CasaaOl by Quedateylrcdtm

Discover the subtle art of standing out. Introducing COLORBOND steel Matt. Understated yet contemporary, this roofing and walling material is unequalled in its ability to draw attention. In fact, the only thing that does match its looks is its durability in our harsh Australian environment. Visit COLORBOND.COM/MATT or call 1800 702 764

TEXTURAL HEALING: Decorating is the best therapy!

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY This year it’s lunch at home HOUSE HONOU R S

pages of

SU PERIOR IN T ERIOR S

GA RDE N I NG IS ST IL L ON! Chic, petite and green – f ive small gardens to inspire

Iconic Jasper II Experience the multi award-winning Jasper, an icon of Australian design. The ultimate expression of flexibility and long-lasting personal comfort. Built around a superior steel frame thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s backed by a 25-year warranty, Jasper can be effortlessly reconfigured into multiple configurations, even a heavenly guest bed for two.

kingliving.com 1300 546 438 AUSTRALIA NEW ZEALAND SINGAPORE MALAYSIA SHANGHAI CANADA

Upper floor extension Hardie's Linea weatherboard 180mm Dulux Light Rice â&#x201E;¢

THE 80s Bungalow to Contemporary Hamptons LOOK A STORY OF RENOVATION TO RELAXATION “When we first bought our house, Joe actually hated it. It didn’t always look like it does now. It used to be a brick bungalow with a bad 80’s reno but I had the vision of turning it into a Hamptons style home. Thanks to James Hardie’s Scyon™ Linea™ weatherboard, lots of patience and some tears and laughter along the way, we got the forever home we dreamed of, somewhere our kids can always come back to.” To find out more about upper floor extensions go to jameshardie.com.au

T H E N E W G E N E R AT I O N 7 0 0 0

REDEFINE PERFECTION TRP MI 8832

M I E L E . C O M . A U / G E N E R AT I O N 7 0 0 0 #LifeBeyondOrdinary

GOOD TASTE

starts with innovation!

Combining seamless finishes with perfect control, the Miele Generation 7000 series delivers a whole new experience that redefines home cooking.

BRAND PROMOTION

Discover an intuitive way to cook.

Bringing state-of-the-art appliances to your very own kitchen, Miele will take dinner parties to the next level with the Generation 7000 built-in range. The series has been designed with a focus on seamless elegance and intuitive functionality to revolutionise kitchen connectivity. Cook and create with unrivalled control and conﬁdence thanks to future-focused updates like FoodView, a function that allows you to monitor and control what’s cooking via the Miele@mobile app – perfect for entertaining. And when your meal is cooked, TasteControl takes over to prevent overcooking, with automatic rapid cooling and temperature maintenance functions. With automated programming and access to thousands of recipes and instructional cooking videos, the app delivers innovative precision and convenience like never before.

VitroLine and ArtLine ranges are available in Brilliant White, Graphite Grey and Obsidian Black

Instant Control

Intuitive controls and accompanying heat zones follow the movements of the pot or pan, with the induction heating rapidly directly to the pan in the position they are placed.

Lights in Motion

Miele’s unique MotionReact anticipates your next move, switching on lights, displays and end-of-cycle signals when you’re there, and switching them off when you’re not.

F I N D O U T M O R E AT m i e le.c o m . au /ge n e r ati o n70 0 0 @ m i e le au s tr a l i a # G e n e r ati o n70 0 0

BRAND PROMOTION

I NSI DE STORY

leep is a very personal affair. Bedlinen and bedroom furniture play a part in the look and feel of sleeping zones, but it’s what lies beneath, the mattresses and pillows, that have the greatest impact on sleep quality. Australian pillow manufacturer Dentons has been perfecting the art of sleep for more than 30 years, and its pillows reflect this expertise. Research shows that pillows are crucial to a good night’s sleep. While some

pillow designers and manufacturers take a one-size-fits-all approach, Dentons pillows are tailored to suit a range of sleeping styles and health needs. What makes a Dentons pillow superior is the company’s use of premium-quality materials. Each pillow in the Dentons collection is low-allergenic, washable and features built-in cooling technology. Comfort and durability are guaranteed for five years.

PRODUCED BY STORY

Behind every great night’s sleep is a great pillow. Before you upgrade yours, consider the quality of its design and manufacture.

PERFEC T MATCH 1

M ED I REST

Made from moulded softec foam, the Medi Rest is designed for side sleepers who prefer their pillow medium to high. It offers ultimate neck support.

WAVE CL A SSI C

Designed for sleepers who tend to overheat, the Wave Classic is a medium loft pillow with contoured channels to assist with a cooler night’s sleep.

ANTI-SN O RE

Everyone sleeps differently which is why your pillow choice is so important.

If you have an existing health or posture issue, it’s worthwhile talking to your health professional prior to buying a new pillow to ensure you pick the best option from the Dentons range. In doing so, you will achieve the best night’s rest for your body type, health condition and sleeping style. The Dentons range includes pillows specifically designed for side sleepers, back sleepers, children and pregnancy. There are options for people with allergies, additional neck and shoulder support and small and large frames. Dentons pillows come in a variety of fabrics and insert materials so you will always sleep well, rest assured.

“

Did you know the ribbing in a pillow design can help increase airflow, creating a cooling effect during sleep?

”

Back sleepers who snore (and their partners!) will love the Anti Snore pillow. Superior neck support aligns the head to increase airflow and reduce snoring.

1 3

For more styles and stockist information visit dentons.com.au or call 1300 7455697

Spoil mum — SPECIAL MOTHER'S DAY OFFER! —

YOUR

or yourself with a subscription MUSK FARM’S NEW OWNER-GARDENERS

Fabulous local holidays – we visit Victoria’s Surf Coast

TAKE A BREAK TO TASMANIA # TR AV ELLOCA L

pages

Honey, we’re home!

100

% AUSTRALIAN DESIGNED INTERIORS

RENOVATION COMPLETE

AT HOME BY THE SEASIDE

with stylist

SIBELLA COURT

MONDAY MORNING COOKING CLUB cooks for you

Your forever RGEOUS

untry RDENS

KITC s

COMING UP ROSES

50+

Our pick of what to plant now

pages of

STUNNING

transformations

FREE DELI ERY R HOME!

Get 12 issues of Australian House & Garden from $69.99 - SAVING 31% magshop.com.au

subscribe via magshop.com.au/mum7 Competition opens on 22/03/2020 and closes 31/05/2020 at 11.59pm AEST. Competition is open to all residents of Australia aged 18 years or over, who subscribe or renew their subscription to one or more magazine titles or purchase any product available on Magshop (magshop.com.au). Competition draw will take place 08/06/2020 at 11am AEST. Please see bauer-media.com.au/privacy for our privacy policy. For full terms and conditions of entry, visit magshop.com.au/mothersday-tc. The Promoter is Bauer Media Pty Ltd (ABN 18 053 273 546). Authorised under permit numbers: ACT: TP 20/00451, NSW: LTPS/20/43009, SA T20/391

Subscribe for a chance to

win a share in $20,000 of

beauty treatments

WIN 1 OF 200

Spa.com.au gift cards worth $100 each! For the chance to share in $20,000 of beauty treatments simply subscribe to your favourite magazine, and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll instantly go into the draw to win a $100 Spa.com.au gift card.

Gift card valid for 3 years!

or call 136 116 and quote M20MHGN

fancy FLORAL

Make your home your own.

wallpaperdirect.com

Exquisite Australian homes

MAY

Cover stories

27 Happy Mother’s Day This year it’s lunch at home. 41 Textural Healing Decorating is the best therapy! 105 House Honours 66+ pages of superior interiors. 165 Gardening Is Still On! Chic, petite and green – five small gardens to inspire.

Decorating & design

27 White Magic More light and a lick of paint worked wonders for this gorgeously renovated Sydney home. 55 Come Together Our tips for making disparate pieces work. 56 Great Entertainer Dark tones do their thing in this Melbourne kitchen. 96 Twist On Traditional An eye for outstanding design has served Sarah Mackenzie-Wood well. 102 Life In Style Meet Natalie Culina, the global head of brand for King Living.

Mother’s Day Special

Photography by Caitlin Mills.

41 Motherhood Statements Meet some clever, creative mums who have passed on their decorating prowess to the next generation. 89 Truly Gifted All the objects your mother could desire.

Shopping 58 The Finish Line It’s the last elements you add that bring a home to life. 60 Smart Shopper Select the best sofa. 64 On Trend Scalloping. 66 On Trend Florals. 68 Buyer’s Guide To Floor Cleaners 73 9 By Design Laundry hampers. 74 9 By Design Door hardware. 76 Flooring A fresh approach. 192 Where To Buy Stockists’ details.

Houses 106 Totally Charming This Sydney heritage home holds some secrets. 116 Good Luxe A townhouse update.

124 Euro Chic French flair shines through in this family-friendly home. 130 Grand Entrance A glam apartment. 140 Modern Mastery Clever material selections add elegance. 148 Lightness Of Being Smart thinking delivered a fresh new look. 156 Perfectly Formed Family friendliness was front of mind for these owners.

174 178 180 181

Let It Shine A unifying garden. Taking The Plunge Planning pays off. Little Stars Embrace dwarf fruit trees. Clippings Garden news and to-dos.

Living 183 The Green House Cut food waste. 185 The Good Life Sustainability and creativity thrive in this former factory.

Gardens

Community

166 Emerald Jewel Romantic plantings reign in this small Sydney garden. 170 Rooms With A View These Perth courtyards are used very cleverly. 172 Outside Inside Smart Sydney design.

182 Subscription Offer Subscribe for your chance to win. 24 Your H&G Readers’ letters. 193 Privacy Notice 194 The Creative Type Brooke Najjar.

On our cover The scene is set for a Mother’s Day lunch in the NSW Southern Highlands. Turn to page 43 for more. Photograph by Kristina Soljo.

FURNITURE & HOMEWARES | INTERIOR DESIGN | PROPERTY STYLING | DESIGN SCHOOL WWW.COCOREPUBLIC.COM.AU

EDITOR’S LETTER H G

y 21-year-old son asked me what other things had I seen in my life that were like the current Covid-19 crisis. Of course I replied that we’ve never seen anything on a global scale like this. There has been absolutely nothing to compare our current situation to in my lifetime. It started me thinking about how blessed my generation, especially living in Australia, has been – no world wars, no conscription and none of the attendant hardship previous generations suffered. Yes, there have been some financial meltdowns. We had a recession in the ’90s and the GFC, but in real terms, we have had it pretty easy. With this in mind, many of us probably aren’t financially or mentally prepared for a lengthy hiatus in our otherwise reasonably ordered and pampered lives – no dining out, no exotic foreign travels, no gym visits, no in-salon beauty treatments! And so we are all freaking out about the prospect of imposed isolation. This definitely makes those oft-quoted words ‘first world problems’ totally appropriate. We are being forced to think of home and family much much more than we usually would. I spent the entire weekend at home except for a quick trip to Bunnings where there were police guards on the stairs! With my helpers (two girls aged 10 and five – go girl power), we made two batches of friands, pasta from scratch, carbonara sauce, bircher muesli, guacamole and various salads and accompaniments. We harvested worm castings and worm juice from two beautifully converted wheelie bins and planted a rosemary hedge. Full of house pride and self-congratulations I started thinking about my grandparents, who did these things every day! They always cooked, gardened and had compost and recycling bins. For lots of gardening inspiration see our small gardens special starting on page 165. On the flipside, we always talk about technology being a double-edged sword but what a boon to be able to look online and see how to do whatever tricky little project you have on your list. Lots of our wonderful suppliers and homewares stores featured throughout the magazine have a great online offering. And virtual yoga is pretty good provided you get your laptop and yourself in the right position! This is also our Mother’s Day issue, and many of us aren’t in a position to be with our mothers and/or children at the moment, so it’s lovely to peruse the gorgeous images of some of our fabulous creative friends photographed with their mothers. Here they talk about inspiration and their favourite things – see page 42. Yes, it’s shamelessly indulgent, but we all need to keep aspiration – and retail – alive, particularly at the moment! We trust you find lots to love on the following pages and myriad ideas to keep you busy while you are working on your home or from your home.

Photograph by Kristina Soljo. Hair & make-up by Samantha Powell. Artwork by Joshua Yeldham. Flowers from Poho Flowers. For Where to Buy, see page 192.

“Virtual YOGA is pretty good, provided you get your laptop – AND YOURSELF – in the right position.”

Tanya Buchanan, Editor in chief

TOP PICKS

Tanya’s y top five

COVET One Of A Kind silk and wool rug, POA, Robyn Cosgrove.

RELAX

Maland bench with leather seat, $549, Living By Design.

INDULGE Double Serum anti-ageing concentrate, $149/50ml, Clarins.

ENJOY CVA 7440 VitroLine built-in coffee machine, $5699, Miele.

DECORATE

Maurice oak two-drawer writing desk, $1995, Coco Republic.

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

recycle

ART & STYLE Art director Shayne Burton Junior designer Sophie Wilson Image retoucher/designer Matus Kundrat CONTRIBUTORS

Nick Bowers, Lucia Braham, Steve Cordony, Sibella Court, Stephen Crafti, Elise Elliott, Kerrie-Anne Jones, Alexandra Gordon, Nic Gossage, Marnie Hawson, Georgia Madden, Olga Lewis, Caitlin Mills, Judy Pascoe, Chris Pearson, Samantha Powell, Ashley Pratt, Prue Ruscoe, Isamu Sawa, Bek Sheppard, Anson Smart, Kristina Soljo, Kelly Tapp, Petrina Tinslay, Mikkel Vang, Nicholas Watt, Simon Whitbread, Helen Young ADVERTISING & PRODUCTION Homes commercial 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 New Zealand enquiries +61 2 9282 8505 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

create

At elho we use recycled plastic to create beautiful designer pots. Surround yourself with greenery, it will make you happy!

elho.com

MARKETING & CIRCULATION Marketing director Louise Cankett Senior marketing manager Jillian Hogan Circulation manager Nicole Pearson Subscriptions campaign manager Jesvin Vincent Brand manager Sarah Webster Marketing enquiries homes@bauer-media.com.au BAUER MEDIA CORPORATE Chief executive officer Brendon Hill Chief financial officer Andrew Stedwell Executive general manager – publishing & digital operations Sarah-Belle Murphy Associate publisher 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 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.

H G LETTERS

Your H&G As I sit here writing this letter, Australia is in the midst of the Covid-19 epidemic. I also happen to be sitting in bed, on the morning of my 35th birthday. My little girls (two and four years old) just excitedly delivered me a cup of tea, and the April issue of Australian House & Garden. What a pleasure. I realise that while the time spent at home may not be convenient for many, it does give us time to stop and appreciate what matters most in life. Family, love and the simple things that bring us joy. Thank you for making my birthday morning special.

H&G social

The posts that made your month.

Facebook Instagram

Karina Jolly, Hope Island, Queensland While my bland 1980s brick-veneer home is a far cry from the beautiful homes featured in the pages of Australian House & Garden, it is my safe place and my sanctuary in this unprecedented and uncertain period. I have declared our home in lockdown for the safety of our young baby and the greater good of the wider community. After an anxious week, I was delighted to receive the latest issue of H&G – part of my annual subscription – in the letterbox on the day of my 30th birthday! In our house, it’s referred to as the ‘gift that keeps on giving’, which my darling husband continues to renew every year. After putting Henry down for a nap, I’ve elected to ignore the pile of laundry and the dishes – there will be plenty of time for that. I’ve made a cuppa, slathered on some of my favourite hand cream

WRITE IN TO WIN

and opened my April issue. So cheers, from a safe distance, for the welcome and timely distraction. Marnie Smith, Rutherglen, Victoria

Welcome at home Feeling anxious, stressed and frightened – like most people – my husband, our cat and I are staying home as much as possible. So it was lovely to open the letterbox and ﬁnd my copy of April’s Australian House & Garden. I smiled when I saw the words ‘Honey, we’re home!’ on the cover. I spent a lovely afternoon in our sunroom, enjoying a pot of tea and reading my favourite magazine. Thanks so much H&G, the wonderful issue was welcome respite from what is happening in our world and it also gave me lots of ideas for the transformations we want to make to our townhouse. Deborah Bowden, Rosebud, Victoria

The author of each letter published receives $50. Our favourite also wins a prize. This month, Karina Jolly of Hope Island, Queensland, receives 8L of Wash & Wear paint and an exclusive limited-edition colouring book by renowned children’s author and illustrator, Kylie Howarth. Valued at $160, this little package is perfect forr bringing a little brightness into your life; www.dulux.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.

A cosy alfresco entertaining area invited likes on Facebook, Instagrammers went wild for compact-garden ideas, while Pinners found the material mix of this crisp kitchen on point.

Facebook facebook.com/ australianhouseandgarden Highlights from each issue plus links to our favourite home tours. 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.

Ray of sunshine

‘#15’ h a n d k n o t t e d i n t u r k e y w i t h v i n t a g e w o o l . a c e l e b r a t i o n o f n e w i d e a s f r o m t h e r o by n c o s g r o v e ‘o n e o f a k i n d’ c o l l e c t i o n. 16 8 q u e e n s t r e e t w o o l l a h r a n s w 2 0 2 5 t 61 2 9 3 2 8 7 6 9 2 r o b y n c o s g r o v e . c o m

Handcrafted with passion. Original designs and handmade sustainable furniture by Sika Design. Inspired by nature and different cultures around the world.

Featured: Sika Design Margret Dining Chair in Natural and the Lucas Dining Table in Teak.

Explore the DOMO collection at one of our seven showrooms: Sandringham, Hawthorn, Paddington, Willoughby, North Adelaide, Brisbane & Gold Coast. Or online at domo.com.au Follow us at @domoaustralia

To her, with love Photograph by Prue Ruscoe.

T O C E L E B R A T E M O T H E R â&#x20AC;&#x2122; S D A Y, W E T A L K T O S O M E FA B U L O U S C R E A T I V E S A N D T H E I R FA M I L I E S .

at home with H G

Deb Coffey and her daughter Madeleine, 25, in the now light and airy living area. The Manyara Luxe sofa is upholstered in a bespoke Catherine Martin velvet from Mokum. Marble coffee table, Katarina Wells vase, Tom Dixon ‘Fat’ Chair and Flos ‘Atollo’ lamp, all from Manyara Home. RIGHT A fountain was replaced by Turkish pots that are home to thriving fiddleleaf figs.

White

MAGIC

a dated 1990s home didn’t daunt this Sydney design expert, who saw its beauty shine through. STORY Judy Pascoe | ST Y LIN G Steve Cordony PH OTOGR A PHY Prue Ruscoe

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

erial renovators Deb and Ross Coffey’s purchase of a dated 1990s house close to Sydney’s Balmoral Beach had their friends seriously worried about the amount of work that needed to be done. “I’ll never forget the expressions of terror on some of our friends’ faces when we moved in,” says Deb. The solid-brick house was built in 1998 and possessed all the finishes typical of the era: yellow-toned parquetry floors, terracotta tiles and Dulux Hog Bristle – that ’90s darling – on every wall. “It was so ugly that everyone else had turned away,” says Deb. However,Ross,aphotographer,andDeb,whoownsluxury homewares store Manyara Home, looked at it with professional eyes. “Spread over three levels, it had exactly the kind of floor plan we like: living areas downstairs, bedrooms and office upstairs along with ensuites, balconies and the added bonus of harbour glimpses,” says Deb. “It was in a fabulous location – walking distance to >

at home with H G

“ S P R E A D OV E R T H R E E L E V E L S , I T H A D T H E KIND OF FLOOR PLAN WE LIKE: LIVING A R E A S D O W N S TA I R S , B E D R O O M S A N D O F F I C E U P S TA I R S A L O N G W I T H E N S U I T E S , BALCONIES, AND THE ADDED BONUS OF H A R B O U R G L I M P S E S .” D E B C O F F E Y, O W N E R

ABOVE AND OPPOSITE The Calacatta marble island bench,

the star of the kitchen, appears to float thanks to a mirrored fascia. Deb and Ross kitted the space out with a Wolf oven, AEG induction cooktop and Miele integrated fridge, all from Winning Appliances. Kartell ‘Ghost’ bar stools and Le Corbusier ‘LC1’ hide armchairs from Space. The house is painted Dulux Vivid White throughout. RIGHT Martine Emdur’s Girl in a Pink Bikini adds beauty and movement to this space. The Kelly Wearstler white bowl on the coffee table is from Becker Minty. AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

Curtains in a sheer fabric from Unique Fabrics create a gentleness in the dining area. Maxalto â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Feboâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; dining armchairs with linen-silk upholstery, from Space, surround a black oak table from Manyara Home. The Holly Ryan sculpture (this page) is also from Manyara Home; the gold-leaf mirror is a vintage piece. OPPOSITE TOP Behind the Scenes No 8, a painting by Maria Villa, hangs above a bar cart from Globe West. OPPOSITE BOTTOM A Graham Shearer Eau print is positioned above vintage Murano vases from Conley & Co. Calacatta Porada console from Poliform and Tom Dixon bowl from Manyara Home.

32 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

at home with H G

Balmoral Beach, where we love to paddleboard, and minutes to my store and office.” In addition, because the work was all cosmetic, there was no need for a DA, which makes the renovation process so much easier and faster. The first task was to paint all the walls Dulux Vivid White so the couple could get a better feel for the house. This created a cleaner palette and reflected more light. “We always wait a few months before we start renovations, but bad colours and surfaces are hard to live with if you are visual people,” says Deb. Once work began, they changed every room and surface. While the couple usually opt for large-format floor tiles and rugs in their living areas, Ross’ suggestion of oak floorboards won out. “I’m converted now; they are so much softer underfoot,” says Deb. Glamour was injected into the formal living room by way of a soaring mantelpiece in black desert rose marble. The stone had to be craned in over the balcony and luckily fitted exactly to the millimetre. “Once it was installed the room needed black walls so we chose Dulux Monument. It’s a sexy roomwiththefiregoinginwinter.” B&B Italia sofas in charcoal velvet suit the room perfectly. One of the biggest changes to the house was the kitchen, which had been shoved into one corner of the room and was barely workable. Now part of an open-plan space, it boasts masses of cupboard space and a ‘floating’ Calacatta marble bench. Sliding doors lead to the outdoor living area and pool. Here, the couple wanted to create a relaxed vibe. Terracotta paving was replaced by pale-grey ceramic tiles that resemble limestone but are more robust. Fountains and ponds that ringedthespacewereremovedandalargeTurkishpotplanted with lush fiddleleaf figs added. The built-in barbecue was repurposed as an outdoor fireplace. The last area to be tackled was the exterior, which was also painted white – this time Dulux Whisper White. In keeping with the neighbours’ homes, a sandstone fence was installed with sandstone facing on the garage and front entrance. With so many changes, new furniture and accessories were called for as “the spaces just didn’t work with what we already had”.Nowthehouseis filled with Deb’s favouritepieces –some new and others she has had forever, including a collection of African statues and artworks by Martine Emdur and Charmaine Pwerle. “It’s good to have a balance of materials and objects for depth,” she says. “I follow the same philosophy at home as I do when buying stock for the store. It’s all about modern luxe with tribal soul, and the more eclectic the better.” One of the things she plans to add to the mix is a marble coffee table – Australian made using Australian marble. “We have fantastic local artisans and it would be great to start locally manufacturing as much as we can.” > Manyara Home; (02) 9969 0137 or manyarahome.com.au.

H G at home with

34 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

Charmaine Pwerle’s Awelye acrylic on canvas is a perfect complement to the formal living room’s striking fireplace, custom-made in black desert rose marble from Harmony Stone. B&B Italia ‘Ray’ sofa and Patricia Urquiola ‘Husk’ chairs, all Space. Green marble cocktail table, Dedece. Coffee table, The Country Trader. Abrash rug, Cadrys. Water Skiing in Venice Canals archival print bought in Venice. >

“ O N C E T H E S TO N E WA S I N S TA L L E D, T H E R O O M N E E D E D B L AC K WA L L S . T H I S I S M Y FAVO U R I T E R O O M I N T H E H O U S E BY FA R . IT ’S A SEXY ROOM WITH THE FIRE GOING IN W I N T E R A N D L OT S O F L O W L A M P S A N D F L I C K E R I N G C A N D L E S .” D E B C O F F E Y

H G at home with

36 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

“A B A L A N C E O F M AT E R I A L S A N D O B J E C T S C R E AT E S D E P T H . T H E M O R E E C L E C T I C , T H E B E T T E R .” D E B C O F F E Y

The kitchen and open-plan living area flow seamlessly out to a covered outdoor dining area. Pulp stackable outdoor chairs, Fanuli. OPPOSITE Clockwise from top left Black and white art photography is dotted throughout the home. The guest powder room includes a Kelly Hoppen ‘Origami’ pedestal basin. Tapware, Reece. Oak bedside, Horgans. Foscarini ‘Bud’ lamp, Space. Barcelona chair, Dedece. In the main ensuite, an African basket and Thai buddha – both from Orient House – deliver texture and interest. Basin, tapware and mirrors, all Reece. Photograph by Bob Nelson. For Where to Buy, see page 192. >

H G AT HOME WITH

LIFE & ST YLE

Deb Coffey, owner of Manyara Home, shares some first and favourite things.

duplex and converted it into a six-bedroom home. Crazy idea – it was just Ross and I and our black cat, Kato. It was across the road from the beach and harbour pool. It had high, ornate ceilings, an imposing staircase and a great view. Very grown up! BUCKET-LIST DESTINATION? I’d love to explore a few more Italian and Greek Islands (2) to experience the seafood (1) and crystal-clear, shark-free waters. BEST MEAL EVER? Spatchcock at the Adler Hitta restaurant in Switzerland while A on a family ski holiday. DREAM CAR? A black Aston Martin. I’D CROSS THE WORLD TO SEE

9 8

K E L LY W E A R ST L E R I S A DESIGN HERO OF MINE.

Lenny Kravitz’s townhouse in Paris. A personal tour from the man himself would be the icing on the cake. FA AVOURITE FLOWERS? Pale pink peonies in their full-bloom splendour (10). FAVO OURITE ARTISTS? Jackson Pollock, Pabloo Picasso (3) and Michael Goldberg. FAVOURIT TE FASHION LABELS? Stella McCartney, Aleexander McQueen and Chloé (5). FAVOURITE SCENTS? Chanel No 22 (8) and Portrait of a Lady by Frederic Malle. I am very much drawn to powerful scents. ALL TIME FAVOURITE FILMS? The 1954 Hitchcock classic Rear Window, The Shawshank Redemption, Love Actually (it’s just so sweet!) and Bridesmaids … hysterical.

FEMININE AND A LWAYS F U L L O F G R AC E , C H LO É N E V E R P U TS A F O OT W R O N G .

WHICH INTERIOR DESIGNERS INSPIRE YOU?

Patricia Urquiola (9) and Kelly Wearstler (7) – they are both prolific geniuses who are constantly creating future classics. Dimore Studio in Milan is amazing, too. ONE DESIGNER HOMEWARE PRODUCT I COVET IS

a four-metre Italian Edra sofa (5). It has divine curves and is unbelievably comfortable to sit on. I AM PLANNING TO PURCHASE a full shearling rug (4) from Cadrys in the palest grey for the main living area of my next house. It’s one of the softest and most decadent interior pieces you could buy. #

38 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN N

Photography from Bauer Media (1), Alamy (2, 3), Net-A-Porter (5) & Space (6).

FIRST ADULT HOME? When I was 27 we bought a

MOTHER’S DAY SPECIAL H G

Motherhood statements As Mother’s Day approaches, we asked some of our favourite creatives to share their thoughts on their mums and motherhood. Here, in association with Clarins, we reveal some of the secrets of these inspiring and dynamic pairs.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Style guides Journalist and DESIGN aficionado Melissa Penfold and stylist daughter Isabella SPEAK the same language. YOU WORK TOGETHER ON WWW. MELISSAPENFOLD.COM. TELL US ABOUT YOUR LOVE OF INTERIORS AND HOW YOU ENDED UP WORKING TOGETHER?

1 8

Melissa: I commenced my career at 20 with a work-experience stint at Australian House & Garden. I’ve been writing and raving about decorating, design, entertaining and gardens ever since! Isabella and I are close and share a great love of beauty, so it felt like a natural progression for her to come on board my business. It’s been the best decision imaginable. Isabella: It was always our dream to work together. I have a background in fashion, but I left that industry four years ago to join Mum’s business. I have been like a sponge since the cradle so I have an inherent understanding of the interiors world. Mum’s the ultimate encyclopaedia for all things interior and style. I’ve learned so much.

DO YOU INFLUENCE EACH OTHER’S STYLE DECISIONS?

M: We have similar style ideas and both like effortlessly elegant spaces. In fashion Isabella tells me when a dress is wrong, or I’ve gone overboard with my tan (or make-up). I: Mum totally influences me. I still wear her clothes from the ’90s! She’s the only person I seek advice from for interiors and fashion. DO YOU FIND WORKING TOGETHER EASY? M: It’s a recipe that works. I’m free to immerse myself in the creative side and build relationships while Isabella is the true business-builder. She is one of the best I’ve worked with. I: Mum is the best boss I’ve ever had. She’s a hard taskmaster and doesn’t mind pulling the boss card at 7pm on a Sunday! She is constantly ‘on’. But we know how to differentiate between mother and daughter and employer and employee. I run everything behind the scenes from admin to the website to client relationships and styling.

3 7

IS IT FUN WORKING COLLABORATIVELY ON STORY IDEAS?

M: A LOT of fun. We constantly bounce ideas together. No story runs without Isabella’s approval. She reads everything to make sure it strikes the right note. I: We send each other ideas around the clock via DMs, emails, voice notes, and texts. The creative well never runs dry. ISABELLA, WHAT’S THE GREATEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOUR MOTHER HAS GIVEN YOU? Show simple kindness and

consideration to everyone. It really means having good manners, being easy in your own skin and making everyone else easy in theirs. Oh, and a little bit of glamour never goes astray! YOUR PLANS FOR MOTHER’S DAY? M: A leisurely day with my beloved family, and a fireside lunch at our country home in the NSW Southern Highlands. I: Mum’s birthday falls at the same time, so it’s always a big celebration. MELISSA, CAN YOU REVEAL YOUR BEAUTY REGIMEN?

My mother taught me from a young age to invest in a skincare regimen. My all-time favourite product is Clarins Double Serum; it delivers a beautiful glow and works on top or under foundation. > MELISSA AND ISABELLA’S MOTHER’S DAY GIFT EDIT 1 Cabbage ceramic dinner plate, $72, Pigott’s Store. 2 Le Creuset ‘Signature’ cast-iron 3.2L shallow casserole, $699, Kitchen Warehouse. 3 Jo Malone London ‘Myrrh & Tonka’ cologne intense, $270, Mecca Cosmetica. 4 Aviator sunglasses, $550, Bottega Veneta. 5 Panthère de Cartier 18-carat gold watch, POA, Cartier. 6 Zimabwean Buhera basket, $335, Orient House. 7 Double Serum anti-ageing serum, $149/50ml, Clarins. 8 Draw the Line silk scarf in Blush, $99, Frankie Peach.

mother’s day special H G “Home is where the heart is and a beautiful home boosts your happiness and confidence,” says style guru Melissa Penfold, here with daughter Isabella in the living room of Melissa’s home in the NSW Southern Highlands. More scenes from her home opposite. Photography Kristina Soljo Styling Kate Nixon Hair & make-up Kelly Tapp

“Foliage is the cheapest and chicest decor accessory around. Books are central to any room – use them like works of art.” Melissa Penfold

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

H G mother’s day special Greg Natale and his mother Michelina in the Sydney family home where Greg grew up. The artwork, “an homage to Matisse”, was painted by Greg at art school. Photography Kristina Soljo Styling Kate Nixon Hair & make-up Kelly Tapp

“I designed one of my marble decorator pieces based on a ceramic sculpture I made for Mum when I was a kid.” Greg Natale

44 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

Patterns of life The creative journey of Sydney INTERIOR and homewares designer Greg Natale began at HOME with his mum Michelina. GREG, TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND AND HOW YOUR MOTHER INFLUENCED YOUR CAREER CHOICE.

Greg: Mum always acknowledged my flair for creativity. She didn’t fully understand what an interior designer was or what they did, so she tried to steer me into art teaching; she saw that as a creative pursuit that also had a viable career. Michelina: Greg was always redecorating our house when he was young. In the school holidays he would be at home repainting, and he once tried to sell this sofa (pictured) in the Trading Post when he was 15. He didn’t get away with that! DO YOU INFLUENCE EACH OTHER’S STYLE DECISIONS?

G: I was being dressed in brands from a young age. My mother, being a dyed-in-the-wool Italian, took her clothing and her fashion seriously. It was always a topic in our house growing up. Between my mother and my sister [Filomena Natale, a fashion designer in Sydney’s Paddington], there were fashion magazines everywhere. M: Greg’s father and I redesigned our house 10 years ago. I noticed the modern way Greg was designing at that time and I wanted the house to be lighter and brighter and more contemporary. He influences me in that way, I suppose.

2 3

WHAT DOES A REGULAR DAY LOOK LIKE FOR YOU?

G: There really is no regular day at Greg Natale Design – I can be overseas, interstate, in the store, on a construction site, visiting clients, or visiting one of our factory partners. It’s a varied and full dance card that keeps me on the move. M: I attend a church group a few days a week – we go on outings together. I enjoy tending my garden and I cook for all my children and eight grandchildren. Greg is my favourite son and visits me every week. [NOTE: Greg is the only son!]

YOUR FAVOURITE DECORATIVE PIECES FOR THE HOME?

Photograph from Getty Images (orchid).

M: I love some of Greg’s new designs, especially the big marble [Niemeyer] bowls. I have a few of them in different sizes and colours in my home. G: Thanks Mum! I actually designed one of my marble decorator pieces based on a ceramic sculpture I designed for Mum when I was a kid. And my 1984 bookends are inspired by a gift I made for Mum back in the day. I’d say that’s a full circle.

GREG, WHAT’S THE GREATEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOUR MOTHER HAS GIVEN YOU? “Pazienza! Deve avere pazienza! ”

[“Patience! You need to have patience!”]. Mum still tells me that... I’m working on it. YOUR PLANS FOR MOTHER’S DAY? G: We plan to have lunch together, with my four sisters, and give Mum a break from the kitchen. We’re also going to spoil her with a nice gift – but I won’t give that away. Greg Natale Design; gregnataledesign.com. >

6 8

GREG AND MICHELINA’S MOTHER’S DAY GIFT EDIT 1 Leopard Print wool lavallière scarf, $345, Saint Laurent. 2 Katia Superfine 18-carat white gold and diamond ring, $4700, Alinka Fine Jewellery. 3 Luisa Beccaria Gradient glass tumblers, $239/pair, MatchesFashion. 4 Fallingwater giclée print, $649, Greg Natale Design. 5 Cymbidum orchid. 6 Prometheus IV quartz, marble and brass table lamp, $7950, Christopher Boots. 7 iPhone 11 Pro smartphone, from $1749, Apple. 8 Beauty Flash Balm face cream, $65/50ml, Clarins.

Dynamic duo

Mother and daughter interior designers Robbie and Phoebe Nicol ARE cut from the same cloth. DO YOU INFLUENCE EACH OTHER’S STYLE DECISIONS?

Robbie: Yes, particularly in fashion. I love Phoebe’s fresh, new approach to design and am inspired by the work she is doing. Phoebe: Absolutely – there is so much cross-pollination between our interior styles and wardrobe. Mum thinks that I’m the hot new thing and she’s old news but she doesn’t realise how much she continues to influence and inspire me. WHAT’S IT LIKE TO WORK TOGETHER? R: I’m semi-retired from my business and look after a few core clients. These days, I mostly work alongside Phoebe assisting in the rapid growth of her business. P: We treat it like any working relationship, and we’re both hard workers. We approach interiors from a different angle. Mum is more traditional and while I’m influenced by tradition, I like to add my own contemporary twist. Most importantly we challenge each other to bring out the best in our respective works. WHAT DOES A REGULAR DAY AT THE OFFICE LOOK LIKE? R: I like to start with meditation and some form of exercise – a walk around [Sydney’s] Centennial Park or Pilates. P: The day always starts with coffee then Pilates. After that, I usually have an on-site meeting. I either station myself from our office or at The Vault Sydney, depending on the day. PHOEBE, WHAT’S THE BEST ADVICE YOUR MUM HAS GIVEN YOU? Make sure to look after your team and your tradespeople.

In our industry trade relationships are so important. DREAM PROJECTS YOU’D LIKE TO WORK ON? P: Most of my business is residential, but I recently completed a hair salon in Bondi and I enjoyed working on a commercial project of that scale. I can see myself doing more of that. I love the creative freedom and design risks that can come with commercial projects. WHAT DOES 2020 HAVE IN STORE FOR YOU? R: I had planned to walk Phoebe down the aisle, then celebrate turning 70 with friends. Of course, these plans have been up-ended and I now focus on the positive things I am lucky enough to have in my life. P: 2020 has been a challenging year for everyone. I’m thankful for the business opportunities that I do have and now it feels even more important to make those opportunities count. YOUR PLANS FOR MOTHER’S DAY? R: Undoubtedly a small home gathering as Phoebe’s fiance Jeremy [Jeremy Bowker, with whom Phoebe co-owns antique store The Vault Sydney] is such a beautiful cook. P: I have no doubt Jeremy will cook comething extravagant. We love entertaining at home and we are a very tight family unit. Phoebe Nicol Interior Architect; phoebenicol.com. The Vault Sydney; thevaultsydney.com >

2 3

7 8

ROBBIE AND PHOEBE’S MOTHER’S DAY GIFT EDIT 1 Pillar Calacatta Viola marble table lamp, $6180, Studio Henry Wilson. 2 Wonderland metal wall sculpture by Dylan Farrell. 5 Aurelien polyester scrunchie, about $35.80, Atelier Des Femmes. 4 Comme des Garçons ‘Amazingreen’ eau de parfum, $142, Mecca Cosmetica. 6 Evita gold-plated bracelet, $240, Christie Nicolaides. 6 Murano glass vase, $2400, The Vault Sydney. 7 ZZ-03-022 bamboo silk rug (240x180cm), $1910, Zouzou Rugs. 8 AirPods Pro headphones, $399, Apple.

MOTHER’S DAY SPECIAL H G Radiating effortless style, Robbie and Phoebe Nicol look perfectly at home in Robbie’s inner-city Sydney pad. Artwork by Sidney Nolan (opposite bottom). Photography Prue Ruscoe Styling Kate Nixon Hair & make-up Kelly Tapp

“I’m a traditionalist when it comes to flowers. I love to give a big bunch of tulips or any one type of flower en masse.” Phoebe Nicol

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

H G mother’s day special

Family ties H^G ’s INTERIORS editor, Kate Nixon, is also the principal of her own interior design studio. Her mum, Margaret Boucher, co-owns a bespoke FURNITURE company.

“I love an accessory!” says Kate (right) wth her mum Margaret, and two-year-old daughter Agnes: three generations bonded by a love of good design. Artwork by Matilda Michell (opposite). Photography Prue Ruscoe Styling Kate Nixon Hair & make-up Samantha Powell

“I’m always striving to capture that intangible ‘new spirit/old soul’ feeling you find in the very best of interiors.” Kate Nixon

2 1

KATE, TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND, AND YOUR CAREER IN INTERIOR DESIGN AND STYLING.

I have been styling food and interiors for Australia House & Garden magazine for 16 years. In 2006, while on my first overseas holiday in Italy, I discovered [Italian fabric house] Busatti, establishing the Australian flagship store in 2007. That business has evolved into Studio Kate, an award-winning interior design firm. Our concept store, CASA by Studio Kate, is opening in Sydney within weeks.

WHAT’S THE GREATEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOUR MOTHER HAS GIVEN YOU? There are so many – my mother is a very wise

woman, as was her mother before her! Mum is the youngest of 16 children. They grew up on a small dairy farm in rural Queensland with no electricity or running water. I think of my grandmother every time I put the washing machine on or think of complaining about this very blessed life that we live. One of my favourites: “A woman of integrity expects to be believed and when she is not, she allows time to prove her right.” DO YOU INFLUENCE EACH OTHER’S STYLE DECISIONS?

Margaret: I love clothes shopping with Kate – she has the ability to find the gem in among crowded racks. One of my goals is to have Kate design a complete interior for our dream home. Kate: My mum has a small but infinitely elegant wardrobe. I borrow her clothes, shoes and jewellery all the time. Growing up in Mum and Dad’s small business, surrounded by furniture, timber and chisels, I absorbed a passion for materials, design and interiors and an eye for detail.

5 6

WHAT DOES A REGULAR DAY LOOK LIKE FOR YOU?

K: Juggling a young family, a business and a pilot husband means I have no routine to my days but I find joy in the variety. I split my time between the H&G office, client meetings, shoots, sourcing, site visits, industry events and time in the office for designing, preparing presentations and planning. YOUR FAVOURITE DECORATIVE PIECES FOR THE HOME?

M: My all-time favourite is our Busatti linen sheets, we take them with us everywhere – even on the plane in our carry-on luggage. K: I love an accessory! I believe decorative pieces – trays, boxes, baskets, books, sculptures, art – are those final touches that make a house a home. I hunt for them everywhere I go, contemporary or antique, bought or found. WHAT WILL YOU BE DOING FOR MOTHER’S DAY?

M: Enjoying special time with our four children, their partners, and our 10 grandchildren – as much as we are able to. K: Spending time with family, cherishing these precious milestones and moments as our babes grow.

KATE, CAN YOU REVEAL YOUR SKINCARE REGIMEN?

Skincare isn’t just about the face. I always have a hand cream in my bag and the car so that my hands are soft and hydrated at all times. A favourite is Clarins’ hand and nail treatment cream. Studio Kate; studiokate.com.au. Boucher & Co; boucherandco.com >

KATE AND MARGARET’S MOTHER’S DAY GIFT EDIT 1 Bird watching bumlebee artwork by Dean Bowen, $2500, Arthouse Gallery. 2 Tank Solo 18-carat gold watch, $6850, Cartier. 3 Basket leather tote, $3720, Bottega Veneta. 4 Hand & Nail Treatment cream, $44/100ml, and Blue Orchid Face Treatment oil, $57/30ml, both Clarins. 5 Santa Maria Novella ‘Ginestra’ eau de cologne, $193/100ml, Libertine Parfumerie. 6 Sailor’s Farewell fine bone china platter, $349, and serving bowl, $269, Kit Kemp for Wedgwood. 7 Navy velour beauty case, $103, Libertine Parfumerie. 8 Le

Connoisseur’ copper saucepan, $1199/5-piece set, Baccarat Australia.

Love & light Homewares store owner Deb Coffey TAUGHT daughter Madeleine to pursue what she LOVES.

DEB, TELL US ABOUT YOUR LOVE OF INTERIORS AND HOW IT INFLUENCED MADELEINE My years in publishing and as an

editor [Deb is a former editor of Elle magazine] were all about design – and I truly believe constantly working with colour, balance and pacing in magazines was the best training for interiors. My husband Ross and I were always renovating our homes and I’ve always been obsessed with design and real estate so it was a big part of Madeleine’s conditioned learning. She worked in our store, Manyara Home, and assisted on styling jobs while she studied interior architecture at the University of NSW. She’s now working full-time for the fab firm Akin Atelier and I miss her. Not only because I adore her but because she has such a great eye. Styling comes naturally to her.

2 4

MADELEINE, WHAT IS THE GREATEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOUR MOTHER HAS GIVEN YOU? “If you love what you do,

you’ll never really work a day in your life”. It’s a cliche but the sentiment has always resonated with me. The way Mum approaches each working day with passion is something I’ve always admired. I’m also inspired by the fact she never became stagnant: in a creative career, it’s important to be inspired and to be open to new elements that can better your work.

5 3

DO YOU INFLUENCE EACH OTHER’S STYLE DECISIONS?

Deb: Definitely. When we shop for clothes together, she vetoes a lot of pieces and vice versa. But in terms of interiors, we often share the same level of excitement about unusual and quirky pieces. Madeleine: Mum has amazing fashion staples both old and new that I love to pinch from time to time. My clothes are a tad baggy and quirky for her liking but I love opening her up to new ideas. DID YOU ENJOY WORKING TOGETHER? D: Yes! It made my day to see her gorgeous face first thing in the morning. We enjoy bouncing ideas off each other and always get excited about the same fabrics and objects. Discovering new design pieces together is a real thrill. M: Ditto.

YOUR FAVOURITE DECORATIVE PIECES FOR THE HOME?

D: Items with soul, such as a pair of vintage Murano vases, a fabulous sculpture or artefact, art you really love or has sentimental attachment, and masses of coffee table books. M: Astier De Villatte incense, a big stack of books, art, a mix of vintage and new items. A Studio Giancarlo Valle ‘Smile’ armchair and vintage Murano glass wall lights.

WHAT DOES 2020 HAVE IN STORE, POST-CORONAVIRUS?

D: I think we will come out of it with a totally different attitude to life. Hopefully more soulful – kinder to the environment and others. PLANS FOR MOTHER’S DAY? D: Hopefully having a seafood lunch together at home with our whole family. DEB, CAN YOU REVEAL YOUR SKINCARE TIPS? Make time for self-care every week. Beauty and health go hand in hand. Clarins has always been my go-to for beauty on the go. Manyara Home; www.manyarahome.com.au #

DEB AND MADELEINE’S MOTHER’S DAY GIFT EDIT 1 Tom Dixon ‘Tank’ blown-glass decanter, $250, and low-ball glasses, $125/pair, Top3 by Design. 2 Art Deco crystal and bronze sconces, $6575.20/pair, 1stdibs. 3 Eau Dynamisante eau de toilette, $68/100ml, and Tonic body oil, $72/100ml, both Clarins. 4 Pierre Yovanovitch Interior Architecture book by Pierre Yovanovitch, $85.95, Booktopia. 5 Santa Maria Novella rosewater spray, $48, Libertine Parfumerie. 6 1kg Dumbell 18-carat gold and diamond ring, $1250, Lucy Folk. 7 Nasomatto ‘Blamage’ parfum extrait, $264, Saison. 8 Vintage Rolex 14-carat gold watch, $6832, 1stdibs. 9 Katarina Wells mini vase, $320, Manyara Home. For Where to Buy, see page 192.

mother’s day special H G

“In a creative career, it’s important to be open to new elements that can better your work.” Madeleine Coffey

Deb and Madeleine, pictured in Deb’s home on Sydney’s North Shore, both love interiors packed with character. The striking Awelye artwork behind them is by Charmaine Pwerle. Photography Prue Ruscoe Styling Steve Cordony Hair & make-up Kelly Tapp

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

Happy Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

BRAND PROMOTION

21 PL ANT B EN EFITS Clarins Double Serum contains the power of 21 active plant extracts including turmeric, renowned for its exceptional anti-ageing properties. Turmeric has also been shown to deliver anti-inflammatory benefits. It also contains curcumin which promotes the healing and brightening of the skin.

Double POWER Could Australia’s number one selling* serum give your skin a beauty boost?

PRODUCED BY STORY

hen Australian women find a good thing they are fiercely loyal to it – and Clarins Double Serum has clearly worked magic for plenty. Serums are like a daily health kick for our skin, packed with skin goodness in high concentrates – think vitamins, anti-oxidants and peptides in one small dose. Clarins Double Serum delivers nourishment and radiance in one made-to-measure dosage (the bottle uses a rotating push button). Each dose contains a unique two-part formula to support the skin’s natural oil and water content. Double Serum works on the five functions of the skin, promising a more youthful and radiant complexion with firmer skin, visibly smoothed wrinkles and diminished pores. The formula is based on Clarins renowned approach to high-perfomance skincare using the power of plants and science. #clarinsaus #clarinsskincare *Beauty Update Department Store figures based on 2019 retail sales.

Clarins Double Serum, 50mL, RRP $149.

Live safe. Live in style.

Live Well.

DECORATING H G

Fresh ideas & easy updates

Ask an expert

COME TOGETHER

✚ Combine objects with strong colour, form or texture to create a vignette. Add books and accent pieces in a similar palette. ✚ Use overscale and massed foliage as a statement centrepiece. Try sculptural branches, leaves or ﬂowers. ✚ Look for interesting catch-alls – small trays or dishes – that can hold keys, coins, pins, pencils or teaspoons. ✚ Complementary statement lighting – sconces, pendants, lamps – adds warmth and helps deﬁne an overall aesthetic.

Well-chosen details draw disparate pieces into a harmonious whole, writes Kate Nixon. Pendant light, Conley & Co. Curtains and dining chairs in Busatti fabrics, Studio Kate. Rug, Robyn Cosgrove. Foliage, Mandalay Flowers.

Room design and styling by Kate Nixon; www.studiokate.com.au. Photography by Maree Homer. For Where to Buy, see page 192.

Give favoured but forgotten objects new life as the focus of a tabletop vignette.

Finishing touches TOP LEFT Vases, Conley & Co. TOP RIGHT Custom chair and

he art of decorating is a delicate balance of proportion, scale, palette and pace – an intangible tension between old and new, polish and patina, the familiar and the unexpected. Before you begin, gather images you are drawn to and look for common themes: colour combinations or patterns, a style of art, lighting or furniture. Decorating is ultimately about creating an environment you love and want to spend time in. Where possible, pieces should have meaning or a story, whether old or new. Balance, too, is key – high-street buys can sit beside an investment item and elevate a room. #

Send decor questions (with name and address) to H&G Advice, PO Box 4088, Sydney, NSW 1028 or email H&G@bauer-media.com.au.

curtain in Busatti fabrics, Studio Kate. Console, Coco Republic. Artwork, Maison et Jardin. Sconce, Emac & Lawton. ABOVE From left Eggshell Acrylic paint in Nettle, $130/4L, Porter’s Paints. Forager stoneware tray, $69, Domayne. #5 Chinese ginger jar, $235, Orient House. Travertine rose bowl, $844, Greg Natale. Oulu table lamp, $189, Horgans.

OR TRY THESE…

Horgans Affordable range of interesting accessories and lighting. Becker Minty Beautiful range of decorator pieces. Domo Luxe contemporary and classic homewares. Conley & Co Special vintage finds and gorgeous glassware. Maison et Jardin French antiques and one-off items. LuMu Interiors Tribal and monochrome accessories, art and planters.

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

H G RENOVATE & DECORATE

The island bench serves as a food preparation area; storage and seating make the most of every centimetre of space. The rear benches house the sink and appliances. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We love the functionality and layout,â&#x20AC;? says the owner.

Great entertainer A palette of cocooning dark tones and a layout designed for socialising has transformed a once-tiny space into the beating heart of this Melbourne home. 56 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

Text by Elizabeth Wilson. Vintage Spirale poster by Bernard Villemont.

“We love the large bifold cupboards – they’re the perfect place for storing small appliances.” Homeowner

hen the owners of this Melbourne investment property renovated its kitchen, they wanted to create a space that they themselves would love to live in. As it was, the L-shaped kitchen was dated and too squeezy. The plan was to reorganise the space into a highly functioning, contemporary social hub. The couple enlisted Freedom Kitchens to make it happen. “They wanted the kitchen to be the welcoming heart of the home and matched the rest of the updated property,” says Susan Hasler, spokesperson for Freedom Kitchens. The layout was completely reconfigured to create a larger L-shaped kitchen, roughly 4.8x2.6m, with the generous island bench as the hero. Measuring 2.7mx90cm, the island includes seating, built-in storage, a food-prep zone and open shelving. The overall layout maximises useable space and enables good flow between work zones. Generous storage is integral to the design. “A combination of cupboards and drawers accommodate everything you can think of,” says Susan. “Large bifold cabinets above the bench are perfect for small appliances.” The owners were clear that white wasn’t right for this kitchen. The designers took a moodier approach with a warm-toned palette that combines the dark and handsome Charcoal Riven cabinetry with the lightertoned Jericho Nuance, both from Freedom Kitchens’ Impressions range of melamine doors. Caesarstone Airy Concrete benchtops, handpainted Italian splashback tiles, black metal open shelving and a statement artwork add to sophistication of the room. “Ultimately, this is anything but a typical investment property kitchen,” says Susan. “Everything has been carefully considered to create a luxurious, inviting and functional space that the homeowners love being in.”

www.freedomkitchens.com.au #

Smart shopper

THE FIN ISH LIN E

The little details you add to your home can potentially impart the most character and make it feel complete, writes Sarah Pickette.

he littlest things can sometimes have the biggest impact on a room. Sure, the overall design needs to be right and statement pieces in place, but often it’s the flourishes that make a space feel special. That’s the power of the finishing touch. Those late-in-the-process decisions create mood, add texture and warmth, or simply boost the functionality or personality of a space. If you think your rooms could benefit from some finishing touches, here are a few to consider:

but it’s just one of many options at your fingertips. “Good-quality handles instantly add a point of difference to any room,” says Simone Pittella, managing director of Pittella. “You might, for example, put a classic-style door handle in a clean-lined interior. Simply changing the finishes selection to a contemporary colour or style can have a dramatic effect on the space.” The simple act of putting in new cabinetry pulls or handles can prove a very cost-effective way to update the look of a room.

HANDLES & PULLS

CORNICES & MOULDINGS

Leather door handles and cabinet pulls are a hot kitchen trend: they add texture to joinery or furniture and feel great to use. Leather might be having a moment,

They’re an inexpensive and humble building product, but cornices can play a huge role in how polished a space looks. “Cornices tend to be

overlooked, but the right style can transform any living space and complete a room,” says Troy Green, general manager of marketing for CSR Lightweight Systems. As a general rule, the higher the ceilings, the larger and more detailed your cornices can be. In contemporary rooms, you might prefer a simple cornice with a sleek profile (take a look at Gyprock’s Alto or Tempo styles). “In the end, it’s a matter of personal taste,” says Green, “but the right cornices have the power to pull everything in a room together.” Likewise, thoughtfully chosen mouldings, skirting boards and architraves can deliver a beautiful finishing element, adding character and architectural detail to bring a space to life.

Photograph by Chris Warnes (this page).

Beautiful finishes bring this Sydney kitchen, designed by Sonja Kritzler Design, to life. She specified a Brodware City Stik mixer in Brushed Europlate and teamed it with Buster+Punch handles from Living Edge.

58 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

SHOPPING H G WINDOW TREATMENTS

LIGHTS

“A room can look and feel very different once the window treatments are in place,” says Amelia Taylor, head of product and communications for Wynstan. Blinds are a wonderful way to add colour, texture or pattern. “No matter the style of home or budget, there’s a perfect window treatment for everyone. Installing new blinds is a simple process: a company representative comes to your home, measures the windows and then installs the finished product. All you need do is choose a style you love.”

While you do need to plan the lighting design at the beginning of the build or renovation process, selecting a statement light is sometimes a decision that’s made nearer to completion. A striking pendant light can be the ultimate focal point in a room and, indeed, its making. To pick the best light for a space, consider scale, its ability to complement the room’s decor and its capacity to cast adequate light. “Many pendants don’t actually produce a lot of light,” says Adele Locke, director of Mint Lighting. “You need to keep that in mind when buying in order to ensure you’ll have enough light in a room overall to be able to see what you’re doing.”

TAPS “Tapware and bathroom accessories have the potential to finish a bathroom or kitchen – they can act as the ‘glue’ that unites a particular trend, theme or design,” says Daniela Santilli, bathroom marketing leader for Reece. “You might, for example, opt for a classic-style showerhead in a period home or a tall, sleek basin mixer in a gunmetal finish if you’re seeking a contemporary look.” The configuration, shape, colour and even texture of tapware can change how a room is lived in and experienced. “Whether it’s a bold, contrasting design or one that unites a room’s style, tapware really can transform the look of the space,” she says. Using the same tapware finish or style in the kitchen, bathrooms and laundry is one way to ensure the whole house feels cohesive.

ART Have an expanse of wall that’s looking too bare? Seize the opportunity to fill it with art. More than any other element in your home, this finishing touch – possibly the most powerful of them all – needs to be purchased from the heart. “Buy a work of art not only because it makes financial sense to do so, but because you love it,” says Sydney artist Lara Scolari. “It should fit with your personality and your home, because that’s where it’s going to spend many years.” #

YOURS ALONE

Sometimes the custom route is the best way to finish a room. But if you thought bespoke wouldn’t be affordable, think again. Domayne now offers a customisation service that allows you to choose the size, upholstery fabric, timber stain and other features across a range of furniture and bed products. That means you can, for example, create that dream bed by customising bedhead height, bedhead wing size, fabric and embellishments. Alternatively, build the ideal dining setting by choosing a table-and-chair combination you love. www.domayne.com.au

“ TA P S C A N AC T A S T H E ‘ G LU E ’ T H AT U N I T E S A PA R T I C U L A R T R E N D , T H E M E O R D E S I G N .” DA N I E L A S A N T I L L I , R E E C E

Last but not least

FROM LEFT Otto ‘Maralina’ door handle in Satin Brass, from $290/set (trade price), Pittella; pittella.com.au; Cirrus sink mixer, $217, Caroma;

caroma.com.au. Timothy Oulton ‘Cross Glass’ chandelier, $5795, Coco Republic; cocorepublic.com.au. Ginger Haired Frida with Monkey and Parrots limited-edition print by Efren Isaza, $1099, Lumas; au.lumas.com. Libera sink mixer in Copper Satin, $1495, Parisi; parisi.com.au.

Smart shopper

S O FA S

Comfort is king when it comes to sofas. Georgia Madden reveals the top tips for buying the best seat in the house.

shopping H G

new sofa is a major investment. It’s important to choose wisely since it’s something you’ll likely live with for years. “For many families, a sofa is more than just a piece of furniture. It’s a place to come together, relax, watch movies and unwind at the end of the day,” says Melissa Bonney, director of design firm The Designory. A great sofa comes down to three things: comfort, quality, and the correct proportions for your stature, says Giulianna del Popolo, interior designer at GDP Interior Design. “It’s important to test a sofa out in-store and determine what you like whether that’s firm fill, a sprung base, or a feather and fibre mix in the cushions.” Payparticularattentiontotheframe,saysDavidHardwick, globalheadofproductatKingLiving.“Thisiswhatmaintains a sofa’s structure and shape over a long period. King’s engineered-steel frames provide good support in the seat and back for outstanding comfort.” Good hardwood frames score highly too, as they are sturdy, durable and long-lasting. An easy way to check the quality of a timber frame is to lift the sofa up to feel its weight. Generally, quality hardwood construction is heavier than engineered timber or plywood. Sofas with softer-timber frames are often more affordable, but are likely to warp or buckle after a few years. Sinuous curves and sink-in comfort are two of the biggest trends for 2020, says Fabio Fanuli, director at Fanuli. “We’re

“Top trends for 2020? Rounded, organic shapes, soft-touch velvets and oversize, low-slung sofas that put a premium on the lounging experience.” Fabio Fanuli, director, Fanuli seeing rounded, organic shapes, soft-touch velvets and oversize,low-slungsofasthat put a premium on the lounging experience,” he says. Texture continues to be tops in 2020: heavily textured linens, raw leathers and thick cottons in muted, natural >

SOFA CARE

FROM TOP CRE Bottega modular sofa with solid timber frame and

linen upholstery, from $3895, Coco Republic. Ava 3-seater sofa with pine frame and fabric upholstery, from $1699, Harvey Norman. Herman Miller ‘ColourForm’ 3-seater chaise sofa with timber frame and Maharam wool-blend upholstery in Pare Wink, $16,720, Living Edge. OPPOSITE Zaza 3-seater sofa with engineered-steel frame and Lucca synthetic-blend upholstery in Sago, $9377, King Living.

Wendy Davey, principal at Cranberry Design, reveals how to keep your sofa looking and performing its best. Fabric-covered sofas ✚ Rotate cushions regularly to ensure they keep their shape. ✚ Each week, brush with a stiff brush, then vacuum. ✚ Blot any spills quickly. Check manufacturer’s instructions to learn which detergents and cleaning fluids are safe to use. Leather-covered sofas ✚ Dust weekly using a soft cloth. Blot spills with paper towel ASAP. ✚ Keep out of direct sunlight. Apply leather polish and conditioner a few times a year to remove ingrained dirt and nourish leather (check manufacturer’s instructions first). AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

H G shopping tones. Expect to see plenty of sumptuous, overstuffed sofas with wide arms and generous cushions too. On the flipside, smart, space-savvy designs are proving popular,especiallyforthoseinsmallerhomes.Thinkmodular sofas that can be reconfigured to different room shapes, all-in-one styles with built-in USB chargers, side tables or concealed storage. Sofas from brands such as Koala can be assembled and disassembled without tools in a matter of minutes (a boon if you move house frequently or have to navigate the sofa around tricky corners). A good-quality sofa can cost from $2000 up to $20,000 or more. If it’s chosen well and taken care of, it may last you up to 20 years, so invest in a premium piece. To choose the sofa style, consider not just your living room set-up, but your lifestyle, adds Bonney. “Think about the size of the room and how you move around it. Do you want the sofa to be the feature of the room or to blend in? Who will be using it, and how durable does it need to be? Also consider maintenance – natural fabrics need occasional dry cleaning and leather needs conditioning, whereas synthetic fabrics are easier to care for but perhaps don’t look or feel as great,” she says. Sofas with soft curves and enveloping backs are great for chilling out, while clean, low-profile styles in luxurious materials, such as leather, have a more sophisticated feel, says Jane Novembre, marketing director at Domo. A classic, fuss-free style offers longevity as it can easily be updated with new throws or cushions. If you have children or pets, look for removable, washable covers. Regardless of who is

“Consider the size of the room and how you move around it. Do you want it to be a feature or to blend in? Who will be using it and how durable does it need to be?” Melissa Bonney, interior designer, The Designory

Here are three sofa looks you can expect to see coming our way from Europe this year, according to Jane Novembre, marketing director at Domo: ✚ Curves Cocooning, curvaceous sofa styles that inspire conversation are coming through. Comfort is key, with an emphasis on soft, rounded lines, high and supportive backs and low armrests. Statement sofas Think bold, on-trend colours, geometric lines ✚ and fun textures. These styles are great for adding personality and playfulness into your living room. ✚ Multipurpose Sofas that include a chaise longue or convert into a sofa bed are hot property. Some styles also offer shelving, storage or built-in side tables, making them practical options for homes where space is limited.

62 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP Tufty ’15 modular sofa with steel frame

and cotton-viscose upholstery, $19,500, Space. Fistral 3-seater sofa with timber frame and polyester-nylon upholstery, $1099, Freedom. Wittmann Vuelta 4-seater sofa with timber and metal frame, from $12,625, Domo. Lloyd 2-seater sofa with plywood and timber frame and linen upholstery, $3299, Provincial Home Living. OPPOSITE Clockwise from top Shore 4-seater sofa with hardwood frame and linen upholstery, $8890, Fanuli. Sofala 2-seater sofa with plywood frame and cotton-blend upholstery, $7470, Cult. Olafur modular sofa with walnut frame and velvet upholstery, $5995, Max Sparrow

For Where to Buy, see page 192.

TRENDS TO WATCH

using it, applying a fabric protectant (such as Scotchgard) is always a good idea. And don’t forget to measure up before you buy. “Mark out the dimensions on the floor with masking tape. As a guide, allow at least 90cm of circulation space around the piece. Makesurenotonlythatthesofafitsbutthatitiscomfortable to move around, factoring in any other elements such as side tables, coffee tables and rugs,” says Bonney. Then sit back and enjoy the best seat in the house. #

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sofas with soft curves and enveloping backs are great for chilling out; low-profile styles with luxurious upholstery have a more sophisticated feel.â&#x20AC;? Jane Novembre, Domo

H G DECORATING

1 3

On trend

S C A L L OP 5

12 6

9 11 10

Inspired by traditional trims, these elegant wares will give your home the edge. 1 Frame Denim ‘Scallop Button Down’ cotton shirt, $449, Order of Style; www.orderofstyle.com. 2 Simple Scallop Chandelier silk light shade, $2410,

The Montauk Lighting Co; www.montauklightingco.com. 3 Royere stoneware vase, $379, Sarah Ellison; sarahellison.com.au. 4 Jacqueline mirror, $399, Temple & Webster; www.templeandwebster.com.au. 5 Ridge corrugated-metal side table with timber top, from $544, Beeline Design; www.beelinefurnituredesign.com.au. 6 Juliette Italian linen napkin in Grey, about $91.65/four, Rebecca Udall; rebeccaudall.com. 7 West Coast tiles (150x150mm), $189/m², Sarah Ellison x Teranova; sarahellison.com.au. 8 Oly ‘Jackson’ hardwood buffet, $7395, Coco Republic; cocorepublic. com.au. 9 Signature Scalloped ramie light shade, about $366.10, Matilda Goad; matildagoad.com. 10 Aerin scalloped ceramic nesting dishes with gold trim, $487, MatchesFashion; www.matchesfashion.com. 11 Norma Junior rattan armchair, $224.25, Oz Design Furniture; ozdesignfurniture. com.au. 12 Milly ottoman with velevet cover, $449, Circlehome; circlehome.com.au. #

64 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

Produced by Ashley Pratt. Currency conversions correct at time of writing.

H G DECORATING

3 4

On trend

F L OR A L S 5 14

6 12

8 11 10

Pretty as a picture, these pieces will bring a little romance into your home. 1 Wishes limited-edition art print by Jiwoon Park, $1099 (framed), Lumas Gallery. 2 Vihkiruusu cotton-linen kitchen towel, $24, Marimekko. 3 Ralph

Lauren ‘Garden Vine’ earthenware teapot, $300, Palmer & Penn. 4 Native Meadow plywood tray, $129, Utopia Goods. 5 Olivier Desforges ‘Merveille’ cotton pillowcase, $74, Amara. 6 Cloudy Spring porcelain vase, $139, Angus & Celeste. 7 Cherry Blossom ottoman with linen-blend cover, $129, Madras Link. 8 Preen by Thornton Regazzi satin quilt with feather fill (143x213cm), $867, MatchesFashion. 9 Dolce & Gabbana ‘Floral’ crystal and enamel earrings, $2750, MatchesFashion. 10 Gucci ‘Herbarium’ porcelain coffee cup and saucer set, $415, MatchesFashion. 11 Aerin eau de parfum travel sprays, $30 each, Sephora. 12 Kooka Gum cotton tablecloth, $265, Bonnie and Neil. 13 Lola Bird ceramic table lamp with linen shade, $179, Temple & Webster. 14 Cole & Son ‘Talavera’ wallpaper, $329/roll, Radford. For Where to Buy, see page 192. #

66 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

Produced by Ashley Pratt.

Make yourself at home. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s freedom. SAWN queen bed + Detailed joinery & hand applied satin fnishes + Made from reclaimed Solid Pine timber

Exceptional craft with country charm. Made from reclaimed solid Pine timber, the Sawn bedroom range showcases carpentry passed down generations with beautiful joinery and hand applied stain fnishes. Natural variations and knots in the timber make each piece unique. Bed available in the King and Queen.

Shop in-store or online at freedom.com.au

Buyerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s guide

F L O OR CLE A NERS

Photograph by Brett Stevens/bauersyndication.com.au.

For spotless floors in a flash, pick up one of these smart vacuums, steam cleaners and powered mops, writes Georgia Madden.

shopping H G

ave you ever spent ages pushing a heavy, wheezy vacuum across the floor only to find there’s still dust in the corner? Happily, those days are long gone. Today’s devices are designed to clean more efficiently with less effort. They’re lighter, more powerful and easier to manoeuvre than ever; some models even clean while you’re doing other, more enjoyable, things. “Vacuum cleaners have evolved from large, bulky appliances to lightweight allrounders that can handle pretty much any cleaning job around the home,” says Brad Reed, senior marketing manager for home appliances at LG Electronics Australia. Cordlessstickvacuumsnowpackenough punch to clean a small home or apartment. “Look for a rechargeable model with long runtimeandstrongsuction,”advisesJessica Deuscher,seniorbrandandcommunications manager at Bosch Home Appliances. Two notable new stick models include Dyson’s V11, which ‘reads’ the floor type and

for those with a larger home who need a longer run time and a deep clean.” But it’s robotic vacuums that score top marks for convenience. “Robotic vacuums havecomealongwayinashorttime.They’re more powerful, the mapping tech is significantly better, and many actually vacuum rather than simply sweep,” says GaryBrown,seniorbrandmanagerforhome appliances at Harvey Norman. They’re smarter too: “Some models can be set to work via a mobile app, so you will always come home to a clean floor,” he says. “Many intuitively adapt to different floor surfaces; other models automatically charge and empty themselves,” adds Trajkovski. Select models, such as iRobot’s Braava, feature a mop for hard floors too. A quality robotic vacuum costs between $900 and $1500; premium models such as the iRobot i7 sell for around $1800, says Brown. If you have large expanses of tiles or timber flooring to clean, a new-generation power mop or steam-powered floor cleaner

BUY SMART

Gary Brown, senior brand manager for home appliances at Harvey Norman, offers these tips for finding the right cleaner: ✚ Storage This can impact the type and size of cleaner you can accommodate. Stairs A lightweight, ✚ cordless vacuum may be easier to manouevre than a corded model. ✚ Thick carpet Consider a model with a turbo head that gets deep into carpet. ✚ Pets Choose a model designed to pick up pet hair embedded in carpets. Multiple floor types Do you ✚ want an all-in-one model or a different type of cleaner for each? ✚ Bagged or bagless? If you have allergies, you may prefer a bagged model that allows you to seal and dispose of dust without coming into contact with it.

“ T H E R I G H T VAC U U M W I L L D E E P C L E A N T H E C A R P E T A N D C A N C U T C L E A N I N G T I M E BY H A L F.” E L K E K E E L E Y, U R B A N Y O U

adjusts motor speed to maximise its 60-minute run time (an LCD panel tells you exactly how long you have left); and LG’s A9 Ultimate,whichcomeswithtworechargeable batteries for 80 minutes’ run time, and can vacuum and mop floors simultaneously. Expect to pay between $499 and $1199 for a cordless vacuum. Versatility is a top trend too. There are models with motorised brush heads to handle even the most stubborn pet hair, vacuums that convert from a stick model to a handheld – perfect for small spills and awkward spots such as inside the car or the tops of shelves. Other vacuums include attachments for cleaning curtains and mattresses, and models with HEPA filters to trap airborne allergens. Meanwhile, traditional barrel vacuums have lost none of their appeal, says Nick Trajkovski, floorcare buyer at The Good Guys. “Barrel vacuums are a great option

can get them sparkling – all without the use of chemical nasties. “The moist heat eliminates bacteria and can lift stubborn marks,” says Brown. Just be sure to check the water-tank capacity is big enough to suit your floor size, he advises. When choosing a floor cleaner, it’s worth buying the best you can afford. “The right vacuum can cut cleaning time by half,” says Elke Keeley, co-founder of cleaning firm UrbanYou.“Aqualityvacuumwillhavemore powerful suction, so you can get all the dust and dirt from deep in the carpet.” Don’t judge a floor cleaner by wattage alone, advises Brown. “The efficiency of the vacuum’scleaningheadisabetterindicator of its power and cleaning efficiency than the wattage. Plus, it’s a good idea to testdrive any model you’re considering in-store toassessforpower,manoeuvrability,weight and comfort.” Achieving pristine floors has never been so easy. >

STEAM CLEAN

Cleaning hard floors with steam can be kinder to the environment than a traditional mop and bucket – it’s quicker to clean and dry, and can kill 99.99% of common household bacteria without the use of chemicals. Kärcher steam cleaners, for example, can be used on tile, stone, PVC, sealed laminate and varnished parquet floors (but not oiled or waxed). “These cleaners can be used to remove mould from cracks and hard-to-reach places, won’t aggravate allergy or respiratory issues, and are child- and pet-friendly,” says Jo Clark, marketing manager at Kärcher. Choose a model with a built-in boiler to produce high-pressure steam, fast heat-up time, and continuous steam and a large enough water tank to suit your floor size, she says. AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

Cordless vacuums

V11 OUTSIZE, $1299

With a 25% bigger cleaning head and 150% larger bin than the previous V11 and a 120-minute run time, this stick vacuum is ideal for large homes. It ‘reads’ the floor type and automatically adjusts the suction power to suit. Dyson; www.dyson.com.au.

Barrel vacuums

COMPLETE C3 COMFORT TOTAL CARE, $1,049

Powerful and easy to maneouvre thanks to rubberised wheels, swivel castors and a flexible hose connector. Also features an efficient HEPA filtration system to filter 99.95% of dust – ideal for allergy sufferers. Miele; www.shop.miele.com.au.

ELECTROLUX PURE F9 ANIMAL ALLERGY, $578

2000W BAGLESS VACUUM, $47

Harvey Norman; www. harveynorman.com.au.

Kmart; www.kmart.com.au.

Powerful filtration, washable filters and a motorised nozzle efficiently remove dust, pet dander and airborne particles. Automatically adjusts suction and airflow to the floor; LEDs help you see under furniture.

Clean floors are a breeze with this affordable, multi-cyclonic model, which traps and separates dust and debris efficiently. It has a 2.5-litre dust capacity, a heavy-duty floor head and a 5-metre long cord.

2620F ICON CORDLESS VACUUM CLEANER, $549

PURE D9 ANIMAL

Bissell; www.bissellshop.com.au.

Electrolux; www.electrolux.com.au.

This two-in-one model converts into a hand or high-reach vacuum, and its low-profile design makes it easy to reach under sofas and beds. It has 50 minutes’ run time and a tangle-free motorised brush roll.

An easy-to-operate corded model with extra-large, smoothrunning wheels and a ball-bearing nozzle. HEPA13 filters capture 99.95% of dust and allergens, and a built-in screen shows you suction level and when to change the filters and bag.

BCH6ZOOAU ATHLET ZOO’O, $599

VAX VX72 POWER 7 PET, $249

Bosch Home Appliances; 1300 369 744 or www.bosch-home.com.au.

Appliances Online; 1300 000 500 or www.appliancesonline.com.au.

A lightweight, cordless model with motorised brush roll that’s ideal for picking up pet hair and turbo mode for extra-deep cleaning. Powerful Lithium-ion batteries provide long run times and quick charging.

A well-priced model aimed at pet owners with cyclonic technology, HEPA filters to extract potential irritants and pet odours, a turbo attachment to pick up stubborn pet hair, and a large 4-litre dust capacity.

shopping H G Robotic SCOUT RX2 HOME VISION, $1699

This intelligent robotic model automatically adjusts power to suit different floor types. You can turn it on remotely and get live imagery streamed to your mobile. 120-minute run time. Miele; www.shop.miele.com.au.

Steam ^ carpet cleaners

1300W STEAM MOP, $49

This affordable corded steam mop is sure to come in handy in a busy household. it has a 180-degree swivel head so it can get into tight spaces and under furniture, a 450ml water-tank capacity and up to 30 minutes’ run time. Kmart; www.kmart.com.au.

LG R9 MASTER, $1899

Thanks to an onboard camera and laser sensor, this Ai-enabled model analyses the objects and layouts in your home so it can learn to navigate around them for more efficient cleaning. Automatically recharges and can be operated via smartphone. Harvey Norman; www. harveynorman.com.au.

SR20M7070WS POWERBOT X40, $999

A well-priced robotic vacuum with a slim profile that fits easily underneath furniture. it has a special sensor to map the room and automatically detects narrow spaces for better cleaning. May be operated via smartphone. Samsung; www.samsung.com/au.

BRAAVA JET M6 ROBO MOP, $1149

This wifi-connected model sweeps and mops hard floors. Use the dry sweep mode to pick up dirt, dust and pet hair or wet mop mode to remove kitchen grease and other sticky messes – all of which you can activate by voice command. iRobot; 1300 727 421 or www.irobot.com.au.

2240F SPINWAVE CORDLESS ELECTRIC MOP, $419

powerful (and washable) spin pads on this cordless model glide across hard floors to clean tough, sticky messes. An on-demand spray lets you control the amount of water and cleaning solution released. Bissell; www.bissellshop.com.au.

KÄRCHER PROFESSIONAL CARPET VACUUM CLEANER, $1095

get carpets and rugs back to their best by deep-cleaning with this commercial-quality cleaner. it has a stretch hose and a telescopic tube to clean, and an extra-long 12-metre cord.

Bunnings; www.bunnings.com.au.

VX24S VAX STEAM FRESH COMBI STEAM CLEANER $249

Refresh carpets and get hard floors squeaky clean with this handy machine. it automatically mixes steam and detergent inside the mop to kill 99.9% of bacteria without the use of chemicals. The triangular head makes it easy to clean corners. The Good Guys; www.thegoodguys. com.au. #

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

BRAND PROMOTION

Instant ambience Light up your space and create instant, stylish ambience at the ﬂick of a switch

LIGHT TOUCH ringing in new lighting can be a fast and affordable way to transform your living space. From eye-catching pendants to contemporary floor lamps with creative shades that let you express your inner interior-design urges, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create the perfect ambience in your home – and in no time at all. So, whether you’re a renter in need of a short-term solution that’s simple to install and remove or a homeowner looking to achieve a more permanent room transformation, take a fresh look at the current lighting set-up in your home to see what you could improve. It might just be the cost-effective style fix you’ve been searching for.

PRODUCED BY STORY

IN ANY ROOM, LIGHTING CAN BE A FOCAL POINT, SET THE MOOD, AND PLAY A BIG ROLE IN HOW WE EXPERIENCE COLOURS AND TEXTURES. LIGHTING Above Home Design ‘Pavi’ table lamp, $47, Home Design ‘Lumi’ table lamp, $69, Home Design ‘Romanza’ floor lamp, $99, Home Design ‘Bussi’ concrete pendant, $68.30. Some products are not available in certain Bunnings Warehouse stores, but may be ordered. Accessories not sold at Bunnings.

CHOOSE WISELY After a bold light that’s a feature in its own right? Try a pendant. Want to create a cosy atmosphere? Consider positioning a floor lamp next to a sofa or armchair. There’s a wealth of great lighting options for every room. USE AN ELECTRICIAN You may need to call in a specialist professional to install your new light. Always hire a licensed electrician to complete any hardwiring required or your style upgrade. ASK FOR ADVICE If you’re unsure where to start, or just need a little inspiration, don’t hesitate to ask in-store for tips, guidance and ideas.

SHOPPING H G

9 by design

Produced by Sophie Wilson.

L AU N D R Y H A M P E R S

1 Home Republic ‘Masai’ palm leaf laundry basket (44x54cm), $100, Adairs; www.adairs.com.au. 2 Ferm Living ‘Herman’ cotton canvas laundry basket with metal frame (50x65cm), $230, Finnish Design Shop; www.finnishdesignshop.com.au. 3 Nueva seagrass laundry basket (42x70cm), $129, Freedom; www.freedom.com.au. 4 Cesa seagrass storage basket (46x56cm), $99.95, Country Road; www.countryroad.com.au. 5 Positano washable-paper and cotton laundry basket (32x45cm), $119, Uashmama; www.uashmama.com.au. 6 Whitewashed bamboo laundry basket (46x51cm), $159, Inartisan; www.inartisan.com.7 Klunka polyester laundry bag (36x60cm), $10, Ikea; www.ikea.com/au. 8 Emi seagrass laundry basket (42x62cm), $219.95/two, Zanui; www.zanui.com.au. 9 Bella woven laundry basket (40x50cm), $460, Flamingo Road; www.flamingordhomewares.com.au. #

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

H G SHOPPING

9 by design

1 Roma brass lever handle, POA, Parisi; parisi.com.au. 2 0858P Windsor brass lever handle, $106, Early Settler; www.earlysettler.com.au. 3 Chubba metal lever handle, POA, Mother of Pearl & Sons Trading; motherofpearl.com. 4 Sydney brass handle, $34.95, Hepburn Hardware; hepburnhardware.com. 5 Welcome Home marble and American oak double door handle, $750/set, Zuster; zuster.com.au. 6 Bankston 0360 Como brass door lever, $118.40, Keeler Hardware; www.keelerhardware.com.au. 7 Kamen Kali steel lever handle, $152.25, Designer Doorware; www.designerdoorware.com.au. 8 B.Wood steel and walnut door pull, POA, Spark & Burnish; sparkandburnish.com.au. 9 Stacked leather entry handle, $460, MadeMeasure; www.mademeasure.com.au. #

74 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

Produced by Sophie Wilson.

D O O R H A R D WA R E

H G shopping

F L O O R I N G : a fresh approach

Textured tiles Technology has opened up a whole world of possibilities for floor tiles – the latest porcelain tiles not only look like natural stone, they feel like it too. “Our new Omnistone tiles have a reactive glaze that can echo the patterning in the tile, so they feel like the stone they’re replicating,” says Ryan Roberts, strategic designer for Beaumont Tiles. Also new to Beaumont is its range of Homestone floor tiles that offer such sophisticated slip-resistance that they

76 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

can be used indoors and out with no discernible difference in how they feel underfoot. Another interesting tile innovation to watch comes from Earp Bros: its Spanish-made Onix Ecostone mosaic tiles are made from 98 per cent recycled glass.

Sisal and beyond Natural floor coverings are beautiful to live with. Sisal is probably the most familiar to homeowners; it’s loved for its durability and environmental

friendliness. Sisal might have captured the bulk of the limelight but there are other lesser-known options you can explore for your floor. Among them are seagrass and coir, which a supplier such as International Floorcoverings can lay wall to wall. Seagrass used in flooring is grown in paddy-like fields that are flooded by seawater; the fibres are biodegradable and create a carpet that is a good sound absorber. Coir is made from coconut-husk fibres, is very hardy and looks great woven into ribbed and

Text by Sarah Pickette. Photography by Nic Gossage.

The more common flooring options may be well known to you, but there are also some new and innovative materials you might not have considered.

herringbone patterns. You could also consider abaca, a fibre from a tree related to the banana palm, for a large area rug. Abaca rugs come in a range of beautiful weaves that make the most of this sturdy, sustainable fibre.

right through the home – even in bathrooms. A hybrid floor will withstand heavy foot traffic (of both the human and pet kind), won’t stain and needs very little maintenance beyond the usual mop, sweep or vacuum.

Hybrids: best of both

Engineered timber

The look of timber can be achieved with quite a few products, from porcelain tiles to vinyl. But one of the newest and best options on the market for a timber appearance (without the solid-timber price tag) is hybrid, or rigid, flooring. “Today’s hybrids give you the look and feel of timber,” says Jason Verstak, group manager of marketing for Choices Flooring, “but where they differ is that they’re more stable and able to sustain temperature changes without any of the expansion and contraction you’d get with timber.” Hybrids combine the best qualities of laminate and luxury vinyl to deliver a floor that’s tough, waterproof and able to be used

With a slice of solid timber on top and a core of multiple layers of plywood, engineered-timber floors are strong, versatile and more affordable than solid timber. The offerings on the market are always expanding, with suppliers offering extra-wide boards, chevron and parquetry styles and a growing selection of timbers. Among these new options is Intrinsic Black from Royal Oak Floors. “In the past, black floors were created using a stain that didn’t penetrate all the way through the timber but just sat on the surface,” says Anne Plumb, director and general manager of Royal Oak Floors. “Intrinsic Black is black the whole way through >

ECO-FRIENDLY CORK Today’s cork flooring looks a little different to the cork of yesteryear: there’s now a better range of colours, patterning and tile sizes on offer (shown above is ReadyCork from Premium Floors in Rustic Olive). Designers are also embracing the sustainable nature of this flooring material. Made from the bark of the cork oak, it can be harvested without harming the tree and is biodegradable, readily breaking down at the end of its usefulness. Because it’s comprised of millions of microscopic air-filled chambers cork has a cushioned feel, which makes it a good choice for kitchens – where you’re spending a lot of time on your feet.

The newest natural flooring is made from fibres that are stainresistant and supremely family friendly.

shopping H G

1 Stain-resistant sisal, Natural Floorcovering Centres; naturalfloor. com.au. 2 Zimina jute, International Floorcoverings; interfloors.com.au. 3 Haven ‘Zambri’ PET carpet, Choices Flooring; choices.com. au. 4 Tretford goat-hair carpet in Double Cream; tretford.com. 5 Homestone tile in Pearl, Beaumont Tiles; beaumont-tile.com.au.

Photography by Kristina Soljo (this page) & Prue Ruscoe (opposite).

The flooring you choose can make a huge difference to how your home looks and functions. It’s a long-term investment, so it pays to investigate all your material options before you commit. the product, so the colour doesn’t just sit on the surface. It creates a truly unique, very black floor.” It’s available as large boards and in a herringbone or chevron pattern. “Because it has a soft-looking finish, it adds an element of texture to the floor.”

Upcycled carpet Carpet brings unbeatable comfort to your floors and the material selections span from goats’ hair, wool and wool-blends through to nylon and polypropylene. One of the more interesting players in the carpet materials market is polyethylene terephthalate (PET). “It’s a type of polyester fibre used in carpets that’s made from PET chips, which are formed from recycled plastic bottles and containers, making it a great ecofriendly option,” says Verstak. “PET carpets come in the neutral tones homeowners love and in a variety of appealing twist and loop styles.

They also have the added benefits of being super-soft underfoot, highly durable and stain resistant.”

Next-gen rugs “Bamboo silk is one of the hottest trends in rug fibres,” says Bob Cadry, managing director of Cadrys. “Bamboo silk gives rugs a glossy sheen and is very soft to the touch, giving you the look of pure-silk flooring at a much more affordable price point.” To make bamboo silk, a form of viscose is extracted from bamboo-stalk fibres, creating a material that’s significantly hardier than pure silk. “Interestingly, bamboo silk can be blended or piled with Tibetan wool, where intermittent rows of weaving are alternated with wool to give a more textured, resilient rug style.” The reason this material has surged in popularity recently is its renewability, with some species of bamboo plant growing a staggering 23 metres a year. # AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

H A R V E Y

Once upon a d re a m

N O R M A N P R E S E N T S

LOOKING FOR A BETTER NIGHT’S SLEEP IN 2020?

THERE’S NO BETTER INVESTMENT THAN AN AUSTRALIAN

MADE QUALIT Y MATTRESS AND BED BASE. SWEET DREAMS…

Current Sealy Posturepedic® Exquisite™ Vienna Medium Queen Mattress $2599; Stratton 2-Drawer Queen Base $2499; Stratton 1-Drawer Bedside Table $849; Sealy Memory Rest Pillows $279ea; Bennett Queen Quilt Cover Set in Ivory $189. * Mattress, bed base and bedside table made in Australia.

Why Buy Sealy?

Sealy Posturepedic ® Exquisite ™ Vienna

From first stitch to final detail, Sealy’s craftsmanship is first class. After decades of testing, research and development, Sealy’s Australian Made mattresses give you optimum comfort using the best possible combination of materials and structural design – resulting in a sleep experience unlike any other.

The Sealy Posturepedic® Exquisite™ Vienna delivers unparalleled feel and quality, using only the finest Australiansourced, hand-selected materials. Its precise balance of comfort and support offers you deep, restorative sleep thanks to Sealy’s Responsive Technology, Liquid Gel layer and Reinforced Edge.

Key Features Each made-to-order Sealy Posturepedic® Exquisite™ mattress boasts Responsive Technology via ReST® Coils which give you three stages of personalised support. A Liquid Gel layer within the mattress provides pressure relief and durability, while the Reinforced Edge uses UniCased® XT to keep the perimeter of the mattress firm and stable.

HARVEYNORMAN.COM.AU

online | mobile | in store

Why buy Beautyrest Black ® ? The Beautyrest Black® is more than a bed, it’s an escape. Featuring a unique high-density foam structure with a firm feel for extra support and luxurious comfort, all Beautyrest mattresses are adjustable-base compatible and treated with Ultra Fresh® anti-microbial treatments to keep them fresh, hygienic and odour-free. Advanced full Triple Helix Coil technology helps to deliver the perfect night's sleep time and time again. Current Beautyrest Black® Georgia Plush Queen Ensemble $3999; Beautyrest Black Gel Memory Foam Pillows $349ea; Fjord 50402/070 Large Rug $949; Valentina Bedroom Chair in Pink $549; Ripples Comforter (220 x 220cm) in Sage $249. Right SleepMaker® Arizona Deluxe Firm Queen Mattress $1999; Evandale Base Queen Size in Oak $649; JH Habicus HB03 Silver Medium Rug $999; Aria Cushion in Blush, Grey, or Cream $34.95ea. *

c l o u d l i ke sof tness

Why buy SleepMaker ® ?

Key Features

Proudly Australian Made, SleepMaker® has a strong bed and mattress heritage that dates all the way back to the 1930s. Using only the highest-quality materials to ensure total comfort and support, SleepMaker® has been at the forefront of the evolution of sleep science and technology over the decades through multiple world-first innovations. SleepMaker’s reputation for superior craftsmanship means that when you buy a SleepMaker®, you can rest easy in the knowledge that it was built with lasting quality.

The SleepMaker® Arizona Deluxe Firm mattress (above) features a premium 5-Zone Micro Coil, creating ultimate support due to its higher density build. This is combined with Fusion Gel and Graphene, a proven comfort layer with pressure-relieving properties, plus temperature-regulating KulKote® to maintain an optimal body temperature. Arizona Deluxe mattresses are also treated with Ultra Fresh® to help protect against allergy and asthma triggers.

* Ensemble and Bed Base made in Australia.

HARVEYNORMAN.COM.AU

online | mobile | in store

f l o a t a wa y with me

HARVEYNORMAN.COM.AU

online | mobile | in store

Why buy King Koil by A.H.Beard ?

Indulge in luxurious comfort

Recommended by the experts at the International Chiropractors Association, every King Koil by A.H. Beard mattress is the product of 120 years of innovation in the sleep industry. Made by hand and renowned for their cuttingedge technology that provides unsurpassed support while minimising partner disturbance.

Premium body support and luxury go hand in hand in each King Koil mattress. You may sleep better for longer with materials designed to enhance your sleep including Talalay Latex (selected models) for pressure relieving comfort, eco-friendly foams and hypo allergenic materials (materials vary across products).

Key Features The beauty of the King Koil Platinum Posture collection lies in the unique Reflex Platinum support system. Designed to match each sleeperâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique size and shape, it guarantees both sleeping partners will enjoy tailored support without disturbing the other. The collection also features Micro Comfort Coils for additional pressure relief and Gel Infused Memory Foam to conform to each body shape. Current King Koil Platinum Posture Bellagio II Medium Queen Mattress $2999; Kier 4 Drawer Queen Storage Bed in Soft Grey $1499; Normandy 1000TC Queen Sheet Set by Private Collection $299; Loxton Gold or Silver Cushion $59.95ea; Marcella White Cushion $34.95.

* Mattress made in Australia.

* Current Body Balance Prasada 22cm Plush Queen Mattress $2699; A.H. Beard Invigorate Adjustable Queen Base $1999; The Luxury Bedding Company Deluxe Sustans/Wool Blend Pillows $59.95ea; Argyle Throw in Fawn $94.95. * A.H. Beard Invigorate Adjustable Queen Base not made in Australia.

Why buy Body Balance? Body Balance mattresses are made from innovative Memory Foam that individually conforms to your body shape no matter what your sleeping position. This doesn’t just provide a more restful sleep for you, it also means you won’t disturb your partner when you shift positions throughout the night. Each mattress’s Cool-ToTouch fabric provides an instant cooling effect to help you fall asleep more quickly. Sleep better knowing your mattress is also Australian Made.

Key Features The A.H. Beard Invigorate Adjustable Queen Base (pictured) lets you relax in comfort with a full range of positions and also includes a massage function. The adjustable base has a multitude of functions to help you relax including a wireless remote with flashlight, Bluetooth connectivity and adjustable head and foot positions. If you get up in the night, underbed lighting helps you find your way back. The mattress features Body Balance Memory Foam to minimise partner disturbance.

Benefits of the adjustable base Pairing a Body Balance mattress with an A.H. Beard adjustable base lets you create your very own sleep sanctuary. Read, watch television, meditate, or catch up on emails – an A.H. Beard adjustable bed base allows you to do it all in comfort and style. Elevating your head with an adjustable base may also help to reduce snoring and ease symptoms of acid reflux. Elevating your legs may help increase circulation and relieve pressure on the back. Right Body Balance Lotus 30cm Firm Queen Ensemble $4199; The Luxury Bedding Company Activate Memory Foam Pillows $169ea; The Luxury Bedding Company 50/50 White Goose Down Queen Quilt $429; Argyle Cushion in Fawn or Charcoal $69.95ea; Tibet TB18-02 Large Rug $749.

SHOP ONLINE WITH YOUR LOCAL STORE HN.COM.AU OR CALL 1300 464 278

Harvey Norman® stores are operated by independent franchisees. Advertised prices are valid at NSW stores only. Prices may vary between states due to additional freight costs. Promotion ends 14/06/20.

HARVEYNORMAN.COM.AU

online | mobile | in store

sleeping soundly

Gi f t ide a s

Styling by Sophie Wilson. Photograph by Nic Gossage. Flower arrangement from Poho Flowers.

FOREGROUND From left Timothy Oulton ‘Wild’ timber armchair with sheepskin seat, $7195,Coco Republic. Double Bucket

leather handbag in Military Green, $249.95, The Daily Edited. Jute house slippers, $24, Dunlin. Aerin footed bowl, $295, Becker Minty. Swan brass vase, $135, Dinosaur Designs. Yves side table with agate top, $3995, and Tsar Stripe marble bookends, $65/pair, both Coco Republic. Sophie Davies Interiors ‘The Twister’ plaster table lamp, $1400, Manyara Home. BACKGROUND Wall painted Interno Lime Wash in Stonecutter’s Grey, $131/4L, Porter’s Paints. Flocca linen tablecloth, $349, Hale Mercantile Co. Atelier 2+ ‘Cane Partition’ screen, $3480, Trit House.

LIT TLE THINGS THAT MAKE MUM’S LIFE L OVELIER

T RU LY GIF T ED Show Mum how much she means to you with one of these precious objects.

ST Y L IN G Sophie Wilson | P HOTO GR APHY Nic Gossage | F LOW E R S Poho Flowers

mother’s day special H G

Stylist’s assistant Nonci Nyoni.

Presents with a personal touch – a favourite fragrance, a special piece of jewellery, or a little something for ‘me time’ – are the greatest gifts of all. FROM LEFT Lingue Particulier waffle linen hand towel, $41, Oliver Thom. Humble Matter stoneware vessel, $1350, Curatorial+Co. BDK Parfums Tubéreuse Impériale eau de parfum, $329, Trudon II eau de parfum, $299, Helmut Lang eau de cologne, $289, and L’Artisan Parfumeur Couleur Vanille eau de parfum, $210, all Libertine Parfumerie. Addition Studio brass oil burner, $159, Designstuff. Vintage Brutalist pendant by Lee Bernard, $375, Becker Minty. Cire Trudon ‘Spiritus Sancti’ room spray, $299, Libertine Parfumerie. Vintage double sphere ring, $145, Becker Minty. Volcanic resin soap dish, $65, Dinosaur Designs. Zone Denmark ‘Singles’ metal tray, $99, Designstuff. ON WALL Jungle wallpaper in Grey, $72/m, These Walls. Inax ‘Terrarossa’ tiles, POA, Artedomus. OPPOSITE Clockwise from top left Monogrammed linen pyjamas, $159, Jasmine and Will. Flores quilt in Sage (234x224cm), $345, Walter G. Mia linen cushion, $79, McMullin & Co. Aerin embossed-shagreen tray, $650, Becker Minty. Vintage Lace ceramic platter, $159, Kim Wallace Ceramics. Beige Wave bone china side plate, $80/four, In the Round House. Zoya brass cheese knife, $59/3-piece set, and Ebb Tide ceramic teaspoon, $11, both Kim Wallace Ceramics. A5 notebook, $59.95, The Daily Edited. Vintage gold snake bracelet, $115, Becker Minty. Stoneware teacup, $55, Kim Wallace Ceramics. Wild Strawberry bone china saucer, $89.95 (includes matching teacup), Wedgwood. Lord Howe Island hand and nail crème, $12.95, Maine Beach. Meiro cotton quilt in Mushroom (235x185cm), $297, Walter G. >

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

Luxe pieces that bring Mum joy every day of the year? That’s cause for celebration. ON TABLE Clockwise from top Stoneware teacup in White/Sand, $55, Kim Wallace Ceramics. White Fluted porcelain teacup, $79.95 (includes saucer),

Royal Copenhagen. Wild Strawberry bone china teacup, $89.95 (includes saucer), Wedgwood. Collection bone china mug, $100/set of 4, In the Round House. Vienna ceramic soup bowl, $12.95, French Knot. Brutti e Buoni biscuits, $13.50/100g, Simon Johnson. Vienna side plate, $12.95, both French Knot. Alessi ‘Plisse’ electric kettle, $249, and Ferm Living ‘Ripple’ blown-glass wineglass, $81/pair, both Designstuff. Linen apron, $38, In Bed. Zoya brass cheese knife, $59/3-piece set, Kim Wallace Ceramics. Ferm Living ‘Fein’ brass spoon, $19, Designstuff. Bon Appétit ceramic 25cm plate, $29, In the Round House. Zone Denmark brass herb scissors, $24, Designstuff. Green and White Chinoiserie ceramic 25cm plate, $29, In the Round House. Ferm Living ‘Fein’ brass measuring spoons, $149/set, Designstuff. ON WALLS Bar Bianco mosaic tiles, $170/m², Di Lorenzo Tiles. Clay Textile laminate, from $86.70/m², Laminex. OPPOSITE ON TABLE From left Vera Wang ‘Bande’ crystalline toasting flute, $119/pair, Wedgwood. Ferm Living ‘Ripple’ blown-glass Champagne saucers, $79/pair, Designstuff. Artist Face bone china 25cm plate, $29, In the Round House. Earlswood crystalline wineglasses, $299/six, Royal Doulton. Kastehelmi glass cake stand, $139, Iittala. Fferone Glassware ‘Margot’ glass coupes, $425/pair, and Spaghetti brass object, $385, both Becker Minty. Paper Bag glass vase, $50, Domo. Pebble stoneware dish, $10, small plate, $20, and side plate, $32, Kim Wallace Ceramics. Bloomingville stoneware vase, $47, Trit House. FURNITURE AND ACCESSORIES Clockwise from bottom left Cuba teak bench with leather seat, $499, Lounge Lovers; for similar, try Maland leather bench, $549, Living by Design. Small leather tote, $199.95, The Daily Edited. Mars pendant light, $127, About Space. Cuba teak dining chairs with leather seat, $279 each, Lounge Lovers. Limitless artwork by Lily Cummins, $800, Curatorial+Co. >

motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s day special H G

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

MOTHER’S DAY SPECIAL H G

FROM BOTTOM LEFT Barebones trowel with walnut handle, $54.10, Hardtofind. Ferm Living ‘Orb’ 2L metal watering can, $169, Designstuff.

Devil’s ivy, $20, in antique brass squat planter, $385; and Zanzibar gem, $100, in medium planter, $375; Syngonium, $15, in small planter, $165, all Garden Life. Tony brass side table, $1795, Coco Republic. Olive tree, $295, in Moderno Furore planter, $375, Garden Life. Trailing amaranthus from Poho Flowers in bleached-timber pot, $59.95, French Knot. Vivero polished-brass watering can, $199, Becker Minty. Niagra bench with faux-leather seat, $289, Lounge Lovers. Hydrangeas, Poho Flowers. Theodora terracotta vessel, $169, McMullin & Co. ON WALL My Curves Are Not Crazy canvas art print, $450, Greenhouse Interiors. Jungle wallpaper in Grey, $72/m, These Walls. For Where to Buy, see page 192. # AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

Twist on T R A DI T I O N A L Classic meets contemporary is a way of life for Sarah Mackenzie-Wood, writes motoring expert and WhichCar presenter, Elise Elliott. PH OTOG R A P HY Kristina Soljo

96 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

great house, great car H G Coffee table, RG Imports. Ottoman, Made and Felt. Chandelier, Cotton Love Home. Floor lamps, Horgans. Rug, International Floorcoverings.

H G great house, great car LEFT Sarah with her gorgeous

Mercedes AMG E400 and equally gorgeous home.

OPPOSITE, TOP LEFT

Chandelier, Horgans. Dining table, De Kercoet. CH24 Wishbone chairs, available from Cult. Vase, French Country Collections. OPPOSITE, TOP RIGHT

Sarah in her pretty living room. OPPOSITE BOTTOM Artwork (left) is a framed David Bromley quilt. Artwork (above fireplace) by Luella. Armchairs, Craft Enterprises. Mirrors, Horgans.

Dad was obsessed with Jaguars – he drove a gorgeous E-Type. He would drag me and mytwosisterstomotorshowsanddiscuss in great detail all the cars that were there. He also insisted we knew how to drive a manual car.

arah Mackenzie-Wood knows how to make an entrance. To be fair, making an entrance is easy when your home features a stunning spiral staircase, a signature of the home’s designer, acclaimed architect John Suttor. Wearing a diaphanous blush-coloured skirt,Sarah breezesthroughhergorgeous traditional-with-a-twist home in Sydney’s east like a fairy. She decorated the home, which she shares with her husband and two children, herself, using a palette of muted greys and soft pinks. Having studied design at the National Design

Tell us about the history of this house. I fell in love with the beautiful staircase the second the real-estate agent showed us the home eight years ago. There’s another house in the area with the exact same staircase – also designed by John Suttor, who was known for his Georgianstyle architecture with shutters and bay windows. We have harbour glimpses from the main bedroom balcony. Such a treat! Academy in England, it’s little wonder she has such a deft touch with interiors... Sarah’s eye for style is also evident in her choice of cars: a sporty 2015 Porsche Cayenne SUV and a 2016 Mercedes AMG E400, a high-performance – and rare – station wagon. Have you always appreciated handsome design? Yes, and I can thank both my parents for it. When I was about 10, I would spend hours reading Mum’sArchitectural Digest and other homes magazines. Meanwhile,

Have you done much to the house? Goodness, yes! When we bought the place, the exterior was painted a mustard colour. Inside, there were fluorescent yellow enamel and brass fittings everywhere. I prefer calm neutrals, so I painted the wallsgreystraightaway. It’s accented with pink throughout the home. What are your go-to pieces when decorating? I am obsessed with cushions – can you tell? They are the easiest way to bring >

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

H G great house, great car

colour into a room and they’re quick and inexpensive to update. Art is another way to introduce colour and interest, and it doesn’t have to be expensive. I have several David Bromley quilts framed as artworks. The quilts cost about$990,asopposedtomanythousands for paintings, yet bring an equal amount of energy and joy to a room. I also like using wallpaper – I adore the Pear Tree design by Andrew Martin in our bedroom. What do you like about your cars? I remember sitting at the bus stop after school in the late 1980s and this elegant couple drove past in a Mercedes station wagon. I thought ‘I’m going to buy that car when I grow up!’ I’m now on my fourth station wagon. I like them because they are a bit different. Everyone is obsessed with SUVs but I prefer being a bit lower to the ground when driving. The E400 is a powerful vehicle with twin turbos – a little wasted on me as I am a cautious driver! I drive the Porsche for roadtrips. It’s perfect for the five-hour journey to Thredbo from Sydney.

THE KNOWLEDGE > SPORTY Make: Porsche Model: Cayenne SUV Year: 2015 Engine: 3L turbocharged diesel 8-speed auto Price: $116,600

Tips for inner-city driving? Whatevervehicleyouhave,drivecarefully. I have neither a scratch nor dent on either one of my cars. Is there another car on your wish list? A Mercedes CLS Shooting Brake. It’s shapely,sportyandsexy. Most importantly, it’s not an SUV! # @EliseElliott_Media @WhichCar WhichCar airs Channel 10, Sundays. For all your motoring advice, head to WhichCar.com.au

100 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP A large picture window

frames the view and floods the landing with natural light. The north-facing balcony off the living/dining area is a sun trap in cooler months. Sarah (left) and Elise with Sarah’s beloved Merc. The main bedroom features Andrew Martin ‘Pear Tree’ wallpaper from Wallpaper Direct. For Where to Buy, see page 192.

> ALL-ROUNDER Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: AMG E400 Year: 2016 Engine: 3L turbocharged petrol AWD 7-speed auto Value: From $76,040

LIFE IN ST Y LE For King Living’s Natalie Culina, there’s pride aplenty in championing the company’s uniquely Australian aesthetic.

Global head of brand, Natalie Culina, in the foyer of King Living’s Sydney headquarters. She’s sitting on an Oliver tub chair and to the right is a Venus side table. OPPOSITE From left Manufacturing is front and centre at King Living HQ. Natalie with the library of patterns for every item King has produced since the late 1970s. A colourful collection of upholstery cottons.

design H G

Photography by Kristina Soljo.

s soon as Natalie Culina, King with iconic Australian brands,” she says. One of the benefits of King Living Living’s global head of brand, “There are some direct parallels between designingandmanufacturinginAustralia walks into the company’s Sydney the companies.” The Australian aesthetic is that it enables the company to control head office, her reason for being there is that’s quintessential to both brands has every step of the process, from initial immediately evident. “The building is been particularly beneficial for King concepts through to sales and delivery to designed with the manufacturing hub Living, which now has 16 showrooms repair and reupholstering. in the centre,” she says. “It’s specifically across Australia, two in Malaysia and one “Sustainability is fundamental to what arranged this way so we all remember in New Zealand, China, Singapore and, we do,” says Natalie. “From the beginning, what we’re here for: the product. It most recently, Canada. Opened in July our founder David King has held the view makes for a very collaborative 2019, the Canadian showroom is proving that designer furniture should stand the environment – everything is kept very to be a prudent expansion: “King evokes test of time. Part of our design ethos is real when you can see the furniture the Australian spirit – relaxed, confident, that every single piece of furniture has being brought to life in front of you.” authentic. Our furniture translates well removable covers. We want our furniture An average workday might to live through generations; include checking in with the it can be covered when you “King Living’s Sydney head office is designed with the visual merchandising team, move or your life changes, it manufacturing hub in the centre so we all remember perusing new upholstery can be refreshed. That’s what what we’re here for: the product. It makes for a very options, working with retail sets us apart.” collaborative environment.” and product managers on King Living is known for its preparing for new furniture designer collaborations – with releases,orcastingtalentforphotoshoots. in North America; for the buying public the likes of Charles Wilson and Tom Natalie’s colleagues range from designers there, comfort is king and we design and Fereday – and we can expect to see more and logistics experts to some of the make the most comfortable furniture.” of these kinds of partnerships, says nation’sbestmachinists.“Therearepeople As a guardian of the King Living brand, Natalie. “Working with the design who have been with the company for 30 Natalie’s role sees her work across all community is really important to our years,” she says. “Our staff also includes aspects of the business to ensure there’s brand. The reason these alignments are tailors with clothing backgrounds who a consistency of brand communication in so powerful is because the designers we now tailor furniture for us.” every market. “It’s my job to ensure that work with introduce a new thinking and Natalie’s own background in fashion brand strategy is overlayed across the energy that encourages innovation. It’s a has served her well too. “I worked for customer’s entire experience, and that all joint learning process that benefits # Country Road for eight years before touchpoints remain true to the DNA everyone involved.” King Living; kingliving.com.au. moving to King Living, so I’m very familiar of the brand.” AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

103

THANKS MUM! LE T YO U R M U M K N OW YO U LOVE H ER TH IS M OTH ER â&#x20AC;&#x2122; S DAY WITH O U R TASMAN IAN L AVEN D ER R AN G E . HAN D - PIC K ED O RGAN IC TAS MAN IAN L AVEN D ER TO R EL A X AN D C ALM , B RIG HTEN ED WITH CRISP R EFR E S H I N G TO P N OTE S O F G R APEFRU IT, ITALIAN LEM O N AN D CY PR E SS , O N A WAR M S PICY BAS E O F PATC H O U LI AN D C ASSIS . A M O DER N CL ASSIC .

Photograph by Prue Ruscoe. For Where to Buy, see page 192.

D E C O R A T E D W I T H P E R S O N A L I T Y A N D PA N A C H E

Hou se s

Considered use of colour and pattern is the hallmark of this Sydney family home. Ay Illuminate pendant lights, Spence & Lyda. Sofa, MCM House. Armchair and side tables, Orient House. Cushions and blinds, No Chintz. Walls painted Porterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Paints Mist. To see more, turn the page.

H G houses ENTRANCE This page and opposite

Grand arches at the portico signal the elegance of the home within. The soft-terracotta exterior colour is Porterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Paints Ferento. Shutters and window frames painted Dulux Blende Blue. For similar awnings, try Wynstan. Landscape design by Peter Fudge Gardens.

106 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

Totally C H A R MI NG

The 1920s architecture of this Sydney home is undeniably appealing, but what lies beyond the heritage facade is a tale of the unexpected... STO RY & ST Y L I N G Alexandra Gordon | P H OTO G R A P HY Prue Ruscoe

FOYER This page Zoffany

‘Eleanor’ wallpaper. Vases and 1920s chandelier, Conley & Co. Rug from Robyn Cosgrove. Mirror and table, both part of the owners’ existing collection. Original hardwood flooring (throughout). LIVING Vintage Murano glass chandelier and lamp, both Conley & Co. Original fireplace. Vintage linen curtains, No Chintz. All other pieces from The Country Trader and No Chintz. Custom steel-framed doors. Rug, Robyn Cosgrove. FORMAL DINING Opposite

bottom, left and right

Sideboard and lamp, both Conley & Co. Casa Mia ‘Melody’ dining chairs covered in Lampas fabric from Redelman Fabrics. Dining table, The Country Trader. Artwork by Dale Frank.

ven before its radical transformation, this gracious 1920s home couldn’t have been more different to what its owners, Kate and Neil McDonald, had become used to. The couple and their children Isabella, 21, Joe, 19, Toby, 17, and seven-year-old Henry, live between Sydney and Hong Kong. In Hong Kong, the family home is a mid-century low-rise apartment. This heritage-listed property, in a leafy suburb on Sydney’s Upper North Shore, includes five bedrooms, a large garden and pool. “It’s the complete opposite of our apartment in Hong Kong,” says Kate. “We were attracted to the home’s size and its charming character.” The home’s appeal is immediately apparent: a grand portico at the entrance gives way to light-filled, high-ceilinged rooms and an elegant outdoor entertaining area at the rear. But this building is more than just aprettyface.“Thehouseisbeautifullybuilt,”saysKate.“Thecraftsmanship throughout is just superb.” The meandering layout is largely original to the era in which it was built, albeit with rooms put to more contemporary uses. Stepping through the front door, a lovely foyer leads to a large study/ media room, living room and formal dining room. Beyond is the >

108 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

houses H G

H G HOUSES

The palette

Porter’s Paints Ferento (exterior)

No Chintz, Sydney and Thirroul, NSW; www.nochintz.com. Peter Fudge Gardens, Bowral, NSW; www.peterfudgegardens.com.au.

MEDIA ROOM Sofa, Hub Furniture. Side table and coffee table, both Anibou. Blinds and cushions, No Chintz. Vintage table lamp. Karrington suspension light, Arteriors. Armchair covered in Harlequin ‘Strato’fabric from Domestic Textile Corporation. Rug, Perryman Carpets. Artworks by Matthew Johnson (left), Karen Black (right, top) and Marisa Purcell (right, bottom).

Porter’s Paints Chintz Grey (main bedroom)

Porter’s Paints Blue Pewter (media room)

Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.

kitchen, spacious family/playroom and a conservatory with access to the adjoining alfresco entertaining area. Upstairs, there are five bedrooms, a family bathroom and a vast teen retreat. Thanks to that wonderful craftsmanship, the only structural change Kate and Neil made was the addition of an ensuite to the main bedroom. The decor was another story, however. Slightly overwhelmed by the scale of the required cosmetic revamp, the McDonalds engaged textile designer and interior decorator Chrissie Jeffrey of No Chintz to help. Beginning with the walls, Kate and Chrissie selected a pale terracotta colour for the exterior, a nod to the home’s Mediterranean-influenced architecture. Inside, walls are painted soft pink or muted blue, or covered in glorious patterned wallpaper in the same tones. Furniture and soft furnishings were next on the to-do list. “Kate’s brief was ‘elegant eclectic’,” says Chrissie. “The scheme had to incorporate both modern furniture and antiques, as well as contemporary art.” Chrissie used her textiles nous to achieve this brief. Exquisitely detailed window treatments, unexpected upholstery and custom-made cushions combine to create a lovely layered interior that complements both the varied furniture and the architecture. Next, the McDonalds turned their attention to the garden. Respected landscape designer Peter Fudge reorganised the outdoor areas into a series of relaxation zones. In the front garden, there’s a beautifully landscaped pool area, a cosy conversation spot with firepit, and wide sandstone paths lined with layered greenery. Out the back, a paved terrace was dressed up with a new pergola, outdoor kitchen and comfortable seating. “It’s a fantastic spot to connect with the family,” says Kate. While the home is undeniably beautiful, Kate says it’s still a work in progress. She intends to expand the already impressive collection of art on display, sourcing works locally with the help of art consultant Fiona McIntosh and from fairs in Hong Kong. But in the meantime, the family is content to soak the surroundings in. “We love the look and feel of every room,” says Kate. “It’s just a wonderful family home.” >

“I don’t like predictable, clichéd interiors.” Kate McDonald, owner

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

111

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We liked the way the original layout flowed so saw no need to change it.â&#x20AC;? Kate

GUESTROOM Right Bedside

and console, Xavier Furniture. Bedhead, soft furnishings, Magnolia wallpaper and lamp, all No Chintz. Sisal flooring, International Floorcoverings. GUEST BATHROOM Etoile basin, Candana. Wall and floor tiles, all Teranova. STAIRWELL Design Heure ‘Cargo’ chandelier, available from Boyac. Walls painted Porter’s Paints Mist. CONSERVATORY Ay ‘Illuminate’ pendant light, Spence & Lyda. Custom blinds, No Chintz. Existing floor tiles. MAIN BEDROOM Opposite top and bottom left Bedside table, Conley

& Co. Bedhead in Redelman Fabrics ‘Yesteryear’. Curtains in Mokum ‘Petit Trianon’, No Chintz. Accent chair covered in Designers Guild ‘Velvet Dreams’ fabric. Lamp, Bloomingdales Lighting. Carpet, Max Lawson. Artwork by Robert Malherbe.

The layout GROUND FLOOR

Study/ media Bed

Entry LOWER GROUND

Living Dining

Teen retreat

Foyer

Bath Bath

Bed

Bath Family

Garage

Bed

Bed Kitchen

Bed

FIRST FLOOR

Conservatory

Laundry

Alfresco entertaining

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

113

ENTRY PORTICO Mirror, Boyd Blue. Console, ownersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; own. For similar chairs, try Naturally Cane. Cushions, No Chintz. FRONT GARDEN Opposite Firepit, Robert Plumb. Landscape design by Peter Fudge Gardens. For Where to Buy, see page 192.

HOUSES H G THIS IS THE LIFE

Breakfast in the conservatory is always a great start to the McDonalds’ day. Later, they reconnect for dinner – often in the pergola to enjoy a barbecue or homemade pizza straight from the pizza oven. Action revolves around the pool in summer; in winter, the family enjoys reading or watching TV in front of the ﬁreplace in the study/media room. The formal living room is a great place to enjoy a glass of wine with friends too. #

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

115

G O OD LU X E A glam facelift ensured this 1860s Melbourne townhouse has a fabulous future. STO RY Stephen Crafti | ST Y LI N G Bek Sheppard PH OTO G R A P H Y Caitlin Mills

houses H G

GUESTROOM Pare floor lamp, Douglas & Bec. George Nelson Bubble light, In

Good Company. Prestige Carpets ‘Oakford Elegance’ carpet in Rumney, Don Currie Carpets. Artwork by Rick Everingham. STAIRWELL Grand Parterre Collection ‘Wild Safari’ runner, Don Currie Carpets. Original floor tiles.

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

117

H G HOUSES

elbourne’s inner city is well known for its heritage architecture; this house, built in 1864 by eminent architect Joseph Reed for a local vicar, is one of the fine Victorian-era examples. After the vicar moved on, Sir Benjamin Benjamin (a lord mayor of Melbourne) moved in, extending the home to accommodate his wife and their 16 children. The mansion was subdivided into 13 flats in the 1930s, then converted into four townhouses in 1981. The largest of these is owned by emptynesters Cathy and Geoff. At 350m2, the three-bedroom townhouse offered plenty of living space. But the home wasn’t in very good shape when the couple bought it in 2016. “The house wasn’t just tired, it was exhausted,” says Cathy. “The last full renovation was in 1981. It had been poorly executed, even for that time, and looked and felt really old-fashioned. The owners previous to us had renovated the kitchen but it was badly configured and not at all to our taste.” She and Geoff sent an SOS to architect/builder Llewellyn Pritchard of Conscious Homes and interior designer Rebecca Jansma of Space Grace & Style. >

KITCHEN The oak island bench was wire-brushed and handpainted to match Porter’s Paints Silt. Surrounding joinery in Navlam Sandblasted Smoked Ash veneer. Brass door hardware, Designer Doorware. Anaesthetic Design ‘Constellation’ pendant light, Design Nation. Wall-side benchtop in Caesarstone Snow; splashback and island benchtop in Calacatta Tucci marble from Apex Stone. Joinery by Scotts Country Look Kitchens (throughout). Gessi ‘Emporio’ tapware, Reece. V-Zug ovens and cooktop. Dita stool, Grazia & Co. Waxed-oak flooring.

118 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

The palette

Dulux Natural White (interior, throughout)

Porterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Paints Silt (kitchen island)

Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.

Dulux Black Satin (conservatory window frames)

H G houses

KITCHEN Rangehood powdercoated in Dulux New Electro Medium Bronze. Calacatta marble splashback and island benchtop, Apex Stone. CONSERVATORY LINK

Steel-framed windows powdercoated Dulux Black Satin.

THIS IS THE LIFE

Given the property’s inner-city location, this home enjoys remarkably green views thanks to formal gardens at the front and rear of the house (the latter shared with neighbours). “We used to live on a main street where we would spend considerable time cleaning grit and dust off everything,” says Cathy. “here, we are more protected and the white walls will remain pristine white with far less cleaning.”

Since the home’s overall structure was sound, Llewellyn andRebeccafocusedonimprovingtheuseofspace.TheU-shaped kitchenwaslargeenough,buthadthreedifferentceilingheights. A series of arches separating it from the adjacent breakfast area interrupted the flow. Rebecca rearranged the layout into an L-shape, with an island bench for additional workspace, and evened out the ceiling. The new design is sleek and moody, pairing Calacatta marble with rich chocolate-toned joinery. The pantry and all appliances are integrated into the cabinetry. The kitchen wasn’t the only problem on the ground floor. The bathroom and study (now TV room) were only accessible via the formal living room. To resolve this issue, Llewellyn designed aglassconservatory-styleadditiontocreate an enclosed passage between the kitchen and front rooms. Also on the ground floor, a patchwork of tiles, battered floorboards, odd carpets and cork was replaced with solid oak throughout.Theonlyexceptionisintheentryhall,whereoriginal tessellated tiles were retained. A striking leopard-print carpet is a feature on the stairs leading to the first floor. “The carpet is a bit of fun,” says Rebecca. “It’s both elegant and unexpected, and plays on the geometry of the tiles.” The most significant structural changes occurred on the first floor. “The existing main bedroom suite included an ensuite, an office and a walk-in wardrobe with virtually no hanging space,” says Rebecca. “The upstairs bathroom was huge and inefficient,so thathadtobe addressedtoo.”Inthemainbedroom suite, she flipped the layout: a more practical walk-in wardrobe is located in what was once the ensuite; a generous new ensuite replaced the existing wardrobe and office. The family bathroom was divided and replanned to create a separate powder room and an ensuite for the guestroom. An additional shower room was installed in the gym. The revitalised first floor – including the main bedroom suite, guestroom, study, powder room and gym – now has a fresh, airy aesthetic. There are lashings of white, clean-lined furniture and delightful pops of colour in the form of garden views. “I think what I love most about the place now is the sense of calm and tranquillity you experience, irrespective of which room you are in,” says Cathy. “Nothing screams for attention but there is plenty of visual interest.” For Rebecca, the timelessness of the interior appeals most. “It responds to Cathy and Geoff’s everyday needs, but can expand to accommodate visiting children and grandchildren – some of whom live overseas or interstate – as required,” she says. “We love that it’s not at all precious,” adds Cathy. “It’s just a lovely home.” > Conscious Homes, Eltham, Victoria; www.conscioushomes. com.au. Space Grace & Style, Melbourne; 0419 105 121 or www.spacegracestyle.com.au.

The layout GROUND FLOOR FIRST FLOOR Gym

Laundry Family

Kitchen

Bath

Courtyard

Bed

Dining Bath TV/ study

Entry

Bed

Wardrobe

Bath

Living

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

121

MAIN BEDROOM Left and bottom left Original fireplace. Artwork by Sam

Golding. Ercol ‘Quaker’ chair, Temperature Design. Bath, Reece. Walk-in wardrobe joinery in Navlam Sandblasted Oak. Custom hanging rails. GUEST BATHROOM Below Silver travertine penny round mosaics, Byzantine Design. Caesarstone Snow benchtop. Icon tapware in Aged Brass, Astra Walker. Alape ‘Unisono’ basin, Reece. Dioscuri wall light, Artemide. Cabinet in Navlam Sandblasted Oak veneer. MAIN ENSUITE Bottom right and opposite Pietra marble fan tiles, Byzantine Design. Calacatta Satin Oro porcelain wall tiles, Signorino. Zuster ‘Issy Z1 Ballerina’ mirrors, and Alape ‘Unisono’ basins, all Reece. Calacatta Tucci marble benchtop, Apex Stone. Vanity in Navlam Sandblasted Oak veneer. Metropolis tapware, Astra Walker. For Where to Buy, see page 192. #

houses H G

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

123

H G houses

Euro CHIC A French-influenced and familyfriendly style update has given this sydney home great looks and even better liveability. STO RY Chris Pearson | ST Y L I N G Olga Lewis P HOTO GR A P H Y Lucia Braham

124 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

LIVING Custom sofas by Jemma Brender. Cushions, custom and Walter G. Abrash silk rug in Mist, Cadrys. Beach photos taken by a friend. Argento European oak herringbone flooring, Precision Flooring. Side table, Orient House. Rubn Lighting ‘James’ floor lamp, Fred International. Guaxs grey vase, Conley & Co. White bowl, Planet. Eternal Leap Dark sculpture by Yanni Souvatzoglou from Art2Muse Gallery.

DINING This page and opposite Florence dining table, MCM House. Pendant light, The General Trading Company. Atollo lamp, Euroluce. Bowl, Mud Australia. Artwork by Catherine Hickson, Art2Muse Gallery. Joinery designed by Jemma Brender, made by Trademark Joinery. LIVING Custom sofas

by Jemma Brender. Sculpture by Yanni Souvatzoglou, Art2Muse Gallery. Abrash rug, Cadrys. Side table, Orient House. Floor lamp, Fred International. STAIRWELL Roly Poly Chair, Hub Furniture. Argento herringbone flooring, Precision Flooring. KITCHEN Benchtop in Carrara marble from Granite & Marble Works. Pendant lights, Ruby Star Traders. White vase, Orient House. Timber bowl, Ondene.

houses H G

his elegant five-bedroom home in Sydney’s east proves good design and a young family can mingle beautifully. Its owners may have a toddler and a newborn, but that doesn’t mean style was shown the door. The home’s interior designer, Jemma Brender, had recently welcomed her own new arrival when a friend asked her to revamp their home. But what started out as a modest tweak “grew and grew”, says Jemma, who masterminded the renovation in conjunction with architectural firm Palace Studio. Whentheownersboughtthehousein2016, they were smitten by its harbour views and classic architecture. “We loved the charm of the facade and the overall style, with its Spanish overtones,” she says. “We also loved the grand staircase in the entry. We wanted ittobethecentrepiece forthehouse.”Awoodfired pizza oven on the terrace sealed the deal for the sociable owners. On the other side of the ledger, the home had seen better days and its layout was >

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

127

H G HOUSES

THIS IS THE LIFE

Now the floor plan has been flipped, the hub of the home is firmly the north-facing kitchen/living area. There’s plenty of room for the children to play and for frequent guests to mingle. “My favourite features are the pool area and the kitchen, and still that pizza oven that I first fell in love with, especially now with its refreshed look,” says the owner. “I love the natural light that floods the house too.”

128 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

The palette Dulux Lexicon Quarter (interior, throughout)

Dulux Domino (exterior shutters)

Carrara marble (kitchen bench)

FACADE The exterior of the home is painted a custom colour. Shutters in Dulux Domino. MAIN ENSUITE Opposite, top left and bottom right Carrara

Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.

marble wall tiles, flooring and vanity benchtop, all Granite & Marble Works. Bath, Candana. Brodware’ City Stik’ tapware in Brushed Platinum. Custom joinery by Jemma Brender and Trademark Joinery. Vase, Space. Towel, Saardé. Stool, Inartisan. LANDING Armchair, Fred International. Rug, Cadrys. Marble footed bowl, Jardan. Amphora, Water Tiger. Japanese ceramic bowl, Planet. White vase, LuMu Interiors. Cycladic statue, Mercer & Lewis. MAIN BEDROOM Custom bedhead and joinery. Throw and bedlinen, Ondene. Cushions, Maison et Jardin. Sconce, Bloomingdales Lighting. Sculpture by Kristiina Haataja, Fred International. Vase, Conley & Co. Galet carpet in Pumice, Cavalier Bremworth. For Where to Buy, see page 192.

ill-suited to family living. “It was really dated – a peachy coloured exterior and all reddish timber inside,” says Jemma. The separate kitchen, living and dining rooms felt disconnected. Located on the south side of the home, these communal areas were surprisingly dark and divorced from the view. The main bedroom, too, was oriented away from the harbour vistas. The owners wanted the floor plan flipped in order to take advantage of the lovely northern aspect, says Jemma. An airy open-plan layout with easy indooroutdoor connection was important, as was retaining the home’s heritage character. “It had to be a bit traditional to suit the exterior of the house, but with a fresh and contemporary feel overall,” says the owner. On the ground floor, a bedroom in the northern corner has been repurposed as the kitchen. That former bedroom’s ensuite and walk-in gave way to casual dining and living areas. The formal dining room, with

seating for 10, is located where the main living zone used to be – a logical step since it’s more likely to be used after sunset. A bedroom and family room on the south side remained as they were. The first floor comprises a massive main bedroom with his-and-hers walk-ins and ensuites, another bedroom, a nursery and a library on the landing. The basement level includes a fifth bedroom and additional family room, now connected to the garden via slimline sliders. Jemma skilfully combined old and new elements to achieve the brief. “Original architectural details were retained or replicated, then paired with sleek joinery,” she says. “Although very modern in style, the joinery looks as if it belongs there.” Inspiration for the interiors came from design doyen Christian Liaigre, a French interior designer Jemma and the owner both admire. He favours natural hues, layering of textures, attention to detail

and clean, unfussy lines. “Liaigre’s toneon-tone style works well with traditional homes while also giving them a modern sensibility,” says Jemma. “The owner of this home wanted to keep furnishings and finishes neutral. The palette here speaks to the surroundings.” There’s nothing precious about this home – the brief specified relaxed yet robust furnishings that would withstand the rough and tumble of family living. Forgiving materials include linens, outdoor fabrics used inside and oak joinery, all in earthy, stain-camouflaging tones. Little wonder then that the result is totally harmonious, offering a calming backdrop for family living. “I love Jemma’s aesthetic and sense of style. It’s a great mix of contemporary and traditional, which we thought perfectly suited the house and our # personal style,” says the owner. Jemma Brender Interior Design, Bondi Beach, NSW; jemmabrender.com.au.

GR A N D E N T R A NC E

Thanks to a glamorous update, this Sydney apartment is now in tune with its stunning harbourside setting. STORY Chris Pearson | ST Y L I N G Marco Meneguzzi P HOTO G R A PH Y Felix Forest

houses H G ENTRY HALL Cast-iron planter, Parterre. Vases, lamps, aged mirror, table and chest, all part of the ownersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; exisiting collection. Mocha engineered-timber flooring, Woodcut (throughout). Steel-framed doors with Viridian intruder-guard glass, Leggio & Coco. Walls in Venetian Polished Plaster and Dulux Beige Royal Half.

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

131

he owners of this three-bedroom apartment were in a New York state of mind when they presented interior designer Marco Meneguzzi with a brief for their new home. With its elegant, tailored interiors, the refurbished threebedroom apartment – located in a sought-after pocket in Sydney’s east – could well be soaking up views of Central Park instead of Sydney Harbour. Those prized water views were precisely what attracted them to the property in 2017. “We had been looking for an apartment for a while and we liked the size and bones of this one-level space,” says the owner. “We loved its brightness and the way the living and dining areas and kitchen faced the outside world.” But the apartment, built in the early Noughties and occupying the entire bottom floor of a duplex, was boxy and bland, says Marco. With its lack of architectural detailing, it was largely devoid of personality too. On the upside, it was an excellent blank canvas for renovation. “We wanted a Park Avenue feel,” says the owner. “It >

LIVING This page and opposite top Sofas

and nesting tables, all Boyd Blue. Custom ottoman, Atelier Upholstery. Side tables, Ondene. Table lamps, Laura Kincade. Custom rug, Whitecliffe Imports. Louis XIII-style armchair, The Vault Sydney. Artworks by Anthony Lister (left) and John Perceval. DINING/KITCHEN Dining table and chairs, all Boyd Blue. Chandelier, Lydie Du Bray Antiques. Bowl, Conley & Co. Splashback and benchtop in Fiori Di Bosco marble, Better Tiles. Joinery in Eveneer Midnight veneer, Elton Group. Artwork by Robert Dickerson. PIANO Louis XIII-style armchairs, The Vault Sydney. Artwork by Adam Cullen.

houses H G

“ W E WA N T E D A PA R K AV E N U E F E E L . I T H A D TO B E L U X E A N D G L A M O R O U S , I N D I V I D UA L , Y E T C O M F O RTA B L E A N D I N V I T I N G .” O W N E R

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

133

KITCHEN/MEALS Baxter dining table, Collins dining chairs with Lee Jofa ‘Zebra Threads’ upholstery, and Collins leather barstools, all Boyd Blue. Bowl, Conley & Co. Custom rug, Whitecliffe Imports. Visual Comfort ‘Longacre’ floor lamp, Laura Kincade. Artwork by John Olsen.

houses H G

“ I T ’ S S U C H A G R E AT P L AC E F O R D R I N K S A N D C A S UA L E N T E RTA I N I N G .” M A R C O M E N E G U Z Z I , I N T E R I O R D E S I G N E R

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

135

H G HOUSES

had to be luxe and glamorous, individual, yet comfortable and inviting.” Marco adds that they wanted the home to be “open plan, airy and layered”. So trusted was the relationship between him and the owners, a professional couple with grown-up children from previous relationships, that they gave him a free hand. “They let me do what I thought best,” says Marco. “They were looking for something quite plain, with colour and texture layered on top of that for interest.” First, he and the project architects, Architects Ink, gutted the whole apartment. While the layout remained essentially unchanged, they forged a connection between the living spaces by knocking out a wall between the informal dining and kitchen, and enclosed a balcony to create a formal dining zone within the open-plan area. There’s now seamless flow from inside to a garden terrace along the front of the apartment via generous glazed doors. Previously sunken lawn, the terrace makes the most of those cherished views. “It’s such a great space for drinks and casual entertaining,” says Marco. “You now walk directly out from the living area, with no steps.” The designers also repurposed a long, narrow fourth bedroom into a home cinema, complete with a domed ceiling festooned with ‘stars’ (twinkling LEDs) to set the mood. Stepping through the front door, visitors enter a luxe mirrored hallway. To the left are a laundry and gym, while directly ahead are two bedrooms, each with an ensuite. To the right of the entry sits the expansive open-plan area, with the living room – complete with grand piano – abutting both formal and informal dining areas. To the left of the sitting area is the kitchen, now fully open to the informal dining area. On the other side of the sitting area, behind the fireplace and the wall of joinery sits a generous main bedroom with ensuite, walk-in wardrobe and glorious harbour views. The foyer sets the tone for the whole home. Steel-framed glass doors, mirrored walls, parquet flooring, marble finishes, moody lighting and ornate cornicing deliver instant glamour and elegance. “The foyer gives a lovely sense of arrival,” says Marco. Attention to detail and sophisticated finishes have elevated this once ho-hum apartment into an entertainer’s best asset. Architects Ink and Marco put in aluminium sliders with double-glazed french doors, while sophisticated parquetry replaces carpet and tiling throughout the living area. The herringbone flooring is complemented by an entire wall of ebony joinery, with smart mesh doors to give a classic feel and prevent it overpowering the room. Moulded ceilings, with concealed cove lighting for after-five glamour, help demarcate zones within the now expansive open-plan space. While the overall palette is neutral, Marco included dashes of colour through artworks and the bold pièce de résistance: a pair of armchairs covered in orange velvet. The chairs complement a sapphire-blue ottoman and rugs, and “help bring all the elements together”, he says. Meanwhile, two chandeliers above the formal dining table lend gravitas. Adding to that sense of opulence, are layers of texture: slubby linens on the sofas, raffia wallpapers in the bedrooms and cinema, velvet curtains and upholstery, silk carpets, satin bedheads and marble in the kitchen and bathrooms. Meanwhile, that wall of ebony joinery anchors the entire living area. So pleased is the owner with this stylish result that she and Marco are already planning their next project together, a large house just north of Sydney. This apartment will remain their city pied-à-terre, literally French for ‘foot on the ground’. With its solidity and timeless decor, that description could not be more appropriate. > Marco Meneguzzi Design, Darling Point, NSW; (02) 9327 1228 or marcomeneguzzi.com. Architects Ink, Double Bay, NSW; (02) 9363 0977 or www.architectsink.com.

136 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

TERRACE Gloster ‘Chill Unit’ lounger and cushions in Seagull, Cosh Living. Ceramic drum stool, Orient House.

The layout Alfresco entertaining

Dining

Outdoor dining

Bed Meals Living Kitchen

Wardrobe Bath

Pool

Bath

Entry

Bed Bed

Laundry Bath

Bath

Home cinema

The palette Dulux Beige Royal Half (interior, throughout)

Porter’s Paints Sydney Harbour

Porter’s Paints Starflower

MAIN BEDROOM This page and opposite top Custom armchair, Atelier Upholstery. Edel Carpets ‘Tamino’ carpet in Deer, Whitecliffe Imports. Curtain in Westbury Textiles Titanium Velvet. Joinery in Eveneer Saltwood veneer, Elton Group. Custom bed. Bedding in Domus Textiles satin custom-made by Interiors Soft Furnishings. Day bed, Boyd Blue. POWDER ROOM Opposite, bottom right Grasscloth wallcovering, Rossetti Fabrics. Sconce and mirror, both Laura Kincade. Pedestal basin, Candana. MAIN ENSUITE Opposite, bottom left and centre Antique bronze door hardware and fluted glass shower, Axolotl. Sconces, Laura Kincade. Calacatta marble slabs (on walls), Better Tiles. Bath, Candana.

For Where to Buy, see page 192. #

HOUSES H G

THIS IS THE LIFE

“The beauty of apartment living is that you use all the areas daily,” says the owner. “We have the choice of dining inside or alfresco, catching up on emails in the living room, or watching a movie in the cinema room.” The cinema is the owners’ favourite space. “It’s a great room to cosy up in – it’s a hideaway from the living areas. That said, we also love to entertain. Dinner for 16 is not unusual, so the open-plan area is perfect for us.”

Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.

“ T H E O W N E R S WA N T E D S O M E T H I N G Q U I T E P L A I N A N D PA R E D B AC K , W I T H C O L O U R A N D T E X T U R A L E L E M E N T S L AY E R E D O N TO P O F T H AT.” M A R C O M E N E G U Z Z I

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

139

H G houses

Modern M A S T E RY

Colonial us style meets Mid-Century refinement at this sydney home. Plus, it beautifully caters for every occasion â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from a quiet night in to a party for plenty. STORY Elizabeth Wilson | ST YLI N G Cameron Kimber & Robyn Holt | P H OTO G R A PH Y Petrina Tinslay

140 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

ENTRANCE Designed to

evoke classic US homes, this new build features traditional architectural details such as a cupola and a bullseye window above the front door. It is set back from the busy street and faces onto a large forecourt. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This way, the house is both shielded from traffic noise and welcomes you in,â&#x20AC;? says architect Katie Molnar. Exterior painted Dulux Grey Pebble Quarter with Dulux Whisper White trims. The front door is a restrained gloss black.

uildinganewhomerequiresaspecialtypeofalchemy. A crucial ingredient is trust, and all successful projects rely on a mutual understanding between the homeowners, architects, interior designers and trades. Recognising this, the savvy owners of this Sydney property recruited a group of trusted collaborators to help them achieve their dream home. With only one of their grown-up children still living under their roof, they wanted a new home with a manageable footprintandlessgarden.Butaspeoplewholovetoentertain, they still needed enough room to accommodate a steady flow of friends and family. Their aim was to achieve a design that was spacious, refined and understated. Thecouplewaswellacquaintedwiththearchitects,Molnar Freeman, having collaborated with the firm on a range of commercial enterprises. They also loved the work of interior designer Cameron Kimber, who devised a scheme for their previous home. So when it came to creating a look and feel for their new home, they could think of no better solution than to bring these parties together. The designers were enlisted simultaneously to ensure both the exterior and interior schemes could be shaped cohesively. This proved a fateful decision. Originally, the plan was for a rendered-brick house, but Cameron suggested a weatherboard treatment instead, taking inspiration from colonial US architecture. “A weatherboard house – if it’s a large home – feels lighter on the block. It looks really smart and, in this case, it was a departure from every other house in the neighbourhood,” says Cameron. “Some of the great houses in the US, Sweden and the UK are weatherboard.” Director of Molnar Freeman, Katie Molnar, loved the change of materiality. “The weatherboards were an excellent idea of Cameron’s and it helped us to realise the intent of the project, in terms of adding texture and downplaying the grandiose,” says Katie. “The construction method is reverse veneer, so the building is still very solid. The final result is a combination of the two [brick and weatherboard], with solid rendered corners and weatherboard infill.” It achieves the balance the owners were seeking – a dignified-looking home that still has a friendly face. Inside, the ground floor contains a slick entertainer’s kitchen connected to an open-plan dining/living area and a covered outdoor terrace. Upstairs, there are three > ENTRANCE & STAIRWAY Antique mirror and console. Lamps, Laura Kincade. Bernadi Bronze chandelier, James Said. Artwork by Gloria Petyarre. LIVING Sofas, armchairs and ottoman all Cameron Kimber Design. Abaca fibre rug, International Floorcoverings. KITCHEN Decrotiva tiles, Onsite Supply+Design. Patton pendant lights, Arteriors. Full-length joinery in Wenge veneer, Briggs Veneers. Benchtops in stainless steel (wall side) and concrete (island). Ilve stove, V-Zug steam oven. Liebherr fridge.

houses H G

“I arrange rooms for conversation and comfort, with plenty of different sorts of chairs.” Cameron Kimber

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

143

THIS IS THE LIFE

spanning three levels, this house offers its owners a multitide of formal and informal entertaining areas. “There are some lovely outdoor living spaces, allowing them to entertain on a large scale or more intimately,” says Cameron. Downstairs, a large terrace opens onto a private rear garden served by a kitchenette, which is decorated like an upmarket bar. “Perfect for parties and casual soirees,” he adds.

LIVING Resident pooch Luka, a pomeranian, lounges on an ottoman in glazed linen custom-

made for Cameron Kimber Design. Centred around the fireplace and opening onto the terrace, the room is a medley of rich fabrics and warm tones. Sofas and Gainsborough armchair, Cameron Kimber Design. Drum stools, Orient House. Abaca rug, International Floorcoverings. The custom fire surround has been treated to give it an aged patina and the timber-veneer cladding painted with a rusticated finish. The multi-paned windows are unadorned to let the greenery in.

Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.

H G houses

The palette Dulux Antarctic Lake (entrance/ stairwell) Dulux Stowe White (kitchen/family room)

Porterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Paints Jeep (living room)

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

145

MAIN BEDROOM Suzanne Tucker

‘Corsica’ fabric in Sand (walls and curtain), Tigger Hall Design. Ottoman covered in Phillip Jeffries ‘African Raffia’ from The Textile Company. Vintage artwork. Chest of drawers, The Vault Sydney. OUTDOOR TERRACE Venetian sofa from Brown Jordan. Table, Parterre. Roma cane chairs, Gaudions. KITCHENETTE Concrete tiles, Onsite Supply+Design. Orient Bay stools, La Maison. For Where to Buy, see page 192.

The layout

Garage

Mudroom

FIRST FLOOR

Bed Wardrobe

Kitchen Dining Living

Formal living

Bed

Bath

Study

Wardrobe

Laundry

Entry

Bath

Terrace

GROUND FLOOR

Terrace Bath

Bed

LOWER GROUND Gym Family

Bath

Bath/ laundry Kitchenette

Bed Terrace

Study/ living

Terrace

bedrooms plus a large study, and two outdoor terraces. Afourth bedroomislocatedinaself-containedlower-ground level that also contains a kitchenette and family room. “This is a multi-generational house that’s very well set-up for entertaining, thanks to its combination of formal and informal spaces,” says Katie. Fortheinteriors,Cameron’smissionwastostrikeamodern yet classic note. “The owners’ previous home had a very classic look. Here, they wanted a more contemporary feel, but still be able to include lots of the furniture they already owned,” he says. “We used their existing antiques and paintings, but we re-covered every upholstered piece and refreshed every lamp. We used pale, natural matting instead of rugs, and simplified the curtains using plain linens, or left some windows unadorned. We also chose contemporary light fittings and designed the fireplaces to look really streamlined and Mid-Century.” The overall ambience is airy and elegant. “When they walk throughthedoor,theownershavetheirpersonalthingsaround them so they feel instantly at home and relaxed, whether it’s # just them or they’re having a drinks party for 60.” Cameron Kimber Design, Woollahra, NSW; (02) 9388 0144 or cameronkimber.com. Molnar Freeman, Woolloomooloo, NSW; (02) 9327 1926 or molnarfreeman.com.

houses H G

“With its sofa, round table and cane chairs, the covered terrace feels like an actual room.” Cameron Kimber

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

147

houses H G

LIGHTNESS OF BEING With their children now grown, the owners of this sydney home decided it was high time to ready their abode for a new life phase. STO RY Judy Pascoe | ST Y L IN G Kerrie-Anne Jones | P H OTO GR A PHY Prue Ruscoe

FRONT VERANDAH The builder, Andy Bishop of Arthouse Projects, repurposed an old cane lounger into a romantic swing seat. Original tiles. STREET ENTRANCE Landscaping by Formed Gardens. House painted Dulux Beige

Antiquity. Fence painted Porterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Paints Breakwater. Plant pots, Garden Life.

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

149

The palette

Dulux Harpoon (living room)

Dulux Beige Antiquity (exterior)

Porter’s Paints Breakwater (front fence)

ENTRY Shine grasscloth wallpaper in Ecru (inset panels), Porter’s Paints. Sisal runner, International Floorcoverings. Table, Coco Republic. Apparatus Studio ‘Cloud 37’ pendant light, Criteria Collection. Kelly Wearstler ‘Tracery’ rug, The Rug Company. STUDY Opposite, top left and bottom Joinery painted Dulux Harpoon. Calacatta Viola marble benchtop, Artedomus. Kelly Wearstler wall sconce, Becker Minty. Diane von Furstenberg ‘Python Glory’ rug, The Rug Company. Antique desk. Desk chair, Fred International. Curvy sculpture by Sophie Nolan. Painting by Sharon Candy, Art2Muse Gallery. Custom roman blind in Mokum ‘Eternal’ linen. ENTRY/ LIVING Cassina ‘Utrecht’ armchairs, Space. Adam Hunter ‘Smoke’ rug, The Rug Company. .

C H U N KY S I S A L , S E AG R A S S WA L L PA P E R A N D A N G U L A R F U R N I T U R E G I V E T H E H E R I TAG E F E AT U R E S A F R E S H , M O D E R N F E E L .

houses H G

Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.

fter 21 years in this Sydney home, owners Kim and Gregg felt it was beginning to look a little tired. There was no question of abandoning the much-loved abode. Although three of the couple’s four adult children had moved out, the home’s spaciousness and leafy North Shore location were perfect; a makeover was deemed appropriate. Kim had admired the work of interior design firm Studio Gorman in a magazine and began following its principal, Suzanne Gorman, on Instagram. “It was as simple as that – I liked her work,” she says. Initially, Kim and Gregg’s brief was to redo the main bedroom, but it quickly escalated to include most of the circa-1907 two-storey house. The main bedroom suite, which occupies a prime position at the front of the first floor, was serviceable but not spectacular. “There was an unused bedroom alongside the main suite, which we could convert into a walk-in wardrobe,” says Suzanne. “Then we could use the whole of the space formerly split between ensuite and wardrobe for a luxurious main bathroom.” But that’s not all. Repositioning the bed in the centre of the room with a half-height joinery wall behind created space for a study nook, provided privacy for the bathroom, and focused attention on the home’s harbour view. The generous walk-in wardrobe is punctuated by a turquoise ottoman, a hint of the bold strokes of colour and layers of texture employed throughout. Seagrass wallpaper, >

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

151

shuttered windows and fresh paint contemporise the room which, true to its heritage, features panelled walls and ceilings and colourful leadlight windows. The highlight in the space is the Pinch ‘Anders’ light fitting, which draws a lot of interest from passersby. “It can be seen from the street and everyone loves it!” says Kim. The next room to be tackled was son Nic’s bedroom. Suzanne incorporated part of a corridor into the space to accommodate a bank of storage and a built-in desk. Two additional bedrooms, two bathrooms and a separate sitting room – perfect for their visiting grandson, 18-month-old Freddie – occupy the remainder of the top floor. All were refreshed with new paint and accessories.

Throughout the home, original tallowwood floors were re-stained a chocolate hue, and walls and stair balustrade painted in ecru or lined with seagrass wallpaper. “When I open my bedroom door in the morning it’s so beautiful seeing all that white with the dark accents,” says Kim. What was the formal dining room has been repurposed intoamusicroomforNic,aprofessionalmusician.There’s plenty of equipment, but the room never feels cluttered thanks to lofty ceilings that increase the sense of space. “There have been many rehearsals and even a recording session in here,” says Kim. “But I just love that every part of the house is still used. We didn’t need a formal dining room anymore as we eat in the kitchen or outdoors.

If we need it, there’s another dining table in the living room we can use.” While the heritage aspects of the house are still evident inthelivingroom,Suzanneandherteamgaveitadistinctly contemporary edge with chunky sisal carpet, seagrass wallpaper and angular furniture. “We weren’t asked to be ‘sensible’,” says Suzanne, “but we were sensible and reupholstered pieces where we could and repainted a lot of existing joinery.” Luckily Kim isn’t afraid of colour: emerald green tiles are used to dazzling effect in the powder room, while a mustard sofa in the study is a lovely counterpoint to the deep blue joinery. Suzanne gives credit to her colleague,

interior designer Jodie Gillman, for the choice of vibrant Dulux Harpoon on the joinery. Kim says it really makes the room. The final fillip in the upgrade was the garden, which had been a bit neglected. Luke Baldwin of Formed Gardens judiciously trimmed, thinned and replanted, adding lush new magnolia trees that are visible from inside, jasmine creeper on the pool fence where pines once stood, and Boston ivy along the boundary. Box hedge by the pool fence was cut back to open up the back garden. “It’s been a beautiful family home,” says Kim. “And it’s even lovelier now.” > Studio Gorman, Artarmon, NSW; studiogorman.com.

LIVING Cassina ‘Utrecht’ armchairs, Space. Coffee

table, Grazia & Co. Existing sofa. Font dining chairs, Fred International. Original leadlight windows. Sisal flooring, International Floorcoverings. Adam Hunter ‘Smoke’ rug, The Rug Company. Sculpture on table by Sophie Nolan.

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

153

THIS IS THE LIFE

Shaded by a large liquidambar, the expansive flat lawn abutting the pool and the outdoor living area is one of the family’s favourite parts of the home. “We moved here from Melbourne when the children were quite small,” says Kim. “We didn’t think we’d be able to get the same amount of space in Sydney, but the garden has hosted many cricket and soccer games. Our ‘kids’ still like to play here, even though they are adults!”. #

KITCHEN Duke the labrador

waits expectantly for a treat. Black granite benchtops. Existing tapware and pendant lights. Kitchen stool, Curious Grace. Kelly Behun ‘Domus Grey’ rug, The Rug Company. GARDEN Owner Kim and her grandson Freddie enjoy the garden. For Where to Buy,

see page 192.

houses H G

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

155

Perfectly formed

In this compact Melbourne apartment, a family-focused makeover delivered on practicality and style. STO RY Chris Pearson | ST Y L I N G Penny Del Castillo | P HOTOGR AP HY Isamu Sawa

156 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

houses H G KITCHEN Ligne Roset ‘Stump’ marble occasional table, Domo. Sovereign rug in

Quartz, The Rug Establishment. Ash marble on splashback and benchtop, CDK Stone. Chambord Louis sink, Abey. Classics kitchen mixer, Brodware. Joinery by Unique Interior Services. HT114 cabinet handles, Kethy. Brass trays, Satara. Pitcher, Georg Jensen. Rusticone flooring, Veneto Group (throughout).

he owners of this Melbourne apartment had a grand plan when they bought it in 2017 – in more ways than one. Proud grandparents, the countrydwellersenvisageditasacitypadtoaccommodate their three grandchildren, now aged between four and eight. They also wanted to restore the home, located in a majestic heritage building, to its former splendour. The building, an 1890s Italianate hotel, had been subdivided into apartments about 25 years before. “It reminded us of our time in London,” says the owner. “They don’t make them like this anymore.” But the apartment’s bland, cookie-cutter fitout was out of step with the building. And, unlike the building’s spacious common areas, the 80m2 floor plan felt squeezy. Despite that, the apartment had plenty of pluses, says interior designer Penny Del Castillo of In Design International.“Ithad3.6m-highceilings,stunningold-school windows and easy access to a generous courtyard. The ownerswantedthehometolooklikeitbelongedinaheritage building, but be finished in a contemporary way.” The home also had to be child-friendly. “Everything revolved around the grandchildren,” says Penny. “It had to be open plan, with enough floor space for the kids to play.” It also needed to be low-maintenance, wipe-clean, and able to stand the rough and tumble of active youngsters. >

158 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.

H G houses

The palette

Dulux Whisper White (throughout)

Ash marble (kitchen splashback and benchtop) Osborne & Little ‘Monchique’ wallpaper (main bedroom)

LIVING This page and opposite top

Sofas, Great Dane. Coffee table, Globe West. Triple Oracle suspension light, Christopher Boots. Fire surround, Schots Home Emporium. Scope 500 Bioethanol fireplace, EcoSmart Fire. Table lamp, Design Nation. Roman blind in Mokum ‘Magnolia’. COURTYARD Floor lamp, Obodo. Lantern, sofas, coffee table and side tables, all Satara. Umbrella, Shelta Australia. Original bluestone paving.

The layout

Bath

Bed

Dining

Bed

Entry

Playroom

Living Courtyard

Kitchen

GROUND FLOOR

ATTIC

DINING Dining table, One World Collection. Dining chairs, James Richardson. Leather on chairs and banquette, Camo Leathers. Brass trays, Satara. BATHROOM Bath, Schots Home Emporium. Tapware, Brodware. Drawthatout artwork by Julio Brenes. Tiles, Perini. MAIN BEDROOM Opposite, top right and bottom Pendant light, ECC Lighting+Furniture. Table lamp, Bloomingdales Lighting. Sheer curtain in Camengo Emoi fabric from The Textile Company. Osborne & Little ‘Monchique’ wallpaper. Bed by Studio Del Castillo. Jewel cabinet, Zuster. Studio del Castillo ottoman in Catherine Martin for Mokum Powder Blue fabric. Lunar mirror, Grazia & Co.

HOUSES H G

THIS IS THE LIFE

They might live in the country, but this ‘weekender’ is used regularly by the owners and their extended family, including their adult children and grandchildren. “We love sharing it and never feel squished, even with everyone here,” says the owner. Thanks to the in-line kitchen and dining banquette, internal space is maximised while the fully furnished courtyard, a room in itself, provides a second living area.

Penny began by rejigging the layout. The front door now opens directly into the open-plan living area, with the kitchen along one wall to the right. A dining area with banquette is located to the left of the entrance. Laundry appliances were shifted to create a European-style laundry in the kitchen, freeing up both bedroom and bathroom space. The generous courtyard – more than half the size of the apartment – was furnished to create another living space, including allweather umbrellas for both shelter and privacy. Meanwhile, attic storage was converted into a playroom accessed by remote-controlled drop-down stairs. Little wonder the children call it their ‘secret room’... Decorative elements such as wainscoting, cornices and ceiling mouldings were added for character. Together with the wide-gauge French oak flooring, marble in the bathroom and brushed tapware, the sumptuous, timeless interior looks as though it had always been so. By allowing the architectural elements do most of the talking, Penny was able to avoid decorative clutter. > AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

161

CHILDREN’S ROOM This page and opposite top Pythagoras M03 wallpaper, Unique Fabrics. Artworks from Dots by Donna. Bedlinen, Abode Living. Bespoke cushions in Mokum ‘Cappadocia’ by Studio Del Castillo. Table lamp, Bloomingdales Lighting. Pearl bedside table, Zuster. Peggie Panels peg board, Shop for Shops. Baskets, Ikea and Adairs Kids. BATHROOM Ovo basin, Studio Bagno. Michelangelo basin mixer, Brodware. Towels, Sheridan. Fizi wall sconce, Articolo Lighting. For Where to Buy, see page 192.

houses H G

The magnolia-print roman blind on the living room window is a de facto artwork, she says. Its brocade trim, however, is evidence of Penny’s attention to detail. “The apartment is opulent and layered, with handcrafted elements and lots of detail.It’smaximalistratherthanminimalist,”sheconcedes. As a counterpoint to the decorative features, Penny kept the palette natural to make the space feel more open. “Ït gives the decor longevity,” she says. Similarly, the furniture has clean, contemporary profiles to offset the architectural detailing, as do the smart light fittings. A king-size bed in themainbedroomplayswithscaleand, paradoxically, makes the room appear larger than it is. Accordingly, the once ‘plain Jane’ apartment now punches way above its weight, both in practicality and elegance. While the owner adores the living areas and their focus on family time, the bathroom is her favourite space – because with its freestanding bath, beautiful wall of feature tiles and separate shower it belies the modest area it occupies. “I love the feeling of space and how Penny took our interpretation of what this apartment should be, and made it even better,” she says. “There’s everything you would see in a big space neatly tucked into a small space.” And all thanks to a shared grand vision. # In Design International, Abbotsford, Victoria; (03) 9421 2611 or www.indesigninternational.com.au.

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

163

Photograph by Nick Bowers.

By their very nature, gardens are life-affirming places buzzing with growth, energy and productivity. Even small spaces have a huge capacity to provide home gardeners with beauty, interest, scent and wonder. In the following pages, we focus on small gardens and ask the experts to reveal their latest petite projects. All the inspiration you need to add some sparkle to your own little patch of paradise.

TURN YOUR SMALL GARDEN INTO A LITTLE JEWEL P R O D U C E D & T E X T BY Elizabeth Wilson

G a rden s

Wonder worlds

E M E R A L D jewel

A perfect balance of soft romantic plantings and sleek sophistication have transformed this garden into a never-want-to-leave-it space.

166 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

Photography by Nick Bowers.

Small gardens FOCUS From the luscious planting to the bluestone stepping stones and wall of herringbone terracotta tiles, this gem of a garden is filled with visual and tactile delights.

Small gardens FOCUS

KEEP IT INTERESTING

Nicola’s tips for small gardens ✚ Use walls and other vertical planes for planting and/or colour and texture. This can give depth and interest. ✚ Layer planting and mix foliage types, but make sure the species you choose do not overcrowd the space. ✚ If the space is north-facing and enclosed, it may get very hot and still. Plant trees or design open pergolas to create shade but also let the heat escape. ✚ Don’t be afraid to create outdoor rooms or to block the view into a different zone of the garden. This creates intrigue and draws you through the space.

gorgeous feature wall of elongated terracotta tiles in a herringbone pattern is just one of the unexpected, eyepleasing elements in this beautiful, textured garden. It’s a detail that wouldn’t look out of place in a chic interior space – and that is exactly the point of this garden design. Having renovated their home four years earlier, the owners of this Sydney property were excited to revamp their rear garden and outdoor entertaining areas, which together form an L-shape. With their kitchen and dining areas opening directly onto the garden, their priority was to create an inviting and beautiful space. “They wanted to bring these outdoor areas up to the level of their home, with a relaxed but structured feel to match the interiors,” says landscape designer and director of Pepo Botanic Design, Nicola Cameron (pictured). The clients, parents of two young daughters, also wanted to install a pool. Extending off the existing deck is a 3x10m rectangular lawn, which Nicola softened with deep, curvacious garden beds containing layers of flowering and textural plants. In keeping with the owner’s wishes, the plant mix has a cottage feel The 2.5x4.5m pool is neatly tucked into the smaller length of the L, within existing masonry boundary walls. The hardscaping around the pool – Belgium blue limestone pavers and polished concrete poured in situ – has all the polish and sophistication of interior joinery. A row of snow pear (Pyrus nivalis) forms a green wall down one side of the pool, with a bed of liriope on the other. The boundary walls provided ready-made privacy screens for the pool and gave Nicola theinspirationforthefeaturewallofreclaimed terracotta tiles. “The terracotta tiles were chosen to complement the neighbour’s brick wall which is covered in Boston ivy,” says Nicola.“Thetwomaterialshappilysittogether.” At the cooler, northern end of the pool, on the raised concrete platform, Nicola has created a seating area. “Comfortable seating attheendofthepooldrawsyouintothespace.” www.pepo.com.au >

TOP Silvery Strobilanthes gossypinus, flowering Acanthus mollis, balls of Japanese box, Plectranthus argentatus and a mature camellia all feature in the textured garden beds encircling the lawn. ABOVE Pretty mauve-flowering lamb’s ear (Stachys lanata ‘Moonlight Velvet’) and Nepeta gracilis echo the hues of the blue limestone in the pool area. Three espaliered snow pears (Pyrus nivalis) provide a tall green screen along the pool.

168 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

Attention all garden lovers! If you admire a beautiful garden and the power of plants to transform a home, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a stunning coffee table book to pop under the Christmas tree for the gardener in your life!

On sale now

Only $59.99. Available where all good books are sold and bauerbooks.com.au

R O O M S with a view

This Perth garden is designed to create perfectly framed green outlooks that can be enjoyed from every corner of the home.

he genius of this newly constructed Perth home is that it’s built around a series of courtyards, including a central, U-shaped one that wraps around the main living areas. Thanks to this thoughtful design, the interior is flooded withnaturallightand every window offers a view to outside. It also means that these outdoor spaces playanintegralroleinthelifeofthehome. Recognising this, the homeowners engaged husband and wife landscapedesign duo, Neil and Jenny Delmage of Naturescape Creative (pictured). “Our aim was to bring the garden into the house through every window,” says Jenny. Around the perimeter of the central courtyard, Neil and Jenny designed long built-in planter boxes that are filled with New Zealand rock lily (Arthropodium cirratum ‘Matapouri Bay’), a soft strappyleafed plant with sprays of white flowers in spring. “The Arthropodium have graceful foliage that softens the space,” says Neil. Evergreen magnolia trees (Magnolia ‘Bubbles’) add height without blocking views from inside the house. To echo the modern architecture, Neil and Jenny devised a series of vertical steel frames designed to be covered by Chinese star jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides), a plant also chosen for its headyfragrance.Ageniebottle-shapedurn isplantedwithabroad-leafedCliviaminiata and cascading Dichondra ‘Silver Falls’. TohelptheplantscopewithPerth’soften scorching summers, Jenny and Neil installed a retractable blind system. “This type of garden is so important in today’s compact, inner-city housing,” says Neil. “It’s easy-care and provides a soothing green place to relax in.” naturescapecreative.com.au >

170 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

“ T H E D E S I G N B R I N G S L AY E R S O F G R E E N G A R D E N I N TO T H E H O U S E , DAY A N D N I G H T.” N E I L D E L M A G E CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT A potted sedum in the central courtyard. An aerial view of the textural front courtyard. A water feature collects rainwater from the roof. Prostrate rosemary spills over a wall. OPPOSITE TOP The central courtyard is fringed by Arthropodium and Magnolia ‘Bubbles’ while Chinese star jasmine climbs bespoke frames. OPPOSITE BOTTOM Lomandra ‘Tanika’, kangaroo paw and white-flowering Convolvulus cneorum in the front courtyard.

Small gardens FOCUS

OASIS OF CALM

Photography by Marnie Hawson.

✚ Foliage texture, leaf shapes, flowers and fragrance all play an important role in the overall look and feel of this space. ✚ All the plants here are low maintenance – requiring a light fertilise seasonally and low watering – and there is no hedging required. ✚ The Chinese star jasmine will be trimmed to keep it hugging the bespoke frame, creating a sculptural element in the garden. “The fragrance of the jasmine floods the courtyard and drifts into the house in spring,” says Jenny. ✚ Jenny and Neil finished the boundary wall with a specialised grey render to create a soft velvety effect, a lovely backdrop to the textured greenery.

inside A lush courtyard filled with emerald-green plants enlivens OU T SIDE

the living space of this Sydney property.

Small gardens FOCUS

Photograph by Simon Whitbread. Plants supplied by Exotic Nurseries.

nhancing the indoor-outdoor connection is a mantra of modern home design. It was certainly a priority for the owners of this Sydney property when they renovated their 1980s home. The whole house, inside and out, was tired, and this courtyard, which extends off a downstairs living area, especially, screamed out for change. As soon as the internal renovations wrapped up, the owners enlisted horticulturist Lyndall Keating of Garden Society (pictured) to breathe new life into this 4.5x10m space. “It called for a complete change of planting,” says Lyndall. “We resisted putting in more climbing plants, which closes in the walls. Instead, we opted for fresh white walls with layers of verdant foliage.” Rather than hide the existing structural columns, Lyndall incorporated them, echoing the rounded forms with the addition of a custom-made arched mirror. The southerly orientation of the space required careful plant selection. “The plants needed to be able to cope with minimal sunlight, moist conditions and limited soil depth,” Lyndall says. Altogether, she used seven different lush-leafed species with contrasting foliage types. A water feature was added for its visual appeal and soothing sounds. Existing sandstone pavers were regrouted and cleaned to restore the natural beauty of the stone, and the walls painted Dulux Half White Exchange. Lyndall says she designed the garden always mindful of how it would be viewed from inside the home. “There is now a strong connection between indoors and out,” she says. “The courtyard is essentially an extension of the living area.” www.gardensociety.com.au >

ABOVE Upgrading the courtyard

has elevated the look and feel of the interiors. LEFT Architectural plantings include palms and bromeliads. Hot Mesh lounger and footstool, Blu Dot. BELOW Elephant ears provide a contrast to the strappier plants. OPPOSITE The arched mirror reflects the light and visually opens up the space. The water feature fills the space with soothing sounds.

LUSH LAYERS

The key plants used here are: ✚ Cordyline glauca ✚ Kidney weed (Dichondra repens) ✚ Lady palm (Rhapis excelsa) ✚ Australian fan palm (Licuala ramsayi) ✚ Elephant ears (Alocasia macrorrhiza) ✚ Blechnum ‘Silver Lady’ ✚ Giant bromeliad (Alcantarea imperialis ‘Rubra’)

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

173

L E T I T shine

A beautiful garden can be the quiet achiever that helps to unify a multifaceted home.

architectandbuilderthroughouttheproject – and the house and garden reached completion at the same time. The owners’ brief to Matt was twofold: they wanted a low-maintenance garden and a design that reflected the home’s architectural narrative. “They wanted a style of garden that would be kind to the history of the home, but that would also recognisethemodernaddition,”saysMatt. The front and side gardens were tiny spacesthatrequiredcarefulsolutions.Out thefront,wherethefacademeetsthestreet, Matt designed a 5m long, 60cm wide >

Photography by Nicholas Watt.

ld neatly dovetails with new at this Sydney property, thanks to a sympathetic modern addition to the original 1890s-era home. But the garden, too, plays an important role in blending the two architectural eras. As soon as they launched into renovations,thehomeownersrealisedthey wanted the garden to sing in tune with the home. They engaged Secret Gardens early on in the process to devise a garden for the front, western side entrance and the rear. Secret Gardens’ managing director, Matt Cantwell (pictured) worked closely with the

174 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

Small gardens FOCUS

The front garden (this page and opposite) is simple and restrained, reflecting the architecture of the heritage facade, and consists of a row of Kalanchoe â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Silver Spoonsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in front of a row of coniferous Cephalotaxus harringtonia. Growing on the verge is a lilly pilly, Syzygium luehmannii.

brick ‘planter’, filling it with Kalanchoe ‘Silver Spoons’ layered in front of a row of Cephalotaxus harringtonia. The effect is restrained and linear, in keeping with thearchitecture.“Thesetwoplantvarieties fitted the brief – both modern and classic,” says Matt. The side garden, measuring 3m wide and 9m long, is located on the western side of the house so receives a lot of afternoon sun. “The plants needed to be tough here,” says Matt. They include a groundcoverofDichondrarepens,hedging of Rhaphiolepis ‘Oriental Pearl’ and Bougainvillea ‘Scarlet O’Hara’ climbing the walls. ‘Simple’wasthekeywordinthebrieffor the 200m2 rear garden, where a new pool is offset with generous green space. “The clients wanted a large lawn area, not just for children to play on but to enable the architecture to shine,” says Matt. It’s an open, north-facing space, with a mature eucalypt casting dappled light over it for much of the day. Matt chose King’s Pride soft-leaf buffalo grass for the lawn. “It’s durable, hard-wearing and sun and shade tolerant,” he says. The lawn is framed with a hedge of bay (Laurus nobilis ‘Miles Choice’). Alongside the pool he planted a row of Philodendron ‘Xanadu’. Matt chose Madagascan jasmine (Stephanotisfloribunda)tobringgreenery to the outdoor dining area. The jasmine is trained to climb a series of stainless-steel wires, creating a beautiful evergreen curtain around the dining table. “The layout of the house is simple and clean, no clutter, no unnecessary details,” saysMatt.Andhehasperfectly echoed that sentiment in the garden. www.secretgardens.com.au >

176 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

“ THE BRIEF CALLED F O R A C O M B I N AT I O N OF CLASSIC AND MODERN ELEMENTS. L E S S WA S A LWAY S G O I N G TO B E M O R E I N T H I S G A R D E N .”

M AT T C A N T W E L L

TOP AND ABOVE LEFT Hardy plants were needed for the side garden; these include Rhaphiolepis

‘Oriental Pearl’, Dichondra repens and bougainvillea. A walking iris (Neomarica gracilis) is planted in a tall ridged pot from Secret Gardens’ new brand, Hibernate Outdoors. ABOVE Fan-leafed palm (Livistona chinensis). Pot, Hibernate Outdoors. OPPOSITE TOP “We used Madagascan jasmine to create a filtered screen,”says Matt. “It’s so lovely when the sun passes through the foliage and the scent is heavenly.” OPPOSITE, BOTTOM LEFT A potted dragon tree (Dracaena draco) adds poolside drama. OPPOSITE, BOTTOM RIGHT The simple garden design allows the architecture to shine.

Small gardens FOCUS

GRAND PLAN

A small outdoor space requires big ideas. “People tend to think small and add too much detail, rather than keeping it simple,” says Matt Cantwell from Secret Gardens. Here, Matt shares his key tips for compact gardens: ✚ Think big: rather than lots of bits and pieces of greenery, choose a singular, super-advanced tree that will not outgrow the space. ✚ Declutter: it’s easy to collect pots but in a small space it can look untidy. One large pot can look far better. The less clutter, the more impact. ✚ Don’t be afraid to pave the area with a large format tile or paver. It will make it easier on the eye and make the space feel larger. ✚ Make sure your outdoor furniture complements and doesn’t repeat the indoor furniture. There’s no point having two dining tables adjacent to each other.

TA K I NG

the plunge

Photography by Anson Smart.

Good things come in small packages, especially when those parcels are cleverly designed, as in this Sydney garden.

Small gardens FOCUS

hen they renovated, the owners of this inner-city terrace in Sydney were keen to make the most of every centimetre, inside and out. They had big plans, especially, for their petite 5.5x8.8m sloping rear garden. Their brief to landscape designer Sophie Greive at Think Outside Gardens was for a multi-use space incorporating off-street parking, an entertaining zone, a play area for children, a plunge pool and bin storage. To accommodate all this, and to resolve the issue of the sloping site, Sophie (pictured) divided the garden into two levels. The top level is a 3x5.5m deck/entertaining space that sits flush with the interior floor and features a built-in barbecue and dining setting that comfortably seats the family. A 2.3x1.8m plunge pool extends from the deck. It’s positioned to one side to allow for parking on the other. Ingeniously, the pool has a lockable timber cover that slides under the deck. “No pool fencing was required, and it creates extra decking when the pool’s not in use,” says Sophie. The lower level is a 5.5x5.8m synthetic lawn. “We needed a hard-wearing surface and this was the best option,” Sophie says. “Lawn wasn’t durable enough and a hard surface wasn’t soft enough for kids’ play.” Sophie planted a row of slender weavers bamboo (Bambusa textilis var. Gracilis) to form a screen along the western side boundary. Two existing kentia palms were replanted (one in the ground, the other in a pot) to form a canopy layer. A cluster of potted plants successfully hides the bins. “The pool and barbecue are in constant use, and the whole space works as an extension of the home,” says Sophie.

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE

When the plunge pool cover is closed, it becomes an extension of the deck. A Magnolia ‘Teddy Bear’, underplanted with tricolour star jasmine, and a silver jade (Crassula ‘Bluebird’) are among the potted plants. A replanted kentia palm. OPPOSITE The aerial view of this action-packed little garden.

SPACE ODYSSEY

✚ “Every available space has been maximised,” says Sophie. Using a cluster of pots rather than planting everything in-ground makes the space more flexible as the pots can be moved if needed. ✚ Slender weavers bamboo is a clumping bamboo so it won’t spread and provides maximum screening height with a minimal footprint. ✚ Synthetic grass is a great option for small shaded spaces, on rooftops, for car parking areas and spaces too tricky to mow. ✚ Sandstone inserts in the grass are designed for the wheels of the car.

thinkoutsidegardens.com.au #

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

179

Little stars

warf fruit trees bear full-sized fruit on pint-sized trees, so even small gardens and balconies can accommodate at least one. Compact trees are also easy to manage – you don’t need a ladder for pruning or harvesting, and you can readily cover them with netting to protect the crop against fruit ﬂy, birds and possums.

WHAT TO GROW Selecting the right fruit tree is critical. The main groups are citrus, stone fruit (peaches, nectarines, plums, cherries and apricots) and pome fruit (apples, pears and quinces). Avocadoes, mangoes, mulberries and pomegranates are also available. Climate is the main consideration. Many stone and pome fruits have a ‘chilling requirement’; that is, the total number of hours needed below 7˚C each year to set fruit. Chilling requirements vary – apples, for example, have low-, medium- or high-chill varieties, which need between 300-1200 chilling hours. Citrus and other subtropical fruits do not have a chilling requirement. Some fruit trees need a pollinating partner in order to set fruit. Apples, plums, cherries and pears mostly need to cross-pollinate with another variety that ﬂowers at the same time. Suitable cross-pollinators should be listed on the label. Nectarines, peaches and apricots are largely self-fertile but often produce better crops if they have a pollinating partner. Citrus never need one. GROWING TIPS For successful fruit growing, it’s important to get the basics right. You need a sunny spot, good soil and a commitment to looking after the trees throughout the year. Choose the sunniest spot you can – at least six hours daily is best – and with shelter from strong, cold or salty winds. Improve soil by mixing in 180 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

compost, manures and rock dust. To sandy soils add a wetting agent such as Saturaid or Eco-hydrate; add gypsum to clay soils. Plant trees on a raised mound to improve drainage. Pots or tubs should be at least 40cm in diameter (preferably more) and ﬁlled with best-quality potting mix. Fruit trees need regular watering in summer and during ﬂowering and fruiting. A layer of mulch under the canopy helps keep moisture in and weeds out. Fertilise regularly, using organic-based products that also enhance soil microbes. Annual pruning is needed to maximise fruit production, minimise disease problems and maintain size; techniques and timing vary according to variety. Unfortunately, you can also expect a range of pests and diseases, so research these for your varieties. Always choose organic products. #

Where to buy Specialists and online retailers sell bare-root fruit trees in winter for delivery by post or courier. ✚ PlantNet The Backyard Beauties range includes ‘Pinkabelle’ and ‘Leprechaun’ apples, pears, plums, apricots, plumcot and peacharine. plantnet.com.au ✚ Fleming’s Nursery Ballerina range of columnar apples, Trixzie miniature apples, peaches, nectarines, cherries and pears. www.flemings.com.au ✚ Daleys Fruit Tree Nursery A vast array of subtropical fruit – citrus, mango, avocado, mulberry. daleysfruit.com.au ✚ Heritage Fruit Trees Heirloom plums, cherries, apricots, apples, nectarines, peaches. www.heritagefruittrees.com.au ✚ Yalca Fruit Trees Cider apples, quince, crabapples, persimmons, medlars, mulberries. www.yalcafruittrees.com.au ✚ Woodbridge Fruit Trees Apples, pears, apricots, peaches, nectarines. www.woodbridgefruittrees.com.au

Adam Robinson Design ‘Moderno ARD Gavitello’ pot collection, available from Garden Life (pictured this page). Text by Elizabeth Wilson (Clippings). Currency conversion correct at time of writing.

Want to grow your own fruit but don’t have the space for an orchard? Helen Young has the solution.

GARDENS H G

C L I PPI NG S 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 .

These beautiful Rib pots by Capi Europe feature an etched pattern inspired by reeds gently moving in the breeze. Made in the Netherlands from lightweight polyethylene and wood fibres, they have an insulating layer that protects the root system from heat and frost, helping your plants thrive. From $75, Bunnings. www.capi-europe.com

GL A MOU R BA R BIE Give dinner guests a gourmet experience with the Traeger Pro Series 575 pellet grill (135x104cm). It has a temperature range of 65˚C to 232˚C, and can hold up to 24 burgers. $1499.95. traeger.com.au

Space mission

Latest garden book releasess

GIRL POWER The Earth in Her Hands profiles 75 women who work with plants such as Australian photographer Claire Takacs and The Planthunter’s editor Georgina Reid. $59.40, Timber Press.

GROW YOUR OWN English cook and gardener Aaron Bertelsen, who works at the famed UK garden Great Dixter, shares his knowledge and tips on growing produce in pots. $49.94, Phaidon.

WELL, WELL, WELL In this beautifully photographed guide to sustainable living, author Julia Watson shares recipes and projects for home and garden, using natural ingredients. $34.99, Hardie Grant.

Give indoor plants a lift with the Rocket planter. Made in Melbourne from Tasmanian blackwood, fibreglass and brass, it gives interiors a great Mid-Century vibe too. Available in two sizes, priced from $410. retroprintrevival.com.

T IF Y G A T SD EC R ' RF HE PE T E MO TH R FO

Spoilmum YOUR

with a subscription to her favourite magazine...

MUSK FARM’S NEW OWNER-GARDENERS

Marvellous

E XC LU S I V E S

Magda

DOLLY PARTON SARAH FERGUSON & JEAN KITTSON

How this funny lady learned to be truly happy

TAKE A BREAK TO TASMANIA # TR AV ELLOCA L

RENOVATION COMPLETE

BILLION DOLLAR BABIES

Food to Love Tasty vegan, Cooking for two +Pie maker perfection!

Honey, we’re home!

Is the fertility industry putting proﬁts before people?

MONDAY MORNING COOKING CLUB cooks for you

TRUE CRIME

WHO KILLED BRENDA?

Special

R E P O RT

GRACE KELLY’S LEGACY Can her grandchildren return Monaco to glory?

The adventurer who disappeared without a trace

COMING UP ROSES

Plus

STUNNING

transformations

The lost art of handwriting

12 ISSUES FROM $69.99

Our pick of what to plant now

pages of

10 ISSUES FROM $59.99 SAVE 29%

12 ISSUES FROM $69.99 SAVE 41%

11 ISSUES FROM $69.99 SAVE 36%

12 ISSUES FROM $69.99 SAVE 31%

40+KITCHENS & BATHROOMS pages of Australia’s ﬁnest

FEUD TURNS TOXIC

MEGHAN’S CRUEL GOODBYE

EXCLUSIVE!

STYLISH SOJOURNS

Tasmania Champagne Indonesia

‘I’LL SEE YOU IN COURT!’

THE ART OF BRICOLAGE

Rosedale Farm’s luxe country kitchen revealed

TRUE CRIME REPORT

IT’S OVER! CHARLES FINALLY DUMPS CAMILLA

BEAUMONT CHILDREN SHOCK NEW EYEWITNESS

FINAL CALL FOR ENTRIES INTERIOR DESIGN AWARDS

JEN’S SAD TELL-ALL ‘I FEARED FOR MY LIFE!’

26 ISSUES FROM $69.99 SAVE 45%

CU T

& PA S T E

Covetable wallcoverings

Pretty

handsome

Beautiful rooms from 20 leading tastemakers

26 ISSUES FROM $69.99 SAVE 55%

12 ISSUES FROM $69.99 SAVE 31%

8 ISSUES FROM $69.99 SAVE 23%

WIN up to $20,000 Gift card valid for 3 years!

Subscribe at

in beauty treatments! To enter simply subscribe or renew to any participating magazine and you’ll go into the draw to win 1 of 200 Spa.com.au gift cards valued at $100.

magshop.com.au/mum7

136 116 and quote M20MHGN

Competition opens on 22/03/2020 and closes 31/05/2020 at 11.59pm AEST. Competition is open to all residents of Australia aged 18 years or over, who subscribe or renew their subscription to one or more magazine titles or purchase any product available on Magshop (magshop.com.au). Competition draw will take place 08/06/2020 at 11am AEST. Please see bauer-media.com.au/privacy for our privacy policy. For full terms and conditions of entry, visit magshop.com.au/mothersday-tc. The Promoter is Bauer Media Pty Ltd (ABN 18 053 273 546). Authorised under permit numbers: ACT: TP 20/00451, NSW: LTPS/20/43009, SA:T20/391

magshop.com.au

LIVING H G

The green house

WA S T E N O T The savings really are signiﬁcant when you cut down on household food waste, writes Sarah Pickette.

ow much food do you waste? You might think it’s not much, but the average Australian household throws away between $1000 and $4000 worth of food annually. “There are huge savings to be made just by looking in your fridge and using up what you already have,” says Ronni Kahn, CEO and founder of food-rescue charity OzHarvest. Minimising food waste is also the single most powerful way we can take direct action against climate change, she says. “To put it in context, eight per cent of greenhouse gases heating the planet are caused by food waste.” Attitudes have changed markedly in recent years, adds Kahn. Education campaigns, shows such as ABC TV’s War on Waste and consumer pressure on major supermarkets have all had an impact. But there’s still a long way to go. “The Federal Government’s National Food Waste Baseline report states that 7.3 million tonnes of food is wasted in Australia every year. There’s so much work to be done if we are to achieve our national target of halving food waste by 2030.” Strides are being made, though. OzHarvest’s national food-rescue partner Woolworths is working towards a goal of zero food waste going to landfill. “We currently rescue nutritious food from more than 400 Woolworths stores nationally and that number is growing all the time,” says Kahn. “Change is happening – increasing numbers of supermarkets stock ‘wonky’

3 OF A KIND SMART FOOD SAVERS

Fruit and vegetables don’t keep well in plastic. The Swag’s cotton food bags can extend the life of your fresh produce by up to three weeks. $79.95/4-piece starter pack; www.theswag.com.au.

“ THERE ARE HUGE SAVINGS TO BE MADE JUST BY LOOKING IN YOUR FRIDGE AND USING UP WHAT YOU ALREADY HAVE.” Ronni Kahn, CEO and founder, OzHarvest

fruit and vegetables, for example – but more consumers need to get behind these sorts of initiatives.” Confusion around food labelling is another problem, adds Kahn. “This leads to perfectly edible food being thrown away. It would be great to see a major review in this area, but in the meantime I’d urge people to do the sniff test, the way our grandparents did. We also need to stop overproducing bread; it’s staggering how much fresh bread gets thrown away every day.” EducationanddigitalinnovationarewhereKahnseespromise.OzHarvest released its Food App in 2019, linking people in need with businesses that have excess food in areas the OzHarvest vans don’t reach. And the charity’s education program for primary school kids, called FEAST (Food Education and Sustainability Training), will be rolled out later this year or next. “Children are the future change-makers and they are extremely passionate about protecting the planet. We hope that by firing their imagination to create recipes from food that would otherwise be wasted, they learn both # the value of food and the importance of not wasting it.” For more information and how to get involved, go to ozharvest.org.

The Prepara Herb Savor Pod 2.0 can help herbs (and vegies) last up to three times longer. A well of water in the bottom works to keep them healthy. $79.95/three, Everten; www.everten.com.au.

A small cartridge you simply place in the vegetable crisper of your fridge, KeepFresh absorbs ethylene and will keep fruit and vegetables fresh up to six weeks longer. Starter pack $17; keepfresh.com.au.

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

183

LEDlux Rhine Pendant. Effortlessly combining style and technology with its contemporary design, glare free light and ability to change between three colour temps with a single switch. $469; beaconlighting.com.au

The sophisticated palm beach armchair by HC28 is fully customisable from the finest quality fabric samples available at Domo, ensuring your individual palette and curated style is met. From $1,675; domo.com.au

Easycraft wall and ceiling linings come in a wide range of decorative profiles. Ascot.Vogue panels give a luxury feel, perfect for creating a stylish wall feature. $70/m2; easycraft.com.au

H&G ESSENTIALS Chapman is a proudly Australian owned business with a brand ethos centred around beautiful and unique, design-led, affordable lifestyle pieces with a technological edge. $499; chapmantradingco.com.au

Create a beautiful lifestyle and home with these must-have products.

Medi Freeze Skin Tag Remover. For safe, painless removal of skin tags on the neck, in the armpits and under the breasts. Comes with target shields to guard surrounding skin. medifreeze.com.au

Phoenix NX Iko With Hydrosense® are slender and elegant, with a stripped back design to allow for simplicity and clean lines, providing an assured focal point in any bathroom interior. phoenixtapware.com.au

Ilve. Many solutions are at the consumers’ disposal today but none with the design appeal and robustness to match Artusi’s ABS1 and ABS2 Alfresco Kitchens. ilve.com.au

RSL Art Union. Draw 375 gives you the chance to win an ENTIRE $6m Palm Beach apartment complex, including a double storey penthouse and four apartments. rslartunion.com.au/Prizes/Draw375

Zip HydroTap Celsius All-in-One Arc tap: here is a system that delivers boiling, chilled and sparkling filtered drinking water, as well as hot and cold unfiltered water for your sink. zipwater.com

Linen House Toro Cushions. Made from a luxe velvet fabric, this perfectly soft, textured, round cushion is a couch must-have this season. $49.95 each. linenhouse.com

Wynstan Crimsafe® Ultimate Doors are seven times stronger than the impact level required by Australian Standards, 40% stronger than regular Crimsafe®, and proudly Australian made. wynstan.com.au

Living Photograph by Mikkel Vang.

Stylist Sibella Court (left) with Greg Hatton and Katie Marx, owners of the warm and whimsical property known as Butterland.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

T HRepurposing E Gthis O O D L I F E 1904 butter factory has been a labour of love for its creative owners. PRO DUC ED BY Sibella Court | P H OTOG R A P HY Mikkel Vang

LIVING H G KITCHEN

design notes

> AMBIENCE There’s plenty of country comfort in this former industrial space. Floods of natural light give the room a calm, relaxed feel; owner Katie Marx’s floral arrangements bring the otherwise simply decorated surroundings to life. > FEATURES All-white walls make an ideal canvas for Katie’s sculptural flower arrangements. The timber joinery and concrete benchtops are a nod to the building’s heritage. > STAND-OUT PIECES The centrepiece of the space is the charming but unassuming vintage Kelvinator fridge. Tasmanian oak cabinetry is teamed with concrete benchtops made by owner Greg Hatton with a little help from the couple’s friends. The oven, a white Marc Newson for Smeg appliance, is the family’s concession to modern luxury.

Retaining the home’s industrial feel was important to owners Greg Hatton and Katie Marx, so they used a combination of Tasmanian oak and concrete in the kitchen. OPPOSITE Original signage is part of Butterland’s heritage charm.

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

187

being used in this way. Rather than modernising, Greg and Katie embraced the structure’s history. This does mean there’s a quirkiness to the floor plan, including some 13 staircases. Naturally for a factory, hard surfaces abound, but there’s nothing cold about it. Indeed, there’s something of The Good Life about it, with a homey sense of creativity and productivity throughout. Katie’s work paraphernalia – buckets, rigging devices, vases – and remnants of a recent floral-design workshop are strewn around the living spaces in a rather artful way.Inthekitchen,there’s animpressionofa busyfamily at work: foraged morels drying on the bench, a found piece of honeycomb, vases overflowing with flowers leftoverfromanevent,oatsleftoverfromarollingsession. There’s a distinct open-door feel at Butterland. You’re never quite sure where anyone is, but you feel their presence as if they have just stepped out of the room. > www.butterland.com.au or @butterland_

ABOVE LEFT The stylishly industrial kitchen at Butterland includes a ‘found’ stove and a white Marc Newson for Smeg oven. ABOVE RIGHT Katie’s kiwi & passionfruit pavlova is a family favourite for special occasions. OPPOSITE Florist Katie prepares flowers for an upcoming event.

188 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

Recipe adapted from RecipeTin Eats. Photogaph by Louise Lister/bauersyndication.com.au.

utterland, located in the little town of Newstead, Victoria, has a very distinctive personality. These days, it’s the inviting home of florist Katie Marx, herfurnituremaker/builderpartner,GregHatton, and their daughters Hazel and Minnie. But hints of the property’s butter-factory heritage abound too. Out the front, under original signage, there’s a chair made from weathered tree branches. Beside the chair, there is always something foraged – found objects or seasonalfoliage–perfectly,albeitseeminglyhaphazardly, placed. The rustic vignette piques interest, adding to the excitement of discovering what lies within. As well as a family home, Butterland accommodates both Greg and Katie’s workplaces – a workshop for Greg, props cupboards for Katie – and an event space. There’s a beautiful sense of layering within the building. Built in the 1800s as a timber structure, it was reinforced with concrete in 1910 – one of the earliest examples of concrete

living H G KIWI & PASSIONFRUIT PAVLOVA Prep: 10 mins. Cooking: 1 hr 30 mins + overnight cooling. Serves: 10-12.

140-160ml eggwhites (about 4-5 eggs) 1 cup (220g) caster sugar 1 tbsp cornflour, sifted 1 tsp white vinegar Topping 11/2 cups(375ml) thickened cream 1/4 cup (55g) caster sugar 1 tsp vanilla extract or essence 2 fresh passionfruit, halved 4 kiwi fruit, peeled, sliced 1-2 bananas, peeled, sliced (optional)

1 Using fridge-cold eggs, separate yolks and whites into a clean, dry jug or bowl. Set aside to bring to room temperature. Preheat oven to 170˚C (150˚C fan). 2 Place eggwhites in a clean, dry mixing bowl. Using a stand mixer or handheld beater, beat to soft peaks. Add sugar 1 tablespoon at a time, beating as you go. Once all sugar is added, beat eggwhite mixture a further 3 minutes or until sugar has dissolved and mixture is thick and glossy. Add cornflour and vinegar and beat a further 5 seconds at low speed to incorporate. 3 Draw a 20cm circle on a piece of baking paper; place on a baking tray. Spoon half eggwhite mixture into circle and round off.

Place remaining mixture on top and use a silicone spatula to coax into a 4-5cm high dome; flatten top slightly. 4 Reduce oven temperature to 120˚C (100˚C fan). Bake in oven 11/2 hours, then turn oven off and allow pavlova to cool completely overnight. Do not open oven door during cooking. 5 Transfer meringue to serving platter. Place cream, sugar and vanilla in a bowl and beat to soft peaks. Just before serving, spread cream mixture thickly on top, then top with passionfruit pulp and sliced fruit. TIP Substitute kiwi, banana and passionfruit with seasonal stone fruit or berries, if you like.

CLOCKWISE FROM RIGHT Rosie,

the familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jack Russell-fox terrier cross, trails after Katie. Cashew the Lohmann brown hen is part of a happy menagerie. The dining zone in Butterlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event space. The table, made by Greg, is paired with vintage bentwood chairs. Keystone beeswax bowl and Twisties candlesticks from Raconteur. A pair of majestic 400-year-old red river gums on the property. Katie and fellow creative Sibella Court share a joke.

living H G

Q & A: K AT IE M A R X B U T T E R L A N D ’ S B E AU T I F U L LY R E N OVAT E D K I TC H E N I S T H E H E A RT A N D S O U L O F T H E H O M E .

How has Butterland evolved? Butterland is very old and very unique for a home. We lived here for a few years, in a different part of the building, prior to renovating. By doing so, we had time to really think about how we could best make the various spaces in the home work for us. Greg pondered, planned, designed and constructed everything. He had a wonderful way of marrying the new building work without taking away from the original features of the factory.

What single feature of the kitchen did you deliberate over the most? There was a fair bit of debate over whether we should have drawers or shelves.

What were you trying to achieve with the materials you chose? The aim was to blend the features of the original butter factory – which we loved – with the elements we needed for a comfortable family home. The trick was making sure that the property didn’t look over-renovated or that anything seemed out of place. We felt it was important to combine different materials, and should include concrete – the original walls are concrete made with local river gravel. In the kitchen, the shape of the bench replicates the one that was in the factory’s laboratory so fits into the space really well. The timber cabinetry brings warmth and texture to the space. It’s great for dampening sound too.

Who do you usually cook for? Usually for my family but our visitors always go home well fed.

Where do you and your family spend the most time? The open-plan kitchen and living area is definitely the hub of our home. It’s where we like to congregate as a family and it’s always a hive of activity. What are the kitchen’s essential design elements in terms of practicality, style and your family’s enjoyment of the space? The kitchen is very open, very much a communal area. The huge concrete bench in the kitchen looks fabulous, feels great to use and is so versatile. The girls can sit on one side and do their homework while I’m cooking on the opposite. When we’re entertaining, there’s plenty of room for multiple cooks without getting in each other’s way (or spilling glasses of wine!).

Are you a serious cook or an occasional entertainer? Greg and I are both quite enthusiastic cooks. He loves making roast pork (served the traditional German way with noodles and sauerkraut); I take the reins when we’re hosting a crowd – big plates of salad and lots of baking.

What’s your favourite dish to make for an audience? It has to be kiwi pavlova. [See recipe previous page.] I try to limit making it to birthdays (usually mine) and special occasions – it’s best enjoyed as a treat. What are your favourite tools and ingredients when cooking? Our kitchen is very simple – not too many fancy gadgets here! My favourite utensil is the retro mini spatula that our daughter Minnie chose for a present. It’s perfect for Sunday pancakes. Do you have a go-to providore? We usually drive over to Castlemaine, about 15 minutes away, because the greengrocers there are amazing. There’s plenty of locally grown fruit and vegetables on offer, as well as the best fruit buns. Do you have a kitchen soundtrack? I generally prefer silence, but if I listen to anything, it’s our local radio station, Maine FM. Tipple of choice? Champagne goes with everything, doesn’t it? Best memory of the kitchen? Probably seeing the space come together. Making the concrete benches was a team effort – Greg and our old neighbour, Charlie. Another friend, Greenie, worked the tools. It’s turned out beautifully. I couldn’t have asked for more. #

THINGS

to do

> EXPLORE Walk along the shortish but scenic Loddon River

track to the Cairn Curran Weir. When the water level is high enough, it cascades down a series of rock ledges. Marvel at the magnificent redgums along the trail – you might even spot a roosting owl or two. next pop into the Antares Iron Art Garden, Roger McKindley’s amazing outdoor sculpture gallery. it features wonderful artworks made from found objects. it’s regularly open for tours and festivals, but visitors are free to roam around the garden and enjoy the works at their leisure. Do take the time to go for a country drive. newstead itself is pretty, and there are lots of scenic towns within an hour or so of newstead – Maldon, Castlemaine, guildford, Daylesford, Talbot, Clunes and Maryborough. > EAT The Blackbird Newstead

(www.blackbirdnewstead.com) on lyons Street is one of our favourite brunch spots. it has a lovely atmosphere and the fabulous food is all made from locally sourced produce.Dig at Newstead (digcafe.com.au), also on lyons Street, is great for breakfast, lunch and dinner. A little further afield is Bella Fresca Pizzeria (bellafresca. com.au) on Barker Street in Castlemaine. Possibly the best wood-fired pizza this side of italy. Castlemaine Railway Hotel

(www.railwayhotelcastlemaine. com.au) is located in an 1800s pub on gingell Street. it offers a seasonal gastro-pub menu and an array of craft beer. Children welcome.

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

191

W H E R E T O BU Y

Locate your nearest stockist by contacting the following suppliers. # 1stdibs 1stdibs.com A Abey 1800 809 143; abey.com.au Abode Living 1800 022 633; abodeliving.com About Space (03) 9417 4635; aboutspace.net.au Adairs Kids 1300 783 005; adairs.com.au Alinka Fine Jewellery alinkajewellery.com Amara au.amara.com Angus & Celeste (03) 9752 4004; angusandceleste.com.au Anibou (02) 9319 0655; anibou.com.au Apex Stone (03) 9360 0133; www.apexstone.com.au Apple 133 622; apple.com.au Art2Muse Gallery art2muse.com.au Artedomus (02) 9557 5060; artedomus.com Artemide 1300 135 709; artemide.com.au Arteriors www.arteriorshome.com Arthouse Gallery (02) 9332 1019; www.arthousegallery.com.au Arthouse Projects www.arthouseprojects.com.au Articolo Lighting (03) 8595 8011; articololighting.com Astra Walker (02) 8838 5100; astrawalker.com.au Atelier Des Femmes www.atelierdesfemmes.com Atelier Upholstery (02) 9810 4408; www.aterlierupholstery.com.au Axolotl (02) 9666 1207; axolotl.com.au B Baccarat Australia (03) 9863 1133; www.baccarat.com.au Becker Minty (02) 8356 9999; beckerminty.com Better Tiles (02) 9361 4388; bettertiles.com.au Bloomingdales Lighting bloomingdales.com.au BlueScope Steel 1800 022 999; www.bluescopesteel.com.au Bonnie and Neil (03) 9384 2234; bonnieandneil.com.au Booktopia booktopia.com.au Bottega Veneta bottegaveneta.com Boyac (03) 9429 5455; boyac.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 Brown Jordan www.brownjordan.com Bunnings (03) 8831 9777; bunnings.com.au Busatti (02) 9363 4318; busatti.com.au Byzantine Design (03) 9078 2811; www.byzantinedesign.com.au C Cadrys (02) 9328 6144; cadrys.com.au Caesarstone 1300 119 119; caesarstone.com.au Cameron Kimber Design www.cameronkimber.com Camo Leathers www.ca-mo.com Candana (02) 9389 8631; candana.com.au Caroma 131 416; caroma.com.au Carpet Court 1300 227 738; carpetcourt.com.au Cartier au.cartier.com Casa Mia (02) 9773 1144; casa-mia.com.au Cavalier Bremworth 1800 251 172; cavbrem.com.au CDK Stone (03) 8552 6000; cdkstone.com.au Christie Nicolaides www.christienicolaides.com.au Christopher Boots (03) 9417 6501; christopherboots.com Clarins (02) 9663 4277; clarins.com.au Coco Republic 1300 000 220; cocorepublic.com.au Conley & Co (02) 8065 9411 Cosh Living (03) 9281 1999; coshliving.com.au Cotton Love Home cottonlove.com.au Craft Enterprises craftenterprises.com.au Criteria Collection criteriacollection.com.au Cult 1300 768 626; cultdesign.com.au Curatorial+Co curatorialandco.com Curious Grace (03) 9687 6878; curiousgrace.com.au D De Kercoet en.dekercoet.com Dedece (02) 9360 2722; dedece.com.au Dentons (03) 9887 0001; www.dentons.com.au Design Nation (02) 9699 8577; designnation.com.au Designer Doorware (03) 9300 8888; designerdoorware.com.au

Designers Guild, available from Radford 1300 692 393; radfordfurnishings.com Designstuff (03) 9592 2960; designstuff.com.au Di Lorenzo Tiles (02) 8818 2950; dilorenzo.com.au Dinosaur Designs (02) 9698 3500; dinosaurdesigns.com.au Domayne domayne.com.au Domo (03) 9277 8888; domo.com.au Don Currie Carpets (03) 9510 1888; www.doncurriecarpets.com.au Dots by Donna (03) 9002 4679; www.dotsbydonna.com Douglas & Bec (03) 9419 1146; douglasandbec.com Dulux 132 525; dulux.com.au Dunlin (02) 9907 4825; dunlinhome.com.au Dylan Farrell www.dylanfarrell.com E ECC Lighting+Furniture (02) 9380 7922; ecc.com.au EcoSmart Fire www.ecosmartfire.com Elton Group 1300 133 481; eltongroup.com Euroluce (02) 9356 9900; euroluce.com.au F Fanuli (02) 9908 2660; fanuli.com.au Faucet Strommen 1800 505 116; faucetstrommen.com.au Formed Gardens (02) 8036 8580; formedgardens.com.au Frankie Peach frankiepeach.com Fred International (02) 9310 3263; fredinternational.com.au Freedom 1300 135 588; freedom.com.au French Country Collections 1800 000 496; frenchcountrycollections.com.au French Knot (02) 9146 4720; frenchknot.com.au G Garden Life (02) 9517 3633; gardenlife.com.au Gaudion Furniture (03) 9533 6422; www.gaudions.com.au Georg Jensen 1800 536 736; georgjensen.com.au Globe West 1800 722 366; globewest.com.au Granite & Marble Works (02) 9519 9900; granitemarbleworks.com.au

Grazia & Co (03) 9589 4398; graziaandco.com.au Great Dane (03) 9417 5599; greatdanefurniture.com Greenhouse Interiors greenhouseinteriors.com.au Greg Natale Design (02) 8399 2103; gregnatale.com H Hale Mercantile Co halemercantileco.com Hardtofind hardtofind.com.au Harmony Stone Gallery (02) 9550 5529; harmonystonegallery.com.au Harvey Norman 1300 464 278; harveynorman.com.au Horgans (02) 9557 7800; horgans.com.au Hub Furniture (03) 9652 1222; hubfurniture.com.au L Iittala www.iittala.com.au Ikea (02) 8020 6641; ikea.com.au Ilve 1300 694 583; ilve.com.au In Bed inbedstore.com In Good Company ingoodcompany.com.au In the Round House www.intheround.house Inartisan 0401 818 157; inartisan.com Interiors Soft Furnishings (02) 8814 8777 International Floorcoverings 1800 339 379; interfloors.com.au J James Hardie jameshardie.com.au James Richardson (03) 9428 1621; www.jamesrichardson.com.au James Said (08) 6180 3615; jamessaid.com.au Jardan (03) 8581 4988; jardan.com.au Jasmine and Will 1300 078 378; www.jasmineandwill.com K Kaboodle Kitchen www.kaboodle.com.au Kethy (02) 9542 4991; kethy.com.au Kim Wallace Ceramics kwceramics.com.au King Living 1300 546 438; kingliving.com.au Kit Kemp for Wedgwood 1300 852 022; wwrd.com.au Kitchen Warehouse 1800 332 934; kitchenwarehouse.com.au L La Maison (02) 9698 8860; lamaison.net.au Laminex 132 136; laminex.com.au

At Choices Flooring we know that good interior decorating...

stockists H G

Laura Kincade (02) 9667 4415; laurakincade.com Leggio & Coco (02) 9792 1868; www.leggioartistic.com.au Libertine Parfumerie (03) 9661 1258; www.libertineparfumerie.com.au Living By Design (08) 8388 4213; livingbydesign.net.au Liebherr 1800 685 899; andico.com.au Living Edge 1300 132 154; livingedge.com.au Lounge Lovers 1300 738 088; loungelovers.com.au Lucy Folk www.lucyfolk.com Lumas Gallery au.lumas.com LuMu Interiors 0427 427 752; lumuinteriors.com Luxaflex Window Fashions 135 892; luxaflex.com.au Lydie Du Bray Antiques lydiedubrayantiques.com.au M Made and Felt madeandfelt.com.au Madras Link (03) 9490 0600; madraslink.com Maine Beach mainebeach.com.au Maison et Jardin (02) 9362 8583; www.maisonetjardin.com.au Manyara Home (02) 9997 4462; www.manyarahome.com.au Marimekko (02) 9281 6519; marimekko.com MatchesFashion www.matchesfashion.com Max Sparrow maxsparrow.com.au Maxwell & Williams (03) 9318 0466; maxwellandwilliams.com.au Mayo Hardware www.mayohardware.com.au MCM House (02) 9698 4511; mcmhouse.com McMullin & Co mcmullinandco.com Mecca Cosmetica 1800 007 844; mecca.com.au Mercer & Lewis mercerandlewis.com Miele 1300 464 353; www.shop.miele.com.au Mokum mokumtextiles.com Mud Australia (02) 9569 8181; mudaustralia.com Myer 1800 811 611; myer.com.au N Navlam newageveneers.com.au

No Chintz (02) 9386 4800; nochintz.com O Obodo (02) 8399 1416; obodo.com.au Oliver Thom oliverthom.com.au Ondene (02) 9362 1734; ondene.com.au OneWorld Collection (02) 4340 0122; www.oneworldcollection.com.au Onsite Supply+Design (02) 9360 3666; onsitesd.com.au Orient House (02) 9660 3895; orienthouse.com.au Osborne & Little (03) 9529 2788; www.senecatextiles.com P Palmer & Penn (02) 9328 4800; www.palmerandpenn.com.au Parisi parisi.com.au Parterre parterre.com.au Perini (03) 9421 0550; perini.com.au Perryman Carpets (02) 9327 3910; perrymancarpets.com Peter Fudge Gardens (02) 9211 1336; www.peterfudgegardens.com.au Pigott’s Store (02) 9362 8119; pigottsstore.com.au Planet (02) 9211 5959; planetfurniture.com.au Poho Flowers (02) 9331 4333; pohoflowers.com.au Poliform (02) 8339 7570; www.poliformaustralia.com.au Porter’s Paints 1800 656 664; porterspaints.com Precision Flooring (02) 9690 0991; www.precisionflooring.com.au Provincial Home Living 1300 732 258; provincialhomeliving.com.au R Radford 1300 692 393; radfordfurnishings.com Redelman (02) 8344 6600; www.redelman.com Reece 1800 032 566; reece.com.au RG Imports @rgimportsaustralia Robyn Cosgrove (02) 9328 7692; robyncosgrove.com Rossetti Fabrics www.rossettifabrics.com Royal Copenhagen www.royalcopenhagen.com

Royal Doulton 1300 852 022; royaldoulton.com.au Royal Oak Floors (03) 9826 3611; royaloakfloors.com.au Ruby Star Traders (02) 9518 7899; shoprubystar.com.au S Saardé www.saarde.com Saint Laurent www.ysl.com Saison (03) 9078 3747; saison.com.au Sampford IXL 1300 727 421; www.sampfordixl.com.au Satara (03) 9587 4469; satara.com.au Schots Home Emporium schots.com.au Scotts Country Look Kitchens sclk.com.au Sephora (02) 8880 9446; sephora.com.au Shelta (02) 8863 0400; www.shelta.com.au Sheridan 1800 625 516; sheridan.com.au Shop for Shops 1800 104 952; www.shopforshops.com Signorino (03) 9427 9100; signorino.com.au Simon Johnson (02) 8244 8255; www.simonjohnson.com Space (02) 8339 7588; spacefurniture.com.au Spence & Lyda (02) 9212 6747; spenceandlyda.com.au Studio Bagno (02) 9316 5588; www.studiobagno.com.au Studio Del Castillo www.indesigninternational.com.au Studio Henry Wilson henrywilson.com.au Studio Kate (02) 9363 4318; www.studiokate.com.au T Temperature Design (03) 9419 1447; temperaturedesign.com.au Temple & Webster templeandwebster.com.au Teranova (02) 9386 0063; teranova.com.au The Country Trader (02) 9698 4661; www.thecountrytrader.com.au The Daily Edited thedailyedited.com

The General Trading Company (02) 9363 0993 The Rug Company www.therugcompany.info The Rug Establishment therugest.com The Textile Company 1300 852 994; textilecompany.com.au The Vault Sydney thevaultsydney.com These Walls thesewalls.com.au Tigger Hall Design (03) 9510 2255; tiggerhall.com Top3 by Design 1300 867 333; top3.com.au Trademark Joinery (02) 8958 1043; www.trademarkjoinery.com Traeger Grills traegargrills.com.au Trit House www.trithouse.com.au U Unique Fabrics 1800 145 855; uniquefabrics.com Utopia Goods (02) 9699 9710; utopiagoods.com V Veneto Group (03) 9013 447; www.venetogroup.com.au Viridian 1800 810 403; viridianglass.com V-Zug (03) 9832 7500; vzug.com/au W Wallpaper Direct wallpaperdirect.com Walter G walter-g.com.au Water Tiger 0420 855 886; watertiger.com.au Wedgwood 1300 852 022; wwrd.com.au Westbury Textiles (02) 9380 6644; westburytextiles.com Whitecliffe Imports (02) 8595 1111; www.whitecliffe.com.au Winning Appliances (02) 8767 2301; winningappliances.com.au Woodcut (02) 9319 6050; woodcut.com.au Wynstan 1300 667 679; www.wynstan.com.au X Xavier Furniture (07) 3806 5370; xavierfurniture.com.au Z Zoffany, available from Domestic Textile Corporation www.domestictextile.com.au Zouzou Rugs www.zouzourugs.com Zuster (03) 9427 7188; zuster.com.au

PRIVACY NOTICE This issue of Australian House & Garden magazine is published by Bauer Media Pty Ltd (Bauer). Bauer may use and disclose your information in accordance with our Privacy Policy, including to provide you with your requested products or services and to keep you informed of other Bauer publications, products, services and events. Our Privacy Policy is located at www.bauer-media. com.au/privacy. It also sets out on how you can access or correct your personal information and lodge a complaint. Bauer may disclose your personal information offshore to its owners, joint venture partners, service providers and agents located throughout the world, including in New Zealand, USA, the Philippines and the European Union. In addition, this issue may contain Reader Offers, being offers, competitions or surveys. Reader Offers may require you to provide personal information to enter or to take part. Personal information collected for Reader Offers may be disclosed by us to service providers assisting Bauer in the conduct of the Reader Offer and to other organisations providing special prizes or offers that are part of the Reader Offer. An opt-out choice is provided with a Reader Offer. Unless you exercise that opt-out choice, personal information collected for Reader Offers may also be disclosed by us to other organisations for use by them to inform you about other products, services or events or to give to other organisations that may use this information for this purpose. If you require further information, please contact Bauer’s Privacy Officer either by email at privacyofficer@bauer-media.com.au or mail at Privacy Officer Bauer Media Pty Ltd, 54 Park Street, Sydney NSW 2000.

starts from the floor up. choicesflooring.com.au

H G THE CREATIVE TYPE

B R O O K E N A J JA R Coco Republic’s award-winning interior stylist shares the highlights on her creative journey.

I’ve always had a passion for creating beautiful interiors, but it was building and decorating my own house that sparked the thought that I might be able to turn that passion into a career. My professional design journey began after the youngest of my four children was born. In 2015, I enrolled in a Styling Essentials 101 course at the Coco Republic Design School and was offered a job with the property styling team shortly after graduation. It was a dream come true. Having good work/life balance is important to me. I make sure

to allocate dedicated time for both work and family activities – time management is essential! I find styling other people’s houses endlessly fascinating. The different aesthetics of these homes, including the demographic of the owners, really drives my creativity. I’m also inspired by the work of Australian interior designers Darren Palmer and Jodie Cooper. The Coco Republic showroom is amazing too. I could spend hours in the textile swatch library! Magazines and design books are essential tools for stylists. I always have Australian House & Garden, and

Belle and Real Living magazines on the go. One book I adore is The Maker: Beyond Decorating, Crafting a Unique Space by Tamara Maynes. It’s fabulous. To me, true luxury is about quality and comfort. Custom-made, beautifully detailed pieces. When I’m not working, I love going to cafes, especially L’Americano Espresso Bar [in Sydney’s Alexandria] – great food and quality coffee. Traditional Lebanese cuisine is another family favourite. In 2020, my goal is to stay healthy and happy, and to keep on styling! # Coco Republic Property Styling; 1300 000 220 or cocorepublic.com.au.

BROOKE’S FAVOURITE THINGS From top

St James dining chair with vegan-leather upholstery, $445, Coco Republic. 2.55 calfskin handbag, POA, Chanel. The Maker: Beyond Decorating, Crafting a Unique Space book by Tamara Maynes, $49. Bauer bar cabinet by Bobby Berk, $1995, Max Sparrow.

Photographh bby K Ph Kristina Soljo. S Hair and makeup by Samantha Powell.

Modern Abstracts artwork, Bark chandelier, Atelier sofa, Nobu coffee table, Cosmo side table, Ramsey animal bust and Pietro rug, all Coco Republic.

TICKETS ARE SELLING FAST - SECURE YOURS FROM $10 TODAY!

PENTHOUSE | MASTER BEDROOM

Who wouldn’t love to win a double storey penthouse and four apartments! All fve homes are professionally styled with furniture and electrical appliances totalling $340,834. All you need is your suitcase for this ultimate sea change! RSL Art Union No. 375 Draw closes 8pm AEST 13 May 2020 Drawn 10am AEST 20 May 2020

BUY YOUR TICKETS TODAY! rslartunion.com.au/PalmBeach | 1300 885 202

© 2020 RSL Art Union | RSL Art Union No. 375 (AU375L) QLD Licence No. 29819, ACT Permit No. R20/00001.2, VIC Permit No. 10787/19, NSW Permit No. GOCAU/2255, SA Permit No. M13804. Prize value: $6007823. Public draw at ANZAC House, 283 St Pauls Terrace, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006. Some items shown in pictures are for display purposes only. Any rental estimates provided are for informational purposes only. Winners notifed by registered mail. Results published in The Courier Mail and The Australian on 22/05/20. Terms and Conditions apply.