® Ultimate Doors are seven times stronger than the impact level required by the Australian Standard, plus they’re proudly made here in Australia. wynstan.com.au
Create a beautiful lifestyle and home with these must-have products.
Honeycomb blinds from Blinds Online trap air for outstanding thermal protection. They’ll keep your home feeling comfortable and looking beautiful. From $65. blindsonline.com.au
Pieces in the Wittmann ‘Miles’ collection at Domo are fully customisable and constructed from the finest-quality fabric samples. Take a look at the range at domo.com.au
Abode Grande from Choices Flooring is the perfect hard flooring for family homes. It’s 100 per cent waterproof, making it mop-friendly and highly durable. choicesflooring.com.au
Create space with the Sabita small basket in black and natural, $39.95 from Freedom. This neat storage solution will help you clear the clutter and stay organised. freedom.com.au
The durability of European Oak is paired with the beauty of the colours to be found in the Australian bush in the Ash Grey engineered-timber floorboards from Royal Oak Floors. royaloakfloors.com.au
Inspired by her grandmother’s traditional willowpattern china collection, Rhian Malin makes wheel-thrown porcelain vessels with meticulously handpainted patterning. From $69. rhianmalin.co.uk
The new Porter’s Paints Capsule Collection, available at Bunnings, is a curated range of 32 beautiful colours that will add character and complexity to any interior or exterior. $84/2L. porterspaints.com
DELICIOUS RECIPES + FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Styling by Olivia Blackmore. Photograph by Benito Martin.
Living
TRADITIONAL BAGELS
living H G
What you K N E A D
Styling by Sophia Young. Photography by Ben Dearnley. Food preparation by Nadia Fonoff and Laura Jenkins.
There are few things more satisfying than baking your own daily bread. Our masterclass takes you through the process step by step.
NO-KNEAD SPELT, LINSEED & CUMIN BREAD
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Prep: 25 minutes + standing. Cooking: 25 minutes. Makes 12.
3 tsp (10g) dried yeast 1 tbsp caster sugar 1 cup (250ml) warm milk 3 cups (450g) plain flour 1 tbsp caster sugar, extra 1 egg yolk 1 tbsp poppy seeds 2 tsp caraway seeds 2 tsp sesame seeds 2 tsp linseeds 2 tsp sea salt flakes 1 Combine yeast, sugar, 1/2 cup (125ml) lukewarm water and warm milk in a large bowl; stir to dissolve yeast. Cover and stand in a warm place for 10 minutes or until frothy. 2 Stir sifted flour, 3 tsp salt and extra sugar into yeast mixture in two batches, then continue to mix until mixture forms a firm dough. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 10 minutes or until dough is smooth and elastic. Place in a large oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap and stand in a warm place for 1 hour or until dough has doubled in size. 3 Grease and lightly flour an oven tray. Turn dough onto a floured surface; knead for 1 minute or until smooth. Divide dough into 12 portions; form each portion into a ball. Make a hole by pressing your thumb into the centre of each ball, spinning the ball around until hole is one-third the size of the bagel. Place bagels 3cm apart on tray. Cover; stand in a warm place for 15 minutes or until risen. 4 Preheat oven to 200˚C (180˚C fan). Grease and line two oven trays with baking paper. 5 Working in batches of 4, drop bagels one at a time into a large saucepan of boiling water, ensuring they don’t touch. Boil for 1 minute; turn, then boil a further 1 minute. Use a slotted spoon to transfer bagels to lined trays. 6 Place egg yolk and 1 tsp water in small bowl and whisk to combine. Brush over bagels then sprinkle with combined seeds and salt flakes. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden. Cool on a wire rack. VARIATIONS ONION BAGELS Substitute mixed seeds topping with 21/2 tbsp onion flakes and 2 tsp salt flakes. BLUEBERRY ORANGE BAGELS Add 2 tsp finely grated orange zest and ¾ cup frozen
blueberries with the flour in step 2. Omit seeds and salt flakes in step 6; sprinkle with 21/2 tbsp white sugar before baking. CINNAMON SULTANA BAGELS Add 2 tsp ground cinnamon and 1/2 cup sultanas with the flour in step 2. Omit seeds and salt flakes in step 6; sprinkle with 21/2 tbsp white sugar before baking. NO-KNEAD SPELT, LINSEED & CUMIN BREAD Prep: 20 minutes + standing. Cooking: 30 mins. Makes 2 loaves.
4 tsp (14g) dried yeast 22/3 cups (400g) organic wholemeal spelt flour 2/3 cup (120g) linseeds 1 tbsp cumin seeds 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 1 tbsp golden syrup 4 cups (600g) bread flour 2 tsp bread flour, extra 2 tsp cumin seeds, extra 1 Place yeast and 22/3 cups (660ml) lukewarm water in a large bowl; whisk to combine. Add spelt flour, seeds, oil and golden syrup; stir until well combined. 2 Add 1 tbsp sea salt and bread flour; mix until a sticky dough forms. Cover with plastic wrap; stand in a warm place for 1 hour or until dough has doubled in size. 3 Turn dough onto a lightly floured work surface; divide into two portions and shape each into a 25cm round. Fold dough under itself to form round loaves about 16cm in diameter. Place on an oven tray lined with baking paper. Dust with extra flour; cover with a clean tea towel. Stand in a warm place for 45 minutes or until almost doubled in size. 4 Preheat oven to 220˚C (200˚C fan). 5 Using a sharp knife, cut five slashes across top of each loaf. Sprinkle with extra cumin seeds. Bake for 30 minutes or until bread is brown and sounds hollow when tapped. SEEDAHOLIC BREAD (GF) Prep: 20 minutes + standing. Cooking: 1 hour 50 minutes. Makes 1 loaf.
1½ cups (135g) rolled oats 1½ cups (120g) quinoa flakes 1 cup (150g) sunflower seeds 1 cup (200g) pepitas 2/3 cup (130g) linseeds (flaxseeds) ½ cup (70g) white chia seeds
½ cup (80g) chopped almonds ½ cup (70g) chopped hazelnuts ½ cup (40g) psyllium husks (available from health-food stores) 2 tsp sea salt flakes 2 tbsp raw honey 2/3 cup (150g) coconut oil, melted 1 Grease a 1.5-litre (6-cup), 14x24cm loaf pan; line base and two long sides with baking paper, leaving a 5cm overhang. 2 Place all dry ingredients in a large bowl. Place 31/2 cups (875ml) warm water, honey and melted coconut oil in a large jug; stir until dissolved. Pour wet mixture over dry ingredients; stir to combine. (The mixture will be firm, but if it is too stiff, add more water, 1 tbsp at a time.) 3 Spoon mixture into pan and use hands to shape into a loaf (mixture will mound slightly above the pan rim). Cover surface with plastic wrap; stand at room temperature for 2 hours to allow ingredients to absorb the liquid and set bread into shape. 4 Preheat oven 200˚C (180˚C fan). 5 Bake bread for 30 minutes then invert onto a wire rack placed on top of an oven tray; peel away lining paper. Return bread to oven on tray; bake a further 1 hour 20 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean (cover loosely with foil if overbrowning). Cool completely before slicing. Drizzle with honey to serve, if you like. TIPS Position baking tray so top of loaf sits in the middle of the oven for even cooking. Like nuts, seeds are packed with healthy unsaturated oils, however these fats when exposed to air, heat and light, will turn rancid over time, resulting in a bitter taste. To retard spoiling, buy seeds from stores with a high turnover and store in airtight containers in either the fridge or freezer. Ground seeds and nuts will degrade even faster, since the grinding process exposes the natural oils. # HUNGRY FOR MORE? This is an edited extract of The Australian Women’s Weekly Baking Class ($39.99, Bauer Books). Available in bookstores and from www.awwcookbooks. com.au.
Styling by Olivia Blackmore (book cover) and Sophia Young. Photography by Benito Martin (book cover) and Ben Dearnley.
TRADITIONAL BAGELS
living H G Bread flour is higher in protein than regular flour and it is the key to creating that characteristic chew. If wheat unsettles your stomach, try using spelt, rye, nut or rice flours in your baking.
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W H E R E T O BU Y
Locate your nearest stockist by contacting the following suppliers. # 1stdibs 1stdibs.com A Academy Tiles+Surfaces (02) 9436 3566; academytiles.com.au Adairs 1300 783 005; adairs.com.au ADF Linea, available from Castworks www.castworks.com.au Aesop www.aesop.com.au Aga Australia (03) 9521 4965; agaaustralia.com.au Alessi alessiaustralia.com.au All Seasons Windows 1300 732 523 Amara au.amara.com Anchor Ceramics 0413 456 981; www.anchorceramics.com Andrew Economos Custom Builder aecb.com.au Anibou (02) 9319 0655; anibou.com.au Anna Charlesworth 0412 288 111; annacharlesworth.com.au Apaiser (03) 9421 5722; apaiser.com.au Armadillo & Co (02) 9698 4043; armadillo-co.com Artedomus (02) 9557 5060; artedomus.com Arthur G (03) 9543 4633; arthurg.com.au Articolo Lighting (03) 8595 8011; articololighting.com Astra Walker (02) 8838 5100; astrawalker.com.au Australian Hardwood & Decking Co (03) 9016 9807; www.australianhwfloors.com B Bang & Olufsen (02) 9356 8111; bang-olufsen.com Barlow & Hunt barlowandhunt.co Beatrix Rowe Interior Design beatrixrowe.com.au Becker Minty (02) 8356 9999; beckerminty.com Big Chair Living (03) 5976 1960; bigchair.com.au Bloomey’s (02) 9360 1788; www.bloomeys.net Bloomingdales Lighting (02) 8345 6888; bloomingdales.com.au Bonnie and Neil (03) 9384 2234; bonnieandneil.com.au Boyd Blue (07) 5527 0899; boydblue.com Briggs Veneers (02) 9732 7888; www.briggs.com.au Brodware (02) 9421 8200; brodware.com.au
Bunnings (03) 8831 9777; bunnings.com.au C Cadrys (02) 9328 6144; cadrys.com.au Caesarstone 1300 119 119; caesarstone.com.au Canvas+Sasson (03) 9790 1266; canvasandsasson.com.au Capocchi (03) 9822 3700; www.capocchi.com.au Carpet Court 1300 227 738; carpetcourt.com.au Casa by Studio Kate www.studiokate.com.au Casa e Cucina (02) 9958 3271; casaecucina.com.au CDK Stone (03) 8552 6000; cdkstone.com.au Cladstone (02) 9760 1444; www.cladstone.com.au Coco Republic 1300 000 220; cocorepublic.com.au Coffee-A-Roma (03) 9568 1276; www.coffee-a-roma.com.au Cole & Son, available from Radford (03) 9818 7799; radfordfurnishings.com Collective www.collective-au.com Colorbond 1800 022 999; colorbond.com Contents International Design (02) 9662 2443; contentsid.com.au Cookware Brands www.cookwarebrands.com.au Cosh Living (03) 9281 1999; coshliving.com.au Cult 1300 768 626; cultdesign.com.au Cultiver cultiver.com Cutting Edge Joinery (02) 4956 8755; cuttingedgejoinery.com D David Jones 133 357; shop.davidjones.com.au Dedece (02) 9360 2722; dedece.com.au Delf Architectural 1300 362 625; www.delfarchitectural.com.au Délicors delicors.com Denman Painting denmanpainting.com.au Designer Rugs 1300 802 561; designerrugs.com.au Designers Guild designersguild.net.au Designstuff (03) 9592 2960; designstuff.com.au Di Lorenzo Tiles (02) 8818 2950; dilorenzo.com.au Dinosaur Designs (02) 9698 3500; dinosaurdesigns.com.au
District (08) 9388 1855; district.com.au Dods and Zuccon dodsandzuccon.com Domayne domayne.com.au Domo (03) 9277 8888; domo.com.au Douglas & Bec (03) 9419 1146; douglasandbec.com Dulux 132 525; dulux.com.au Dunc’s Trunks @duncstrunks Dunlin (02) 9907 4825; dunlinhome.com.au E E&S 1800 429 589; eands.com.au Eco Outdoor 1300 131 413; ecooutdoor.com.au Ecology (03) 9765 5700; ecologyhomewares.com.au Elk (03) 9478 1800; elkaccessories.com.au Elph Store (02) 9332 2689; elphstore.com Emma Gale emmagale.com.au Euroluce (02) 9356 9900; euroluce.com.au F Fanuli (02) 9908 2660; fanuli.com.au Fenton & Fenton (03) 9533 2323; fentonandfenton.com.au Few & Far (02) 4441 8244; www.fewandfar.com.au Finnish Design Shop www.finnishdesignshop.com Fisher & Paykel 1300 650 590; fisherpaykel.com.au Flamingo Rd Homewares flamingordhomewares.com.au Florabelle florabelle.com.au Francalia (02) 9948 4977; francalia.com.au Franke 1800 339 451; franke.com.au Fred International (02) 9310 3263; fredinternational.com.au Frette www.frette.com G Garden Life (02) 9517 3633; gardenlife.com.au Georg Jensen 1800 536 736; georgjensen.com.au Gerflor 1800 060 785; www.gerflor.com.au Great Dane (03) 9417 5599; greatdanefurniture.com Greenhouse Interiors greenhouseinteriors.com.au Greg Natale (02) 8399 2103; gregnatale.com Gucci (02) 9282 4299; www.gucci.com Guy Phelan @g.u.y.p.h.e.l.a.n
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H Halcyon Lake (03) 9421 1113; halcyonlake.com Hale Mercantile Co halemercantilecolinen.com Hare+Klein (02) 9368 1234; hareklein.com.au Harvey Norman 1300 464 278; harveynorman.com.au Haymes Paint 1800 033 431; haymespaint.com.au Hermès 1300 728 807; www.hermes.com Hinkley www.hinkley.com.au Hub Furniture (03) 9652 1222; hubfurniture.com.au Husk (03) 9827 2700; www.husk.com.au I Iittala www.iittala.com.au Ilve 1300 694 583; ilve.com.au In Bed inbedstore.com Incu (02) 9266 0244; incu.com Instyle (02) 9317 0222; instyle.com.au Into Views Landscaping & Paving (03) 5976 2951 J James Dunlop Textiles jamesdunloptextiles.com Jardan (03) 8581 4988; jardan.com.au Jean-Pierre Heurteau Design (03) 9521 5491; jean-pierreheurteau. com.au Jetmaster 1300 538 627; jetmaster.com.au K Kaldewei 1300 133 320; bathe.net.au Kastell Kitchens (02) 9634 3395; www.kastell.com.au Kathleen Murphy Landscape Design www.kmldesign.com.au Kerry Selby Brown kerry@kerryselbybrowndesign.com.au Kethy (02) 9542 4991; kethy.com.au Ke-zu (02) 9669 1788; kezu.com.au King Living 1300 546 438; kingliving.com.au Kitchen Warehouse 1800 332 934; kitchenwarehouse.com.au KitchenAid 1800 990 990; www.kitchenaid.com.au Kohler 1300 362 284; kohler.com.au L Lacanche, available from Manorhouse (03) 9972 7938l; www.manor.com.au Laminex 132 136; laminex.com.au Le Creuset 1300 767 993; www.lecreuset.com.au Libertine Parfumerie (03) 9661 1258; www.libertineparfumerie.com.au
stockists H G Limestone Australia (03) 9773 5540; www.limestoneaustralia.com.au Living Edge 1300 132 154; livingedge.com.au Lovelight 1300 763 171; www.lovelight.com.au M MadeMeasure mademeasure.com Maison Cashmere (02) 8416 8097; au.maisoncashmere.com Maison Living www.maisonliving.com.au Mandalay Flowers (02) 9362 5000; mandalayflowers.com.au Manon Bis (03) 9521 1866; www.manonbis.com.au Manyara Home (02) 9997 4462; www.manyarahome.com.au Mark Tuckey www.marktuckey.com.au Martine Gallery (02) 9958 0014; www.martinegallery.com MCM House (02) 9698 4511; mcmhouse.com McMullin & Co www.mcmullinandco.com Melbourne Pools (03) 6417 5189; www.melbpools.com.au Miss Amara missamara.com.au Modern Times (03) 9913 8598; moderntimes.com.au Mokum mokumtextiles.com Mud Australia (02) 9569 8181; mudaustralia.com N Naturally Cane (02) 4948 2829; naturallycane.com.au Nefiko Marble (02) 8338 8668; nefiko.com New Age Veneers (02) 9457 9622; newageveneers.com.au Nissl Eichert Hydronic Heating (03) 9836 1484; nissleicherthydronicheating.com.au Nood Co noodco.com.au Noritake (02) 9316 7123; noritake.com.au Norsu Interiors (03) 9886 0457; norsu.com.au O Oluce www.oluce.com Orient House (02) 9660 3895; orienthouse.com.au P Parisi parisi.com.au
Peter’s of Kensington (02) 9662 1099; petersofkensington.com.au Pierre Frey, available from Milgate (03) 9421 2122; www.milgate.com.au Pigott’s Store (02) 9362 8119; pigottsstore.com.au Pillow Talk 1800 630 690; pillowtalk.com.au Pittella (03) 9818 0311; pittella.com.au Planet (02) 9211 5959; planetfurniture.com.au Poliform (02) 8339 7570; www.poliformaustralia.com.au Porter’s Paints 1800 656 664; porterspaints.com Pottery Barn 1800 232 914; potterybarn.com.au Precision Flooring (02) 9690 0991; www.precisionflooring.com.au Prodigg Bathrooms 1300 132 514; www.prodigg.com.au Provincial Home Living 1300 732 258; provincialhomeliving.com.au R Radford 1300 692 393; radfordfurnishings.com Rakumba Lighting 1300 784 748; www.rakumba.com Ralph Lauren Home, available from Radford (03) 9818 7799; radfordfurnishings.com Reece 1800 032 566; reece.com.au Resene 1800 738 383; resene.com.au Riedel (02) 9966 0033; riedelglass.com.au Robert Gordon Australia (03) 5941 3144; robertgordon australia.com Robert Plumb (02) 9316 9066; robertplumb.com.au Robyn Cosgrove (02) 9328 7692; robyncosgrove.com Rock & Stone Outdoor Living (03) 9571 6266; www.rocknstone.com.au Rock Martin (03) 9484 8477; www.rockmartin.com.au Rogerseller (03) 9429 8888; rogerseller.com.au Ross Didier (03) 9459 1893; www.rossdidier.com
Royal Copenhagen www.royalcopenhagen.com S Saint Cloche 0434 274 251; saintcloche.com Showroom X showroom-x.com Scanpan 1800 209 999; www.scanpan.com.au Scout House (03) 9525 4343; scouthouse.com.au Shearer Constructions (03) 5784 9264; shearerconstructions.com Sheridan 1800 625 516; sheridan.com.au Signorino (03) 9427 9100; signorino.com.au Silestone silestoneoceania.com Smeg (02) 8667 4888; smeg.com.au South Pacific Fabrics (02) 9327 7222; southpacificfabrics.com Space (02) 8339 7588; spacefurniture.com.au Spence & Lyda (02) 9212 6747; spenceandlyda.com.au Storie www.storie.com.au Studio Enti www.studioenti.com.au Sub-Zero (02) 8767 2301; www.winningappliances.com.au Surface Gallery (02) 9866 2002; surfacegallery.com.au T Tableking 1300 776 585; www.tableking.com.au Tait (03) 9419 7484; madebytait.com.au Tamsin Johnson tamsinjohnson.com Tarlo & Graham www.tarloandgraham.com The English Tapware Company 1300 016 181; englishtapware.com.au The Hangman www.thehangman.com.au The Porch Furniture www.theporch.com.au The Society Inc (02) 9331 1592; thesocietyinc.com.au The Textile Company 1300 852 994; textilecompany.com.au The Vault Sydney thevaultsydney.com Thonet 1800 800 777; thonet.com.au Tivoli Audio www.tivoliaudio.com.au
Top3 by Design 1300 867 333; top3.com.au Tribe Home tribehome.com.au Trit House www.trithouse.com.au U Unearthed Garden www.unearthedgarden.com.au Unique Fabrics 1800 145 855; uniquefabrics.com Until (02) 9119 8700; until.com.au Urban Bureau urbanbureau.com.au Urban Edge Ceramics (03) 9429 2122; urbanedgeceramics.com.au USM, available from Anibou (02) 9319 0655; anibou.com.au V Vicstone (03) 9763 4740; vicstone.com.au Victoria Whitelaw Beautiful Flowers (03) 9821 4613; victoriawhitelaw.com.au Vorsen (02) 8417 2505; www.vorsen.com.au V-Zug (03) 9832 7500; vzug.com/au Water Tiger 0420 855 886; watertiger.com.au W Waterford 1300 852 022; wwrd.com.au Weber 1300 301 290 www.weberbbq.com.au Wedgwood 1300 852 022; wwrd.com.au West Elm 1800 239 516; westelm.com.au Westbury Textiles (02) 9380 6644; westburytextiles.com Whitecliffe Imports (02) 8595 1111; www.whitecliffe.com.au Wignells Heating & Cooling (03) 9417 3315; wignells.com.au Winning Appliances (02) 8767 2301; winningappliances.com.au Woodcut (02) 9319 6050; woodcut.com.au Wynstan 1800 157 622; www.wynstan.com.au Z Zincalume 1800 800 789; steel.com.au Zip 1800 424 344; zipwater.com Zuster (03) 9427 7188; zuster.com.au
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H G the creative type
R OBY N C O S GR OV E The design seed was planted in me when I was quite young. I grew up in country Queensland and was returning to boarding school after the holidays when my mother took me to the interior design studio where they were making soft furnishings for her bedroom. I felt an instant love for all the colours and fabrics scattered around the studio. I couldn’t wait to get back to school and spend time in the library; I loved poring over the pages of the few books available on interior design in the US. They fascinated and excited me as what I was seeing was totally alien, very different to anything available or seen in Australia at the time. I felt a bright new world was opening up to me. My work day is always busy, flitting between the showroom and the office. An average work day begins around 6am with a brisk and hilly walk around Paddington [in inner Sydney]. Afterwards, I enjoy a relaxed breakfast – I like to catch up on political news over a few cups of Earl Grey tea. Due to Covid-19, I am opening my showroom later, at 11am, so I’m able to linger over my breakfast. It’s a wonderful indulgence. I need to work late quite often. While I’m working, I sometimes tune into opera or listen to beautiful Baroque music which I so love. The biggest challenge of my career turned out to be one of my proudest achievements. Forty-two years ago, I was all fired up with confidence and knowledge, being quietly aware of how the Persian rug trend was being superseded by beautifully soft decorative rugs in US interior design. I knew this trend would migrate and I wanted to be the Australian pioneer. In preparation, I had a brief stint working with a Persian-rug company and absorbed all the technical information relating to and involved with hand-knotted rugs of the world, totally loving it and feeling a genuine connection that still remains. On my very first visit to India, also 42 years ago, I arrived at 1 o’clock on a cold December morning. Total shock set in. I visited weaving houses 200 miles (322 kilometres) outside Varanasi, in the country’s north. There were no modern highways back then – elephants, camels, cows, donkeys, overloaded buses and so on were all sharing the same narrow two-lane road... Following this first gruelling trip, I made many more, three times each year, before branching out into other weaving
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AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN
Photograph by Kristina Soljo (Robyn Cosgrove), Robert Levin (Achille Salvagni lamp).
The Australian rug designer and purveyor extraordinaire shares the highlights of her creative journey.
countries as the new ‘design rug’ evolved. Those early experiences were challenging but eventually turned into one of my great achievements, especially given the fact that the industry is totally male-dominated. I also regard the opportunity to work with great designers on high-end projects among my other achievements. I work a six-day week, so my Sundays are precious. Always very relaxed. I like to spend time at home cooking or in the garden or reading. Spending time with family and the tribe of grandchildren is always a bonus. My creativity really switches on when I’m in Europe. It’s a whole new environment of colour and form, with fabulous galleries that showcase spectacular art. There’s so much to absorb. There are many Australian designers I greatly admire, along with Italian interior designer Achille Salvagni, the late French photographer and interior designer Alberto Pinto (his firm is now expertly headed by his sister Linda), Lebanese-French designer and art curator Chahan Minassian, and Pierre Yovanovitch, who is also from France. Favourite artists would have to be the Cubists, especially Fernand Léger, and the Baroque master, Caravaggio. I’m currently reading A Well-Behaved Woman by Therese Anne Fowler. It’s a historical novel about Alva Vanderbilt, of the famed society family, in the Jazz Age. When it comes to fashion, I cherry-pick between Dolce & Gabbana, Alexander McQueen and Prada. I need to be mindful of my age! To me, true luxury is spending time in Italy. In Rome, in particular, where I stay at the exquisite boutique hotel The Villon. Rome is a city I will never tire of – there’s such energy and decorative inspiration there. Noto in Sicily is beautiful too, with captivating unique Baroque architecture. It’s a very inspiring place to be. My local area is filled with lovely restaurants and cafes. Barbetta, an Italian cafe/restaurant near my home in Paddington, is a favourite for celebratory family Sunday lunches and early breakfasts before work. I’m also a regular at Luxe Woollahra and The Plane Tree cafes, both located near my showroom. # Robyn Cosgrove; robyncosgrove.com.
ROBYN’S FAVOURITE THINGS Bottom, from left
Lancea limited-edition table lamp by Achille Salvagni Atelier. A Well-Behaved Woman book by Therese Anne Fowler. Technical trench coat, Prada. Gae limitededition armchair by Achille Salvagni Atelier.