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Shades

OF SUMMER

A buyer’s guide to umbrellas, awnings, gazebos and canopies

WILD AT HEART Australia’s most beautiful native flowers

INSTANT UPDATE Slipcovers for sofas, chairs and more

FRESH HORIZONS

125 STYLISH WAYS TO ORGANISE YOUR HOME AND GET EVERYTHING SORTED FOR THE YEAR AHEAD

Lantern House, Victoria, by Timmins+Whyte Architects. Photography by Peter Bennetts. The COLORBOND steel colour swatch represents actual product colour as accurately as possible. However, we recommend checking your chosen colour against an actual sample of the product before purchasing. COLORBOND , the BlueScope brand mark and colour names are registered trade marks of BlueScope Steel Limited. 2021 BlueScope Steel Limited ABN 16 000 011 058. All rights reserved.

Beautiful simplicity. Tested in some of Australia’s harshest conditions, durable COLORBOND steel Matt diffuses light to create a subtle, textured and contemporary aesthetic. COLORBOND steel in Surfmist Matt offers a stylish contrast to softer tones and complements darker hues for added design ﬂexibility and an elegantly understated appearance. Visit COLORBOND.COM/MATT or call 1800 702 764

FEBRUARY

contents

COVER STORIES 102 114 120 126 132 137

Wild at heart Australia’s most beautiful native flowers Instant update Slipcovers for sofas, chairs and more Brilliant ideas for lighting up your kitchen Super soakers How to choose your perfect bathtub Shades of summer A buyer’s guide to umbrellas, awnings, gazebos and canopies 27 pages of chic storage solutions Fresh horizons 125 stylish ways to organise your home and get everything sorted for the year ahead

STEP INSIDE

page 68

80 GLASS ACT

BEAUTIFUL STYLE 17 18 22 26

Collection Nostalgia threads through Bonnie and Neil’s new line In the know What’s hot in design inspiration and in stores Steal the style Designer Lauren Mahoney on the key to success Creative collection Elise Cameron-Smith works wonders with wood

BEAUTIFUL SHOPPING 32 39 41 43

Island dreaming Bring a dash of tropical charm to your interiors Top 10: The outsiders Summer’s must-have outdoor ottomans Trend: Enduring style Some pieces are proudly timeless Saving face Keep the rays at bay with essential products

102 PETAL POWER

BEAUTIFUL HOMES 48 Onwards & upwards A spacious home near the water in Sydney’s eastern suburbs opens its doors to the best Hamptons influences

58 New approach The template for relaxing in lush surrounds is rewritten with a Singapore-based family’s Noosa holiday home 68 Period drama A three-year career posting in London helps to crown the renovation of a Sydney couple’s Art-Deco bungalow 80 Cabin cool Nestled in the Gold Coast hinterland, this single-level new build expertly fits a lot into a compact footprint 90 Seaside sanctuary The new owners of a beachside weekender go to town on the decor while maintaining their home’s unique spirit

BEAUTIFUL GARDENS 102 Call of the wild The family tradition of nurturing natives thrives at Craig Scott’s flora farm on the NSW Central Coast

BEAUTIFUL DESIGN 114 120 126 132

All change Our expert guide lavishes slipcovers with a little love Kitchen lighting: The bright side Make all the light moves Bathrooms: Super soak Bathtub shapes, styles and materials Buyer’s guide: Shades of summer How to keep your cool

BEAUTIFUL FOOD 166 Fire it up Chef Ross Dobson turns a barbecue into a work of art

REGULAR FEATURES 11 12 14 178

Ed’s letter HB editor-in-chief Elle is obsessed with storage Connect What’s happening in the world of Home Beautiful Staff Who we are, where to find us and our Privacy Notice Unsung icons: The bookshelf You wouldn’t read about it

126 SOAK IT UP

166 BBQ BONANZA

HB’s ultimate guide to

STORAGE

138 Best laid plans Living and dining areas made to order 142 Hidden talents Storage solutions for busy kitchens (left) 146 Calm and collected Don’t nod off until you tidy up 148 Small wonders Mess-free kids’ bedrooms? Yes, it’s true! 150 Inside view Wardrobes 152 Fresh start Bathrooms 154 Clean up your act Laundries 156 Stay on task Home offices 158 Garden life Outdoor spaces 160 Store & order What to buy

Inspire & Visualise with RoomView Explore all your flooring, rug & window furnishing options instantly with our room visualiser. Try it now at choicesflooring.com.au

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PATTERN PROFILE OF THE MONTH ‘Tiraz’ velvet in Peacock, Schumacher.

EDITOR’S LETTER Store and order

PHOTOGRAPHY (PORTRAIT) KRISTINA SOLJO

Spring is the traditional season for a good clear-out and tidy-up at home, but I think the beginning of a new year is just as good a time. As we go back to work and the school term begins, there’s nothing nicer than having a super-organised home to start the year as you mean to go on. With that in mind, this issue we’ve created a fabulous special on chic storage with clever solutions for every room. Personally, I can’t go past a good basket: in the pantry, bathroom or wardrobe, for toys and odds and ends I want to keep, but also keep out of sight. I’m also in the midst of planning a complete storage overhaul of my home, rethinking areas such as the linen cupboard and installing window seats with hidden storage beneath in bedrooms. What are your best storage solutions? Also this month, we’re tackling the topics of light and shade. That is, the best way to illuminate the various zones in your kitchen (p120) and how to cover your outdoor areas now we’re spending more time outside. Whether you’re looking at canopies and awnings or a simple umbrella, flip to page 132 to find some inspiration and plenty of beautiful buys. Back inside the home, have you ever considered a slipcover to give your furniture a fresh new look? Also incredibly handy as you can throw it in the washing machine if it gets dirty. My top tip: put the slipcover back on your sofa/chair/ottoman still slightly damp so it dries to a snug fit. For lots more expert advice on what to choose and how to use, read our slipcovers feature on page 114. While I have a little bit of room left on this page, I want to highlight a beautiful story we did on a flower farm located on the Central Coast of NSW. For the most spectacular native florals you’ve ever seen, turn to page 102 and be sure to ask for them next time you’re at the florist. On that note, I’m off to the shops to pick up some flowering gum… and a few more baskets. See you next month.

ELLE LOVELOCK, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Get in touch with me on Instagram @ellelovelock

COVER LOOK CAN YOU IMAGINE A LOVELIER ALFRESCO LIVING ROOM? WITH ITS SLIPCOVERED SOFAS, SCALLOP-EDGED AWNING AND LAYERS OF NATURAL MATERIALS, IT’S EXACTLY WHERE I’D LIKE TO BE. PLUS, ALL THAT DEEP PINK BOUGAINVILLEA – DIVINE. Photography: Fernando Bedón/RBA

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THE DAILY HOME EDIT

BTS: BE AUT Y La Niña might have put beach days on the backburner, but things have been heating up over in the HB studio. Our stylist Kate enjoyed some fun in the sun this month, adding the finishing touches to our SPF beauty page. Head over to page 43 to see what summer staples we’re adding to our beach bags when the sun shines.

MAGAZINE MUSE IF LIFE IMITATES ART, ARTIST JESSICA GUTHRIE OF PROJECT GALLERY 90 HAS CAPTURED ALL OF HOME BEAUTIFUL’S BEST ANGLES. IN A NEW ARTWORK TITLED ‘HOME’, THE ARTIST HAS BROUGHT THE PAGES OF HB TO LIFE USING OIL ON BELGIUM LINEN. STYLED WITH AN ORCHID PLANT, WE’VE NEVER SEEN THE HB LOOK MORE AT HOME! PROJECTGALLERY90.COM.

To dye for AFTER FEATURING THE WONDERFUL TEAM AT SHIBORI ON ONE OF OUR CREATIVE COLLECTION PAGES LAST YEAR, THE HB TEAM DECIDED TO TRY THEIR HAND AT THE TRADITIONAL JAPANESE DYEING TECHNIQUE. OUR DEPUTY EDITOR VICTORIA, WRITER HARRIET AND SENIOR COPY EDITOR KATE ARE PICTURED HERE WITH THEIR CREATIONS. FANCY A GO? VISIT SHIBORI.COM.AU.

BRIGHT IDEAS

WHETHER YOU’RE ENTERTAINING THE KIDS IN THE HOLIDAYS OR GETTING ORGANISED FOR THE SCHOOL YEAR AHEAD, WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED WITH OUR TOP ONLINE PICKS…

Want to share your thoughts and ideas with us? We love to hear from our readers, so get in touch by emailing us at homebeautiful@ aremedia.com.au. MU N C H RO L L DOWN LU NC HBAG, $3 9.99, H EALT HA ND ECO.COM. AU.

HOME BEAUTIFUL

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WOR D BIT S A L PHA BET M AG N ET S , $54, WO RD BITS .CO M. AU.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Elle Lovelock CREATIVE DIRECTOR Katrina Yaxley DEPUTY EDITOR Victoria Kingsbury

A RT & S T Y L E ART DIRECTORS Paloma Garay, Alice Ierace IMAGE RETOUCHER Matus Kundrat

F E AT U R E S & C O N T E N T CHIEF COPY EDITOR Sarah Pickette SENIOR COPY EDITORS Kate Barber, Annette Farnsworth COPY EDITOR Laura Barry WRITER Harriet Sim HOMES GROUP COORDINATOR Annika Baker EMAIL HOMEBEAUTIFUL@AREMEDIA.COM.AU

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BEAUTIFUL

COLLECTION GOING FOR GOLDIE

PHOTOGRAPHY CHRISTOPHER MILES STYLING JESSICA HANSON

There’s something magical about delving through the archive of old holiday snaps and reliving the memories of summers past. The new Goldie collection from Bonnie and Neil does just that, capturing the spirit of summer days gone-by with its nostalgic, vintage-inspired designs. Channelling classic Australian beach-house styling ﬁt for a modern home life, the range is awash with sage green, golden yellow, petal pink and chocolate brown tones. Indulge in inspiring tablecloths, placemats, salad servers, teaspoons and bedding inﬂuenced by heirloom pieces. Our attention is especially grabbed by the ‘Bloom Citron’ rectangular linen tablecloth, $245 for medium (250cm x 135cm) and ‘Stripe Pink’ handwoven cotton placemats, $125 for a set of 4 (both pictured). Visit bonnieandneil.com.au.

SHOP | DISCOVER | DECORATE | STYLE | EXPLORE

COLOUR POP WELCOME SUMMER INTO YOUR HOME WITH DULUX’S 2022 COLOUR FORECAST. EMBRACE JOYOUS HUES OF CELERY GREEN AND PINK PAPAYA TO ENERGISE YOUR INTERIORS. VISIT DULUX.COM.AU.

What’s hot

FRESH PICKS

OUR ROUND-UP OF THE LATEST DESIGN NEWS, SHOPPING AND DECORATING Edited by HARRIET SIM

SINK IN

National treasure

ELEVATE YOUR POWDER ROOM WITH ROBERT GORDON’S CLAY 350 BASIN. A MODERN STRAIGHT-SIDED SHAPE DESIGNED AND MADE IN AUSTRALIA, THE BASIN IS AVAILABLE IN NINE DIFFERENT REACTIVE GLAZES. FROM $660, ROBERTGORDONAUSTRALIA.COM.

DRAWING ON NATIVE WILDLIFE, MELBOURNEBASED DESIGNER MABLE TAN CAPTURES THE SPIRIT OF AUSTRALIA IN HER NEW RANGE FOR TARGET. OUR PICK? THE GOLDEN WATTLE SHEET SET, $49 FOR A SINGLE, TARGET.COM.AU.

LOCAL TALENT Bringing traditional stories to early learning and everyday living, Emro Designs showcases a range of rich textures and patterns made by talented Indigenous artists. The range features rugs, cushion covers, recycled outdoor mats and picnic rugs, all adorned with a selection of unique artworks. ‘Djurebil – Sacred Place’ rug (pictured), $379, emrodesignscom.au.

Beautiful STYLE PLATE UP

CLASSIC FLORALS MEET NATIVE BEAUTY IN MAXWELL & WILLIAMS NEW ‘WARATAH’ SERVING RANGE. COMBINING THE EARTHY FEEL OF THE BUSH WITH A VIBRANT PALETTE OF RICH COLOURS, THIS UNMISTAKABLY AUSTRALIAN DINNER SET IS PERFECT FOR HIGH TEAS OR DINNER PARTIES. ‘WARATAH’ COUPE BOWL, $11.95, DINNER PLATE, $14.95, SIDE PLATE, $7.95, AND MUG, $7.95. VISIT MAXWELLANDWILLIAMS. COM.AU FOR MORE DETAILS.

Floral affair

WOOD WORK

FRESH FLOWERS AREN’T THE ONLY WAY

BREATHE NEW LIFE INTO YOUR HOME’S HARDEST WORKING SURFACE. WE LOVE THIS GORGEOUS ‘FRENCH CHATEAU’ EUROPEAN OAK TIMBER FLOORING IN HERRINGBONE PARQUETRY FROM KUSTOM TIMBER, $140/SQM. VISIT KUSTOMTIMBER.COM.AU.

TO INJECT FLORALS INTO YOUR HOME. THE LATEST WALLPAPER RANGE FROM PORTER’S PAINTS FEATURES BEAUTIFUL AUSTRALIAN BOTANICALS INCLUDING THE ‘BANKSIA’ IN SMOKEY BLUE (PICTURED), $195 PER ROLL. VISIT PORTERSPAINTS.COM.

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE, TOP RIGHT) SIMON SHIFF (BOTTOM LEFT) ARMELLE HABIB (BOTTOM RIGHT) LYNDEN FOSS (OPPOSITE, TOP) MIKE BAKER (OPPOSITE, BOTTOM MIDDLE) ANNE KOHLER (OPPOSITE, BOTTOM RIGHT) JARROD BARNES STYLING (OPPOSITE, TOP) BREE LEECH (OPPOSITE, BOTTOM RIGHT) HANNAH GORDON ARTWORK (OPPOSITE, TOP) ‘CORREA AND LEMONS ON PINK’ BY KIRSTY MCINTYRE, FORMAN FRAMING

THE NGV Architecture Commission WINNER HAS BEEN REVEALED! DISCOVER THE PINK POND INSTALLATION UNTIL AUGUST 2022. VISIT NGV.VIC.GOV.AU. TABLE TALK Spark meaningful conversation around the dinner table with the new Holly Sanders x I Love Linen range. Aboriginal artist Sanders created the patterns and colours to symbolise women on Country, collecting berries, medicine leaves and seeds for healing. French linen tablecloth (pictured), $150. Visit ilovelinen.com.au. >

RETAIL THERAPY COLOURS COLLIDE AT THE NEW GREENHOUSE INTERIORS FLAGSHIP IN GEELONG, VICTORIA, WHERE YOU CAN FIND EVERYTHING FROM TAPS TO TILES TO FLOORING. EVERY TOUCHPOINT IS CONSIDERED AND AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE. VISIT GREENHOUSEINTERIORS.COM.AU.

HOME BEAUTIFUL

5 minutes with RACHEL BEARD

Beautiful STYLE The Origins ‘Prosperity MEIII+’ queen mattress, $6999, is handmade and has the world’s first 100 per cent recyclable support system.

HB TALKS TO A.H. BEARD’S RACHEL BEARD ABOUT THE 200-YEAR-OLD FAMILY SECRET TO A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP

Tell us a bit about A.H. Beard’s roots. “The business was founded in 1899, by my great-greatgrandfather, who started handmaking mattresses. We’ve remained family owned since. We are so proud to be Australian Made and owned, and this helps drive our commitment to give back to our community and the environment. We want to leave Australia and our business better than it was yesterday.” How has the business moved to a more sustainable future? “Sustainability is a journey for us, we are really only at the beginning. A.H. Beard Origins is the ﬁrst product with sustainability at its core. Not only are the components ethically and sustainably sourced, the production process is free from glue and foam so that, at the end of its life, each component can be removed, separated and turned into something new. When sourcing the wool for the Origins collection, we chose premium Australian-grown wool that was ethically and sustainably sourced. We have partnered with local growers and industry, including Cloven Hills single origin wool; a family-owned grower in Victoria.” What makes wool such a great option for mattresses? “One of the biggest sleep disruptors is heat. Having wool in your mattress helps to draw heat and moisture away from your body in a process called wicking. Wool is also not only great for sleeping comfort, but it is naturally antimicrobial and hypoallergenic, which means it helps promote a healthy sleeping surface.” Visit ahbeard.com.

The Beard family, Padstow, NSW

HOME BEAUTIFUL

COME DINE WITH ME Set the scene for an afternoon of laidback entertaining with Blue Maisonette’s gorgeous range of tableware. Create the ultimate summer tablescape with gorgeous linens, glassware and candleware. ‘Lulu’ woven swirl placemat, $39, and woven bow napkin ring, $17, scalloped linen napkins in Pale Blue, $89/ set of 4, and wicker plait cutlery, $39/set of 3 (pictured above). Visit bluemaisonette.com.au.

TAKE A SEAT

INSPIRED BY SUMMER NIGHTS, TIGMI TRADING’S NEW TABLE LINEN IS AWASH WITH DREAMY BEIGES, PINKS AND BROWNS. ADD SEAFOOD AND BUBBLES AND LET THE GOOD TIMES FLOW. LINEN TABLECLOTH IN ‘CHECK’, FROM $325. VISIT TIGMITRADING.COM.

Back to nature

PHOTOGRAPHY (OPPOSITE PAGE, TOP RIGHT) LEI LEI CLAVEY STYLING (OPPOSITE PAGE, TOP RIGHT) MAINE HOUSE INTERIORS

WATTYL’S 2022 COLOUR FORECAST APTLY MIRRORS A GLOBAL FOCUS ON WELLNESS AND THE ENVIRONMENT, AS WELL AS THE NEW ROLE OF OUR HOMES IN OUR WORK AND PLAY LIVES. EXPECT SOFT, ORGANIC TONES INSPIRED BY NATURE, SUCH AS DRIFTWOOD, VITESSE AND SILVER TONGUE (PICTURED). VISIT WATTYL.COM.AU.

UP THE WALL ART NEED NOT BE RESTRICTED TO THE CANVAS. THESE VIBRANT ABSTRACT WALLPAPERS, BY TIFF MANUELL IN COLLABORATION WITH MILTON & KING, LET YOUR WALLS DO ALL THE TALKING. ‘DAPHNE’ WALLPAPER (PICTURED), $197 PER ROLL. VISIT MILTONANDKING.COM.

COFFEE-TABLE TOPPERS FROM MARRAKECH TO YOUR LIVING ROOM, HERE’S OUR ROUND-UP OF THE TOP PAGE-TURNERS AND COFFEE-TABLE TOMES TO INSPIRE.

From left: ‘Feels Like Home: Relaxed Interiors for a Meaningful Life’ by Lauren Liess, $66.90, Abrams Books. ‘The Gardener’s Garden: Inspiration Across Continents and Centuries’ by Phaidon Editors, $69.95, Phaidon. ‘Yves Saint Laurent Museum Marrakech’ by Studio KO, $79.95, Phaidon. ‘Wild: The Naturalistic Garden’ by Noel Kingsbury, $79.95, Phaidon.

Beautiful STYLE

PR INT S C HAR M I NG THE ‘MARBLE ROSE’ BY JA NE CHU RCH I LL FAB RI C ON T H E AR MCH A IRS WAS LAU RE N’S F IR ST SE LECTIO N, AN D SH E MA DE TH E RE ST OF TH E R O O M WO RK A ROU N D T H IS HE RO PIECE . “I T ’S A F L EXIBL E FA B RI C WITH M AN Y ST UN N I N G CO LOU RS TO DRAW FRO M,” SAYS L AURE N.

Steal the style

TRUE COLOURS INTERIOR DESIGNER LAUREN MAHONEY PROVES THAT FOLLOWING YOUR PASSION IS THE KEY TO SUCCESS

Words LAURA BARRY

t was an art teacher who suggested Lauren Mahoney consider a career in interior design, as she loved to paint rooms with furniture in them. “I had a passion for architecture and design as a late teenager and quite often visited National Trust homes or iconic buildings and enjoyed art galleries,” says Lauren. “I studied interior design in my early twenties and worked as a receptionist for an interior designer in Beecroft [Sydney]. At the time, studying and working full time was hard – but hard work pays off.” Indeed, it does, and the proof is in the pudding. Now, 22 years later, Lauren is the founder of her own award-winning design firm, Studio Trio, which was born in 2008. “The name comes from the three things we do best,” she says. “Design, source and build.” Lauren is known for her considered use of pattern and colour, a signature move clearly demonstrated in her Eastwood project in New South Wales, opposite.

GET THE LOOK

From left: ‘Brighton’ cushion cover in Olive, $125, Living Styles. Porter’s Paints Eggshell wall paint in Grey Fox, $135/4L. ‘Calaisio’ oval bread basket, $34/small, Peter’s of Kensington. Lifestyle Traders plant pot in White Lime, $119, Temple & Webster. Bone inlay abstract side table in Black, $780, Mahlia Interiors. ‘Paloma’ ornate wall mirror, $499, Zanui.

HOME BEAUTIFUL

“I like to design what suits the client, location and person’s personality. I like to be challenged” LAUREN MAHONEY

PHOTOGRAPHY MAREE HOMER STYLING KATE NIXON

MONOCHROME TONES A S EL ECT IO N O F WAR M GRE Y TON ES , S UCH AS C H A RCOA L A N D F RE NC H GR EY, W ER E US ED TO CR EAT E A T I ME LE SS LOO K T H AT WOU L DN ’T AGE , B UT A LS O F E LT YO UT H F UL. “ I TH O UG H T W HI TE WAL LS WOUL D GE T LOS T SO I O PT ED FO R A WA RM GRE Y – I T ’S L I GH T A N D FR E SH,” SAYS LAUR E N. “ I A L SO U SE D S OF T GR EY I N T H E BAT H R O OM S A N D KI TCH E N AS A CO N N EC T I N G L I N K.”

S TEP P IN G O U T T RAD ITI ONAL BLAC KBU TT T IM BER F LO OR S A RE H A RDWE AR ING A N D SU IT T HE PE RI OD H O ME. “ I THI NK THE WA RM TIM B ER IS R IC H FOR A VAS T SPAC E,” SAYS LAUR EN. >

H OM E SWEET HOME T H IS TERRAC E I N SYD NE Y’S IN NE R W E ST IS ANOTHE R O F L AUR EN’ S PR OJECT S. I T FEATURES SP ECIAL P IECES , D RA MATIC WAL LPAPER A ND A BLUE A ND W HI TE CO LO U R PAL E TTE.

HOME BEAUTIFUL

Beautiful STYLE 18-carat white-gold sapphire diamond halo stud earrings, $2750, Cerrone.

Paul Ryan ‘Two Pines’ 2021 oil on linen (102cm x 92cm), $11,000, Nanda\Hobbs.

10 de Gournay ‘Earlham’ Chinoiserie wallpaper on Adam Grey dyed silk, from $1391/panel, de Gournay.

Lauren at home with her pooch.

Designer’s notebook:

LAUREN MAHONEY

LAUREN’S FAVOURITE PLACES, SPACES, PEOPLE AND IDEAS TO INSPIRE, MOTIVATE AND CELEBRATE

What do all your designs have in common? “Punchy colour and pattern – I’m a bit of a colour girl and have to use plenty of it in all my projects!”

Howell T Monogram court sneakers, $410, Tory Burch.

PHOTOGRAPHY (LAUREN MAHONEY PORTRAIT) MAREE HOMER (BORN AND RAISED) ZACK BENSON PHOTOGRAPHY (TASMANIA) KIERAN STONE (HAPPYFIELD) ALANA DIMOU

Calacatta Grigio marble, Surface Gallery.

What’s your best piece of advice about interiors? “Plan things out, even if you do it room by room and it takes a little while – don’t rush and get things wrong. For professionals, always ensure the home reﬂects the client’s personality and needs while adding your own ﬂair.”

3 Amity porcelain tile in Silver Grey, $149/sqm, Teranova.

What are your go-to ﬁnishes? “White woodwork with blues and mints, Schumacher’s ‘Auden’ fabric is a wonderful chenille, Astra Walker is my tapware go-to, and Surface Gallery (3) and Teranova (4) for tiles.” Who has most inﬂuenced your work? “I love local artist Paul Ryan (2), I have one of his pieces, Cerulean Dandy, which I adore.”

Where do you go to relax? “I love being at home with my husband Steven and daughter Aerin, who’s three. I work long hours all week and I relish the quiet time. I do love Tasmania (7) for its quaint historic feel, artisan style and food. The 1800s Georgian architecture is so beautiful.” Where are your favourite places to dine? “Born and Raised (6) in San Diego has a mind-blowing interior designed by Basile Studio, I’ve never seen anything like it from a commercial fit-out and I was super-impressed at the attention to detail. I also love Happyfield cafe (8) in Sydney’s Haberfield – I recommend The Black Caesar salad and the Drippy Eggs!”

5 Ulla Johnson ‘Azra’ midi dress, $1604, Net-A-Porter.

What’s at the top of your wish list right now? “I love the ‘Odile’ dress from Ulla Johnson (5), shoes, clothes and jewellery from Tory Burch (9), classic earrings from Cerrone (1) and the ‘Earlham’ on Adam Grey dyed silk wallpaper from de Gournay (10) for my powder room.” What does success look like? “Having more time to enjoy with my family. Work/life balance is extremely important when you run a small business.” As a working mother, what is the most important thing you hope to teach your daughter? “To be kind-hearted and patient. If you are kind to people then kindness comes back. I think my clients come back to me because I’m a good listener, patient and I am a businesswoman, but realistic about people’s needs.” See more of Lauren’s work at studiotrio.com.au.

Trees line the lake in Ross, Tasmania.

Beautiful DESIGN Creative collection

OUT OF THE WOODS FROM WITHIN AN OFF-GRID SHIPPING CONTAINER IN NEW SOUTH WALES, WOOD ARTIST, ELISE CAMERON-SMITH LETS CREATIVE WORKS TAKE FORM

Story HARRIET SIM Photography BRIGID ARNOTT

THIS PAGE, TOP LEFT: Elise works primarily with hand tools. TOP RIGHT: Bringing a new form to life. BOTTOM LEFT: ‘Leaf’ stool in white beech wood. BOTTOM RIGHT: Works in progress including bangles, bowls and a spoon. OPPOSITE: Elise pictured here in her off-grid studio. >

At a glance Who: Elise Cameron-Smith, a wood sculptor, based near Sydney. What she does: Hand-sculpts furniture, sculptures and miniature boats. Where: Helensburgh, NSW. Why she does it: “Timber is a beautiful, natural material and I feel driven to create work that is going to be unique and treasured by its new owners,” says Elise. Visit: elisecameron-smith.com.au. Follow: @elisecameronsmith. >

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Beautiful DESIGN THIS PAGE, TOP LEFT: Wooden tools on Elise’s work bench. TOP RIGHT: A sculpture of two lovers in black wood and a woman in progress in white beech wood. BOTTOM LEFT: Elise refines a work. OPPOSITE: A stack of untouched wood slabs, a sculpture in progress and three minature boats.

o understand any great artist, you only need to look as far as their first prototype. Henri Matisse had his vibrant cut-outs, Gabrielle Chanel had her hats. But for Elise Cameron-Smith, a sculptor and miniature boat maker, the origin of her art can be found tucked away in her dad’s fishing box. “When I was a little kid, my dad and I made fishing lures. We shaped the timber with metal files and spray-painted over lace to create fish scaley patterns on their body,” recalls Elise. “They looked pretty quirky, but we’ve [caught] plenty of fish on them and he’s still got some in the tackle box.” After studying design at Design Centre Enmore, Elise took up furniture making at the Sturt School for Wood in Mittagong, NSW. Despite enrolling on a whim, having never done any woodworking before, Elise eventually found her groove. “I had plans to become an industrial designer, but realised I wasn’t very good at it because I had no idea about building things or any engineering skills, which is where the woodworking came into the picture,” explains Elise. 28

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Today, Elise’s work can be found hanging in a slew of notable galleries, including the Saint Cloche Gallery in Sydney’s Paddington where Elise exhibited her latest work at the end of last year. Her creative process is organic and unstructured, and Elise starts most of her projects by drawing straight into the wood, cutting and refining as she goes. “My practice doesn’t involve detailed plans or drawings, it’s very intuitive. Working off grid, I use mainly hand tools to create my work. It creates a really unique and handmade finish. It’s a real labour of love,” explains Elise. Nestled in a hidden bush area of the Northern Illawarra, Elise has built herself a micro-workshop within an off-grid shipping container. With only wallabies and the occasional deer for company, Elise can often be found working away under the shade of the gumtrees, letting her surroundings act as her personal muse. “Nature is a huge inspiration, our coastlines are so beautiful and I love making things that remind us of the outdoors,” she says. “[My] little boats represent a love for the ocean, but also new beginnings or a change of direction.”

“MY STUDIO IS IN THE BUSH AND LOOKING AT TREES IS ALWAYS A HUGE INSPIRATION” ELISE

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PHOTOGRAPHY ALANA LANDSBERRY STYLING CORINA KOCH

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ISLAND DREAMING page 32

DECORATING IDEAS AND STYLISH BUYS TO INSPIRE YOUR INTERIORS

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Island

DREAMING Escape the everyday by giving your interiors an elegant yet exotic aesthetic that’s rich in global influences paired with gorgeous touches of luxury

Styling CORINA KOCH Photography ALANA LANDSBERRY

OPPOSITE: Vivai del Sud rattan armchairs, $6900 each, Tigmi Trading. Angled teak side table, $650, Water Tiger. ‘Bryant’ chandelier in Bronze,

$1480, Bloomingdales. On chairs: ‘Mira’ linen cushion cover in Ana, $100/50cm x 50cm, Cultiver. Enes cotton throw in Olive/Eucalyptus, $139, Saardé. On side table: Greenery arrangement, Hermetica Flowers. For a similar vase, try the glass hurricane vase in Clear, $15.35, Koch & Co. Traditional glass condiment dish in Olive, $14.50, Saardé. On wall: ‘Capulet’ offset mirror in Mahogany/Chestnut Burl, $2910, Laura Kincade. Specialty paint finish by Ludi Braga Interior using Porter’s Paints. On floor: Greg Natale ‘Largo Tempo Jurassic’ tiles (40cm x 40cm), $489/sqm, Teranova. ‘Patar’ planter set in Black, $500/set of 3, Florabelle Living. ‘Raphis’ broad leaf palm, $700, Florabelle Living. PREVIOUS PAGE: ‘Bahamas’ cross leg stool in Brown, $550, Emac & Lawton. On stool: ‘Mira’ linen throw in Ana, $200, Cultiver. ‘Laurent’ console table in Mud Wash, $2499, Wisteria Design. On console table: ‘Otto’ table lamp in Travertine, $635, Coco Republic. ‘Copenhagen 1929’ framed etching, $395, Vintage Art Emporium. ‘Spaces for Living’ book by Tamsin Johnson, $110, Coco Republic. ‘This Is Home’ book by Natalie Walton, $60, Opus. Tabacco toscano scented candle, $51, Santa Maria Novella. ‘Oscar’ bowl in Travertine, $640, Greg Natale. Greenery arrangement and vase, as before. Specialty paint finish, as before. Greg Natale ‘Largo Tempo Jurassic’ tiles, as before. ‘Raphis’ broad leaf palm, as before. >

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IT’S A NATURAL

Channel the tropics with a mix of natural materials, rattan furniture and lush greenery in planters and hurricane vases.

WHEN THE MERCURY SOARS, cool cane furniture AND natural fabrics ALMOST EVOKE THE SENSATION OF A WELCOMING FRESH BREEZE

OPPOSITE: ‘Stamford’ parquetry

teak dining table in Live Edge Natural, $5195/3m x 1.2m, Coco Republic. Theodore Alexander ‘Trellis’ dining chairs in Brown, $1550 each, Laura Kincade. On dining table: ‘Cara’ panel linen tablecloth in White/Natural, $210/3m x 1.8m, Cultiver. For similar vases, try the ‘Stella’ glass vase in Clear, $14.19, Koch & Co. Floral arrangements, Hermetica Flowers. On chair: ‘Basix’ linen napkin in Petra, $24, Hale Mercantile Co. On wall: Grasscloth wallpaper in Basketweave, $550/10m roll, Porter’s Paints. Shutters and curtains, Wynstan. ‘Capri’ medium chandelier in Aged Iron, $2419, Urban Lighting. On floor: Greg Natale ‘Largo Tempo Jurassic’ tiles in Black/White, as before. ‘Raphis’ broad leaf palms, as before. ‘Patar’ planter set in Black, as before. >

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CLASSIC MIX

Balance light and dark elements with rich mahogany, teak and ebony timbers dressed in refreshing whites and lightweight fabrics.

ABOVE: ‘Kensington’ pedestal and basin set in White, $599/90.5cm, and ‘Madera’ basin tap set in Matt Black, $309, both Schots Home Emporium.

On basin: Ceramic soap dispenser in White, $59, Santa Maria Novella. Vintage wash cotton hand towel in Charcoal, $39, Saardé. On wall: ‘Dauphine’ wall sconces in Aged Iron, $620 each, Bloomingdales. ‘Amara’ square mirror with rattan frame in Mud Wash, $999/100cm x 100cm, Wisteria Design. Specialty paint finish by Ludi Braga Interior using Porter’s Paints. Framed portrait of 19th-century Danish poet Frederik Paludan Muller, $220, Vintage Art Emporium. ‘Vintage Palms’ wallpaper mural in Dark Grey, $349.95/280cm x 170cm, Olive Et Oriel. On floor: ‘Octagon’ dot tumbled mosaic tiles in Black/White Carrara (15cm x 15cm), Teranova. OPPOSITE: ‘Marseille’ rattan headboard in Weathered Oak, $1150/queen, Hudson Furniture. Visual Comfort hand-forged martini table in Aged Iron, $830/61cm, Laura Kincade. On bed: Linen queen duvet cover set in Forest, $365, standard linen pillowcases in Forest, $90/set of 2, and linen queen fitted sheet in Forest, $180, all Cultiver. ‘Enes’ cotton lumbar cushion in Sand, $90/60cm x 40cm, and ‘Velvet’ square cushion in Anatolia, $95/50cm x 50cm, Saardé. ‘Mira’ striped lumbar cushion cover in Enzo, $150/90cm x 40cm, with duck feather cushion insert, $60, and ‘Mira’ linen throw in Ana, $200, all Cultiver. On table: ‘Classica’ scented candle in White, $51, Santa Maria Novella. Greenery arrangement, Hermetica Flowers. Organic glass carafe in Clear, $55, Saardé. Fragranced hair mist in Eau Capitale, $75/30ml, Mecca. On wall: ‘Portland’ wall light in Brass, $220, Emac & Lawton. ‘Portrait of a Lady’ vintage framed portrait, $220, Vintage Art Emporium. ‘Vintage Palms’ wallpaper mural in Dark Grey, as before.‘Octagon’ dot tumbled mosaic tiles in Black/White Carrara, as before.

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GLOBAL GLAM

Build character in a room by displaying trinkets and treasures that speak to adventures abroad and experiences collected.

WWW.TRAEGERGRILLS.COM.AU

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THE OUTSIDERS

MAKE YOUR OUTDOORS GREAT WITH THESE NEAT (AND VERSATILE) SEATS Compiled by ALICE IERACE

1. ‘Perch’ outdoor ottoman in Sunbrella Linen, $1099, Blu Dot. 2. ‘Hampton’ outdoor coffee table/seat in White, $1599, Alfresco Emporium. 3. ‘Palissade’ outdoor ottoman in Olive, $415, Hay. 4. ‘Oliver’ woven outdoor ottoman in Rope Grey, $995/small, Coco Republic. 5. Linea Furniture ‘Cyrus’ pouffe in Beige, $269, Temple & Webster. 6. ‘Howlett’ ottoman in Coral, $249, Domayne. 7. Tim Webber ‘Duffel’ outdoor stool in Mokum ‘Reef’ fabric, $1220/small, Cult. 8. ‘Mauritius’ rope ottoman in Almond, $1490, Globe West. 9. ‘Halden’ outdoor ottoman with cushion in Beige, $599, West Elm. 10. ‘Crescent’ outdoor ottoman in ‘Malibu’ fabric in Eucalyptus, $1185/large, King.

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ENDURING STYLE

CLASSIC BLUES, BOTANICAL PRINTS AND WICKER FURNITURE GET A REFRESH Compiled by KATRINA YAXLEY

1. William Morris ‘Willow Boughs’ wallpaper, $188/roll, Wallpaper Direct. 2. Natural Curiosities handmade ‘Historical Botanical 4’ framed wall art, $4995/110cm x 156cm, Coco Republic. 3. ‘Limnos’ rattan wall lamp, $120, Indigo Love. 4. Pasabache ‘Timeless’ highball glasses in Blue, $34.95/set of 4, Temple & Webster. 5. Sklo seed vessel in Steel Blue, $320, Jardan. 6. Bamboo cutlery dessert set, $179/12-piece set, Alfresco Emporium. 7. Embroidered linen placemats in Ocean Blue, $96/set of 4, Blue Maisonette. 8. Gien ‘Filets’ platter in Indigo, $171.13, Artedona. 9. Woven table in Natural, $690, Worn. 10. Sabai teak timber bench in Natural, $1049, Living Styles.

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SAVING FACE

EMBRACE SUMMERY DAYS WITH THESE SUN-SAFE ESSENTIALS Compiled by HARRIET SIM Styling KATE LINCOLN Photography Alana Landsberry

1. Rodan + Fields Redefine Triple Defense lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 15, $123/30ml. 2. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Invisible Fluid sunscreen SPF 50+, $31.95/50ml, Priceline. 3. Milk Makeup Sunshine skin tint SPF 30, $64/16ml, Sephora. 4. Sisley Paris All Day All Year Anti-aging Day Care treatment, $495/50ml. 5. Clarins SOS UV primer, $50/30ml, David Jones. 6. Aspect Sun Physical Sun Protection SPF 50+ sunscreen cream, $59/75g, Adore Beauty. 7. Naked Sundays SPF50+ Glow Body Mist sunscreen spray, $44.95/150ml, Mecca. 8. Mecca Cosmetica To Save Face SPF 30 facial sunscreen, $40/100g. 9. Estée Lauder Double Wear Sheer Long-Wear makeup SPF 20, $60/30ml, Sephora. 10. Santa Maria Novella Aloe gel for Face and Body, $60/250ml.

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ARTWORK ‘SEASPRAY LANDSCAPE’ BY TIM SHAW

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ONWARDS & UPWARDS

page 48

THE STORIES, STYLE AND LOVE THAT MAKE A HOME BEAUTIFUL

Beautiful HOMES

Onwards &

UPWARDS

IMPECCABLE STYLE AND ATTENTION TO DETAIL CHARACTERISE ONE SYDNEY FAMILY’S FOREVER HOME

STYLING ASSISTANT TESS THYREGOD

Story SUE WHEELER Styling LISA BURDEN Photography NIC GOSSAGE

YOU’RE WELCOME Grand entrances, both inside and out, offer a glimpse into the proportions and elegance of this luxury beachside abode,

the newly built home of Victoria, founder of Victoria Waters Design, and husband Richard, pictured opposite with their seven-year-old twins Isla and Mac, and family pooch, Indie. “While I love classic Hamptons style, I also wanted to create the sentiment of an Australian coastal home,” says Victoria. Victoria’s much-loved Arteriors Home ‘Adele’ pendants take centre stage in the entrance (below), and an antique sideboard from Lucinda Rose offers oriental charm to the classic space. Tim Shaw’s aptly named painting Morning Swim adds a touch of colour. On the outside (opposite) Victoria “steered away from grey”, instead choosing Dulux Beige Filter for the exterior weatherboard walls, its warm colour picking out tones in the limestone cladding and creating contrast to the Dulux Natural White timber work. The ‘Cabin Wall’ lights are from Astro. >

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Beautiful HOMES

ith toddler twins running around a squeezy two-bedroom terrace, the time was right for interior designer Victoria and her husband Richard to build their dream family home, close to the beach in Sydney’s eastern suburbs where Victoria grew up. In 2016, they came across a 1950s home with the right price tag and a prime location. Victoria and Richard planned to knock down the old house, using the generous backyard to build a bigger single-level home and pool, however, one day they climbed on to the roof and saw the ocean views building up would capture… and the rest is two-storey history. “This is our forever home so we made sure the house would grow with us,” says Victoria of the luxury beach house they finished in December 2020. Smart decisions included designing the seven-year-old

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twins’ bathroom with a double vanity and large shower to accommodate their needs as adults. The couple loves entertaining so a generous living area with optimum indoor/outdoor flow got a big tick and a fully selfcontained studio at the front of the house means friends and family are welcome to stay (as are guests on Airbnb). Victoria also wanted “lots of light and ‘green’ views from every room.” The interiors are timeless yet bursting with personality. “I wanted a home that was enduring, with a classic style I won’t tire of,” says Victoria. “I love coastal Hamptons style and have a passion for Queenslanders, so this house is really a combination of both.” As she watches the children play in the pool or enjoys a coffee in her dream kitchen, what is she most proud of? “The fact that my husband and I have built this beautiful home for our family, and for our friends to enjoy over the coming years. It was a long process but when we look at it and all we’ve achieved we are so thrilled. We wouldn’t change a thing.”

OPEN-PLAN LIVING Palatial proportions bring grandeur to the hub of the home, where eyes are drawn to the 3.2-metre-high sectional ceiling,

stackable doors and linen curtains by Draperly. “I wanted the ceiling to be a feature,” says Victoria, who blends Hamptons style with a relaxed coastal look in the room’s three zones. Whitewashed rattan pendants from Bisque Traders bring beach vibes to the dining table (try Provincial Home Living), where chairs from MCM House and Coco Republic make dinner guests feel at home. In the lounge area, a limestone-clad fireplace steals the scene. The ‘Salsie’ sofa is from Freedom. “We needed a big sofa for this space,” says Victoria, who loves its “Hamptons-style shape and removable covers.” > FLOOR PLAN FIRST FLOOR

MEDIA ROOM

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ENTRY KITCHEN L’DRY & P’TRY

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ILLUSTRATION KENZIEDESIGN.COM

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“I love STANDING IN THE KITCHEN… AND BEING ABLE TO SEE everyone interacting AROUND ME” VICTORIA

Beautiful HOMES KITCHEN “I couldn’t find an engineered stone that gave me the same joy,” says Victoria, seen here next to the enormous ‘Super White’ marble island

in her sumptuous kitchen (below). “I like to be sociable when I’m preparing food so it’s deep enough for people to sit all the way around,” says the designer, who chose Satara’s ‘Anna’ bar stools for their high backs. Taking the space from functional to fabulous are white textured subway tiles, Emac & Lawton ‘Gadsden’ pendants and bespoke cabinetry displaying Victoria’s beloved pieces of handblown glass. LAUNDRY & BUTLER’S PANTRY “Next to the kitchen, the laundry is the most important room, and we gave a lot of thought to the design and joinery,” says Victoria, who raised appliances to ergonomic height and designed a hidden, pull-out plinth to stand on and reach the dryer. “We even designed the joinery with pull-out drawers to hide away the dog’s food,” says Victoria, which Indie the cavoodle (opposite) seems to know. The artwork, Honey Grevillea Dreaming, is by Brenda Punytjina Armstrong. >

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old with new “I love bringing old pieces into new homes as it adds authenticity and lived-in personality,” says Victoria, of the oriental bedside table she found on Gumtree. For one-off, unique pieces, keep an eye on Gumtree or Facebook Marketplace and seek out the websites of vintage shops, such as dirtyjanes.com and lunatiques.com.

Beautiful HOMES FAMILY BATHROOM Tradition and luxury imbue the all-white bathroom (below), with its Forme ‘Apollo’ bath, Zaffero ‘Galveston’ wall lights

PAINT COLOURS MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

and shaker-style joinery. “I used Carrara marble for the benchtop and niche to create a high-end finish,” says Victoria. Tapware by Astra Walker and ottoman from Merci Maison. MAIN BEDROOM A rattan bedhead from One World Collection (opposite) sits happily next to Astro’s ‘Ravello LED Reader’ (Enlightened Living) in a blend of elegant and effortless. McMullin & Co’s bolster cushion sits atop a Macey & Moore French linen quilt and an Elias Mercantile bed cover, while a Provincial Home Living throw complements the wall colour, Porter’s Paints Half Wood Smoke. >

“THE BEST decision I MADE IN THIS BATHROOM WAS INSTALLING A laundry CHUTE” VICTORIA HOME BEAUTIFUL

Beautiful HOMES Source book Interior design: Victoria Waters, victoriawatersdesign.com.au, Sth Coogee Beach House on Airbnb. Building design: Norrsken Ko, norrskenko.com.au. Builder: David Simonetti, Ecobuild Construction, ecobuildconstruction.com.au. Joinery: Michael Vartuli, Esito, esito.com.au.

OUTDOOR AREA “With seven-year-old twins, a pool was always on the family’s wish list,” says Victoria, pictured here in the armchair of Harvey Norman’s ‘Rimini’ 3-piece Outdoor Chat Setting, accompanied by Richard, Mac, Isla and cavoodle Indie. “The wraparound balcony with white timber balustrades and double post details gives the home a Queenslander feel,” remarks Victoria, “whilst the exposed rafter tails and highlight windows are in keeping with Hamptons style.” The limestone poolside pavers are from Barefoot Living and the wall lights from Emac & Lawton.

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FAMILY HAVEN

INSIDE STORY

Victoria & Richard’s home

Who lives here? Victoria, an interior designer, and her husband Richard, who manages agricultural investments, with their twins Mac and Isla, seven, and Indie the cavoodle. Favourite design idea? Victoria: “The playroom, which connects to the living area, has a half glass bar door, so the children have their own space, but I can keep an eye on them.” Top interior style tip? Victoria: “Clearly define your design style before you start. Prepare mood boards so you are clear on the style you would like to achieve.” Weekend ritual? Victoria: “I love to cook and entertain friends, and, on a Sunday, you’ll often find me pottering around the garden.”

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1. Victoria meets clients around a marble ‘Tulip’ table in her office. 2. Tim Shaw’s painting ‘Seaspray Landscape’ anchors the dining zone. 3. The serene family bathroom. 4. Bronze accents embellish the ensuite. The ‘Crema’ towels are from Købn. 5. In Mac’s room, a bookshelf displays decorative items, including a Castle ‘Little Red Doggie’ print. 6. For similar bronzed brass handles, see Bankston’s ‘Brunswick’ range. 7. Cushions and a throw add splashes of colour to the sofa.

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NEW APPROACH THIS BEAUTIFULLY RENOVATED HOLIDAY HOME IN NOOSA IS A RAINFOREST-MEETS-THE-SEA GETAWAY FOR A FAMILY OF FIVE Story & styling KYLIE JACKES Photography LOUISE ROCHE

FRESH VIBES For expat couple Debbie and Wes, and their children Mika, Honor and Pippin, there’s no place like their holiday home, nestled

among the trees in Noosa, on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. It took almost a year to renovate the home to create a luxe retreat, perfectly suited to the climate and idyllic location. “The custom aluminium vertical battens at the front were a splurge, but we love their visual impact and they’re the perfect solution to filter light and provide privacy,” reflects Debbie of the home’s entrance (opposite). The kitchen (below) was also overhauled to become a connected social space, designed for informal dining, with shelves filled with locally made ceramics forming a striking feature wall. >

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ome school holidays, flights permitting, Singapore-based couple Debbie and Wes and their daughters Mika, nine, Honor, six, and Pippin, four, head to Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. The trip takes about 10 hours and when the family arrives at their Noosa holiday home the most pressing decision is where to head first – Little Cove Beach for a swim, or Noosa National Park for a walk to stretch the legs. “We love doing both and never take our time in Noosa for granted,” reflects Debbie. “In Singapore, we live in a rented apartment, with no outdoor space – not even a balcony, so here we enjoy being outside as much as possible.” For Wes, who grew up on the Sunshine Coast, it had always been a dream to own a property in the tightly held Little Cove area where he could simply walk to the surf breaks he enjoyed as a kid. Initially, the couple bought a townhouse yet not long after the arrival of their youngest daughter Pippin in 2018, they leapt at the opportunity to upsize to a larger home nearby. “The timing was perfect as we’d outgrown the townhouse and really wanted a place where our extended families could also stay with us on holidays,” explains Debbie. While the location and size were ideal, the ’90s-era home riddled with ad-hoc extensions needed a dramatic renovation inside and out to get the feel and flow right. Enlisting the expertise of local building designer Georgina Price and interior designer Bindy Ward, the redesign centred around taking advantage of Noosa’s temperate climate by creating a seamless connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces and capturing views of the national park, which provides a lush backdrop. “We wanted a space that functioned for us as a family where we could watch the kids run around the garden and splash in the pool while we entertain in the kitchen and living spaces,” says Debbie. Key changes included converting a garage to a games room, enclosing annexed bedrooms and relocating internal stairs to create a more userfriendly open-plan living and dining area. Juggling the 11-month project while living overseas, the couple, who both have a passion for design, quite enjoyed reviewing plans and perusing furniture selections online, late at night after work. Every few months, they also travelled back to oversee progress and make decisions onsite. “It felt like a nice reprieve from our normal day jobs and our team made the process as easy as possible with regular photo and video updates,” says Debbie of the transformation completed in early 2020. Just as they imagined, the holiday home and its surrounding beauty provides a welcome change of scene from their inner-city lifestyle. “For us, it’s an opportunity to slow down, relax and unwind, while the kids really relish the amount of outdoor space there is,” says Debbie. Like most homeowners in the picturesque coastal pocket, Debbie says they can’t ever imagine ever letting go of their place. “Noosa is so special to us and we plan on plenty more happy memories being made here as our family grows.”

KITCHEN Once orange, taupe and poky, the new, white, bright kitchen feels fresh, timeless and far bigger thanks to a few clever tweaks that

ARTWORK (MEDIA/GAMES ROOM) ‘TERRAZZO INTERIOR’ PRINT BY CHARLOTTE TAYLOR FROM GREENHOUSE INTERIORS

involved removing a wall and installing additional skylights. Cabinetry by Akyrah Kitchens, colour matched to walls in Resene Half Black White, is simple and subtle, with the kitchen island defined with VJ detailing and shapely oak legs. To keep the palette pared back and functional, Caesarstone benchtops in ‘Cloudburst Concrete’ echo the tone and feel of the floors refurbished in a microcement finish. MEDIA/GAMES ROOM Debbie (opposite) with daughters Mika (left), Pippin (centre) and Honor (right) in the playroom, where a custom bench seat from Akyrah Kitchens houses deep drawers for storing games and toys. ENTRANCE Rather than a designated front door, the home’s entrance (pictured bottom left) is a series of pivoting batten screens, which open to reveal doors leading to the playroom and living area. The Malawi chair is from Uniqwa. >

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Beautiful HOMES

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UPPER LEVEL ENS MAIN BED

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ILLUSTRATION KENZIEDESIGN.COM COMMISSIONED ARTWORK (LIVING AREA) BY HANNAH NOWLAN

FLOOR PLAN

LIVING AREA “As a holiday home we rent out when we are overseas,

our vision was to create an effortless yet elegant space for ourselves and our guests,” explains Debbie. A Jardan ‘Sunny’ sofa is a favourite spot to kick back for an afternoon nap after a morning spent at the beach, while the girls love to stretch out on an Armadillo rug, teamed with a Sarah Ellison ‘Paloma’ coffee table. The new staircase doubles as a light well and a gallery wall for a natural fibre piece by Roundnine9. DINING AREA Floating custom bench seating (opposite) by GTO Building in White Smoked timber from Woodcut, teamed with Cultiver cushions, is a clever addition, which maximises space. Paired with a custom timber table by Raw Sunshine Coast and No. 18 chairs from James Richardson Furniture, the casual setting caters for big family lunches with ease. >

“WE WANTED A luxe coastal feel WITH FAIRLY NEUTRAL, WARMING, textural ELEMENTS” DEBBIE

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GUEST BATHROOM “The key to creating a relaxed holiday vibe was adopting an understated palette which drew inspiration from the natural landscape,” explains Debbie. An ADP ‘Arch’ mirror from Reece reflects views of the national park, with H&M towels providing another shot of greenery. MAIN BEDROOM The upper level is designed as a retreat (opposite) for Wes and Debbie. Rather than furnish the space with a bedhead, a ledge clad in VJ panelling provides a focal point and place to display ceramics. A ‘Malawi’ rug from Armadillo and linen by Cultiver keeps the look textural and serene, with the main source of colour in the room a commissioned artwork by Hannah Nowlan and native foliage.

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layered pieces Rather than simply furnish the house for function, carefully chosen layered artworks and ceramics imbue a personal touch and reflect Debbie and Wes’s appreciation of handcrafted works. Pieces by Clae Studio and local ceramic artist Elke Lucas were chosen for their organic, tactile appeal. Visit claestudio.com, elkelucasceramics.com. >

Source book Builder: GTO Building, gtobuilding.com. Building design: Georgina Price Design, georginaprice design.com.au. Interiors: Bindy Ward, bindyward.com. Holiday bookings: visit Noa by the Beach, noabythebeach.com.au.

POOL AREA The pool, resurfaced by Nautilus Pools and updated with

‘Glocal’ structured tiles in Ideal from National Tiles, is enjoyed by the whole family. “My favourite spot is to sit in the hanging chair and work on my laptop while the kids play in the pool or back garden,” says Debbie. The ‘Kenya’ hanging chair is from Yak and Yeti Trader.

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INSIDE STORY

Debbie & Wes’s home Who stays here? Debbie, a lawyer; husband Wes, who works in finance; their daughters Mika, nine, Honor, six, and Pippin, four. What did you learn during the reno? Debbie: “Even though 3D renders can be costly and timely, they were an excellent way to help visualise the space, making it easier and more efficient to make decisions!” Best design decision? Debbie: “There were garages on either side of the house… we enlarged one into a double garage and converted the other into a media/games room.” Favourite spot in the home? Debbie: “We love entertaining friends and family in the alfresco dining area overlooking the Noosa National Park.”

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1. The custom aluminium battens are from DM Steel and Aluminium. 2. Wes and Debbie with daughters Honor (left), Pippin (centre) and Mika (right) in a corner of the living area. 3. The existing pool was resurfaced and updated with new concrete-look tiles. 4. A custom timber box and board rack stores gear, including a locally crafted ‘Flax Fish’ surfboard from Hughies. 5. Bespoke joinery and a custom dining table by Raw Sunshine Coast create a one-of-a-kind dining area. 6. The outdoor area is equipped for entertaining with a Cosh Living dining table, Globe West dining chairs and a Grandfire barbecue. 7. The landscaping is by Serene Gardens.

Beautiful HOMES

ROOM TO BREATHE Homeowners Sara and Darren love throwing open

the doors and enjoying their lush garden. “The doors are nearly always open and we cook a lot on the barbecue,” says Darren. “And we just had to have that aloe vera tree. It’s thriving.” While the coffee table was bought in London, the leather lounge and retro armchairs were sourced closer to home, from Freedom. “Because of our dog Jed’s propensity to jump on the couch, we chose something relatively inexpensive.” The Slim Aarons photographic print from Fine Print Co. celebrates Sara’s favourite colour, rich teal, as do the ‘New Paradise’ kitchen tiles in Deep Sea from Di Lorenzo. Dulux White On White walls, ‘Garonne’ limestone tiles from Eco Outdoor and wicker chairs from Naturally Cane all lend a light touch. >

Period DRAMA

THE OWNERS OF THIS SYDNEY HOUSE LOVINGLY BLEND ITS PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE, WITH RELAXED AND STYLISH RESULTS

ACTUAL PAINT COLOUR MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

Story CHRIS PEARSON Styling ALANNA SMIT Photography JACQUI TURK

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FLOOR PLAN GROUND FLOOR

POOL

ALFRESCO FIRST FLOOR KITCHEN BATH

LIVING P'TRY BATH WIR

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ENTRY

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ENTRY “This is my favourite area,” says Sara (pictured above with Darren and Jed the Rhodesian ridgeback). “The stained-glass windows and leather chairs were bought in the UK.” HALLWAY The plantation style is evident in a tortoiseshell-cane hat stand and bird figurines from Alfresco Emporium, ‘Nest’ sisal rug from Armadillo, Xavier Furniture ginger jar and ‘Bell Jar’ pendant light from Emac & Lawton (opposite). >

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ood things come to those who wait, as Sara and Darren, owners of this four-bedroom home on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, discovered. In 2015, months after buying it, the couple, with twin daughters Gemma and Elyssa, now 17, were posted to London with Sara’s job. But this cloud had a silver lining – during that three-year stint, Sara amassed vintage treasures now peppered throughout the home. “I spent hours scouring shops and markets in London for pieces,” she says. When the couple bought the 1920s bungalow, they were smitten by its Art-Deco features, all intact. “That craftsmanship can’t be replicated today,” says Darren. One asset lay delectably hidden until they moved in. “We hadn’t realised the stained-glass sliding doors in the lounge room were there, as they were flush with the wall cavity and must not have been pulled out for years,” says Sara. But a 1990s French-provincial style extension had served up a warren of rooms poorly connected to the garden, while the whole house was in desperate need of a refresh. Dark walls and floorboards were gloomy and unwelcoming. The couple approached interior designer Alanna Smit to update the two-storey home. “I was searching for someone whose style would suit the house perfectly,” says Sara. “I discovered Alanna’s plantation style and by chance she knew one of my best friends, who recommended her.” Adds Alanna, “My brief was to make it function like a beach house, for a young family and for entertaining.” Key to that was to turn the extension into a generous open plan. Meanwhile, the couple wanted to swap the bedrooms so the main bedroom was downstairs and two children’s bedrooms upstairs. This would also give Sara and Darren an ensuite. The changes had to embrace the period features that had wooed the couple. “We had to balance original features with contemporary finishes and Sara’s furniture and art,” says Alanna. “The house lends itself to classic plantation style, with sisal rugs, V-groove panelling, cane furniture and greenery.” Contemporary finishes include black oak ensuite joinery, while the main bathroom has “cocoa-stained” oak with Carrara marble. The kitchen sports a teal tiled splashback. “My favourite colour is rich teal,” says Sara. “It goes well with the mustard and tan of the original tiles and the furniture.” Vintage pieces flow from room to room. “They lend so much character – tortoiseshell cane fits so well.” While in the UK, she had “a funny obsession” with demijohns, asking a dealer to source them from French markets. All these elements mingle to make a dream home on this side of the world. “I love this house,” says Sara. “There is a special warm and safe feeling when you walk down the hallway at night that I can’t describe. And I love sitting in the lounge room on a rainy day in front of the fire. The panelling and floorboards make it such a beautiful room.”

Beautiful HOMES

“THE ‘X’ DETAIL ON THE ISLAND anchors the space AND CONNECTS IT TO THE SHELVES AND THE coastal vibe” ALANNA SMIT, INTERIOR DESIGNER

KITCHEN “We wanted this to function as a huge, welcoming entertaining space, as the hero of the house and to reflect the style and personalities of Sara and Darren,” explains interior designer Alanna Smit. ‘New Paradise’ encaustic tiles in Deep Sea from Di Lorenzo celebrate Sara’s passion for teal, offset by a benchtop in Carrara marble from Central Coast Granite and Perrin & Rowe ‘Ionian’ aged brass tapware and Barclay ‘Acquello’ sink, both from The English Tapware Company. The joinery is by Creative Space. With Sara’s passion for demijohns, Alanna looked in vain for some to repurpose as pendants and chanced upon chunky ‘Celeste’ pendants from Emac & Lawton (opposite), which look the part. “They are big and oversized without being overbearing and blocking the space,” she says. PANTRY Solid-oak shelves are a handsome feature in the pantry (top right), with the laundry tucked behind. This corner, with its cornicing and glass-fronted cabinets, alludes to the home’s period elements.

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chunky islands “The oversize island is just so practical,” says Darren. “I can be preparing dinner while the girls are on the stools and chatting to Sara.” There’s a similarly oversized gap between the island and the bench, so it’s not cramped. “I like the oak ‘X’ at the end,” adds Darren. “Waterfall ends are a bit cookie-cutter, so Alanna came up with this. It’s unique and we love it.” >

LIVING This original Art-Deco space has its perfect companion in Alanna’s plantation style, expressed in the furniture – a ‘Clara’ linen-covered sofa

and ‘Bermuda’ armchairs and table, all from Alfresco Emporium – and indoor plants. “We restored the room by keeping what we could and bringing it into the 21st century with lighting and fresh white walls,” says Alanna. “We went back and forth about painting the wainscoting, but you can never go back once you paint it. Now it has a cigar-lounge feel.” Sara and Darren didn’t want downlights so Alanna used existing electricals for the ‘Prescot’ chandelier from Emac & Lawton. “The sconce is original,” says Darren. “It’s part of the house’s story. It’s important to respect the historical elements.” >

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“WE KEPT THE LIVING ROOM original. WE WENT WITH WHITE WALLS TO lighten THE DARK TIMBER, WHILE THE white linen SOFA WAS A NO-BRAINER” ALANNA SMIT, INTERIOR DESIGNER

Beautiful HOMES

“I WON THE painting AT A CHARITY AUCTION. KNOWING IT WOULD BE perfect, I PROBABLY BID TOO MUCH!” SARA, HOMEOWNER MAIN BEDROOM & DRESSING ROOM A lush Catherine Martin ‘La Palma’ print in Coral from Mokum Textiles sets the tone – it’s used as a wallpaper on the walk-in robe’s curved wall (right) and as upholstery for a refurbished blanket chest at the foot of the bed. A Theresa Hunt artwork complements the tan leather chair and cane side table, both found in London. ENSUITE ‘Mount St’ wall lights from Dunlin (below), a New York marble vanity top from Central Coast Granite and ‘Manhattan’ tap from Brodware add period references. An ‘Issy’ mirror from Reece, joinery by Creative Space, ‘Seed’ basin from Parisi and floor tiles from Tiles By Kate are contemporary in feel. MAIN BATHROOM “I wanted Hollywood glam and specified these taps in chrome,” says Alanna of the family bathroom (opposite). “I love old-style tapware in modern finishes.” Old and modern blend seamlessly, including a ‘Seed’ basin from Parisi, tapware from Brodware and a ‘Bistro’ light from Montauk Lighting. Oak and rattan joinery by Creative Space refers to the plantation style, while sage terrazzo floor tiles and glazed Italian wall tiles from Tiles By Kate lend calm. >

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Beautiful HOMES Source book Interior architect: Alanna Smit Structural Interiors, @alannasmit designs, alannasmit.com.au. Builder: Mike Smit, MS Constructions, 0425 265 596, msconstructions.com.au. Joinery: Creative Space, 0404 789 704, creativespace.net.au.

TERRACE The outdoor area beside the pool has a Santa Fe ambience,

highlighted by rendered brickwork and ethnic cushions and throw from Pony Rider. “It’s the first fireplace I designed and I am proud of it,” says Alanna. The Spanish-colonial vibe is offset by a versatile ‘Cascade’ outdoor setting from Freedom and ‘Garonne’ limestone pavers from Eco Outdoor.

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DECO DELIGHT

INSIDE STORY

Sara & Darren’s home Who lives here? Sara, a company executive, and her husband Darren,with their twin daughters, Gemma and Elyssa, 17, and Rhodesian ridgeback Jed, who is three. What are your favourite features? Darren: “The intricate cornices, stained glass and wood panelling all sing. Plus, as soon as you walk in the front door, you can see all the way out to the pool.” How do you use the house now? “There are so many components in this house. Sara may sit in the front room, looking at the ocean, while I light the fire and sit at the back, even when it’s raining. There’s something for everyone.” Home is… “Somewhere to relax, be yourself and have quality family time.”

BEDSIDE TABLE LAMP EMAC & LAWTON

6 1. “Vintage pieces are sustainable and have more character,” says Alanna of the vintage coral from The Powder Works. 2. In the hallway, a tortoiseshell-cane hat stand from Alfresco Emporium and Jed. 3. Finger tiles from Tiles By Kate line the main ensuite. The New York marble top is from Central Coast Granite. 4. Sara found the bedside table in London and the bedhead from Naturally Cane. 5. Leather chairs in the entry at the front were also special finds from London. 6. In the ensuite, ‘Manhattan’ tapware from Brodware and Astra Walker ‘Pura’ toilet. 7. Style and substance in the kitchen, with custom joinery by Creative Space, ‘New Paradise’ encaustic tiles from Di Lorenzo and a Carrara marble benchtop.

Beautiful HOMES

Cabin COOL ENAMOURED BY THE ROMANCE OF LOG CABINS, THIS FAMILY CREATED THEIR OWN AND GAVE IT A MODERN EDGE Story & styling KYLIE JACKES Photography LOUISE ROCHE

A HOME IN THE HILLS Surrounded by pine trees, grazing cows and the odd deer, the home Ema and Corey share with their sons Henry (left) and

Noah (pictured above with Staffy Toffee), feels incredibly remote yet is just a 15 minute drive to Burleigh Heads on Queensland’s Gold Coast. Almost 15 years after buying the block, the couple realised their dream of building a cabin-style home. “We spent a long time thinking about it and although some of our plans were scaled back, it’s better than we imagined,” says Ema. Family time is enjoyed in the living area (opposite) where a Freedom sofa laden with cushions provides plenty of space to stretch out beneath an Ukuba ‘Laura’ pendant from Three Balls Red. The table is by Sarah Ellison.

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ARTWORK (THIS PAGE) BY JASMINE DOWLING

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t was love at first sight, when Ema and Corey found a secluded block of land bordering a forest of pine trees with river views, perched on a hill in Currumbin Valley in Queensland’s Gold Coast hinterland. “The block had an old post-war fibro shack that we called home for a long time, but it was always our plan to eventually build our dream home here,” recalls Ema. It took a good 15 years for their dream to become a reality. Happy to bide their time, the couple travelled and lived in London for a year with sons Noah, 15, and Henry, 13, who were just babies at the time, before moving back and making a plan. “The first step was saving, which took us five years,” explains Ema. “Because we were outgrowing the shoebox-sized shack, we became incredibly motivated to save for the new build, so we took on extra work, sacrificed holidays and lived with just the bare essentials for a while and were happy to, as we had a goal.” Their vision was to create a cabin-style home, which sat quietly among the natural setting. While Ema admits her initial plans were more idealistic than realistic, their gracious builder Mark Green suggested a simpler design, requiring less engineering, which was far more feasible. “We were complete construction newbies, with a Pinterest board the size of Queensland and a budget the size of a postage stamp, yet with lots of input from Mark we were able to tweak the design without compromising form and function,” she explains. Rather than a two-level home with a loft as originally planned, scaling back the design to a single-level layout kept the budget in check and allowed for their lengthy wish list, which included an abundance of glass, soaring raked ceilings, a stone-clad fireplace and a pool for the whole family to splash about in. “We were so thrilled to incorporate as much glass as possible, as being surrounded by nature, we didn’t want to miss any of it while indoors,” says Ema. To give the cabin an organic feel with a modern edge, James Hardie Axon cladding painted in Dulux Colorbond Monument ensures it sits subtly among the trees, while the kids and parents wing enveloped in weatherboard painted in Dulux Lexicon Half visually softens the overall effect. Inside, timber flooring from Elk Falls flow throughout the kitchen and living areas adding warmth, as do textural furnishings and select brass fixtures. During the eight-month build which was completed in early 2021, Ema sourced key furniture and Corey, with the help of a friend, made a floating timber TV unit and beautiful dining table which takes pride of place. Yet having waited so long to build the house of their dreams, the family are in no rush to fill it, preferring to take their time and add pieces that add layers of interest, rather than match perfectly. The landscaping is also ever evolving, with plans to tame some of the wild overgrown areas, refine an alfresco area by the pool and hang a double swing from an old fig tree overlooking the river. “I still get a feeling of ‘I can’t believe I live here,’” reflects Ema. “I love looking out into the dreamy forest scene only metres from my kitchen. I didn’t imagine it would look so beautiful through the lens of the three oversized glass sliding doors. It almost doesn’t look real.”

“THE ZONES WERE DESIGNED AROUND THE moments WE’D HAVE TOGETHER as a family” EMA

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stone fireplaces It’s hard to beat the impact of soaring ceilings, yet when they’re matched with a 5.5m tall stacked stone fireplace, set among a wall of glazing, the effect is incredible. “A grand fireplace was ‘the’ must have,” says Ema of the splurge-worthy double-sided Cheminees Philippe wood fireplace, which you can peer through and see the pool. stonestyle.net.au. >

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DINING AREA With the help of a cabinet-maker friend, Corey

made the farmhouse-style table in the dining area (below). “This saved money and has meant the table is far more special,” says Ema, who teamed the blackbutt piece with ‘Wishbone’ chairs from Replica Furniture. Soaring windows and doors by Trend Windows & Doors flood the space with natural light and at night the area takes on a magical ambience with a Freedom floor lamp. KITCHEN Opting for a warm yet minimalist look in the kitchen (opposite), satin white cabinetry by Cuisine Kitchens was paired with textural Zellige tiles in Lilly White from Three Balls Red on the splashback. “I love the fact that every tile has a slightly different feel and shape,” says Ema. The galley-style layout lent itself to a simple island topped in Organic White Caesarstone, which is teamed with Ikea stools. Unable to find a pendant they liked, the couple made their own with the help of an electrician, pairing a brass bulb canopy with brass tubing, which tied in perfectly with a gooseneck mixer from ABI Interiors. >

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“I WANTED THE KITCHEN TO HAVE a coastal, timeless LOOK” EMA

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“TO BE ABLE TO SEE THE river FROM OUR BED AS WE HAVE OUR MORNING COFFEE IS amazing” EMA

ILLUSTRATION KENZIEDESIGN.COM ARTWORK ON WALL (THIS PAGE FAR LEFT TOP) PINKSOY (THIS PAGE TOP LEFT) PRINT BY MATISSE (THIS PAGE FAR LEFT BOTTOM) BRITTANY FERNS OTHER ARTWORKS BY EMA

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ENSUITE “We wanted to create an ensuite that felt like a total escape,” says Ema of the luxe space (below). Floor-to-ceiling travertine tiles from National

Tiles formed the foundation. To complement the backdrop, a custom vanity by Cuisine Kitchens in Polytec woodmatt MDF in Tasmanian Oak features ABI Interiors brass tapware and Fienza basins. A vase from Magnolia Lane filled with foliage adds to the organic look. Mirrors by Millennium Glass reflect views, while Beacon Lighting wall lights add a further touch of brass. MAIN BEDROOM With the budget stretched after the build, the couple took time to furnish their bedroom (opposite). “We just made do with a bed and nothing else for some time,” says Ema. I Love Linen sheets and cushions from Magnolia Lane are swapped out seasonally to refresh the palette. A Lounge Lovers chair is positioned to enjoy the outlook, while a console, also from Lounge Lovers, provides a spot to display vessels from Marloe Marloe and Hello Trader. A Bunnings floor lamp provides bedside illumination. >

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Beautiful HOMES

Source book Builder: Mark Green, MCG Building & Supervision, @mcg_building Joinery: Cuisine Kitchens, (07) 5564 8518, cuisine kitchens.com.au. POOL Positioned off the back deck, overlooking bushland and a river, the pool (above) is completely private and doubles as a water feature, which can be enjoyed from the living area. “We were inspired by the jaw-dropping hotels with infinity pools positioned on the edge of cliffs and wanted to recreate something similar,” says Ema. Opting for simple surrounds, the pool is edged in timeless travertine tiles from Stone Style.

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BUSH HIDEAWAY

INSIDE STORY

Ema & Corey’s home

Who lives here? Ema, creative director; husband Corey, software developer; their sons Noah, 15, and Henry, 13; and Toffee, an American Staffy. Describe your style. Ema: “Somewhere between coastal and farm style with a modern element. I love combining natural textures and imperfect, handmade, artisan features.” Favourite feature? “The stonewall fireplace with the glass windows and doors either side.” What was your best decision? “Choosing our builder, he went above and beyond, and guided us so well.” What makes a great family home? “Creating zones for adults and a separate zone for kids. It’s a great way to give them a little ownership.”

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1. A vase from The Borrowed Nursery creates a centrepiece in the dining area. 2. The exterior features James Hardie Axon cladding painted in the charcoal tone of Dulux Colorbond Monument. 3. In the kitchen, Caesarstone Organic White benchtops are paired with Zellige splashback tiles from Three Balls Red. 4. A Freedom sideboard is topped in curios and a print by Jasmine Dowling. 5. The bed in the main bedroom is dressed in simple I Love Linen sheets. 6. Henry’s bed is topped in a rug and cushions from Pony Rider. Ema made the print on the wall above the bed herself. 7. In the ensuite, a freestanding bath from Bunnings provides a tranquil spot.

THIS HEAVENLY COASTAL ABODE IS ENJOYING A STYLISH NEW CHAPTER AS AN IDYLLIC GETAWAY FOR A SYDNEY FAMILY Story JACKIE BRYGEL Styling SAMANTHA TORRISI Photography SUE STUBBS

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PAINT COLOURS MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

SEASIDE SANCTUARY

Beautiful HOMES HOLIDAY TIME While they’ve only recently settled into the home, Nancy and her husband Chris, together with children (pictured opposite in the living area, from left) Lily, Sebastian and Hana, already love nothing more than welcoming family and friends to their beautiful weekender located on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. Although infused with a refined style, the house has an appropriately laid-back ambience. Revelling in its coastal setting, an expansive timber deck (below) off the living room is the perfect place to entertain. >

Beautiful HOMES

estled into a cliff with breathtaking views stretching out across the sparkling Northern Beaches coastline is this stunning weekender belonging to Nancy and her husband Chris, who live here with their three children, Hana, 12, Lily, 10, and Sebastian, five. For Nancy, the spell was cast before she even had the opportunity to step through the front door. “I knew we were going to buy the house, though I was yet to see it in real life,” she recalls. “It was like magic,” she adds with a smile. “I’m always keeping watch of real estate, and we had been looking in the area for about 18 months. When this one came up online, I said ‘Finally, we’ve found the house we’ve been waiting for’.” And Nancy had every reason to trust her instincts, with her first walk-through of the home meeting all of her expectations. “It was everything I knew it would be,” she says. “There were no surprises.” Built in 1997, the two-level home had been enjoyed and carefully maintained by the one multi-generational family for almost 25 years. “The house was loved to bits,” shares Nancy, “and I could instantly see that was the case. As soon as I walked in, I could feel the spirit of the house – the love and care that its previous owners had given the house. It was also built to last with strong foundations and excellent bones.” To Nancy and Chris, the home – featuring a sumptuous main suite as well as the core living-entertaining areas on the ground level, plus additional bedrooms and a second living space on the lower level – required no structural alterations. As for the base colour and material palette, Nancy – under the guidance of interior designer Lissa Gribble, director of Lissa Jane Interiors – chose to embrace it. And with good reason.

Contrasting against the crisp white walls and hardwood flooring, existing pops of watery teal provide a sense of harmony throughout the home and reference the seascape that can be seen outside. And then the fun really began – it was time to decorate. Together, Nancy and Lissa worked to create a cohesive look that was simple and pared back yet inviting and classically stylish. “Nancy and Chris wanted the home to be a retreat from the frantic pace of their city life,” says Lissa. “I chose to punctuate the neutral palette with the colours of wheat and charcoal. They’re two classic colours that will stand the test of time. They also pair beautifully with the white and the existing coastal aqua colours of the house.” “It was very much a team effort. I loved working with Lissa,” adds Nancy. “We wanted the house to be a place for calm, serenity and relaxation. I think that’s reflected in the furnishings. It’s not a showy or pretentious house. There’s nothing about it that says ‘Look at me!’” Instead, the hero of the home is the view. “The amphitheatre is quite dramatic,” says Nancy. “You can never tire of looking at the view, and it’s never the same – it changes with the weather.” Fittingly, too, Nancy and Chris, who have listed the home on Airbnb for short-term vacation rentals when it’s not in use by their family, have now given the abode a name of its own. “We have named the house Kohola, which means whale in Hawaiian,” says Nancy. “Chris and I have such strong ties to Hawaii. I was born and raised in New York City, but Chris and I met and then married in Hawaii. It’s our spiritual place.” Above all, says Nancy, this is a home she hopes will remain in her family for generations to come. “That is absolutely my plan,” she says, “To never sell the house and to hope that my children never have to sell it. It’s a very special place.”

LIVING In the core chill-out zone, where a soaring ceiling amplifies the sense of space (above & right), Mojoe sofas from MCM House provide plenty

of spots to curl up. Against an inky feature wall in Dulux Domino, an evocative painting – Shell Bowl by Tim Shaw from Galleria Mondiale – claims prominence. The ‘Mele’ stool is from Uniqwa Collections, while the large white plant holder – the ‘Alfie’ pot’ – was found at The Pot Warehouse. “I trust Lissa implicitly,” shares Nancy. “We went on buying trips together and chose pieces that we thought would work well in the spaces.” On the mantel, an eye-catching duo of woven garlic gourd baskets from Coastal Drift add character and charm. Linea Tri Base coffee table in ‘Black Ink’ from Globe West. >

HOME BEAUTIFUL

“THE fireplace IS IN USE IN COLDER MONTHS. IT MAKES THE HOUSE feel so cosy” NANCY, HOMEOWNER

Beautiful HOMES

“I wanted TO MOVE AWAY FROM THE more traditional BEACHHOUSE LOOK, WHICH CAN FEEL CLICHED” LISSA GRIBBLE, INTERIOR DESIGNER

KITCHEN (above) While Nancy loves to cook, entertaining at the beach house is kept simple and fuss-free. “What I love to do here is assembling platters,” she says. “Everyone comes over and we’re all hanging out around the kitchen bench. Someone is juicing limes, while someone else is putting the nibbles together. I love it that way.” DINING (right & opposite). “I wanted an oval dining table as this is the place for everyone to get together. To me, a rectangular table is not as social,” says Nancy. Certainly, the gravitational force of the ‘Acre’ oval dining table from Globe West, teamed with ‘Ashby’ dining chairs from Granite Lane, is undeniable. An oversized ‘Mila’ pendant from Uniqwa Collections makes a strong sculptural statement, while the Globe West ‘Tully’ bookcase in Natural Teak is home to a array of collectibles. >

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Beautiful HOMES

FLOOR PLAN LOWER GROUND FLOOR

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MAIN BED

ATTIC ARTIST’S STUDIO

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MAIN BEDROOM What’s not to love about a four-poster bed? “You climb onto it and it feels like you’re levitating,” says Nancy of the ‘Willow’ bed from Globe West that sits in the couple’s bedroom (above). A ‘Boule’ lamp sits atop an ‘Axol’ side table – both from MCM House. At the end of the bed, dressed in plush Cultiver linen, a GlobeWest ‘Humphrey’ bench seat completes the sleep scene. HANA’S BEDROOM There’s a fresh yet serene feel to Hana’s room (right), furnished with a ‘Beatrix’ bedhead from McMullin & Co, ‘Georgio’ chair from MCM House, ‘Akoni’ resin side table from Uniqwa Collections and a ‘Vox’ floor lamp from MRD Home. The vintage elm bench at the end of the bed has also been sourced from Uniqwa Collections.

ILLUSTRATION KENZIEDESIGN.COM

KITCHEN

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WINE CELLAR

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GARAGE

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tranquil teal Highlights of teal inside and out – Dulux Lake Shore for the internal shutters, windows and doors, Dulux Yorkshire Teal for the external beams – add serenity. “I particularly love these painted shutters throughout the house,” says Nancy. “I think they’re so unique and the tone of the teal is just beautiful.” Visit dulux.com.au. >

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BEACH BLISS

INSIDE STORY

Nancy & Chris’s home

Who stays here? Nancy and her husband Chris, who works in finance, and their children Hana, 12, Lily, 10, and Sebastian, five. Does the decoration of the home feel complete now? Nancy: “I think I’m done! Right now, it suits our family so well exactly as it is.” Favourite room in the home? “The main living area. It’s such a grand space, but it feels intimate at the same time.” Describe a typical Sunday at the beach house? “Get up late and trundle down to the local deli for breakfast and coffee before a walk to the nearby lighthouse. Then it’s time to head to the beach with the kids. Heavenly!”

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1. Plantation shutters add a tropical look in the main bedroom and ‘Zen Girl’ by Ian Vigil, from Galleria Mondiale, has a prominent spot on the wall. 2. Nancy and Chris with their kids (from left) Sebastian, Lily and Hana. 3. Coloured tiles encase the splashback, adding extra warmth and character. 4. The powder room on the ground floor. 5. A ‘Celine’ bone inlay mirror from The Boathouse Home, above the ‘Bulu’ timber cabinet from Uniqwa Collections. 6. Plush sofas beckon in the luminous living room. ‘Swimmer with Hat’ artwork by Jo Szabo from Galleria Mondiale. 7. The shimmering pool is a drawcard for the family and their stream of guests.

A D V E RT I S E M E N T

A PLACE IN THE SUN FO R A N A LFRESCO A RE A TH AT’S J UST A S CO M FO RTA B LE A S I N DOO RS, E X PLO RE BU N N I N G S’ O UTDOO R LIV I N G R A N G E

The smell of sausages is in the air, and you’ve got a hankering for a cook-up in the comfort of your own home. Look no further than Bunnings for everything you need to create the perfect outdoor space. Whether you’re after a dining table that seats plenty of guests or a comfortable sun lounger just for you to enjoy (with the option of a shady umbrella to retreat to), you’ll ﬁnd something in the Outdoor Living range. Plus, you can show a little love to the hero of the day – your barbecue itself – with a wide range of BBQ accessories such as covers, cleaning solutions and even meat thermometers. Go on, get outdoors and get living with Bunnings. Some advertised services and products are not available at some Bunnings stores, but products may be ordered.

OPTIMISE YOUR OUTDOORS • Love a feed? Invest in a BBQ – plus a cover to keep your centrepiece sparkling. • For a usable space whatever the weather, try adding some outdoor shade. • When the sun goes down and there’s a chill in the air, an outdoor heater can up the comfort level. • Think outside the box and complement traditional tables and chairs with comfortable outdoor beanbags.

Top: Marquee ‘Bayﬁeld’ Wicker Dining Chairs, $41.90, I/N 0184150, Marquee ‘Bayﬁeld’ Dining Table, $149, I/N 0177366. Above: Matador ‘Tempo’ Portable Gass BBQ, $249, I/N 0256470. Stand sold separately.

Check out the range in-store or online at bunnings.com.au

gardens

PHOTOGRAPHY BRIGID ARNOTT

BEAUTIFUL

CALL OF THE WILD

page 102

IDEAS AND INSPIRATION FOR STYLISH OUTDOOR LIVING

Flower farmer Craig Scott, pictured here with an armful of NSW Christmas bush, and his kelpie Baz, has spent more than 30 years growing and selling native wildflowers. >

Beautiful GARDENS

CALL of the WILD ONE FLOWER GROWER LOCATED ON THE CENTRAL COAST OF NSW WHOLEHEARTEDLY EMBRACES THE UNIQUE BEAUTY OF AUSTRALIAN NATIVES AND HIS RICH FAMILY HISTORY OF FLORA FARMING Story JESSICA BELLEF Photography BRIGID ARNOTT

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raig Scott is on the other end of the phone line, and his calm, quiet voice is accompanied by the unmistakable and oh-so-beautiful soundscape of Australian birdsong. The flower grower is calling from his 20-hectare property located on the Central Coast of NSW, where he and a handful of staff propagate, nurture and harvest more than 200 varieties of plants. “And 98 per cent of the varieties are Australian natives,” Craig adds. Operating as East Coast Wildflowers, the team supplies masses of cut florals and foliage to florists and stylists across Sydney and beyond, selling from the hustle and bustle of the Sydney Flower Market in Homebush three mornings a week. It’s a scene Craig has known all his life. “I come from a long line of flower growers and florists,” he says. “I’m a fourth-generation farmer and now one of my daughters is a florist with a store in Paddington, so she is fifth generation.” Craig’s father Col purchased the farm in 1968 and grew mostly traditional flowers like dahlias, asters, and zinnias while dipping his toe into native varieties. “He introduced cut natives to the flower

An avenue of NSW Christmas bush. Opposite, clockwise from top left: A detail of the NSW Christmas bush; Sturt’s desert pea; orange flowering gum; pink flannel flower.

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market in the ’70s and early ’80s and it took a while for the florists to get used to them,” Craig explains. When Craig and his wife Angela moved to the farm in 1987, they expanded the Australian offering. More than 30 years later, East Coast Wildflowers can’t keep up with the demand for native flowers. “People love the diversity and seasonality of the flora. We are always looking for new varieties to grow, and there’s always something worthwhile pursuing,” says Craig. The productive farm is made up of 10 hectares of wild bushland and 10 hectares that incorporate open-air crop rows and a series of greenhouses. Among the beautiful abundance, you will find kangaroo paws, waratah, flannel flower, Rottnest Island daisy, and so much more. Craig’s passion for natives and the Australian landscape is deeply ingrained. When asked what he would be doing if it wasn’t flower farming, the seasoned grower replies, after a thoughtful pause, “I love the outdoors, so I guess it would be good to be a full-time bushwalker. But it might be a bit hard to get paid for that!” Visit eastcoastwildflowers.com.

OUTSIDE STORY

Craig Scott, flower farmer Favourite native? “It’s hard to pick a favourite, but the flannel flower is a beautiful thing.” Busiest time of year? “Spring and summer are the most productive seasons.” Most popular variety? “Currently, it’s paper daisies… the fresh often sell out before we have time to dry them.” Advice for growing natives at home? “Select the varieties local to your region, and most native plants love well-drained soil with full sun or part shade.” What time of day are the flowers picked? “Early morning or late afternoon. But when you have a lot of product, you just have to pick it when you can.” >

Beautiful GARDENS

“WE LOVE THE NEWNESS AND freshness OF WHAT NATIVE flowers CAN BRING. THERE ARE SO MANY OUT THERE THAT ARE interesting AND WORTHWHILE PURSUING” CRAIG

Tall pines form a natural windbreak, protecting the rows of towering kangaroo paws, a key species for the farm. >

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Beautiful GARDENS

The flowers are grown in crop rows or greenhouses. “We also grow a lot in pots, which gives us more control over the root zone and drainage,” says Craig, who is pictured opposite among kangaroo paw hybrids.

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Bunch time

A LIVELY DISPLAY

One of the many things Craig loves about flower farming is supplying florals and foliage for large-scale events. “I like putting together a range that works for the florist and showcases the uniqueness and diversity of our flora,” he explains. Craig’s tips for keeping a vase of cut natives alive for longer? “They like deep water. The vase should be at least half-full and topped up every two to three days.” >

“WE HAVE ICONIC flora IN AUSTRALIA… IT’S GREAT WHEN YOU SEE PEOPLE BECOME passionate ABOUT PLANTS” CRAIG

Beautiful GARDENS

“THERE’S SUCH A VARIETY OF natives, RANGING FROM THE BOLD AND beautifully STRUCTURAL, RIGHT DOWN TO THE REALLY delicate, FINE AND pretty” CRAIG

“Baz always rides in the buggy with me,” says Craig of his eight-year-old kelpie. Here, the faithful hound stands over fresh pickings of NSW Christmas bush, flowering gum and lush foliage.

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WILDFLOWER

beauties

1. The Banksia plagiocarpa is native to Queensland. 2. Flowering gum, ready to burst into colour. 3. The cheerful winged everlasting (or paper daisy) is a crowd favourite. 4. Mauve Mulla Mulla showcases native flora’s softer side. 5. Yellow kangaroo paws from Western Australia. 6. Banksia robur, commonly known as swamp banskia. 7. A mix of dry everlasting daisies. 8. A flowering gum hybrid known as ‘Summer Red’. 4 6

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Discover the best of home inspiration.

HOME TOURS

RENOVATING

DECORATING

OUTDOOR & GARDENING

PETS

design

BEAUTIFUL

PHOTOGRAPHY CHRIS WARNES

ALL CHANGE page 114

KITCHENS | BATHROOMS | EXPERT ADVICE | RENOVATE | CREATE

slipcovers

ALL CHANGE

SLIP INTO SOMETHING MORE COMFORTABLE AND UPDATE YOUR FURNITURE TO SUIT THE SEASON WITH COVERS THAT ARE BOTH RELAXED AND ELEGANT Words LAURA BARRY

Designer tip

“I CAN’T GO PAST N E UTRA L S , WH I T ES OR SNOWS,” SAYS AUTHOR A N D S TY L I S T SA RA H ANDREWS. “FROM A N EU TRA L SL IP COV ER BAS E , I WI LL A DD THROWS AND CUSHIONS W IT H AN TI Q UE OIL P R I NT S ON T HE M FR OM M Y OWN RA N GE TO C R E ATE CO S I NE S S. A L L O F T HI S I S RE MOVE D FOR S P R I N G AN D S UMM ER FO R M I N I M A L LO UN GI N G, W HI C H I S J US T S O C HIC .”

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) ABBIE MELLE (OPPOSITE) JODY D’ARCY ARTWORKS BY UNKNOWN ARTISTS

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ccording to Anthony Spon-Smith, co-CEO and chief creative officer at Coco Republic, slipcovers were developed centuries ago when royals and nobles would leave their summer homes and cover furniture with white linen to protect it throughout winter. “Often, covers were left on upon return the next season as it became ‘cool’ to be ‘casual’, and others soon copied the aesthetic,” says Anthony. “Slipcovers have always been about protection but have developed into a casual summer look.” These days, you can have custom slipcovers made to fit almost any sofa, chair or bedhead from a selection of fabrics and trims. “A slipcover very simply is a removable fabric cover for a sofa, chair or bedhead,” says Sarah Andrews, stylist, author and Airbnb guru. “It’s a great choice for those who are looking for a sustainable design option as you can update the fabric and the colours of your furniture during its lifetime or seasonally, and for those looking for practical [options] that can be home laundered.”

BLENDING IN Thanks to their affordable price tag, slipcovers allow you to transform the look of your furniture and make blending mismatched furniture a breeze. “If you have sofas or armchairs that you love, but the fabric might be a little dated, you can have slipcovers designed and made easily and cheaply, rather than investing in new furniture or forking out for it to be professionally recovered,” says Sarah. Look to brands such as Bemz, which produces customised slipcovers for Ikea furniture in high-end fabrics from Designers Guild and Maxwell Ryan/Apartment Therapy, and local brands such as Loose Covers, ComfortWorks, Cover Story, Sofa & Soul and Artiss for similar services. “The shape of your sofa or chair will dictate the slipcover – choose a style that suits you and the interior style you want to achieve,” says Anthony. >

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“ POLYES T E R I SN 'T A D IRTY WO R D A N YM OR E AND YOU CAN OFTEN G ET TH E N AT URAL F I B RE LOO K AT A F RACT IO N O F TH E PR I CE, A N D, O F COU RS E, T HE R E A RE MIX ES O F BOTH N ATURA L A ND SY N TH ET I C F IBR ES , WH IC H G IV ES YO U THE B ES T OF BOT H WO RLDS," SAYS RO GE R.

CASUAL TO COUTURE Although slipcovers were traditionally associated with coastal and Hamptons homes because of their ‘relaxed’ look, slipcovers can be constructed from almost any fabric. “Due to their ease of cleaning, lighter colours are easier to use – white is always fresh. Linens are optimal as they’re casual and breathable while providing a good rigidity,” says Anthony. Similarly, Sarah likes to keep her slipcovers simple. “I’m a fan of undyed or lightly dyed fabrics as they hold up better to removing stains, sunlight and high-wear areas, rather than fabrics that have been 116

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dyed. You could also consider a ticking stripe or mustards and oatmeal for timeless appeal,” says Sarah. Roger Wei, private label furniture merchandise manager at Temple & Webster, says slipcovers can add character to a space. “A looser, relaxed slipcover in a linen fabric can give you a coastal feel, while a tighter velvet slipcover would be ideal for a traditional home,” says Roger, who suggests linen in light and airy neutrals and pinstripes on bedheads for summer slipcover looks. “Customers tend to take more fashion risks with bedheads and often bring in pops of colour in velvet or even bouclé or a pattern.”

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) LISA COHEN (OPPOSITE) FERNANDO BEDÓN/RBA

Designer tip

the perfect fit

GETTING IT RIGHT

Although easily removed, there is a trick to fitting your slipcover to your furniture snugly. “The best way to have a slipcover fit correctly is to have them custom made,” says Sarah. “Once you have your slipcover, always pop it on a tiny bit damp, or give it a spritz with some scented water so it hugs your furniture and hangs correctly.” Anthony suggests having a friend or family member help you if possible, so you can drop the cover from the top down – never fit one side before the other – then tug down on each bottom corner at the end. For fabrics that wrinkle easily, consider investing in a steamer to remove creases. >

Beautiful DESIGN

DESIGN FOR LIFE Slipcovers are perfect for high-traffic homes with pets and children. “My preference will always be for natural fibres, as they clean and drape well and are timeless in design. Think cotton, linen and hemp, which all machine-wash well,” says Sarah. “If you’re really splashing out, a real silk velvet is one of the most luxurious fabrics on earth and can be hand washed. Always ask the question if your slip fabric has been pre-shrunk, and for correct laundering instructions.” According to Roger, polyester is a good choice for homes with kids and pets. “100 per cent polyester fabrics are great from a wearability and stain resistance perspective,” says Roger.

“THE shape OF YOUR SOFA OR CHAIR WILL DICTATE THE slipcover – choose A STYLE THAT SUITS YOU AND THE INTERIOR STYLE YOU WANT TO achieve” ANTHONY SPON-SMITH

PHOTOGRAPHY (OPPOSITE) BRIGID ARNOTT STYLING (OPPOSITE) LISA HILTON

Beautiful DESIGN

From top, left to right: CR Essentials ‘Dresden’ chair with slip cover in Classic White, from $1945, Coco Republic. ‘Joe’ armless sofa with removable soft linen cover in Khaki, $2150, MCM House. ‘Sorrento’ armchair in White, $1899, and ‘Ludwig’ armchair with removable slipcover in White, $1099, Provincial Home Living. ‘Como’ linen ottoman with Belgian linen slipcover in Moody Blue, $429, James Lane. ‘Montauk’ 3 seater slipcover sofa, $999, Temple & Webster. ‘Loft’ 4 seater linen loose cover sofa in Mist, from $5400, Molmic. ‘New Hampshire’ fabric ottoman in Sense Mid Grey, $499, Freedom. ‘Sevilla’ slipcover armchair in Oyster Linen, $899, Living by Design.

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Cabinet Maker’s Picture Lights from The Montauk Lighting Co, seen here in the home of Kate Walker of KWD, are both sleek and functional.

Kitchen lighting

THE BRIGHT SIDE MORE THAN ANY OTHER ROOM IN YOUR HOME, THE KITCHEN REQUIRES A BALANCED BLEND OF LIGHTING OPTIONS TO HELP BRING IT INTO FOCUS

Words STEPHANIE HOPE

oday’s kitchens certainly earn their keep, in many cases serving as a communal hub to prepare and eat meals as a family, an area to entertain guests and a place to study and work. And, as interior designer Brett Mickan points out, choosing the right lighting can prove challenging due to this multipurpose nature. “You want well-lit areas when preparing food, but when entertaining, you don’t want the room to be lit up like a stadium,” he says. In a space that plays such a pivotal role in our homes and lives, it’s crucial to invest in flexible lighting options that will rise to any occasion – here’s everything you need to know.

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Multitasking pendants As far as feature lighting goes, there are plenty of options. Pendants remain a popular choice for kitchens, directing light onto food prep surfaces and demarcating separate zones. They certainly command a presence, whether you opt for a statement oversized pendant, three identical shades in a row or a cluster of different shapes or heights as an attractive feature. “Consider hanging pendants a little lower than usual over the island bench. It grounds the space and adds interest at eye level,” says Marie Botsis-Premici, co-founder of The Montauk Lighting Co.

Beautiful DESIGN Wall flowers Wall lights or sconces are a more subtle option, bringing both style and practicality. Try them in small, narrow kitchens, or use them to light a washing-up area or illuminate artworks or display shelving. “They’re ideal for adding task lighting without flooding the entire area with light,” explains Brett. Be sure to work wall lights into your kitchen design from the beginning, as retrofitting down the track can be costly. “Given that the kitchen will generate steam, oil splatter and the like, choose finishes that are easily wiped over,” Marie adds.

Wall lights add a lovely subtle, soft light, accentuating details like the arch and shelf in this kitchen by british interior designerLaura Butler-Madden. >

A statement pendant in an organic shape helps soften sharp lines and creates a look-at-me moment in this space by Three Birds Renovations.

“PENDANTS ARE often REFERRED TO AS THE jewellery OF THE KITCHEN” MARIE BOTSIS-PREMICI, THE MONTAUK LIGHTING CO

The soft sell Given so many kitchens these days are part of an open-plan living area, lighting has taken a more decorative turn, using materials and textures that feature elsewhere in the home. “During the COVID-19 lockdowns, we saw a push for more natural materials like alabaster, wicker and rattan, soft linen and even soft brass finishes, with people looking to create a cosy, comfy and secure sanctuary at home,” says Scott Robinson, product and lighting designer at Beacon Lighting. “It’s important to fill your home with elements you love, however, there is a trick to making this work,” says Brett. “If a home has a strong architectural style, minimise the architectural detail to its original state to create a clean palette for your style. For example, a Federation home with patterned ceilings and ornate moulding with a crisp coat of paint can be the perfect backdrop for a contemporary light fixture.” 122

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Slimline pendants in a single row work well in a bold kitchen design like this one by Brett Mickan.

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) ARMELLE HABIB (OPPOSITE TOP) CHRIS WARNES (OPPOSITE BOTTOM RIGHT) PABLO VIEGA PHOTOGRAPHY DESIGN (THIS PAGE) XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX KATE WALKER DESIGN NAME (OPPOSITE GOES HERE TOP) THREE BIRDS RENOVATIONS (OPPOSITE BOTTOM RIGHT) BRETT MICKAN ARTWORK (OPPOSITE TOP) ‘COCONUTS’ BY VYNKA HALLAM

Beautiful DESIGN

A ‘Darlana’ linear pendant from The Montauk Lighting Co makes a bold statement in this kitchen by KWD. “Adding decorative lighting can strengthen the visual impact,” says Marie. >

Beautiful DESIGN The layered effect Every kitchen is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution to lighting this zone. “It’s important to look at the space holistically, thinking about each area of the kitchen, how it’s going to be used and how best to light it,” says Marie. To achieve a flexible, layered lighting scheme that addresses the myriad needs of the room, aim for a mixture of ambient, task and accent lighting. Ambient light illuminates the room and adds to its overall atmosphere, be it bright and welcoming or warm and intimate. Task lighting brings work areas like benchtops, stovetops or sinks into focus, while accent lighting can be used as a decorative element or to highlight specific areas like splashbacks, cabinetry or pantries. “As a general rule, invest in feature lighting to suit the space, then keep all other lighting functional yet discreet,” says Brett.

“THE KITCHEN SHOULD BE considered AS PART OF THE OVERALL design scheme”

When adding lighting to your kitchen, select items that tie in with the colours and styling.

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) ABBIE MELLE (OPPOSITE) LISA COHEN STYLING (OPPOSITE) TESS NEWMAN-MORRIS DESIGN (OPPOSITE) AMY SPARGO AT MAINE HOUSE INTERIORS ARTWORKS (OPPOSITE) ARTISTS UNKNOWN

BRETT MICKAN, INTERIOR DESIGNER

Adding a lamp to your kitchen – like this beautiful blue and white design by Maine House Interiors – can help visually connect it to other living areas.

The downlow on downlights

Elegant lamps

The experts are divided when it comes to downlights. Scott believes they have a place when incorporated as part of a considered lighting plan. “They provide a great concentration of light and are an inconspicuous option,” he says. However, both Marie and Brett feel less is more. “Recessed downlights need to be used sparingly,” says Brett. “The kitchen needs to be functional, but a large bank of downlights will date the space dramatically.” They can work well in areas where you need a lot of light – ideally on a dimmer switch so you can turn them up when you need to prep food or when the kids are doing their homework at the kitchen table, and down low (or completely off) when you need to switch the mood.

Once the preserve of bedrooms, studies and living rooms, table lamps provide a soft glow and direct light source to any kitchen surface they adorn and can be tied in with the rest of the home’s decor. Less intense than overhead lighting, “they’re perfect for an evening ambience,” Brett says. Use lamps to fill a corner, flank a benchtop or match to your cabinets for a streamlined, polished look. They can be hardwired into your kitchen island or simply plugged into an electrical outlet; look for cordless, rechargeable options for further flexibility. They’re especially great if you’re a renter as they’re a less expensive, impermanent solution that you can take with you when you leave.

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Bathtub beauties

SUPER SOAK DREAMING OF ADDING A SPA-WORTHY TUB TO YOUR BATHROOM BUT DON’T KNOW WHERE TO BEGIN? RELAX, WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED

S I TTI NG P R ET TY T UC KE D IN TO AN AI RY W I N DOW NOO K W IT H A TR EE TOP O UTLO OK, T HIS IN S E T BAT H I S SUR ROUN DE D BY AN EL EGA NT M AR B L E L E DG E T HAT IS THE P ER FEC T PLAC E TO R EST A LL TH E ES S EN TI AL S FO R A S OOTH IN G S OAK .

witching from rush hour to retreat mode is easy when you can sink into a bubbly bliss at home. On the surface, selecting a tub for a bathroom update may seem like a simple task. Measure up the space and jump into a few showroom models… right? Dive a little deeper, and you will face a head-spinning amount of decisions. And the beautiful options on the market are multiplying. “We’re seeing a rise in new materials, shapes and colours,” reports Daniela Santilli, bathrooms & kitchens merchandising leader at Reece Bathrooms. To take the stress out of choosing a bathtub, we’ve put together a handy guide covering everything from styles to installation. You’ll be soaking the cares away before you know it. 126

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Practical magic Consider practicality before you get too dazzled by the myriad shapes and finishes. “Think about how you use the space and what’s most important to you,” proposes Olivia Cirocco, senior designer at GIA Bathrooms & Kitchens. A deep freestanding tub will allow for hours of spa-like relaxation, but an inset style clad in tiles makes light work of bathing kids as it allows a spot to perch and to store bath toys and bubble bath. It also gives you leverage if your pooch is not keen on soaping up. “The main consideration should be selecting a bath that will stand up to the rigours of your household needs,” says Daniela.

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) ANGELITA BONETTI (OPPOSITE) ANSON SMART INTERIOR DESIGN (OPPOSITE) THOMAS HAMEL & ASSOCIATES

Words JESSICA BELLEF

Beautiful DESIGN

Beautiful DESIGN Fabulous freestanding A scene-stealing freestanding tub commands attention and creates an opulent day-spa feeling, especially when positioned underneath a stunning pendant light or located in a spot with a to-die-for view. “Freestanding baths have a bold look, forming the absolute focal point. They work best for bathrooms with a little more wiggle room,” Daniela offers. However, compact spaces need not miss out. “With freestanding baths beginning in size at 1500mm in length, you may still be able to make one work for your bathroom if it’s on the smaller side,” she says.

CO N TO U RED C HI C IN THI S ENSU ITE BY TH RE E BIRDS RE NOVATION S, THE ROUN D L AU FEB ‘ VA L’ BATH FROM RE ECE BATHRO OM S ECH OES THE CURVES OF T HE MIRRO RS AN D FLO OR-M O UNTED BATH SPOU T.

Do baths

ADD VALUE?

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE TOP RIGHT) MARTINA GEMMOLA (THIS PAGE BOTTOM LEFT) SIMON WHITBREAD (OPPOSITE) CHRIS WARNES DESIGN (THIS PAGE BOTTOM LEFT) AMPERSAND INTERIORS

You may love the idea of owning a bath, but how will it affect your home’s resale value? As a general rule, if the space for a bath is available, buyers will expect one. “It will appeal to a variety of different buyers; for families with small children or pets, to those who seek the luxury that a blissful soak provides,” offers Daniela. However, there’s a caveat – if the layout’s functionality is compromised, it may lower the value of your home.” If you are cramming a bath into a space that can’t really fit one, then I don’t believe it adds value,” Olivia cautions.

GROUT WORK A C U STOM T I L ED BAT H WAS A SPACE-SAV IN G SO LUT ION IN T H I S WET ZON E D ES I GN ED BY OL IV IA CI RO CCO FOR GI A KI TCH E N S & BATH R OO M S . “WE U SE D A N EP OX Y GRO U T, MA DE WI T H EPOX Y RE SI N S AN D FILL E R POWDER , AS IT’S MOR E DURAB LE THA N S TA NDARD GRO U T,” S H E SAYS.

Perfect finish Baths are available in a variety of materials. “Which one you ultimately choose will come down to a combination of looks, comfort, ease of maintenance, and budget,” says Daniela. For family friendly selections that offer high levels of durability and no-fuss cleaning, Daniela suggests sanitary-grade acrylic and pressed steel. Stone, concrete and solid surface materials made of resin composites lend a textured look and feel. “Their matt finishes create a luxurious look that can be tied in with the bathroom’s tiles,” Olivia offers. MI N D TH E GAP A FR E ES TAN DI N G TUB CAN SIT AGAINST A WAL L , B U T EX PE RTS A DVI SE L E AV IN G A GA P TO M AKE IT E ASY TO C L EA N. “ I' D AL LOW FOR 100-150MM SPACE AROUND, WITH A M I NI M UM O F 80 M M,” O L IV I A SAYS.

Weigh it up Not all tubs are created equal. Heavier styles, such as those made of cast iron or stone, can blow out the complexity and cost of installation. “If your heart is set on a particular style, a common solution is to reinforce the floor so it can handle the increased weight,” Daniela proposes. “Materials like acrylic strikes a happy medium, providing a durable material that is relatively lightweight and compatible with many homes.” >

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Beautiful DESIGN

Open air

Two in one

Soaking in an outdoor tub (above) is the ultimate indulgence. Whether your alfresco bath nestles into greenery or it’s a glam addition to a covered deck, always ensure the tub can withstand prolonged exposure to the elements. Choose hard-wearing finishes such as stone, concrete or solid surface materials. Council approval may be needed if you plan to build structures around the bath, and it’s always a good idea to work with a plumber to avoid drainage issues down the line.

Got your eye on a tub but your bathroom’s footprint is too tight? As Daniela points out, your dreams of soaking may still be within reach. “If you are short on space, a shower over bath combo [like this gorgeous sunken bath design, above] gives the best of both worlds. It can be both a practical and attractive element in a bathroom when designed the right way,” she explains. Simplify the look by installing a clear shower screen that allows the light to filter through.

TOP TUBS

From left: Base sanitary-grade acrylic inset bath, $230, Reece Bathrooms. Kaldewei ‘Classic Duo’ oval steel enamel inset bath, from $2298, Domayne. The Water Monopoly ‘Rockwell’ Vitrite freestanding bath in Powder Blue, from $12,690, The English Tapware Company. Gareth Ashton ‘Pluro’ stone freestanding bath, $3279, Harvey Norman. Cast iron slipper freestanding bath, $4139, Schots Home Emporium.

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Built-in beauty

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) ELOUISE VAN RIET-GRAY (OPPOSITE TOP LEFT) MARTINA GEMMOLA (OPPOSITE TOP RIGHT) LISA COHEN DESIGN (THIS PAGE) ANGELA ANTELME (OPPOSITE TOP LEFT) ROB MILLS ARCHITECTURE & INTERIORS (OPPOSITE TOP RIGHT) COOTE & CO

Freestanding tubs are having a moment, but inset baths can deliver lashings of functional style. Enclosed in a ‘hob’ and surrounded by a ledge, an inset bath is handy for storage or sitting. “They’re easier to clean, as there aren’t nooks for dust and grime to hide behind,” says Daniela. Consider opting for a back-to-wall bath design for a freestanding built-in hybrid. “They give you the look of a freestanding bath with the functionality and space-saving ability of an inset,” says Daniela.

ON TH E TI LES A N INS ET BATH IN STALL E D INTO A N A LCOVE PROV IDE S T HE PERFEC T O PPO RTU NI TY TO MA KE A G OR GEO US T IL E STATEM ENT, AS S EEN H ER E W IT H T HE SPLAS H OF S OFT GREEN ZELL I GE TIL ES ACRO SS TH E BATH HO B A ND WA L LS .

Beautiful DESIGN

Buyer’s guide

SHADES OF SUMMER ENSURE YOU AND YOUR FAMILY ARE PROTECTED FROM THE SUN’S HARSH RAYS WITH PRACTICAL AND STYLISH SHADE SOLUTIONS Words LAURA BARRY

ome shade solutions have never been more necessary or more affordable than they are now. Whether you’re looking for a way to increase the natural shade in your garden, a quick and affordable seasonal solution or a high-tech shade investment, there’s something to suit every property, lifestyle and budget – if you know where to look. Thanks to the help of some of Australia’s leading garden and shade experts, we’ve created a complete guide to summer shade solutions for your home.

SHADE SOLUTIONS WHETHER YOU'RE LOOKING FOR A QUICK FIX OR INVESTING IN A LONG-TERM SOLUTION, THESE ARE OUR TOP PICKS

Seasonal shade solutions such as umbrellas, gazebos and shade sails are affordable, easily installed and can be packed away after summer or when the weather starts to get grisly. “Cantilever umbrellas with a weighted base offer an affordable and versatile shade option that can be moved around your outdoor space depending on what you need and where the sun is hitting,” says Peter Kamali, national pool, shed and shade buyer at Bunnings. “Gazebos provide a great option for a dedicated outdoor dining or lounging space that allows you to entertain from day to night – for permanent gazebos, remember to check with your local council for any requirements before installing. Shade sails are another affordable option that offer a more permanent shade solution for small and large areas that can be easily added or removed once installed, and make for a great addition to an outdoor play area or another spot that benefits from shelter all year round.” If you don’t have much space for an awning, why not opt for exterior shutters? The powder-coated aluminium shutters from Blinds by Peter Meyer are elegant while providing extra shade and privacy.

‘Samso’ 2m parasol in Beige with base, $70, Ikea.

‘Aton’ 3m octagonal cantilever outdoor umbrella, $299, Harvey Norman.

‘Saint Jean De Luz’ 3m x 4m cantilever outdoor umbrella in Ecru, $599, Alice’s Garden.

Billy Fresh 3m ‘Santorini’ market umbrella in Navy, $310, Temple & Webster.

‘Kuggo’ frame and ‘Lindoja’ 3m parasol canopy in Black, $99/set, Ikea.

Mimosa ‘Andaman’ 3.5m cantilever umbrella in Charcoal, $629, Bunnings.

HIGH-TECH INVESTMENT When it comes to built-in motorised or gear-box awnings and retractable roof options, the intelligent technology now available to homeowners is impressive. Wireless sensors can measure wind speed and automatically close the awning if winds exceed safe operating limits, measure the intensity of the sun to extend or retract an awning or roof system when light levels change, and sense rain. Some models even offer control via an app, such as the Neo App that works with Protecta Awning Systems. “It is strongly recommended that sensors are 132

HOME BEAUTIFUL

PHOTOGRAPHY (OPPOSITE) BRIGID ARNOTT STYLING (OPPOSITE) FIONA GOULD

SUMMER SOLUTIONS

Umbrellas are a quick, easy and affordable way to increase shade in your outdoor area. >

Extend your living space into your garden with sturdy outdoor roofing options, such as this built-in roof extension.

“MODERN CLASSIC homes OFTEN OPT FOR neutrals LIKE GREY, BLACK OR CREAM TO PAIR WITH THEIR AESTHETIC” AMELIA TAYLOR, WYNSTAN

Expert tip:

“ RETRACTAB L E ROO F ST RUC TU RES A RE CO N SID ER ED ST RUC TU RES BY B UI LD ING AUTH OR ITIE S A ND AR E S UBJEC T TO RELEVANT BU IL D ING LAWS,” SAYS ANDREW. “ IT’ S IMPE RATIV E TH AT YO UR RET RACTA BLE RO OF S TRUCT UR E B E INS TA L LED BY A TRAI NE D EXPERT W ITH YEA RS O F EXPERI ENC E A ND IS A L IC EN SE D BUILD ING PRAC TITI ONER.”

Beautiful DESIGN

solar powered to eliminate the need for a homeowner to climb a ladder and change a battery on a sensor,” says Andrew Valk, managing director of Shade Solutions Australia. “Shade and cover on-demand allows the homeowner to reclaim outdoor spaces from the intensity of the summer sun in 30 seconds.” Options include wall mounted, roof mounted or free-standing.

GOING GREEN Manufactured structures aren’t the only choice when it comes to increasing the shade in your garden or courtyard. “We’re traditionalists and believe in getting a green canopy above you for shade,” says Myles Broad, director of Eckersley Garden Architecture. “Working with a steel pergola – built onto the home or separate – with vines to grow an overhead canopy provides a beautiful destination in the garden. We might also drop a big, beautiful tree into an area that needs shading, and while investing in a large, pre-grown tree might cost up to $7000 to install and irrigate – you’ve still got a big, beautiful shade structure for $7000 – which isn’t very much – plus vines, trees and plants can cater to all budgets.”

‘Quintu’ deluxe hexagon gazebo in Beige, $399, Deluxe Home Delight.

‘Condate’ 3m x 4m gazebo with retractable shade in Ecru, $699, Alice’s Garden.

Mimosa ‘Portsea’ 3m x 4m semi-permanent gazebo in White, $2899, Bunnings.

‘Tivoli’ gazebo in Antique Grey with canopy in Light Grey, $1999/set, Early Settler.

‘Zelda’ manual retractable awning in Anthracite, $199, Deluxe Home Delight.

Dutch canopy awning in Docril, from $1728, Wynstan.

Nordic Series ‘ND’ folding arm retractable awning in Gris/ White, from $4677*, Luxaflex.

Windoware 2.5m x 3m full cassette folding motorised awning, $1390, Bunnings.

Straight drop awning in Outlook, from $978, Wynstan.

Nordic Series ‘NA’ folding arm retractable awning in Black, from $4017*, Luxaflex.

PHOTOGRAPHY (OPPOSITE) CHRIS WARNES STYLING (OPPOSITE) KAYLA GEX DESIGN (OPPOSITE) BROOKE AITKEN DESIGN *STARTING PRICE FOR A 3M X 2M AWNING IN BASIC FABRICS, FINISHES AND STANDARD OPERATION

PRICE GUIDE While portable options such as umbrellas, gazebos and shade sails can range from a few hundred dollars and stretch into early triple figures, Andrew surmises that homeowners should expect to pay up to $15,000 for a motorised awning or retractable roof system, depending on the size of the shade product and the feature or accessories supporting the system, such as sensors and wireless control. “The most discerning homeowners should always demand a quality marine-grade acrylic fabric that is water-resistant and has a five-year or more colourfast warranty. Australia’s intense sun can break down low-quality acrylics really quickly, making the awning all but useless,” says Andrew. “As a rule of thumb, a check list should include a simple warranty that covers everything from the motor to the fabric and installation for five years or more.”

WHAT’S TRENDING? Neutral colours that disguise dust, dirt or water marks are often the best selections for outdoor shade structures. However, permanent awnings and retractable roof systems facilitate the extension of the living space into the outdoors, and trends are reflecting those seen inside the home. “We’re seeing shading solutions become an avenue for creativity with customers opting for bright block colours like yellow and orange to bold stripes in black or navy paired with white,” says Amelia Taylor, head of product and communications at Wynstan. “Modern classic homes often opt for neutrals like grey, black or cream to pair with their aesthetic, whereas others choose to use an awning as a way of adding shade and privacy, but also a pop of colour.”

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HB’s ultimate GUIDE TO

STORAGE FROM LIVING ROOMS TO MUDROOMS, WE HAVE EVERY SPACE IN THE HOME – AND THINGS YOU WANT TO STASH AWAY – WELL AND TRULY COVERED Words CHRIS PEARSON

een to get organised and clear the clutter this year? Here are some magical hideaways for every room of the house and outside, too, to ensure there is a place for everything and everything is in its place. Any interior designer will tell you storage is near the top of many briefs, especially for empty-nesters downsizing or those with a growing family, no matter how large or small the house. Interior designer Louise Walsh recounts a recent project: “The client was strong on storage,” says Louise. “Not an inch would be left without packing it in.” Accordingly, joinery ran along the hallway and just about everywhere else. “I wanted as much storage as possible, as I dislike clutter,” adds the owner. Don’t we all. Read on for expert tips and tricks to a dream storage scenario. >

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Living & dining

BEST LAID PLANS KEEP THESE BUSTLING HUBS OF THE HOME IN ORDER WITH FUNCTIONAL YET BEAUTIFUL STORAGE FEATURES

Basket case

S TO RAG E BASKE TS EN S UR E E VE RYT H IN G H AS A PL ACE , WH E T H E R IT ’ S T H E RE M OT E CONTROL, BOOKS, GAMES O R M AGA ZI NES . AN D T H EY LE N D T E XTU RE TO A RO O M. “ STO R I NG EXT RA B L AN KE T S AND THROWS IN A BASKET, ID E AL LY I N A CU P BOA RD I N O R N E AR T H E L I V I N G A R EA , IS GO OD FOR EASY ACC ES S A N D M E AN S L ES S M ES S,” SAYS M I CH E L L E.

Pros perfect

I F T H E V E RY T HO UG HT OF D ECLU TTE RI N G F I L L S YO U W IT H D RE AD, YO U COU L D A LWAYS GET SO M EO N E TO D O I T FO R YO U, S UC H AS T ID E E , RUN BY MI CH E L LE R UB I N AN D E MM A ROS HA M. O R GA N I S I N G I S MI C HE L LE ’S S E L F- PR OF E SS E D “TRU E LOVE ” A ND S HE A ND E MM A H AV E DEC I D E D TO SH AR E T HE LOVE BY TAC KL I NG C L I E NT S’ CLU TT E R. IK EA A LS O H AS A T EA M O F 10 ‘ T I DY T EC HNI C IA N S’, WHO W ILL ST EP I N WHE N YO U N E E D A B IG CL E A N -UP.

HB’s ultimate GUIDE TO

STORAGE

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE TOP RIGHT) HANNAH PUECHMARIN (THIS PAGE BOTTOM LEFT) LISA COHEN (OPPOSITE) MARNIE HAWSON ARTWORK (THIS PAGE TOP RIGHT) KARA ROSENLUND (THIS PAGE BOTTOM LEFT) SYDNEY LONG

Shelf-assurance Built-in shelves look smarter than freestanding, as they are flush with the wall – and achieve a more complete, integrated look. A wall of shelves filled with books and collectables adds instant personality and warmth to a room. If you can integrate concealed storage with doors (right) then you’ll have a place for messy items, too. If you want to avoid the permanency of built-ins, some stand-alones offer sculptural possibilities.

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Double vision Make your furniture do double duty or even triple duty as handy storage, such as ottomans with lifting lids (opposite) – some even come with a round tray table on top to convert it into a coffee table, making it three in one. And some sofas include storage under the seat cushions, in the arms and shelves to the side serve as side tables.

MAKE EVERY SPACE COUNT “A sofa table behind a sofa can be functional and a beautiful opportunity to display your treasures (just a few!) and a lamp for reading,” says Sarah Marriott of SJS Interior Design. “If the table has drawers or shelves, this is extra storage for items that need a home, like the plethora of toys and other bits and pieces.”

ON THE WAGON “Include a bar cart and a buffet [left] in the dining area to boost its entertaining credentials, as well as creating more storage,” says Lynne Bradley of Lynne Bradley Interiors. The buffet, aka sideboard, can lessen the load of your kitchen cabinets – it’s just the place to store that dinner set and glassware that emerge for special family occasions. And the bar cart? Enough said. >

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HB’s ultimate GUIDE TO

STORAGE O N T HE S U B J EC T OF B U I LT- IN S … A B U ILT- IN B E N C H SE AT N EXT TO A F I RE P L ACE OR B E LOW A W I N DOW PROVID ES B OTH AN AR E A TO S IT – PART I CULA RLY USE FU L FOR EN T E RTA I N I NG – A ND A DAY B ED, SAYS SARA H. “ WI TH LO NG D RAWER S UND E R NEATH, IT CAN ALSO SERVE AS A DDI T IO N A L S TO RAG E.”

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SARAH MARRIOTT, INTERIOR DESIGNER

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) PRUE RUSCOE (OPPOSITE) LISA COHEN DESIGN (THIS PAGE) MELISSA MARSHALL (OPPOSITE) ADELAIDE BRAGG & ASSOCIATES STYLING (OPPOSITE) TESS NEWMAN MORRIS ARTWORKS ARTISTS UNKOWN

Bench press

“A bookshelf tower TO THE SIDE OF A FIREPLACE CAN BE incredibly functional AS A STORAGE OPTION, AND TAKES UP SO little space”

SIDE ORDER Antique sideboards and dressers (like the one below in this room designed by Adelaide Bragg & Associates) often graced kitchens and dining rooms in the days before open plan. But some of those vintage treasures make great storage solutions for living areas – you’d be amazed how much you can squeeze into them. And they do make a style statement. Meanwhile, if you want to go more contemporary, there are options for all tastes and all decors. Entertainment units, although lower to accommodate the widescreen, offer similar possibilities.

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HIDDEN TALENTS

CATER FOR ALL YOUR NEEDS WITH CLEVER KITCHEN STORAGE IDEAS

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ISLAND IDYLL

THE BUTLER DID IT

Make the most of your island, says Monique Parker of Kaboodle Kitchen. “If space permits, cabinets on both sides will give you dual access to store platters and large homewares that you don’t need to access daily.” Increasing the depth of the island by 300mm will allow for storage cupboards underneath with seating in front, says Sarah Marriott of SJS Interior Design. “It’s great for tall kitchen items, such as vases and appliances.”

Once solely the preserve of high-end homes, butler’s pantries are moving into more modest residences. Great for food prep, they keep clutter out of sight when guests come round. Leave the dirty dishes in there and close the door until the guests have gone. “A well thought-out butler’s pantry will provide space to store larger kitchen appliances out of sight, while also offering an additional food prep and clean-up area,” says Monique.

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PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) JOHN DOWNS (OPPOSITE) MARTINA GEMMOLA DESIGN (OPPOSITE) ADELAIDE BRAGG

Kitchen

HB’s ultimate GUIDE TO

STORAGE GET INTO THE SWING

Hang it up

Utilise every nook and cranny of your joinery with corner cabinets, says Monique. “Corner cabinets can be a frustrating space to organise and are often disregarded. Rotating corner baskets and blind-corner pull-out baskets provide the perfect solution for these challenging areas.”

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Slide show

DRAWER S L E T YO U ACC ES S AL L AVA IL AB LE SPACE . PLAC E P OTS AN D PAN S I N DE E P B OTTOM D RAW E RS AN D PLATE S I N S HA L LOWE R DRAWER S HI GHE R U P. “LO NG D RAWE RS P R OV ID E M OR E FUN CT ION A L STO RAG E V ERS US UN DE RBE NC H C U P BOAR DS,” SAYS SARAH MA R R IOTT. “THEY A L LOW YOU TO OR GA N I S E PL AT ES A ND OTHE R PA NT RY ITE MS, A ND EASILY REACH TO THE BACK.” “I ’M A BI G FA N O F D RAW E R S OVE R C UPB OARD S FOR M AX I M IS I N G STO RAGE,” SAYS LY N NE . “ AN D I M AK E THE MO ST OF THE S PAC E IN S ID E WI TH CL EV E R STO RAG E O RGAN I SE RS OR DIV IDE RS .” >

DI SP LAY WH AT YOU CAN, WITHIN REASON. BY H A N G IN G TI MB E R CUT T I N G B OA RD S , BASK ET S AND POTS, YOU CAN SAVE O N VALUA B LE S TO RAG E SPACE I N YOUR JO I NE RY, SAYS LY N N E B RAD L EY O F LYNN E BRA DL E Y I N T E RI O RS . “A N D S H ELVE S O N T H E S P L ASH BACK, OT H E RWI SE I DL E S PACE, A R E GRE AT FOR STO R IN G GLASSWARE AND CHINA.” “H A N G IN G O R EYE-L IN E STORAGE SO LU TI ON S A LLOW YO U TO STO RE I T E MS YOU MAY USUALLY PLACE ON YOUR BENCHTOP,” A DDS MO N IQ UE .

S TORE CE R EA L B OX ES , HE R BS AN D S PI CES , A N D CO OKING OI L S I N PUL LOU T PANT RIES – AGA I N, YO UR A IM IS STORAGE S OLUT I O NS T HAT U S E E VE RY CE NTI MET RE OF YO U R J OINERY, W ITH N O I DLE S PAC E S. A ND MA K E S UR E W H AT’S IN TH ER E I S F UL LY O N S HOW, ON CE YO U OPE N I T. “ TO RE ALLY M A XI M IS E YO UR PA NTRY SPACE , W I RE WA RE SO LUT I ON S A L LOW YOU TO PUL L OU T E VERY THIN G YO U N EED FOR EASY V IE W A ND ACCESS ,” SAYS MO N I QUE .

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LABEL QUEENS

SHELF IT

“Labels, labels, labels are the key to organising your kitchen and pantry,” says Emma Rosham of Tidee. “It’s an easy and cost-effective way to give all items a place.” For the pantry, contain items by food category. “For the kitchen drawers, it’s all about divide and conquer – keep larger drawers organised with storage solutions such as drawer dividers (we love Madesmart).”

Open shelves are great for storing things you use everyday. For large items that take up a lot of space, why not add custom shelving within your island (opposite). Not enough space for an island? Grab a butcher’s block – on castors for maximum mobility and versatility – it not only offers prep space, but you can also include handy shelves underneath.

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PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) MALCOLM MENZIES (OPPOSITE) CHRIS WARNES DESIGN (THIS PAGE) BLAKES LONDON DESIGN (OPPOSITE) STRITT DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION

Down to the wire

HB’s ultimate GUIDE TO

STORAGE

“WE always RECOMMEND INCLUDING drawers OVER SINGLE-DOOR BASE CABINETS” MONIQUE PARKER, MARKETING MANAGER, KABOODLE KITCHEN

Main bedroom

CALM AND COLLECTED

CREATE A SOOTHING RETREAT WITH LOTS OF CONCEALED STORAGE SPOTS TO HIDE ALL YOUR BEDROOM ESSENTIALS

Window-wise

It’s a gas!

FO R O N E O F TH E CLEV E R ES T B ED RO O M I DEAS, YO U A RE S L EEP IN G ON I T. LO OK FO R A BE D WI T H DRAW ER S U N DE R N EAT H O R O N E W IT H GAS L I F T FO R EASY ACCE S S TO A CAVITY BELOW. KING, H A RV EY NO RMA N, S N O OZ E AN D T EMP L E & WE B ST E R AL L O FF ER T H E SE GAS-L I F T OP T I O N S – WH I L E M O ST R IS E AT A N A NG LE, KI N G’S ‘SERENADE’ RISES ON A L EV E L PL A N E , S O TH E B ED DIN G I S U N DI S T UR B ED.

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) SIMON WHITBREAD (OPPOSITE TOP RIGHT) ELOUISE VAN RIET-GRAY (OPPOSITE BOTTOM LEFT) KRISTINA SOLJO DESIGN (THIS PAGE) SMITH + LEVINE (OPPOSITE TOP RIGHT) ASCOT LIVING ARTWORK ARTIST UNKNOWN

“B U I L D I N A W I ND OW S E AT WI TH STO RAG E BE NE AT H,” SAYS LYNN E B RADL E Y OF LYN N E B RA DL E Y IN TE RIO RS . “I T ’ S GR E AT FO R S TO R I N G TH OS E B ULK I E R I TEM S S U CH AS JU M PE R S A N D B ED L I N EN.” A ND IT DO ES DO UB L E DU TY FO R ME-TI ME W HE N YOU JU S T WA NT TO LO OK OU T TH E W I ND OW, S I N K DOWN INTO T H OS E C U SH IO NS A ND RE A D A G OO D BO OK .

HB’s ultimate GUIDE TO

STORAGE Head count

Round trip

Chest piece

A circular bedside table (right) adds elegance. “We often opt for bedside tables with drawers for concealed storage,” says Louise Walsh of Louise Walsh Interior Design and Decoration (LWID). “I love the stunning MD House ‘Orbit’ bedside tables from Fanuli, which are curved for a softer look, available in two timber finishes – even a marble top – and offer ample storage.”

A beautiful chest of drawers (below) is pretty hard to beat. A perfect example is the ‘Gentleman’ chest from Poliform designed by Marcel Wanders, says Louise. “This is a particular favourite of mine, as it offers concealed tray storage on the top, as well as a concealed bank of drawers,” she explains. “It’s perfect for additional bedroom items you want in reach, but neatly stored away.”

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THE BEDH EA D SH O U LD N ’T BE L EFT SN O OZI N G EI TH E R. A BU ILT- IN S HE L F, PO S S I BLY INTEGRAT E D WI TH YOU R BED SI DE S, O F FER S YOU VALUA BLE EXT RA S TORAG E, ESP ECIA LLY FO R T HOS E PAGE-TUR NE RS W E GAT HE R BY O UR B ED S – AN D T H E SPECS TO REA D TH EM !

“PENDANT OR wall lighting IN A BEDROOM REMOVES THE NEED FOR A table lamp. THIS GIVES YOU MORE STORAGE ON YOUR bedside tables” LOUISE WALSH, INTERIOR DESIGNER

WE’RE HOOKED! “If your bedroom is small, consider wall hooks or a stylised coat rack for those everyday pieces that usually end up on the floor or bedroom chair,” says Louise. “This helps to keep the space uncluttered and ensures your favourite scarves, necklaces and hats can be displayed rather than forgotten about in a closet.”

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HB’s ultimate GUIDE TO

STORAGE

Kids bedroom

Blanket solution

A V I NTAG E B LA NKE T BOX F I ND S A N EW LE ASE OF L IF E AS A H ID EAWAY FOR TOYS AND BOOKS – JUST C LO S E T HE L I D AN D AL L I S FO R G I V EN. I T D O UB L E S AS E XT RA SE ATI N G W H EN T H E LI T T LE O NE S HAV E F R I E N D S A R O UN D.

SMALL WONDERS

MAKE CONTROLLING THE CHAOS OF A CHILD’S ROOM FUN WITH CLEVER IDEAS THAT EVEN LITTLIES CAN FOLLOW

CURTAIN CALL “Rethink the wardrobe,” suggests Anna-Carin McNamara of Anna.Carin Design Studio. “Consider an open wardrobe, with a curtain that runs the whole way in front of it. This way, it’s quicker getting the children dressed in the morning.” The added bonus? The floor-to-ceiling curtain can double up as a theatre curtain when it’s time to play.

Colour me happy

IN MO S T OT H ER A REAS O F T H E H OM E, WE T RY TO B E A L L SECRE T S QUI R RE L WI TH S TORAG E BU T TH E KI DS B ED RO OM I S ON E PLACE YOU CAN LET YO UR IM AGI N AT I ON RU N FREE. ADD DECALS TO A WA RD RO B E A N D BR I GH T KN O B S T H AT A RE EASY FOR L I T TL E H AN DS TO GRASP AN D R EACH.

KIDDY LITTER Laundry baskets in kids’ bedrooms are a must, says Lauren Mahoney of Studio Trio. “They keep the floor free from messy clothes.” And, let’s face it, that’s where kids’ clothes inevitably end up, even if you provide them with a chair for the purpose.

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE TOP RIGHT) BROOKE HOLM (THIS PAGE BOTTOM LEFT) ALEXANDER M CTYRE (OPPOSITE) JOHN DOWNS DESIGN (OPPOSITE) THE DESIGN CHAPERONE ARTWORK (OPPOSITE) ‘HOTEL DU CAP-EDEN-ROC BY SLIM AARONS ALL OTHER ARTWORK ARTISTS UNKNOWN

Pin-up hero

DO N’ T WAST E YOU R WAL L SPAC E, SAYS L AU RE N. “I LOVE PIN B OARD S OVER KIDS’ DESKS. THAT WAY, THI NG S DO N ’T GE T ST UCK EL SE WH ER E O N WALL S, A ND B I RT H DAY INVI TES , AWA RD S OR CERTIFICATES CAN BE PI NN ED UP.” WA LL SH ELVING IS A M US T FOR HOMEWORK, BOOKS, ACCES SORI ES A N D TOYS.

Beddy buys Don’t let the valuable space under the bed go to waste. “A trundle mattress is a good idea,” says Lauren. “Sealy has trundle mattresses in both single or king single sizes and they’re great for sleepovers, as they don’t eat up floor space.”

All class Adopt the “Kindergarten Principle” when sorting, says Anna-Carin. “Organise toys and games according to activity and choose storage that allows the items to be seen easily,” she says. “For example, trunks for dress-up clothes and paint supplies, clear plastic tubs for Lego, umbrella stands for rolls of paper and puzzles and board games in a box.” HOME BEAUTIFUL

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Wardrobes

INSIDE VIEW

GET YOUR CLOSET IN ORDER WITH THESE STORAGE HACKS

Divide & conquer

FOR GE T S EN TIM E NTALI TY – W H EN A CLOTHI NG I TE M H AS DON E I TS DASH, WAVE I T GO OD BYE , SAYS M I CHE LL E R UB IN O F TI DE E . “ I F AN I T EM H AS N ’ T BEE N WOR N FOR A Y EA R, YO U A RE UN L IK ELY TO MIS S I T W H E N IT’S GON E. D O YO U R EA LLY LOVE IT ? I F TH E ANSWER IS NO, THEN IT H AS TO GO. HAVE SO RTI NG BAGS AT THE R EADY, O NE FOR ITE M S TO S EL L AN D O NE TO D ON ATE.”

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PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) SIMON WHITBREAD (OPPOSITE TOP RIGHT) DEREK SWALWELL (OPPOSITE BOTTOM LEFT) EVE WILSON DESIGN (THIS PAGE) SMITH + LEVINE (OPPOSITE TOP RIGHT) MOLECULE STUDIO

All sorted

“To avoid wardrobe creep, assign specific hanging, shelf and drawer space, and then stick to these areas,” says Emma Rosham of Tidee. “Keep like items together and contained in drawers with the Like-It slider dividers, ‘Dream’ drawer dividers or ‘Fifi’ drawer separators, all from Howards Storage World.” They keep smaller items, such as smalls and socks in place. The same applies for shelves, says Emma. “Store knits together, T-shirts together and swimwear together.”

HB’s ultimate GUIDE TO

STORAGE

Season the moment “Our top wardrobe hack is storing seasonal items up high in storage bags,” says Emma. “Finding the right way to store your clothing (by use, season or style) is a challenge, so revamp your wardrobe every season by swapping out seasonal items.”

Easily LED LED lighting is a must, says Lauren Mahoney of Studio Trio, so nothing goes walkabout in the depths of your otherwise wonderfully organised wardrobe or linen cupboard. “I include LED hanging rails from Häfele or route one into the top of the wardrobe for a better view.”

Stand by me

FO R MA NY, WA L K- IN - RO BE S A N D B UI LT- I N S AR E T HE D RE AM O P T I O N BU T IF I T’S N OT YOU R FO R EVER HO M E O P T I N G FO R A STAN DA LO NE M AY B E A BE T TE R I DE A S O YOU CAN TAKE IT WITH YO U W HE N YO U M OV E. TO M A KE I T SU IT YO UR D ECOR, G O FO R A CU STO M- M A DE O NE O R, I F YOU R H O ME HAS O LD-WORL D C H A RM, TRAW L A N T I Q U E A N D S ECO NDHA N D STO R ES TO HU N T DOW N YO UR I D E AL WARDRO BE .

Central station

PLACE TH E B ED IN T HE M I DD LE OF THE BE DR O OM A N D PL AC E YOU R WAL K-I N RO BE D IREC TLY BEH IN D A BLA DE WALL, WH I CH EF FECTI VELY BECO MES T H E HEA DBOARD. WAL K I N O N E S IDE A N D O UT T HE OT H E R.

“I LOVE TO INCLUDE TILT shoe shelves, BY RAISING THE BACK OF THE shelf SLIGHTLY, SO THE SHOES ARE ON A slant AND BETTER SEEN” LAUREN MAHONEY, INTERIOR DESIGNER

SOLE DISCRETION Shoes hog a lot of wardrobe space, says Michelle. “Transparent shoe boxes can be stacked to fill under-utilised shelf space. They’re great for showcasing everything from your best heels to trainers.” And use them to store smaller items like underwear, socks and assorted accessories, such as belts. Favourites are the ‘Elegance’ shoe drawer and the thrifty stackable shoe box, both from Howards Storage World.

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HB’s ultimate GUIDE TO

STORAGE

Space mission

M AK E SU RE T H AT YOU D O N’ T JA M I N TO O M UC H J O I N ERY,” SAYS CAROLE WHITING OF CAROLE WHITING S T UD I O. “ BAT H RO O MS A R E OF T E N SH ORT ON S PAC E A ND R EQ UI RE ‘NEGATIVE SPAC E’ TO P R E V E NT T HE M FE E LI N G C RAM P E D,” S HE SAYS . “ I T ’ S ALS O G O O D TO H AV E STO RAG E O FF T HE F LO O R A N D AWAY F RO M T HE C E I LI NG.”

Bathrooms

FRESH START

WHILE IT’S OFTEN THE SMALLEST ROOM IN THE HOUSE, WITH CLEVER STORAGE THE BATHROOM NEED NOT BE THE MESSIEST

“A shelf under a vanity DOESN’T JUST OFFER handy storage BUT, WHEN LIT UNDERNEATH, IT PROVIDES A NIGHT LIGHT”

Find your niche

“RAT H E R T HA N A GL AS S S H OW ER S CR EEN, WE OF TE N L IK E TO DE SI GN A FU L L-H EI G HT T IL ED WA L L B ET WE EN T HE S H OW ER A ND MA I N BAT H RO OM TO PROV IDE A S EPA RAT I ON AN D MO RE PRI VACY B ET WE EN TH E TWO A R EAS ,” SAYS LOU I SE . “T HI S A L SO P R OV ID E S T H E OP PO RT UN I T Y TO CO N CE AL A S TO RAGE N I CH E.”

LOUISE WALSH, INTERIOR DESIGNER

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE TOP RIGHT) JULIE CRESPEL (THIS PAGE BOTTOM LEFT) MINDI COOKE (OPPOSITE) SIMON WHITBREAD DESIGN (THIS PAGE TOP RIGHT) ARENT & PYKE (THIS PAGE BOTTOM LEFT) TESS LYONS (OPPOSITE) VIV HANNIGAN DESIGN

Vanity fare

“ VA N I TI E S WI T H C U P B OAR DS B E N E ATH ARE O F T E N E SS EN T I AL FO R O UR C L I E NT S A ND WE AR E FAN S O F M I R ROR ED CAB I NE TS TO E N SU R E A M P L E S TORAG E,” SAYS LO UI SE WAL SH O F LO UI SE WA L SH IN TER I O R D E S I G N AN D D ECO RATI O N (LWID). THESE RUN WALL TO WA LL O R SI T O N A N I B WA L L A B OU T 1. 2 5M HI G H. D RAWE RS U N DE R A VAN I TY (BELOW) ARE ALSO A GREAT S TO RAG E O P T IO N AS TH EY A LLOW YO U TO NE ATLY S TO RE I T EMS LI K E M A KE-UP A N D H A IR A PP LI A NC ES , AS W EL L AS N E AT LY FOL D ED H AN D TOW E L S A ND WASH C LOT HS . DRAW E R D IVI DE R S A R E YOU R FR I E N D H ER E.

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IN THE CLEAR “Our favourite bathroom storage idea is using clear containers and dividers to easily show where everything is,” says Michelle Rubin of Tidee. “We also like to organise them in terms of use and frequency. Your daily skincare items should be front and centre – no-one likes to search high and low when getting themselves ready in the morning.”

TALL ORDER Make the most of an idle corner with a tall bathroom cabinet that can tuck into almost any space. Make sure it’s tall enough to accommodate items such as towels and moisturisers. You can also place a trailing plant on top (try string of pearls).

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Into the fold

TOO M A N Y P EO PLE DO N ’T HAVE A BEN CH SPACE IN T H EI R L AUN DRI E S. “L AUND RI E S N E E D AMP L E B EN C H S PACE FO R SO RT IN G A N D FOL D IN G CLOTH ES A N D I LOV E IN CO R PO RAT IN G L AUN DRY BAS KE T S I N TO D RAW ER S,” SAYS A L E XA ND RA MAS O N OF ST UDIO A EM. AL S O ON H E R LI S T O F L AUN DRY MUS T- H AV E S IS A LA R GE SI N K W IT H A P ULL-OU T TAP.

Laundry & mudroom

CLEAN UP YOUR ACT

WITH A BIT OF KNOW-HOW THIS SPACE CAN BE MORE THAN JUST FUNCTIONAL

HB’s ultimate GUIDE TO

STORAGE

Go to the wall

MA KE YOU R WA LL S WO R K FOR YO U – T H E Y F R EE U P VA LUAB L E F LO OR SPACE IN ON E O F T HE SM A L LES T RO OMS I N T H E H OU SE . A ND WE A RE N OT JUST TA L KING SHELVES. “HOOKS ARE GO OD FOR PO OL TOW EL S, DO G LE AS H ES A ND BROOMS,” SAYS CAROLE.

Sitting session Mudrooms need bench space so you have somewhere you can sit to take off those muddy shoes. It’s also good to include baskets beneath for gumboots and other outdoor shoes. “It’s best to store boots upside down to stop nasties crawling in,” says Carole Whiting of Carole Whiting Studio. “A boot holder is a worthwhile investment if you have a big garden or live in the country.”

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) SIMON WHITBREAD (OPPOSITE) LOUISE ROCHE DESIGN (THIS PAGE) SMITH + LEVINE

Plastic fantastic “Our go-tos for the laundry are white plastic tubs,” says Tidee’s Emma Rosham, “which work well in damp areas (such as under the sink) and for housing items such as cleaning products that can spill. Choose containers with lids so you can stack them.”

“Hanging rails ARE A GREAT WAY TO REDUCE THE NEED FOR ironing AND FOR TAKING CARE OF THOSE MORE fragile ITEMS SUCH AS SILK SHIRTS OR TOPS” ALEXANDRA MASON, INTERIOR DESIGNER

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COMING CLEAN Laundries are prone to accumulating lots of random stuff, from old shopping bags – one of the worst culprits – to vases, says Emma, but there are some simple strategies to get things in order. “The key to organising this space, like any other space, is to take everything out of all the drawers and cupboards. Get rid of the items you don’t need, including those shopping bags! Now group similar items and place in containers.”

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Home work

“ A BAL AN CE B ET WEE N DE SK SPACE AND S TORAG E IS ES S EN TIAL ,” S HARES AL EX AN D RA M AS O N OF STU DI O A EM. “ INC LU DE F IL I NG SYSTE MS A ND DRAW E R S OF VARYING SH AP E S A ND SIZES , SU C H AS SL IML IN E FO R STATIONE RY AN D TAL L C UPB OARD S TO H ID E PAP E RWOR K, FO LD ERS AN D EQ UI PM ENT.” THE F IN AL FLOU R IS H? OPEN SH E LVI N G FOR KEE PSA KE S.

Home office

STAY ON TASK MAKE LIGHT WORK OF SORTING YOUR HOME OFFICE WITH THESE IDEAS

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I’VE GOT YOU PEGGED

WATCHING THE BUDGET

An oldie but a goodie, the humble peg board not only looks cool, it’s super-versatile and can be cut to fit any space. Mount above your desk to keep everything you need at an easy-to-grab distance. Add floating shelves for even more storage. It will turn it into a feature wall and a decorating statement in its own right.

You don’t have to spend much to organise your home office. There are many good off-the-shelf storage solutions (see page 160), such as locker-style cabinets to shut away the clutter – pop open baskets on top. Or open shelves that will fit A4 folders – if you are brave enough to put everything on show.

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Sliding doors

OU T OF S IG HT, O UT O F MI N D – I F YO U R WFH OF F I C E I S I N T HE OPE N PL A N, P LAC E I T IN A N ALCOVE B E HI N D B IFOL DS OR SL I DER S – TO K EE P CLUTT ER AT BAY, B UT ALSO TO SWITCH OFF AT T HE E N D OF TH E DAY. CO NS I D E R A BE SP O KE, IN -B U I LT D E SK W IT H CU S TOM J OI N ERY. I T’ S E XP E N SI V E , B U T I F YO U WO R K FR OM H OM E R EG U LA R LY, I T ’S A WO RT H WH I LE I NVES T ME N T.

“INSTEAD OF FILING CABINETS, convert documents TO DIGITAL — BUT BACK THEM UP FIRST” ANNA-CARIN MCNAMARA, INTERIOR DESIGNER

Match time

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) MAREE HOMER (OPPOSITE) CHRIS WARNES DESIGN (THIS PAGE) HORTON & CO DESIGN (OPPOSITE) LYNNE BRADLEY INTERIORS ARTWORK ARTISTS UNKNOWN

Colour coordinate your home office, with storage boxes of similar or complementary colours. Colour plays a key role in getting you into a positive, motivated frame of mind for work.

Work/life balance

IF YO UR O FF I CE D OU BL E S AS A L IV I NG AR EA O R BED ROO M, STO R E YOUR ST UF F IN AN OT TO MAN. THAT WAY YOU CAN USE IT WH E T HE R YO U’R E WO RK IN G OR TAK I N G A B RE AK. AN OT H ER GR EAT STO RAG E OP T IO N I S UN D ER WI N DOW BENCHES WHERE YOU CAN STO RE PL EN T Y OF PA PE RS . MA K E S U RE YO U H AVE A GOO D SYS TE M I N P L ACE SO T HAT I M PORTAN T T HI N GS DO N ’T GO MIS SI NG.

HB’s ultimate GUIDE TO

STORAGE

Metal winner

“N OT HI N G B EAT S A CO LO RB O N D S HE D ON A CO N C RE TE SL A B TO HO US E AL L YOUR DI RT Y GA R DE NI N G EQUI P MEN T, B IK ES AN D P OO L TOYS,” SAYS JU ST I N DI B B LE OF FLUI D D E SI GN. “ YO U CAN GE N ERA LLY F IN D A S POT I N T HE GAR DEN THAT OF F ERS EASY ACC ESS – AN D M AYBE OU T O F S IG HT, I F SPACE PE R MI TS .” YO U C AN AL S O FIND OFF-THE-SHELF SHEDS T HAT A R E F L AT-PAC KE D SO YOU CAN ASSEMBLE IT I F YO U ’R E H A NDY. LO O K FOR ON E T HAT I S B OT H WI N D-RE SI S TA N T A ND WATERTIGHT SO IT CAN HA N DL E AN Y T YP E O F WE AT H ER T H AT H I T S .

Outdoors

GARDEN LIFE

THE SECRET TO BACKYARD STORAGE SUCCESS IS MAKING SURE IT’S TOUGH ENOUGH TO HANDLE THE WEATHER

Ring of steel

OUT OF THE BOX An outdoor storage box is perfect for stashing chair cushions, sports equipment and pool essentials. Look for one that is waterproof – there are some great plastic ones that look like wood. It’s also an extra seat for when friends come round.

ST EEL R ING F IREWO O D HOLDE RS AR E A NE AT OPTIO N IF YO U HAV E TO STO RE KIND L ING A N D LOGS FOR A FIR EP IT. THE Y H AVE DI FFER EN T COM PA RTMENTS T H AT AR E HA NDY FOR STO R IN G DI FFERENT-S IZED P IEC ES .

LIFTING THE LID

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE TOP RIGHT) BRIGID ARNOTT (THIS PAGE BOTTOM LEFT) CHRIS WARNES (OPPOSITE) ARMELLE HABIB DESIGN (THIS PAGE TOP RIGHT) MICHELLE LESLIE STUDIO (THIS PAGE BOTTOM LEFT) MI DESIGNER

Built-in banquette seating with storage beneath, is a popular option, but over time they can have issues “We are often asked for hardwood benches with storage underneath, but the lid can be heavy and warp. It’s hard to waterproof and can gather moisture and cockroaches,” cautions Hugh Main of Spirit Level.

Spring clean Outdoor space is finite, says Hugh. “As you would inside your house, have a cleanse – chuck out everything you don’t need rather than create more space. Most things in a shed never get used from one year to the next.”

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Kitchen capers

STE P U P YO UR BARBIE GA ME BY I NS TAL L ING A CU STO M -M A DE B EN CH WI TH SL IML INE C UPBOAR DS BENEATH WHERE YOU CAN STASH M US T- HAV E I TEMS FO R E N TE RTA INING SU C H AS W IN E GLASSE S, CH EE SE BOAR DS , P LATTERS, SAL A D BOW LS AN D IF YO U H AVE ROO M YO U CO U LD EVE N SN EA K IN A BA R FRIDGE!

Screen idol Bins are unavoidable items in your outdoor space but there are ways to make them blend in. “Use fixed screens to hide your bins and add a design element to the landscape. And you don’t have to open a door with your hands full when you put out the rubbish,” says Hugh. “Choose a material that recedes, such as dark-stained timber battens that look neat. Borrow material from your architecture, so it becomes one with the house.”

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Shopping

STORE & ORDER

DON’T STRESS ABOUT THE MESS… FIND A PLACE FOR EVERYTHING WITH THESE SHELVES, RACKS, HOOKS AND MORE Compiled by ALICE IERACE

10 9

1. We are Waltz ‘Place’ wall hooks in Eucalyptus, Cinnamon and White, $45 each, Koskela. 2. Pop Up Desks shelf in Sage, $419/maxi, Cranmore Home & Co. 3. Santa Maria Novella ceramic soap dish, $64, Peony Melbourne. 4. ‘Long Island’ 6-drawer high chest, $1499, Domayne. 5. Bone inlay 3-drawer console in Grey, $2300, Fenton & Fenton. 6. ‘Anchor’ wall-mounted hook, $34.95, Freedom. 7. Ton ‘Stand By 015’ coat stand, $900*, Archiproducts. 8. ‘Risatorp’ basket in White, $15, Ikea. 9. ‘Smarra’ box with lid in Natural, $25, Ikea. 10. ‘Ponting’ sideboard in Dove, $1999, Provincial Home Living.

*INTERNATIONAL PRICE IS BASED ON CURRENT EXCHANGE RATES AT THE TIME OF PRINTING

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STORAGE 12 11

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16 15

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11. Bamboo tall cabinet in Blonde, $4199, Uniqwa Collections. 12. ‘Stanthorpe’ cabinet in White, $3299, Provinicial Home Living. 13. ‘Zoe’ jewellery box in Natural, $249, Country Road. 14. ‘Sabine’ tall cabinet in Grey Shagreen, $4995, Coco Republic. 15. ‘Ilona’ catchall in Olive, $49, Maison Balzac. 16. Sowden coffee tin in Mint, $15, Hay. 17. ‘Sabine’ dresser in Ivory Oak, $3695, Coco Republic. 18. Yamazaki ‘Beauchamp’ jewellery stand, $39.95, Temple & Webster. 19. ‘Limbo’ storage basket in Bamboo Natural, $79.95, Freedom. 20. ‘Luxor Basket M’ storage basket in Grey and White, $79.95, Provincial Home Living. >

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2 3

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1. Kitchen compost bin in Chalk, $49.95, French Knot. 2. ‘Keys’ shelving unit in Natural, $1699, Freedom. 3. ‘Clay’ plates, from $32 each, Sunday Lane. 4. Nau nest tables in Oak, $1995/set of 2, David Jones. 5. ‘Coastal’ bookcase in Washed Grey, $429, Harvey Norman. 6. ‘Kubu Palm Beach’ trunk, $449, Alfresco Emporium. 7. Rattan magazine holder in White, $129, Alfresco Emporium. 8. ‘Jasper’ metro package 1A sofa with chaise, $3290, King. 9. ‘Jura’ wine rack, $29.95, Freedom.

10 12

10. ‘Boston’ two-drawer sideboard, $2299, Alfresco Emporium. 11. ‘Osmose’ buffet in Dark Brown, $1899, Freedom. 12. Ferm Living ‘Curvature’ double hook in Brass, $99, Design Stuff. 13. ‘Farmhouse’ wooden crate, $19.95/medium, French Knot. 14. ‘Maurice’ glass cabinet in Natural Oak, from $2995, Coco Republic. 15. ‘Beachcomber’ wood-handled basket, $109, Pottery Barn. 16. ‘Axol’ side table with shelf in Old Elm, $880, MCM House. 17. ‘Coastal’ cabinet desk in Washed Grey, $449, Harvey Norman. 18. ‘Nadi’ baskets in Natural, $299/set of 3, Domayne.

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food

PHOTOGRAPHY ALAN BENSON

BEAUTIFUL

FIRE IT UP

page 166 SAGANAKI PRAWNS See recipe page 173

EASY AND DELICIOUS FOOD TO SHARE WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS

Beautiful FOOD

FIRE IT UP

TAKE YOUR NEXT BARBECUE TO ANOTHER LEVEL AND COOK OVER A FIREPIT TO IMPART DELICIOUS FLAVOUR Words & recipes ROSS DOBSON Photography ALAN BENSON

TIMBER FOR YOUR FIREPIT In Australia and New Zealand the best timber to burn is hardwood gum or eucalyptus. The timbers that burn the longest are jarrah, ironbark, box and river red gum. The best wood for burning will feel dense, it should be grey in colour (definitely not green), hollow sounding when two logs are tapped together, and free of fibrous bark. What you are looking for is wood that is as dry as possible. Do not burn treated timber from trees, and from other large plants that are toxic. The same goes for any treated or painted timber.

WHEN IS THE FIREPIT READY? Over a period of about 2 hours, the timber becomes black and ultimately turns into charcoal. It will break up into small pieces and is supercharged with energy and glows with intense heat. Coals about the size of a golf ball, and no larger than a tennis ball, are what 166

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you are looking for to cook with. And, unlike wood, which needs space to burn, these hot coals work best when pushed together to generate and maintain optimum heat for cooking. The easiest way to test if your firepit is ready for cooking is to trust your own senses. Firstly, use your eyes: you want to see small pieces of red-hot coals with a minimal amount of smoke. Secondly, use your sense of touch. Put the palm of your hand about 5-10cm over the centre of the firepit. You should only be able to hold your hand there for some 2-3 seconds. Replace the grill over the firepit and give it around 10 minutes to heat up.

LOBSTER TAILS WITH CHILLI & GARLIC BUTTER Serves 4 (See opposite) 2 lobster tails, about 320g each 75g unsalted butter, softened to room temperature ½ tsp dried chilli flakes 2 garlic cloves, crushed

1 tbsp finely chopped flat-leaf (Italian) parsley Lemon wedges, to serve

1. Cut the lobster tails in half lengthways. Mix together the butter, chilli flakes, garlic and parsley and spread over the cut sides of the lobster. 2. Test your firepit is ready to cook on (see left). Replace the grill over the firepit and give it around 10 minutes to heat up. 3. Lay the lobster, shell side down, on the firepit grill. The shell will act as a cooking vessel of sorts. Cook for 10–15 minutes, until the lobster meat is white and cooked through. It should peel away easily from the shell. If necessary, cook for a few extra minutes until it does so. Serve with lemon wedges. >

PHOTOGRAPHY (OPPOSITE) NICKY RYAN

hat many of us think of as a firepit is simply a vessel that burns wood, over which a suspended grill or hotplate can be fitted to cook food. Many modern firepits will come with an attachable grill, which is perfect for cooking. Remove the grill while you fire up the coals. Take two mediumsized pieces of firewood [see note on firewood below] and place them in the centre of the firepit, parallel to each other and about 20cm apart. Take two more similar-sized pieces of wood and place these on top, in the opposite direction, parallel and 20cm apart. There will be a gap in the centre – this is where you ignite the fire. Crumple up some newspaper into loose balls and put these between the timber (egg cartons work a treat, too). Now arrange some kindling around the paper to look like a teepee. Light the newspaper in several places, allowing it to catch and burn – it won’t take long before the kindling catches fire, but the large pieces of timber will need some more time. You can use a piece of cardboard or a baking tray to fan air into the fire and encourage it to burn.

LOBSTER TAILS WITH CHILLI & GARLIC BUTTER See recipe opposite

Beautiful FOOD

Serves 6 (See opposite) 4 spatchcock (small chickens), about 500g each Piri piri marinade 300g chopped shop-bought roasted red capsicum

4 tbsp Chinese chilli garlic sauce 1½ tbsp olive oil 1½ tsp ground cumin 1½ tsp fresh marjoram, plus extra, for serving

1. To make the piri piri marinade, put all the ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth. 2. Sit each spatchcock, breast side up, on a chopping board. Lay the palm of your hand on the top to hold it stable. Insert a large knife into the cavity and cut down either side of the backbone. Remove and discard the backbone. 3. Flatten the spatchcock on the chopping board by firmly pressing down on the breastbone with the palm of your hand. 4. Put the spatchcock in a large dish and rub all over with two-thirds of the marinade. Refrigerate the remaining marinade until needed. Cover the spatchcock and refrigerate for 3–6 hours or overnight, turning often. Remove from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking and sprinkle with sea salt. 5. Test your firepit is ready to cook on (see page 166). Replace the grill over the firepit and give it around 10 minutes to heat up. 6. Lay the spatchcock, skin side down, on the firepit grill and cook for 10–15 minutes, until aromatic and the skin is dark golden. Turn over and cook for another 10 minutes. Move to the edge of the firepit, where the heat is less intense. Leave for 10–15 minutes, until cooked through. Insert a knife into the thickest part of the bird – the juices should run clear. 7. Scatter with fresh marjoram leaves and serve with the reserved marinade as a sauce.

ULTIMATE FIREPIT VEGIE SALAD Serves 4 (See page 172) 8 small roma (plum) tomatoes, halved lengthways 3 tbsp olive oil 1 large eggplant, cut into large chunks 500g green beans 1 red onion, finely sliced 1 handful dill, chopped 1 handful basil leaves, chopped 1 handful flat-leaf (Italian)

parsley, chopped Dressing 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped 2 large red chillies, finely chopped 1 small handful chopped flat-leaf (Italian) parsley ½ cup (125ml) olive oil 3 tbsp sherry vinegar 1 tsp sea salt

1. Combine the dressing ingredients in a bowl and leave to infuse. 2. Test your firepit is ready to cook on (see page 166). Replace the grill over the firepit and give it around 10 minutes to heat up. 3. Put the tomatoes in a large bowl. Add about one-third of the olive oil, season well with salt and pepper and toss the tomatoes in the

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oil. Put the tomatoes, cut side down, on the firepit grill for a few minutes – just long enough for them to form grill marks. Don’t overcook them. Turn them and cook for 2–3 more minutes. Remove to a large bowl. 4. Put the eggplant in the same bowl you tossed the tomatoes in. Add another third of the olive oil and season well with salt and pepper. Toss the eggplant to coat in oil. Put the eggplant on the firepit grill and cook for 10 minutes, turning often, until golden and tender. Put in the bowl with the tomatoes. 5. Finally, put the beans into the bowl, add the remaining olive oil and season well with salt and pepper. Toss the beans well and lay them carefully on the grill (don’t let them fall through the cracks). Cook for 8–10 minutes, turning often, until nicely charred. Add to the bowl of eggplant and tomatoes. 6. Spoon some of the dressing over the warm vegies. Give a quick toss and season to taste. Stir in the red onion, dill, basil and parsley. Add the remaining dressing and serve warm or at room temperature.

BARBECUED SNAPPER WITH MEXICAN SALSA Serves 6 (See page 173) 1 large snapper, about 2kg, cleaned, gutted and scaled 2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra, for cooking 2 tsp sea salt Coriander, roughly chopped, to serve 1 small red chilli, thinly sliced, to serve Lime wedges, to serve

Mexican salsa 2 tomatoes 1 onion, skin left on and halved 2 garlic cloves, chopped 3 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice 2 tbsp red wine vinegar 1 tbsp chipotle chilli powder 2 tbsp brown sugar 1 small bunch coriander, roughly chopped

1. Test your firepit is ready to cook on (see page 166). Replace the grill over the firepit and give it around 10 minutes to heat up. 2. To make the Mexican salsa, put the tomatoes and onion on the firepit grill, turning constantly and removing when the skin is charred and blistered. Allow to cool. 3. Peel the vegetables, roughly chop and put in a food processor with the garlic, orange juice, vinegar, chipotle chilli powder, brown sugar and coriander. Process to a smooth paste. 4. Make a parcel for the fish. Tear off a large sheet of foil that is both longer and wider than the fish. Tear off a similar-sized sheet of baking paper and lay on top of the foil. Make several deep, diagonal cuts across each side of the fish. Combine the olive oil and sea salt in a bowl and rub all over the fish, getting it into the cuts. 5. Lay the fish on the baking paper and rub the salsa onto each side of the fish. Cover the fish with another sheet of baking paper, then foil. Fold over the sides to make a parcel. 6. Put a baking tray on the firepit grill and allow to heat up for around 10 minutes. Put the fish on the baking tray and cook for 25–30 minutes, until the flesh easily pulls away from the bones. Lift the parcel onto a chopping board. Sprinkle with coriander and sliced red chilli. Serve directly from the parcel with lime wedges. >

PHOTOGRAPHY (OPPOSITE) NICKY RYAN

PIRI PIRI SPATCHCOCK

PIRI PIRI SPATCHCOCK See recipe opposite

“MANY VEGETABLES ARE perfect FOR COOKING ON THE firepit. THICKLY SLICED EGGPLANT IS IDEAL” ROSS DOBSON

ULTIMATE FIREPIT VEGIE SALAD See recipe page 168

Beautiful FOOD

BARBECUED SNAPPER WITH MEXICAN SALSA See recipe page 168

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171

CHINATOWN PORK See recipe opposite

Beautiful FOOD SAGANAKI PRAWNS See recipe right

SAGANAKI PR AW NS Serves 4–6 (See left) 4 tbsp olive oil 1 red onion, thinly sliced 6 garlic cloves, chopped 1 tsp dried Greek oregano 4 tbsp ouzo 2 x 400g tins crushed tomatoes 3 tbsp tomato paste

CHINATOW N PORK Serves 4 (See opposite) 2 pork fillets, about 400g each

PHOTOGRAPHY (OPPOSITE) BRETT STEVENS

Char siu glaze 1 tsp Chinese five-spice powder 2 tbsp runny honey

2 tbsp hoisin sauce 2 tbsp light soy sauce Coriander, to serve

1. Put all the glaze ingredients in a non-metallic dish and stir until combined. Add the pork fillets and rub the glaze all over the pork. Cover and refrigerate for 3 hours. Don’t marinate it for any longer – the salt content is quite high and, left too long, the meat will become tough and chewy. 2. Remove from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking. 3. Test your firepit is ready to cook on (see page 166). Replace the grill over the firepit and give it around 10 minutes to heat up. 4. Lift the pork out of the marinade, keeping the marinade. Lay the pork on the firepit grill. Cook for 12 minutes, turning every 3 minutes, and brushing every few minutes with the reserved marinade. Lay each fillet on a separate sheet of foil. Brush with any reserved marinade. Wrap the pork in the foil and return to the edge of the firepit grill, where the heat is less intense. Leave for 15 minutes, until the pork is cooked through. Remove and allow to cool to room temperature before slicing onto a serving plate. Sprinkle with coriander to serve.

24 large, raw prawns, peeled and deveined 250g Greek feta, crumbled 1 handful chopped flatleaf. (Italian) parsley, to serve Lemon wedges, to serve

1. Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic and oregano. Cook for 4–5 minutes, until the onion has softened. Increase the heat to high. Add the ouzo, allowing it to sizzle. When the ouzo has reduced by about half, stir in the tomatoes and tomato paste. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to the boil and cook for just 2–3 minutes. Remove from the heat. (This can be made in advance and kept in the fridge for 2–3 days.) 2. Test your firepit is ready to cook on (see page 166). Replace the grill over the firepit and give it around 10 minutes to heat up. 3. Put a large cast-iron skillet or ovenproof frying pan on the firepit grill. Give it 10 minutes or so to heat up. Pour the sauce into the frying pan. You want it to be bubbling hot before adding the prawns. Arrange the prawns in the sauce, leaving a bit of space between them. Cook for 5–8 minutes, until pink and just cooked through. 4. Crumble the feta into the pan and cook for another minute. Scatter with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

This is an edited extract from Firepit Barbecue by Ross Dobson, with photography by Alan Benson, $35, published by Murdoch Books.

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THE BOOKSHELF COMEDIAN DAVID SMIEDT TAKES AN IRREVERENT, BUT APPRECIATIVE, LOOK AT THE CLASSIC THINGS THAT DEFINE YOU-BEAUT AUSSIE LIFE Illustration MATT COSGROVE

ast your mind back to a time when buying a home didn’t involve a mortgage bigger than the house itself. Yes, dear readers, there was an era when tens of thousands of Aussies with a few extra bob in the bank could buy a holiday home in some coastal or riverside hamlet. Not primarily as an investment mind – negative gearing was what your brother did when inadvertently slipping into reverse while on his L plates – but as an escape from the burgeoning suburbia of post-war Australian city life. These dwellings were often referred to as ‘shacks’. It was a handily modest term but things were usually a touch more solid and comfortable than the name implied. Decor wise, they could euphemistically be described as ‘eclectic’. We’re talking stuff you couldn’t quite bear to toss but didn’t actually want to look at every day. And because the holiday house was occupied during periods where time was to be savoured and life’s simple pleasures indulged in, there was always a bookshelf rammed with yellowing, dog-eared sentinels awaiting your eyes and hearts. One of the most immediately visible categories here was The Worthy novel. Often nominated for a vaunted literature prize, these books were usually started at home, abandoned, restarted and eventually schlepped down the coast or to the mountains. On the rationale that away from the demands and stresses of daily life, we’d finally be able to give this doorstop the time and intellectual bandwidth it deserved. And that is how thousands of holiday homes from Narrabri to Ningaloo came to have a copy of Jonathan Franzen’s 2001 opus The Corrections hanging around like a cousin who doesn’t realise the wake is over. And because parents at the holiday house usually had a vino or two more than at home and dozed off in the arvo, they could be counted on to turn a blind/snoozing eye to whatever the kids happened to be reading. Especially if said kids cleverly disguised a somewhat racy book behind the covers of another more staid tome or, ahem, beloved decor magazine. Suffice to say it was via this method that many Aussie kids discovered to their wide-eyed vacay dismay that Fifty Shades of Grey was 178

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not a book about monochrome decorating. On the plus side, ‘tassels’ makes an excellent safe word. Then, there were the greatest hits. Often Penguin paperbacks whose orange covers had been bleached to a muted mandarin, these reads were not merely reserved for holidays – they signalled that you were actually on holidays. Yes, you remembered exactly who the dastardly murderer was or the plot twist involved revenge for insider trading before even picking up the novel, but still you re-read it. Because aside from the author’s skill, their reassuring presence was as much a part of holiday house idylls as switching off the hot-water system when you left. The bookshelf also served as a type of literary photo album chronicling the feverish obsessions that characterised certain times in readers’ lives. As in the wondrous Harry Potter years, the trembling

“Many Aussie kids discovered that ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ was not a book about monochrome decorating” Twilights (team Edward, since you’re asking) and the inevitable metaphysical summer where your 16-year-old incessantly quoted from Kahlil Gibran’s The Prophet. “Yes, Shane, we all know that ‘love, if it finds you worthy, directs your course.’ You mentioned it at breakfast.” Of course, books were not the only things that called this often warped and time-nicked assemblage home. If you were near the beach, you could find Blyton or Bryson hard up against shells ridged and bleached bone white. By a river, it was stones smoother than Daniel Craig in a tux. Add the etiolated family photographs taken in situ and housed in wonky frames that were holiday projects and what you were looking at was not merely a piece of furniture, but a snapshot of the people who spent time in that space. And just like the holiday house itself, we returned to the bookcase expecting to find nothing really had changed since the last time and that was kind of the point.

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WHAT’S NEW THIS MONTH? WE’VE GONE SHOPPING FOR YOU TO DISCOVER THE LATEST PRODUCTS TO HIT THE SHELVES

TOP ROW: CANTILEVER Featuring monochromatic subtlety, timber accent or rich colour pops, the K1 Kitchen System series is a feast for colour lovers be you subtle, strong or sensible. cantileverinteriors.com DOMAYNE Made for alfresco entertaining from BBQs to game nights, the Chelsea 7-Piece Outdoor Bar Setting is effortlessly stylish. Crafted from weather-loving eucalyptus timber, it can withstand the Australian sun. domayne.com.au LE FORGE Your destination for outdoor garden decor. New shipment of garden urns and decor just unpacked. Exclusive designs and colours, including New York Planter in Metallic Bronze Handmade Terracotta. leforge.com.au SECOND ROW: GRO-URBANOASIS New season summer pots in a sorbet palette of papaya, peach and pistachio are now instore. Brighten your space in time for long summer days spent entertaining at home. Create your own tropical oasis with a selection of lush palms found instore. Prices from $69.98 (pots) and $19.98 (plants). gro-urbanoasis.com.au ARTMOB Tasmanian Aboriginal artist Mick Quilliam depicts echidnas (mimla) moving through country at different times of the year. These original artworks will brighten any space. RRP $1000 each. artmob. com.au SALT BREEZE This range of interior and exterior shutters complement and enhance the aesthetics and comfort of any home. RRP from $130. saltbreeze.com.au THIRD ROW: BUNNINGS WAREHOUSE Compact and lightweight, the Matador Tempo Portable BBQ offers an open grill and hotplate, portable legs and a carry bag for on-the-go cooking. RRP $249. bunnings.com.au CHASING WINTER Orthopedically designed with comfort in mind, the Snuggle Dog Bed invokes a sense of safety to improve your dog’s health and wellbeing. RRP from $279. chasingwinter.com ELHO With beautiful colours and a trendy rib pattern, elho Vibes pots provide an eye-catching unique look. Made from recycled plastic and wind energy, these pots will bring out the best in your indoor plants. RRP from $15.98. elho.com