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70th Christmas issue! CELEBRATE WITH H&G

STYLE GUIDE 80+ pages of SPARKLING DECORATING IDEAS

DECEMBER $8.50 *NZ$9.50 ( *incl. GST) S

TRULY SCRUMPTIOUS A grown-up lunch menu

Peace & joy

BRING IT home WITH PRETTY palettes & DELIGHTFUL

traditions

GORGEOUS gifts

DREAMY homes

EASY DIY paper DECORATIONS

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How Ali & Mike made their house one of a kind. “Our dream home was always going to be an original created just for us. We also wanted something we could paint any colour and feel conﬁdent that it wouldn’t show wear and tear. Our builder recommended James Hardie’s Stria™ Cladding which allowed us to create a one of a kind home that has exceeded all our expectations.” Find your dream home at scyon.com.au

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The Christmas issue

DECEMBER 20 P Bring it home with pretty palettes & delightful traditions 29 S 80+ pages of sparkling decorating ideas 42 85 D 145 A grown-up lunch menu 189

Decorating & design 19 I The rich green and gold of Christmas in a sunburnt country. 20 W Designer Lynda Gardener puts her own stamp on a country celebration in Victoria. 29 C ’Tis the season to deck the halls with a fresh twist on the familiar red and green theme. 39 Set the scene for fun festive entertaining with these simple but magical decorating ideas. 42 M Follow our simple instructions to create unique paper decorations. You clever thing!

An enchanting new book on architects’ dogs at home. 57 S From homewares to bags, red-wine hues pour forth. 58 Gorgeous glass objects.

Insider 63 N Architect Michael Bernacki shows off his favourite buys and lucky finds at home in Launceston. 64 Design news and reviews. 70 Plaudits from the triumphant designs in this year’s Top 50 Rooms showcase. 72 O After years of longing for a second baby, former sports champ Liz Ellis doesn’t mind the noise and mess of her lively brood. 74 How Isamu Noguchi blended his Japanese and American heritage into a timeless light design. Photograph by Kristina Soljo.

Cover stories

Houses

172 P Raise a glass of good cheer with French rosé Champagne. 174 Lovely skincare and fragrances, packaged for giving. 176 S Enjoy the holidays without the dreaded kilo creep.

86 Fi A renovated Spanish Mission-style home in Brisbane with a cool, creative vibe. 96 It’s all about the joy of family and good times in this reconfigured Sydney home. 104 S Christmas in this cleverly designed new build promises fun and games for a Perth clan. 112 An intensive renovation made the most of this home’s bayside position in Sydney. 120 Palm Springs style was the apt inspiration for this sunny Perth build, a family’s urban oasis.

180 S What’s hot in home-entertainment equipment. 182 C Teach kids to be comfortable and safe around pets. 184 E Eco-friendly gifts that won’t cost the earth. 185 Choosing the right real-estate agent to sell your home.

Gardens

Shopping

129 W Plants of the desert create both a striking landscape and a fire-safety buffer in a WA flame zone. 136 H Finding an inspired solution for a sloping Sydney site with a circular lawn. 140 S Flowers for a warm-weather show. 141 Garden news and to-dos. 218 G A bushland wreath that captures the essence of summer.

Living 145 L Chef Alla Wolf-Tasker presents Christmas Day dishes you can make ahead and serve to hearty congratulations. 157 L Organic outbackinspired settings to grace your festive dining table.

IT’S OUR

70th Christmas issue! CELEBRATE WITH H&G

STYLE GUIDE

80+ pages of SPARKLING DECORATING IDEAS

TRULY SCRUMPTIOUS A grown-up lunch menu

Advice

189

Christmas gifts for the important people in your life, all present and accounted for. 203 Fill ’em up! 204 C Great shapes. 206 Serving platters. 208 B Glassware, candleholders, vases and napkins. 212 Stockists’ details.

Community 12 212 216

Readers’ letters. A triumph!

Subscriptions oﬀer 154 S and receive a 2kg Christmas pudding from Pudding Lane valued at $77!

Peace & joy

BRING IT home WITH PRETTY palettes & DELIGHTFUL

traditions

* GORGEOUS gifts * DREAMY homes * EASY DIY paper DECORATIONS

On our cover Warm in tone and softly glittering with candles, twinkling string lights and metallic accents, our festive table setting makes a special day all the more so. Use our styling ideas to create a divine celebration for the important people in your life. Add your family’s Christmas treasures and traditions (or start some new ones) to make the occasion truly your own. Styling by Sarah Maloney. Photograph by Kristina Soljo.

H G EDITOR’S LETTER

CHRISTMAS SEWN UP

A huge thank you to our golden girls! The metal-thread technique used to produce H&G’s festive masthead is commonly known as goldwork, and is believed to be more than 2000 years old. “It is particularly prized for the way light plays on it,” say Sharyn (left) and Mary, the amazing stitchers responsible. Both members of the Embroiderers’ Guild NSW Inc, they undertake many interesting commissions and have ﬁlm and book credits to their names. The Neeson Murcutt-renovated Guild building, meanwhile, has a substantial collection of historical and contemporary embroidery as well as holding regular exhibitions and workshops. See info@embroiderersguildnsw.org.au.

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AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

Follow the how-to instructions on page 214 and enjoy a little pre-Christmas crafting: a budgetfriendly and beautiful way to decorate. There’s much, much more to discover in this issue, and I particularly love the alternative palettes our style teams and featured home owners have employed… our summertime Christmas opens up many options. From Lynda Gardener’s vintage white-on-white table with stunning wattle bough overhead to the Simpson-Craig clan’s crimson bougainvillea spray and elsewhere, sea blues and bush greens, there is much to delight. With a hint of sparkle in the mix, almost anything goes. This issue sees us sign off on Australian House & Garden’s 70th birthday year and we’ve published a beautiful book to commemorate the occasion – Australian Homes: 70 Years Well Lived. Highlights from each decade, key inﬂuencers and architecture, interiors and gardens of note are chronicled in a highly visual walk down memory lane. I sincerely hope it will ﬁnd its way under your Christmas tree (see details on page 73). As ever, we’ve loved putting this issue together. Thank you for sharing this special year with us and Merry Christmas to you all.

Photograph by Maree Homer (Lisa).

very Christmas, wherever my family may be, I lay two cloths on the table, one rotated to reveal corners of the other. Then come eight delicate linen napkins with cross-stitched ﬂower detail in each corner. The cloths were my grandmother’s and the napkins embroidered by three great aunts. Along with three pillowcases embroidered with our kids’ initials, this is the kit that forms the foundation of our celebration. The beauty of the napkins is their simplicity. They look just as good with a painterly Bonnie and Neil linen tablecloth from a couple of seasons ago as they do with Granny’s. The tiny stitch detail takes me back to sewing lessons with the Principal’s wife at my tiny country primary school. Between hot summer days and Bullrush at lunchtime, the needle always seemed hard to grasp, the cloth evermore damp! So, I’m full of admiration for the team who embroidered our cover this month. We hatched the idea quite some time ago and it’s just as well… Even in the hands of two exceptional stitchers, Sharyn Hutchens and Mary Brown from the Embroiderers’ Guild NSW Inc (left) the job took more than 100 hours. I’m sure you’ll agree the result is truly magniﬁcent – a stunning Christmas cover! Embroidery and embellishment is making a resurgence, along with macramé and weaving, pottery and other handcrafts. Once deemed a bit ‘nanna’, these time-honoured skills are being appreciated anew and, stitch by stitch, adding an extra dimension to many fashion and homewares collections. If needle and thread are not your thing, the DIY paper decorations devised by designer Sophie Wilson and stylists’ assistant Sara Åkesson are something everyone can buy into.

SMAS18935

sicilyismylove.com.au

H G LETTERS

H&G social

The posts that made your month.

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The October issue provided the motivation I needed to keep renovating. All the gardens coming to life, the homes that connect so well with their gardens, and spaces used so creatively that they feel like an additional room. The storage ideas were brilliant, too. I even spotted my dream oven, which would be ideal for Christmas cooking. I’m looking forward to even more inspiration in 2019!

Deborah Hutton’s cool coastal kitchen got the thumbs up on Facebook, a tranquil Sydney garden captured Instagrammers’ hearts, and a gorgeous eco-friendly kitchen had Pinners in a spin. Facebook facebook.com/ australianhouseandgarden Highlights from each issue plus links to our favourite home tours. Instagram @houseandgarden View the most inspirational images from the month at H&G’s HQ and out and about. Pinterest pinterest.com.au/ houseandgardenau Picture-perfect images from our pages and sensational products to covet. For weekly news and inspiration, subscribe to our free e-newsletter at newsletter. houseandgardenmag.com.au.

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

House to home

Here’s cheers

It was exciting moving into our new place three months ago but, I have to admit, trying to style a blank canvas was rather overwhelming. The past three issues of H&G have been most helpful, however, providing me with tips and hacks to decorate my home using recycled and sustainable solutions with ﬂair! Not only is our home more meaningful with our sentimental pieces, but knowing we are being eco- and planetfriendly has made it even more worth doing. Many thanks for the creative solutions, H&G. Minerva Ho, Gladesville, NSW

Michael Artemenko’s renovation of a 1912 cottage in Melbourne (Along The Lines, October) was so refreshing, particularly on the dreary Brisbane day I read the story. I loved his wonderful use of colour and the magniﬁcent artwork by Kate Ballis. I googled Kate and discovered she is a Melbourne photographer and artist who is obviously extremely talented. Thank you for featuring such wonderful creatives in your magazine. Kerry Rilen, Birkdale, Queensland

Always a winner In March 1973 I won $1000 worth of carpet in an H&G competition and, with my winnings, joyfully bought white wool shag for the bedroom and turquoise for the living areas. I have enjoyed reading H&G ever since and my subscription was a birthday gift again this year. The mag is twice the size now and packed with content. Happy 70th! Kim Youlden, Noosa, Queensland

Dream come true October’s renovation special came at the perfect time. We scrimped and saved for so long to buy our own home and we are ﬁnally moving in this month! I have read many, many issues of Australian House & Garden and dreamt about putting the excellent ideas found on your pages into practice and now that time has come. Please keep showing those before and after pics – the transformations are so inspiring. Rachel Hew, Samford Valley, Queensland

WRITE IN TO WIN The author of every letter published receives $50. Our favourite also wins a fabulous prize. This month, Jacqui Brazel of Runaway Bay in Queensland wins a Roomba 980 robotic vacuum cleaner, valued at $1499, courtesy of iRobot Australia; irobot.com.au. Email your letter to H&G@bauer-media.com.au with your full name and address or post it to Your H&G, PO Box 4088, Sydney, NSW 1028.

Letters may be edited for length and clarity.

Jacqui Brazel, Runaway Bay, Queensland

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YOUR H&G

EDITORIAL Editor in chief Lisa Green Creative director Melissa Heath Deputy editor & travel John McDonald Interiors & houses Kate Nixon

ART

STYLE

Art director Katrina Breen Deputy art director Shayne Burton Junior designer Sophie Wilson

Senior stylist Kayla Gex Market editor Sarah Maloney Editorial & stylists’ assistant Sara Åkesson

FEATURES

SUB-EDITORS & WRITERS

Senior features editor Elizabeth Wilson Features Sarah Pickette Gardening Helen Young

Chief sub-editor/writer Deborah Grant Deputy chief sub-editor/production Tamarah Pienaar Sub-editor/writer Rosa Senese

CONTRIBUTORS Domenic Bahmann, Jo Carmichael, Roger Crosthwaite, Jody D’Arcy, Liz Ellis, Nicole England, Natalie Farmer, Anna Flanders, Lynda Gardener, Paula Goodyer, Nic Gossage, Harvey Grennan, Simon Griffiths, Marnie Hawson, Rose-Marie Hillier, Maree Homer, Will Horner, Jacqueline Kaytar, Elisabeth King, Georgia Madden, Toni Paterson, Chris Pearson, Christine Reid, Dion Robeson, Cathy Schusler, Kristina Soljo, Chris Warnes, Simon Whitbread, Alla Wolf-Tasker, Bo Wong

ADVERTISING & PRODUCTION Homes commercial manager Rhonda Maunder (02) 9282 8687 Homes manager Kimberly Anderson (02) 9338 6103 Advertising production manager Kate Orsborn (02) 9282 8364 Brand executive Jennifer Burke (02) 9288 9145 Victoria, SA & WA sales director Jaclyn Clements (03) 9823 6341 NSW head of agency sales Karen Holmes (02) 9282 8733 Victoria head of direct sales Will Jamison (03) 9823 6301 Queensland head of sales Judy Taylor (07) 3101 6636 New Zealand enquiries +61 2 9282 8505 General manager – production services Ian McHutchison Production controller Sally Jefferys Advertising production controller Dominic Roy (02) 9282 8691 Senior event manager Cate Gazal (02) 8226 9342

MARKETING & CIRCULATION Marketing director Louise Cankett Senior marketing manager Jillian Hogan Circulation manager Nicole Pearson Subscriptions campaign manager Lauren Flinn Assistant brand manager Nicole Pearson Marketing enquiries homes@bauer-media.com.au

SUBSCRIPTION SALES & ENQUIRIES Magshop, GPO Box 5252, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia Phone 136 116 (Mon-Fri, 8am-6pm AEDST) Web magshop.com.au All other Australian House & Garden enquiries: (02) 9282 8456

BAUER MEDIA CORPORATE Chief executive officer Paul Dykzeul Chief financial officer Andrew Stedwell Chief marketing officer Paul Weaving General manager – publishing Fiorella Di Santo Commercial director Paul Gardiner Acting head retail & circulation Andrew Cohn General manager – subscriptions & e-commerce Sean McLintock Commercial analyst Marisa Spasich Syndications syndication@bauer-media.com.au Published by Bauer Media Pty Limited (ABN 053 273 546), 54 Park Street, Sydney, NSW 2000. The trademark AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN is the property of Bauer Media Pty Ltd and is used under licence. © 2018. All rights reserved. Printed by PMP Moorebank, 31-37 Heathcote Road, Moorebank, NSW 2170. National distribution by Gordon and Gotch Australia Pty Ltd. 1300 650 666. ISSN 0004-931X. No material may be reproduced in part or in whole without written consent from the copyright holders. Bauer Media Pty Ltd does not accept responsibility for damage to or loss of freelance material submitted for publication. Allow several weeks for acceptance or return. For enquiries regarding subscriptions, call 136 116 Monday-Friday 8am-6pm AEDST, email magshop@magshop.com.au or mail letters to: Australian House & Garden, Reply Paid 3508, Sydney, NSW 2001 or subscribe online at magshop.com.au/hg. Subscription rate*: Australia $79.99 (one year, 12 issues); NZ A$120 (one year, 12 issues); other countries A$180 (one year, 12 issues). All overseas subscriptions sent air speed. *Recommended price, Australian House & Garden.

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INSPIRED BY H G

December

‘With earthy reds and eucalyptus greens at heart, our Christmas palette is drawn from bush tracks and golden beaches.’ L I SA GR E E N , H &G E DI TO R I N CHI E F

Styling by Sarah Maloney. Photograph by Will Horner.

Australian House & Garden wrapping paper and gift tag. Habotai silk ribbon in Ivory, from about $15/m, Feathers & Stone. Selection of Christmas ornaments from the Australian House & Garden range, Myer. For similar vintage bobbin and linen ribbon, try Heaven in Earth. For similar scarf, try David Jones. Pavilion ‘Zahara’ rattan tray, $269/set of two, Canvas+Sasson. For Where to Buy, see page 212.

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

WHITE CHRISTMAS White is Lynda Gardener’s go-to hue and headlines the interior decorator’s country celebrations in the township of Trentham, Victoria. It’s a family affair with a cool vintage twist. STO RY Deborah Grant | ST Y L I N G Inside Story | P H OTO G R A P H Y Marnie Hawson

INSPIRED BY H G

HALL/MAIN BEDROOM Lynda (pictured) and partner Mark live here most of the time, except when the property is rented out for weddings and functions. Those who visit at Christmas usually stay over. Wreath made by local florist Acre of Roses. Interior walls painted Wattyl Freesia. EXTERIOR Trentham is 75 minutes north-west of Melbourne and the home is next to the Domino Rail Trail walk. While the couple updated it to suit, they retained charming aspects such as the verandahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s climbing roses. White chairs, Ikea. Hanging seats, HK Living. >

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

nytime is a good time to visit the beautiful Victorian town of Trentham, but being there over Christmas is magic for Lynda Gardener and Mark Smith. That’s when they down ‘tools’ and take a well-earned break from Trentham General, the cafe and old-wares store they recently opened in a restored 1880s bank building. Former events director Mark helms the cafe all week and Lynda is also at the store a lot – when she’s not working as an interior decorator with partner Belle Hemming at their business, Inside Story, or renting out the four properties she has renovated in her inimitable old-meets-new style. So, when the couple are home at The Estate, their Federation-era cottage purchased in 2014, that time is very precious. Many people know Lynda from

her 24 years running renowned homewares store Empire Vintage in Melbourne’s Albert Park. She closed it two years ago and relocated many pieces she couldn’t bring herself to sell before to the Trentham store. Others found their way into their cute weatherboard home on the town’s main street. Set in more than 2000m2 of gardens and orchards, it’s a two-bedroom house with period features plus a number of outbuildings Lynda and Mark have put to good use. The largest is an old work shed they’ve transformed into a venue called The Barn, the other is an extra bedroom created out of a potato pickers’ shed. All have original floorboards and the palette of fresh white and natural tones Lynda is known for (she is also a brand ambassador for Bauwerk Colour, and the company’s wall-friendly > Bleached and Raw Whites in particular).

INSPIRED BY H G LIVING ROOM Lynda and Belle wrapping gifts for Lynda’s family, overlooking what’s called the ‘summer garden’ because of its year-round northern light. Even in warm weather, the throws and rugs are kept close by. “It’s that kind of house,” says Lynda. “It is always cosy, warm and cuddly in here.” The Christmas decorations are a mix of old and new pieces. Modular sofa upholstered in linen and the easy chair in hessian. Coffee table and wool rug, Trentham General. Knitted ottoman and white side table, HK Living. Vintage artworks.

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

LIVING In a corner of the room is this old factory bench and chair in corduroy. Above is a fragrant pine-tree branch freestyled by Lynda. The Christmas ‘crackers’ are actually sweets. Rug, Freedom. Leather bag, Nique. KITCHEN Lynda designed the new kitchen and sourced everything in it. The benchtop is concrete and the pendant lights are from Ikea. Rug, HK Living. Apron, Major Minor. SHORTBREAD These biscuits are the stars of the show at Christmas, made in a large batch by Lynda. GUESTROOM Set in the garden, this space has its own bathroom. Linen, Major Minor. ‘Cherry tree’ printed lantern, HK Living.

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AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

INSPIRED BY H G While the house and its bedrooms are an intimate set-up of luxuriously soft linen sofas and bedding, retro crockery, one-off vintage artworks and a touch of Scandi in the rustic timber and fur hides, The Barn is a lofty space with a pitched roof. Vintage cage lights suspended from the rafters provide just enough light for the bespoke events held there. Christmas this year will be a simple affair for about eight family members and friends in The Barn, with Mark in charge of the cooking. Lynda always decorates, starting with a tree from nearby Daylesford Christmas Tree Farm. “It’s such a lovely experience, picking out a tree and bringing it home – and the smell is like no other,” she says. Apart from a sit-down lunch, the day is unscheduled. “We never have a regimented plan; we just go with the flow. Some years it’s been a casual picnic in the garden and other years we’ve set up in the dining room of the house,” Lynda explains. Festivities will start with drinks in the garden, followed by lunch inside. Mark’s menu will include roast turkey cooked according to a Nigella Lawson recipe. Lynda’s sister makes the salads and her mum is in charge of dessert. Afterwards, everyone hangs out in the garden with more cocktails and nibbles. “Then everyone stays overnight if they want to,” says Lynda. It’s hard to imagine anyone leaving such an amazing place before they absolutely have to... > The Estate, Trentham, Victoria; theestatetrentham.com.au.

H G INSPIRED BY

THE BARN There’s an elegant driveway up to this versatile space. Hanging on the door is a wreath made from foraged eucalyptus branches by Acre of Roses. The antique tools are purely decorative pieces. GIFTS To fit this year’s natural theme, the presents are simply wrapped in brown paper and twine, then decorated with ric-rac ribbon from the 1950s and pine-needle sprigs. Small bird found at a Paris flea market. Dress, Hope & May. Bracelets, made by Lynda (small) and found at auction. Silver necklace by Vikki Kassioras. TABLE DETAIL “The look is all about naturals, browns, 1970s ceramics, wooden utensils and a gorgeous linen tablecloth from Cultiver,” says Lynda. The crockery is a mix of 1970s Arabia ware (dark brown) and light brown and mustard pieces by HK Living (as are the glasses with cane detail and vase), all from Trentham General. The pudding was Lynda’s first attempt at making one. Chairs and trestle table, Lynda’s own. CHRISTMAS SETTING Preparations usually involve everyone at hand. Mark is kept busy with the catering while Lynda and Belle work on the huge statement piece to hang over the table. It was made from the base of a large floral arrangement by Flos Botanical, used for a wedding held at The Barn the week before. They added striking wattle branches to tie in with the table. The Barn’s floor is newly laid concrete and the white paint on the walls and ceiling is Wattyl Freesia, another of Lynda’s favourite interior whites. For Where to Buy, see page 212. #

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

With soft sage and pinks in play, Christmas looks peachy!

Styling by Kayla Gex. Photograph by Maree Homer.

‘Salad Days’ wallpaper in Quartz/Celadon, $300/4.6m roll, Wallpaper Trader. ‘Beck’ rubberwood and metal coat rack, $30, Freedom. Wool Christmas stockings in Sage Green (left) and Grey, $65 each, Shazza’s Knits. Battery-operated string lights in Copper, $10/5m, Few and Far. ‘Bumper’ ottoman with wool upholstery in Olive, $399, Blu Dot. ‘Gabriel’ timber tree ornament, $70, Papaya. ‘Jake’ steel chair with timber seat, $320, Koskela. Wool pompom garland, from $18/m, Orange Wagon. Panelling painted Endure Interior in Green Vapour, $72/4L, Taubmans. >

H G DECORATING

Cheer

PERFECTION

Sprinkle beauty and warmth through your home with heart-warming displays and pretty prep areas, then watch the excitement build.

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AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

Stylistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s assistants: Claire Cronin-Smith, Natalie Farmer, Nonci Nyoni, Anupama Rao & Jamie Walsh.

ST Y L I N G Kayla Gex | P H OTO G R A P H Y Maree Homer

Elitis ‘Farfalle’ linen-cotton fabric in #51 (as curtains), POA, Seneca Textiles. ‘Swole’ steel side table, $499, Blu Dot. ‘Feye’ porcelain table lamp, $995, Coco Republic. ‘Hugo’ leather armchair in Kiwi, $2850, Burgg. Hay ‘Dot’ wool cushion in Coral, $172, Cult. Acrylic throw, $59, West Elm. ‘Celebrate’ faux Christmas tree in Grey-Green, $600, Rogue. ‘Bolster’ sofa with Kvadrat upholstery, $13,662, Living Edge. ‘Ruby Star’ paper balls in Teal, White and Red, $50 each, Pulp Creative Paper. ‘Kuta’ metal floor lamp in Brushed Copper, $829, BoConcept. ‘Nest’ wool and silk rug (240x300cm), $6950, Designer Rugs. ‘Texline Essence’ PVC flooring in Sherwood Clear, from $75m² (installed), Gerflor. ON SOFA ‘Indie’ leather cushion, $125, GlobeWest. Hay ‘2 Dot’ wool cushion in Aqua, $206, Cult. ON/UNDER TREE Baubles throughout from My Christmas, Koch & Co, Myer and Rogue. Gifts throughout wrapped in papers and ribbons from Vandoros Fine Packaging, Finmark, Koch & Co, Fox & Fallow and Barama. OPPOSITE ‘Mixed Pine’ plastic garland in Green, $150, Rogue. ‘Lexington’ metal and glass dining table, $2295, Coco Republic. ‘Gumnut Paradise’ wool rug (200x300cm), $5400, Designer Rugs. Flooring (as before). Panelling painted Endure Interior in Green Vapour, $72/4L, Taubmans. ON TABLE Tom Dixon ‘Mini Jack’ metal ornaments, $115 each, Dedece. Hay ‘Colour’ glass vase in Green, $151, Cult. Flowers by Kiko Design. For similar clear vase, try Koch & Co. Books, stylist’s own. >

H G DECORATING

WAKE UP TO WONDERFUL Set aside classic reds and greens for hues in the same family... a muted, magical result.

Playsam wooden dollhouse, $125, Top3 by Design. MissoniHome ‘Volcano’ cotton ottoman, $1525, Spence & Lyda. ‘Kopardal’ steel single beds in Grey, $119, Ikea. Skagerak ‘Vivlio’ ash storage shelf (at first bed end), $365, and steel frame, $310, Top3 by Design. ‘Seed’ mindi wood tallboy in Drift, $2250, GlobeWest. Knoll stool with upholstered seat, $2105, Dedece. ‘Quadrant’ modular seat with poly-cotton cover, $1650, Koskela. Khadi cotton blanket, $195, Planet. Panelling painted Endure Interior in Mirage Grey, $72/4L, Taubmans. Flooring (as before). ON STORAGE SHELF ‘Classic Percale’ cotton pillowcases in Snow (at ends of both beds), $40/pair, with custom monogram, $20/pair, Sheridan. Milton Ashby wooden toy plane, $65, Koskela. ON BED AT LEFT from top ‘Chambray Vintage Stripe’ linen-cotton European pillowcase in Dove, $50, Aura Home. ‘Penida’ linen pillowcase in Coconut, $99/pair, Sage x Clare. ‘Sestriere’ jacquard cushion, $288, Spence & Lyda. Linen double quilt cover set, $375 (includes two pillowcases, not shown), In The Sac.

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AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

All the trimmings

Gifts shown on these pages are wrapped in a gorgeous selection of papers and ribbons from the Australian House & Garden collection for Myer, Vandoros Fine Packaging, Fox & Fallow, Finmark, Barama and Koch & Co. Christmas baubles throughout were sourced from the Australian House & Garden range for Myer, Rogue, Koch & Co and My Christmas. All ﬂowers were supplied by Kiko Design.

ON TALLBOY Vintage globe, $575, and Flos table lamp, $850, Vampt Vintage Design. ‘Mixed Pine’ garland (as before). Milton Ashby wooden toy horse, $50, Koskela. Vintage pompom kilim, $1400, Koskela. ON BED AT RIGHT from top European pillowcase (as before). ‘Darcy Ticking’ cotton pillowcase in Aqua, $45, Sage x Clare. ‘Duck Duck’ wool-rayon lumbar pillow in Colour Mix 5, $199, Blu Dot. Linen double quilt cover set in Amazon, $375 (includes two pillowcases, not shown), In The Sac. Cotton quilt in Turquoise, $165, Planet. ON STOOL Little Golden Books 75th-anniversary book set, $15, Big W. ON WALL ‘Salad Days’ wallpaper in Quartz/Celadon, $300/4.6m roll, Wallpaper Trader. ‘Dobi’ steel wall lights, $198 each, Mondo Luce. Paper fans, from $12 each, Pulp Creative Paper. >

H G DECORATING

THIS PAGE AND OPPOSITE ‘Piccolo’ oak dining table, $799, Freedom. ‘Globus’ polypropylene chairs, $445 each, Stylecraft. Lucano aluminium stepladder, $199, Top3 by Design. Zellige terracotta tiles (on splashback), $242/m², Bisanna Tiles. Cabinets in ‘Diamond Clad’ western hemlock, $199/m², Cedar Sales, painted Taubmans Morning Rain. Oak knobs, from about $15/pair, Vishemir. ‘Madras’ jute rug (155cm), $149, Freedom. ‘Licht’ ceramic pendant light, $385, Koskela. Flooring (as before). ON TABLE ‘Garden Fresh’ rattan candle ring with faux greenery, $20, Koch & Co. Ceramic bowl in Sand, $89, Spence & Lyda. ‘Elfin’ glass vase in Amber, $15, Spotlight. ‘Canvas’ stoneware dinner plate, $42, Robert Gordon Australia. Ceramic cups in Green, $49 each, Spence & Lyda. ON BENCH Cookie cutters, $7/three, Pulp Creative Paper. Copper-plated prep bowls, $10 each, and 7L bowl, $56, and spatula with copper handle, $22, Williams-Sonoma. ‘Thick Stripe’ hand towel in Green, $12, Planet. ON TOP SHELF ‘Garden Fresh’ wreath (as before). Candles in White, $6/three, Spotlight. >

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FESTIVE MIX

Currency conversion correct at time of printing.

Eucalypt, jade and celadon are fresh and festive greens, while copper is the star ingredient.

H G DECORATING

ALL AGLOW Set against a moody background, carefully selected objects shine.

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‘Polished’ MDF and metal shelves, $129 each, Pottery Barn Kids. ‘Van Gogh’ elm kitchen bench on castors, $1999, Provincial Home Living. Menu ‘Afteroom’ wood and metal stool, $675, Top3 by Design. ‘Industria X’ plywood and metal trolley on wheels, $2000, Koskela. ‘Waratah Wonder’ wool rug (2x3m), $5460, Designer Rugs. Wall painted Endure Interior Matt Finish paint in Beige Mirage, $72/4L, Taubmans. ON BENCH Paper dispenser, POA, Finmark. ON TROLLEY, TOP SHELF ‘Snow Berry’ styrofoam garland, $65, My Christmas. ‘Glitz’ wreath with spray-painted natural leaves in Champagne Gold, $33, Koch & Co. ‘Glitter’ feather wreath in Blush, $80, Down To The Woods. ON SECOND SHELF Metal basket in Copper, $38, Pulp Creative Paper. ‘Honeycomb’ paper ornaments, $12/each, Down To The Woods. Wool tree ornament, $25, Papaya. Hay glass containers in Peach, $33, and Milk, $43, Cult. ON THIRD SHELF Vintage wooden bobbin, $25, Green Kitten Vintage. ‘Muskhane’ felt vase in Grey, $35, and felt bowl in White, $53, Pulp Creative Paper. ‘Giant Merino’ wool yarn, $68/1kg, The Fat Yarn Store. ‘Mini Aykasa’ plastic folding boxes, $5 each, Pulp Creative Paper. OPPOSITE ‘Mixed Pine’ garland and string lights (as before). For similar ladder, try Bunnings. Wall, ladder and shelves all painted Endure Interior Matt Finish in Azure Green, $85/4L, Taubmans. ON TOP SHELF Vintage ikebana vase, $475, Vampt Vintage Design. Tom Dixon metal shoe ornament in Copper, $330, Dedece. Felted-wool ball wreath, $100, Pulp Creative Paper. ON MIDDLE SHELF Candle and candle ring (as before). Vintage bronze vase, $275, Planet. Hay glass container (as before). Vintage ceramic vase, $56, Planet. ON BOTTOM SHELF ‘Elfin’ vase (as before). Ceramic vase, $550, Planet. Vintage low ikebana vase, $475, Vampt Vintage Design. Tom Dixon ‘Bell’ steel table lamp in Copper, $980, Dedece. For Where to Buy, see page 212. #

It’s a wrap!

Transform an unused area into an orderly prep zone for wrapping, crafting and other joyful pursuits.

Plan your dream kitchen renovation Visit the â&#x20AC;&#x153;My Projectâ&#x20AC;? page on our new website to choose your favourite appliances from the Winning Appliances range. You can request a quote based on your selection, which can be shared with your architect or builder. This service is obligation-free and invites you to imagine the possibilities!

Featured brand:

Create your dream appliance package today. winningappliances.com.au/project

DECORATING H G

Ask an expert

SPACE TO CELEBRATE

Christmas entertaining is a breeze with these handy tips from interiors editor Kate Nixon.

FAB FOUR

3 2

Nesting or stacking furniture enables you to accommodate crowds or create extra floor space with ease.

4 1 Cire ceramic oil burner set, $450 (includes four candles and four oils), Jardan; jardan.com.au. 2 House Doctor ‘Carve’ brass tray (38cm), $111, Amara; amara.com/au. 3 Nel Lusso ‘Cariso’ glass 1.5L carafe, $45, Minimax; minimax.com.au. 4 Vida & Co ‘Delores’ metal nesting side tables, $519/set of two, Zanui; zanui.com.au.

Styling by Kate Nixon. Photography by Maree Homer.

Fresh ideas and easy updates

’T

is the season when we open our homes to family and friends for holiday gatherings and celebrations large and small. Cater for crowds with ease by following a few of these tried-and-tested space-creating tips and tricks, and take a little time for thoughtful gestures and cheerful touches to make your guests feel treasured. A welcome drink (think summer punch or spritzer), a generous bowl of juicy cherries, freshly popped salted popcorn or lightly warmed nuts helps everyone to settle and mingle. Over-scaled fresh foliage in assorted glass vessels and a mix of festive lighting (candles, string lights, hurricanes and lanterns) create instant impact and leave a lasting impression. # Send decor questions (with name and address) to H&G Advice, GPO Box 4088, Sydney, NSW 1028 or email H&G@bauer-media.com.au.

✚ A banquet-style dining table includes everyone in the fun. Combine indoor and outdoor settings if needed, united with overlapping tablecloths or runners. Mix and match napery in a complementary palette. ✚ Push furniture to the perimeters of your entertaining space to open up the ﬂoor area for mingling and dancing. ✚ Let your kitchen bench double as a bar or buffet for pre-prepped grazing plates. ✚ Nesting furniture is the ultimate space-saving device, allowing you to create or remove surfaces or seating as required.

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

KITCHEN PERFECTION INTRODUCING THE NEW CLASSIC COOKER SERIES

fisherpaykel.com

H G DECORATING

MERRY MAKING Be crafty this year and put together your own Christmas decorations*. We chose a hero blue paper but any colour will work a treat. ST YLI NG Sophie Wilson & Sara Ă&#x2026;kesson P HOTO GRAP HY Nic Gossage

FALLING STARS Cascading stars create a striking centrepiece over a table. Alternatively, string them up as a festive garland. * See page 214 for instructions on how to make the decorations.

BESPOKE BON BONS Construct crackers from children’s artworks or recycled gift wrap. DIY allows you to personalise the tiny surprises – and jokes – too. Porcelain soup bowl in Ink, $46, salad plate in Dust, $37, and dinner plate in Mist, $53, all Mud Australia. For similar scarf, try David Jones. CRACKERS made from tissue paper in Blue and White (circles), both $2/three sheets, and kraft paper, $5/12m, all Kmart. DMC satin thread in #762 (Silver), $4, Spotlight. Marbig polyester string, $4/80m roll, Officeworks. For similar confetti, try The Party Cupboard. OPPOSITE Stars made in various sizes from Quill cardboard in Marine Blue, $2.55/sheet, Officeworks. Stars hung with Jarvis Walker ‘Tec Tackle’ fishing line, $3, Kmart. ‘Livorno’ fibrestone and resin dining table, $3220, and ‘Lewis’ dining chair with velvet upholstery, $545, both GlobeWest. Porcelain soup bowls and plates (as before). >

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

ADVENT CALENDAR Paper packages full of promise – and goodies – are a fun way to build anticipation for the big day. For similar royal-blue ribbon, try Gift Packaging & Accessories. Australian House & Garden plastic Christmas ornaments, $60/50 assorted, Myer. American Crafts ‘DIY Shop’ paper treat bags, $7/pack of 12, and Shamrock Craft wooden mini pegs, $6/pack, Spotlight. For similar star stickers, try Officeworks. Sullivans 7mm pom poms, $2.50/pack of 48, Lincraft. Berisfords 25mm grosgrain ribbon in Navy, $3.50/m, Spotlight. Sprigs from a cypress tree. OPPOSITE Wreath made from Quill A5 paper in Cold, $10/250 assorted sheets, and A4 paper in Powder Blue, $3.25/25 sheets, both Officeworks. Jolly & Joy metallic pipe cleaners, $3/pack of 30 assorted, Spotlight. Bow & Tie 36mm satin ribbon, $9/5m, Lincraft. Ercol Originals ‘All-Purpose’ beech and elm chair, $845, Temperature Design. Australian House & Garden ‘Wongarra’ cotton-linen throw, $150, Myer. >

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DECORATING H G

MY BEAUTIFUL ROSETTE A hands-on family project that will last long after the tree has been packed away. Use plain or patterned paper in your favourite palette and hang above a mantel, a bed or at the end of a hallway.

ONE-OF-A-KIND WRAP The right trim elevates plain paper into wrap that looks really special. Three-dimensional ornamentation makes for a spectacular display beneath a stylish DIY tree.

DECORATING H G

GREETING CARDS

For Where to Buy, see page 212.

A handmade card comes loaded with sentiment and delivers on every level. Dream big and get started!

For similar twine, try Heaven in Earth. Shamrock Craft wooden mini pegs, $6/pack, Spotlight. CARDS Quill cardboard in Marine Blue, $2.55/sheet, and similar star stickers, Officeworks. Paper card in Recycled Brown, $5/pack of 10 (includes envelopes), Arbee seed beads in Pink, $4/50g, decorative gemstones in Blue Tones, $9/100g, and Sullivans 7mm pom poms, $2.50/pack of 48, all Lincraft. Crafters Choice A4 Luxury Cardstock cardboard, $9/15 sheets, DMC satin thread in #762 (Silver) and #797 (Navy), and Jolly & Joy pipe cleaners, $3/pack of 30 assorted, Spotlight. OPPOSITE Tree made from Quill foilboard in Silver, $4.10/piece, Officeworks. GIFTS Tissue paper in Blue and White, both $2/three sheets, Kmart. Paper raffia in Blue, $6/100m, Gift Packaging & Accessories. DMC satin thread in #762 (Silver), and Bow & Tie 36mm satin ribbon, $9/5m, Lincraft. Quill foilboard in Silver, $4.10/piece, Officeworks. #

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

INSIDER H G

HOME HOUNDS

Text by Lisa Green. Photograph by Nicole England.

A delight for architecture aﬁcionados and dog lovers, the new book from photographer Nicole England puts to rest any doubt as to who’s really top dog in the house.

xecuting his best downward dog pose, Harry, the hirsute owner-occupier of the Melbourne home above, is one cool customer. At 18 months, the titian-haired toy poodle has the run of the property, which he shares with fellow poodle Ginger, now 12, and their humans, Graham and Dana Burrows. Graham, an architect, designed the house five years ago; its easy indoor-outdoor flow and enduring finishes throughout work beautifully for all concerned. By day, Harry’s ‘office’ is the

living-room sofa, while Ginger prefers the nearest lap. With easy access to the garden, everyone’s happy. This is just one of 25 homes shared by architects and dogs that photographer Nicole England has captured in a new book, Resident Dog. Each of her canine models rose to the occasion. “The presence of a dog allows us to see these homes in a completely different way,” Nicole writes in her foreword. Check out more scenes of Harry and Ginger’s wonderful life over the page. > AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

H G INSIDER

THE RESIDENCE OF

H A RRY A ND G ING ER Breed Toy poodles Architect Jackson Clements Burrows Architects Location Elsternwick, Melbourne

ABOVE Harry (left) and Ginger pause on the landing. The staircase features larch timber from Mafi. OPPOSITE When not trotting across the polished concrete flooring throughout, the dogs can be found in the living room, draped across the old sofas beside an HermĂ¨s throw. Aluminium sliders provide easy access to the north-facing garden. A low slot window on the western wall gives the dogs another viewpoint. Artwork by Matthew Johnson. Eames stools, Living Edge. Rug, Loom Rugs. Concrete bricks, Selkirk. PREVIOUS PAGE In the den, custom joinery in larch houses the television. This room also offers views of an ornamental pistachio tree. >

Text and photography by Nicole England.

Ginger and Harry bring fun, joy and an unpredictable chaos to this otherwise calm retreat. Lazing around in the sun, they almost merge into the homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s architecture, while at other times they literally bounce off the walls.

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

H G INSIDER

ABOVE Banned from jumping on the bed, Harry enjoys the comfort of the main bedroom nonetheless. Hinged external shutters, stained white, open to reveal views of the rear garden. Custom joinery in larch contains collections of books, art and a hydronic heating panel. Artwork by David Ballam. Tolomeo bedside lamps, Artemide. MissoniHome bedding. Butterfly chair, Luke Furniture. Wool carpet, Cavalier Bremworth. RIGHT Backing onto the bedroom joinery, this ensuite enjoys the same garden outlook, filtered by external screens. Heated towel rail. Apaiser reconstituted stone vanity with integrated sinks. Astra Walker tapware. OPPOSITE The meals nook off the kitchen is a main thoroughfare for Harry and Ginger, who are ever hopeful of a tasty treat. The polished concrete flooring has an exposed aggregate finish. Walls are clad in profiled timber lining boards, stained white. The custom-designed, cantilevered steel and timber bench seat features more Mafi timber. Round table and stools, Pierre + Charlotte. Flos pendant lights. >

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Text and photography by Nicole England.

There are plenty of interesting nooks and crannies for precocious, indefatigable Harry to explore in this inner-city sanctuary.

The dogs have full run of the house. A dog door concealed under the bench in the meals area provides unfettered access to the large private garden, where their favourite activities include chasing birds, tennis balls and frisbees.

H G INSIDER

Twelve-year-old Ginger (or Mr Handsome, as heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s affectionately known) is the smart, composed statesman of the house. Harry, on the other hand, is a playful, cheeky toddler who always wants to be the centre of attention. Offering a beautiful retreat close to the city, this sizeable backyard is well used by the Burrows. A custom-made outdoor setting rests on a dining platform. The adjacent fire pit was purchased from a hardware store, and thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a barbecue and vegie patch close at hand. On the terrace, the white chairs and Kartell gnome side table are from Space. Ginger loves the shade from the overhanging willow myrtle, while Harry, still full of bounce, is always up for a game. For Where to Buy, see page 212. #

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AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

This is an edited extract from Resident Dog by Nicole England ($75, Thames & Hudson). Melbourne-based Nicole works with leading architects and designers as a photographer specialising in architecture and interiors. Her work is published in magazines around the globe, including H&G.

M A X W E L L & W I L L I A M S A RT I S T S E R I E S

D R AW N T O D E TA I L W I T H N AT H A N F E R L A Z Z O

ur Marini Ferlazzo collection by Nathan Ferlazzo is one of our most popular, and it’s easy to see why.

Drawn with a traditional nib and ink, Nathan’s unmistakable style can be seen in the exquisite detail of every design. Each piece in the collection is a study of a celebrated

animal embellished with intricate flowers and foliage. The designs feature on a range of fine bone china tableware and 100% Indian cotton tea towels. A share of the profits from all pieces in the Marini Ferlazzo collection goes to the protection of wildlife around the world.

ABOUT THE ARTIST Nathan Ferlazzo is based in Melbourne, Victoria, where he runs his family art business Marini Ferlazzo. His nib and ink illustrations serve to highlight not just the beauty of the natural world, but to raise awareness of endangered species. In particular, the Asiatic Black Bear from the Marini Ferlazzo collection for Maxwell & Williams is a standout piece with a remarkable story.

Inspired by the real life story of Ursula, a bear rescued from captivity by World Animal Protection, her pose holds a poignant meaning for Nathan. “There’s a real sense of earnestness and optimism in the way she looks upwards with just a hint of a smile. Her story inspired me to portray her as an embodiment of hope for animals all over the world.” View the Marini Ferlazzo collection: maxwellandwilliams.com.au

A. Marini Ferlazzo mug, Gift boxed, $14.95 RRP

B. Marini Ferlazzo plate 20cm, Gift boxed,$14.95 RRP

THE DECK

There’s no deck that creates an outdoor room quite like HardieDeck™ decking. Providing a clean look with smooth, wide gap-free boards, it also gives you freedom of colour choice. Made from premium fibre cement, it’s perfect for bushfire zones, backyard barbies and fire pits. It won’t rot, warp or splinter, so sit back and relax. If you want to make sure your deck makes an impression this summer, rethink traditional decking options and ask for HardieDeck™ decking by name. ©2018 Copyright James Hardie Australia Pty Ltd ABN 12 084 635 558 ™ and ® denotes trademarks and registered marks owned by James Hardie Technology Ltd. Additional installation information, warranties & warnings are available at hardiedeck.com.au

DISCOVER MORE AT HARDIEDECK. COM. AU

DECORATING H G 13 1

Trend

SPLASH OF SANGRIA

Rich and juicy yet lighter than wine, this ﬁne red offers a sophisticated take on the traditional yuletide palette.

10 5 9

Produced by Sarah Maloney & Natalie Farmer.

1 Kaiser iDell steel pendant light, $547, Cult; cultdesign.com.au. 2 Interior Expressions paint in Nostalgia Rose, $39/L, Haymes Paint; haymespaint.com.au. 3 Antique Chinese Art Deco wool rug (271x358cm), $10,500, Loom Rugs; loomrugs.com. 4 ‘Zulta’ silk velvet cushion, $220, Fenton & Fenton; fentonandfenton.com.au. 5 ‘Halo’ wingback chair with velvet upholstery, $999, Co.Co; cocoxo.com.au. 6 ‘Temple’ resin side plate, $65, Dinosaur Designs; dinosaurdesigns.com.au. 7 ‘Oiva’ stoneware teapot, $125, Marimekko; marimekko.com.au 8 Lightly ‘Palm Springs’ aluminium planter, $99, Top3 by Design; top3.com.au. 9 ‘Gia’ three-seater sofa with polyester upholstery, $1099, Lounge Lovers; loungelovers.com.au. 10 ‘Siska’ ceramic vessel, $12, Freedom; freedom.com.au. 11 Red Knit wool Christmas stocking, $12, TK Maxx; tkmaxx.com.au. 12 ‘Resort 2019’ silk wrap dress, $550, Zimmermann; zimmermanwear.com.au. 13 Tara Zadeh crushed-velvet clutch, $420, Net-a Porter; net-a-porter.com/au. #

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

H G DECORATING 3 5 4 1

2 6

Trend

STAR GLAZING

Glass is a clear winner in the design stakes, offering endless possibilities in colour, function and form.

e Design (main image).

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1 ‘Looking Glass’ mirror (50cm), $120, Salt&Pepper. 2 Diesel Living with Seletti ‘Machine glass tumbler, $8 glass tumbler, $3, Ikea. 4 Green glass vase (20cm), $25, HK Living. 5 ‘Modernist Oval’ blown-glass pendant lig Round’ pendant light in Amber, $440, both Mark Douglass Design. 6 ‘Fizi’ brass and glass wall sconce, POA marble table lamp, $985, James Said. 8 Aalto glass vase (16cm), $249, Iittala. 9 ‘Rod’ glass and metal sid 10 ‘Alfredo’ blown-glass vase, $225, Georg Jensen. 11 Ligne Roset ‘Coloria’ glass end table, $1175, Domo. 12 Waterford. 13 Diesel Living with Seletti ‘Meteorite’ double-wall glass tumbler (12.5cm), $360/set of six, Design Casa. 14 Saguaro Cactus glass carafe, $60, Hunting For George. 15 ‘Modern Shapes’ cotton dhurrie rug (1.8x2.4m), $1253, Fenton & Fenton. For Where to Buy, see page 212. #

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Prod Pho

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

CLASSIC BEAUTY Combining traditional styling and high performance, the new Classic Freestanding Cooker from Fisher & Paykel makes a beautiful and timeless statement.

The Classic Cooker adds a warm touch of tradition to any kitchen. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the perfect blend of heritage styling and premium performance.

BRAND PROMOTION

or many home cooks, a freestanding cooker is the ultimate kitchen appliance. And it’s easy to see why: a freestanding cooker is an all-in-one powerhouse capable of catering for crowds while also adding a sophisticated statement piece to the kitchen. For those who are drawn to traditional styling, Fisher & Paykel has added a new range of Classic Freestanding Cookers to its already comprehensive kitchen-appliance collection. “Our design team recognised that, among customers looking for a freestanding cooker, there were those who prefer a more traditional aesthetic, something a little more expressive in terms of design,” says Fisher and Paykel’s chief designer and product developer, Adam Moody. The beauty of the Classic Freestanding Cooker is that, while it radiates timeless good looks, it also delivers the very best of modern technology. You can expect optimum performance at every stage of the cooking process, from fast heat-up times to accurate oven temperatures. It’s also designed with two fans to ensure air ﬂows evenly throughout the oven cavity, top to bottom and left to right. “This is what gives reliable cooking results – no hot spots, and no uneven cooking,” says Adam. With an impressive 140-litre oven cavity, the Classic Freestanding Cooker offers a

“The Classic Cooker can be a beautiful hero showpiece or it can sit more quietly in the kitchen space.” larger internal capacity than most other 90cm models in the market. Safety is built-in, with a ﬂame-failure system on gas cooktops, and CoolTouch oven doors. Pyrolytic self-cleaning is available on selected models too. Available in white, black and stainless steel (or made-toorder red), there’s a Classic Freestanding Cooker to suit every kitchen and the detailing is designed to complement the wider Fisher & Paykel family of kitchen appliances. If you entertain regularly, you’ll appreciate that guests love to congregate in the kitchen. With the meal prepared, you can sit back and enjoy the compliments the Classic Freestanding Cooker is sure to attract, not only for the cook’s delicious creations but also its own elegance.

Explore the range at fisherpaykel.com

Maximise your outdoor space

Mimosa ‘Lava’ Bar Chair with Cushion 0022847

Mimosa ‘Lava’ 6 Seater Bar Table 0022849 $399, Matador 3 Burner Hooded Boss BBQ 3180788 $699, Bayliss 160 x 230cm ‘Brighton’ Indoor/Outdoor Rug 6670679 $199 Some products are not available in some stores, but may be ordered. Accessories are not available at Bunnings.

You can make the most of your smaller outdoor entertaining area for a warehouse price. Entertain in style with a bar table and a compact Matador 3 Burner Barbecue. Check out the outdoor living range in-store or at bunnings.com.au

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MICHAEL BERNACKI Architect, Honed Architecture+Design Michael lives and works in Launceston, in a Palm Springs-style house he designed. He shares the home with partner Jenna Demicz and their spoodle, Tilly. MY FAVOURITE THINGS Artwork By an unknown artist. I bought it at a country market. The Tasmanian oak frame finishes it off perfectly. Stool A Herman Miller licensed reproduction of Ray and Charles Eames’ walnut stool, from Living Edge. Chair A 1956 Eames lounge chair from a deceased-estate auction in Los Angeles.

My favourite piece of furniture. Coffee table By Kartell, purchased in Italy. I love collecting beautiful pieces when I travel. Planter From Country Road. Cushions Made by a local company, Richard Ellis Furniture Design & Upholstery. Vase Country Road. White vessels Aerated concrete and leather, from local homewares store Ecoco. Books They’re on Palm Springs style and Modernism. LOCAL HAUNTS Cuccina or Cafe Mondello for breakfast. For lunch, Stillwater or Alberto’s Espresso, and for dinner, Geronimo Aperitivo Bar & Restaurant or Black Cow Bistro. Ecoco, The Vintage Rose and Hope & Me are my picks for homewares.

Text by Elizabeth Wilson. Styling by Lydia Maskiell. Photograph by Anjie Blair.

WHAT ‘HOME’ MEANS TO ME It’s a place to be myself, to relax and enjoy time with loved ones, and where I can explore new architectural and interior ideas. > honedarchitecture.com

H G INSIDER MEET THE MAKER H A mum to three boys (aged eight, seven and five), Hannah works from a backyard home studio and manages to schedule three to five painting sessions a week. “The juggle of painting and raising the family is very real!” she says. “Unfortunately, creativity doesn’t always slot into business hours.” Fortunately, Hannah has found time to design and create a spiral-bound calendar for 2019, featuring 12 prints of paintings she has produced over the past two years. Each image is ative printed in full colour on quality matte stock y with (100 per-cent recycled, FSC-certified paper), have and at 23cmx23cm they are thoughtfully sized her colour to fit into Ikea’s ‘Ribba’ and ‘Hovsta’ frames. ural The ‘Seasonal Shift’ calendar, $39, is terracotta available from Hannah’s website and selected ys retailers. hannahfox.com.au ct ape”, as to others have all

e e ions and more ut the way it ‘felt’. That resonates with me,” she says.

Hannah Fox with some of her soughtafter artworks in her studio.

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AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

Australian story CORBAN & BLAIR H&G salutes this trailblazing stationery and homewares brand as it celebrates a milestone birthday.

eloved for its beautiful stationery, Corban & Blair has clocked up 30 years in business. Founded by creative cousins Gillian Corban (above left) and Amanda Blair (right), the brand launched long before ‘journalling’ became a verb. “We realised there was a gap in the market for environmentally friendly designer stationery that was also authentically Australian,” says Gillian, a former art teacher. Once she and Amanda, then a fashion designer, joined forces, there was no turning back. Since their 1988 launch they’ve produced designs ranging from their iconic journals to leathergoods, art and homewares, with a commitment to devising useful, innovative and eco-aware solutions. “Our values have changed very little in 30 years,” says Gillian. Recent ventures include working with indigenous artists and artists living with intellectual disabilities. “Our collaborations are part of our strategy to tell authentic Australian stories,” she says. Gillian and Amanda now employ 12 people and retail all around the globe. In 2013, the two were inducted into the Businesswomen’s Hall of Fame. The key to their survival? “Being curious, open, adaptive, constantly learning and having a talented team who are willing to change and experiment,” says Gillian. > corbanblair.com.au

Damian Showyin/Studio A Collaboration polyurethane pouch, $46, Corban & Blair.

Text by Elizabeth Wilson. Photograph by Martina Gemmola (Fox) & Matthew Duchesne/Fancy Boy (Corban & Blair).

ost people can nominate their favourite type of landscape. For some, it’s an ocean view or a beach expanse. For others, a vista of rolling hills, perhaps. But Melbourne artist Hannah Fox, mmering silvery grey of ush. of the bush lls through ah.

SUMMER

DINING style

DIXON dining table | DIXON console | KYLO dining chair | ARLO chair.

OZ DESIGN FURNITURE COLLECTIONS AVAILABLE IN STORE & ONLINE ANYWHERE ANYTIME AUSTRALIA WIDE SHIPPING

FIND YOUR NEAREST LOCATION OR SHOP ONLINE AT

ozdesignfurniture.com.au

H G INSIDER

RETAIL NEWS H ATC H E S , M ATC HES H ES … Smeg’s freestanding ‘Victoria’ cooker is a dream appliance for many cooks, admired for its 126L capacity, vintage styling and modern technology (soft-close door, Thermoseal oven and vapour-clean function). It’s now available in White (pictured) as well as dramatic Black and creamy Panna, from $6290. smeg.com.au

Adelaide Hills jeweller Simone Walsh started making coins for Christmas puddings 10 years ago. “My mum asked me to come up with something special to replicate the threepences and sixpences that her mother used to stir into the pudding,” she says.Simone’s sterling-silver coins are priced at $139 for a set of six,each featuring a diﬀerent vintage design. Order until December 21. simonewalsh.com

Australian artists put their works under the hammer to support a great cause.

elbourne interiors retailer Fenton & Fenton sells great things, and also does great things through its biannual Peace of Art online art auction, which raises money to fund the School’s a Gift program in Ethiopia. This worthy venture, founded by F&F’s Georgina Fenton, has seen the rebuilding of several Ethiopian primary schools in underprivileged areas and helped more than 5000 children receive an education. This year, 61 Australian artists are involved, donating works – paintings, sculptures, photographs and wallhangings – that will be auctioned to the public online. One of these

artists is Jasmine Mansbridge, whose vibrant 2x2m acrylic painting on linen, What the Eye Cannot See, is shown above. “Giving art is a wonderful thing and something artists actually don’t get to do much,” says Jasmine from her studio in western Victoria. “Art can be a fickle thing, sometimes with a limited audience, but this is an opportunity to do something really positive. I’m so honoured to be part of this.” The Peace of Art auction will be online for public bids from November 14 to 22 at galabid.com/ peaceofart. The artworks will be on display in the Prahran store; fentonandfenton.com.au.

The recent Orgatec trade fair in Germany was the launchpad for a new Australian concept. Adam Goodrum’s ‘Chameleon’ commercial table system for Nau blends advanced engineering principles and refined aesthetics in a choice of finishes and configurations. Available to order from early 2019. cult.com.au

For the latest Rigg Design Prize, awarded for outstanding contemporary Australian design every three years, 10 leading practitioners were invited to create roomscapes exploring the theme of ‘domestic living’ at the National Gallery of Victoria. Melbourne studio Hecker Guthrie took out the accolade. Shown above is the shortlisted Wunderkammer concept by Sydney architect and designer Scott Weston. On display until February 24, 2019. ngv.vic.gov.au >

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AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

Styling by Heather Nette-King for Fenton & Fenton (art). Photograph by Armelle Habib (art).

The plush new collection from Nina Campbell, doyenne of the eponymous textile and wallpaper brand, is inspired by 17th- and 18th-century designs from East India. Her Les Indiennes range includes printed and embroidered fabrics plus wallpapers in exotic colour combos: black and emerald, red and teal, aqua with taupe. Available at Seneca Textiles. senecatextiles.com

ART BEAT

Featured: Romano - Montana Butterscotch Leather

Live Life Stylishly With plenty of styles, fabrics and leather options to choose from, not only will you live life comfortably with the Romano 3+2 seater by La-Z-Boy, but stylishly as well. Visit your local La-Z-Boy Furniture Gallery today for more options.

la-z-boy.com.au

H G INSIDER Traditionally a flooring product, terrazzo is now moving onto tables, walls nd furnishings. The latest collection of terrazzo oducts by Guangzhou-based sign studio Bentu includes ccasional tables, planters nd these fab ‘Piece’ pendant lights, from $750 each. remodern.com.au

10 minutes with

H Just landed at Robert Plumb is an outstanding selection of outdoor furniture from innovative European maker Swisspearl. Constructed from a blend of cement, powdered limestone, cellulose and synthetic fibres, these pieces are surprisingly light to move about and can withstand the elements. Pictured above is a trio of ‘Dune’ modular sofa pieces, $1575 each. robertplumb.com.au

Harbour 1976, known for its striking Australian-designed outdoor furniture, now oﬀers an interior line – think beachy linen sofas and sleek brass chairs – for total coordination inside and out. harbouroutdoor.com.au An impressive 200-plus pieces make up Coco Republic’s latest outdoor collection (below), including seating and tables in luxe combinations of timber, concrete, aluminium, ceramics and stone. Complete the outside scenario with handsome planters, plush cushions and durable rugs. cocorepublic.com.au

orticulturist, garden designe writer and passionate plant lover Georgina Reid launched The Planthunter in 2013. Since then, the website has attracted many followers around the globe. Now Georgina and her long-time collaborator, photographer Daniel Shipp, have published their first book, The Planthunter. What’s your mission with The Planterhunter online? To seduce people into falling in love with the natural world. We approach the subjects of plants and gardens in an unexpected way, not geared towards the horticultural and practical. The stories celebrate the wonder and beauty of relationships between people and plants. The Planthunter tackles big themes: life, death, fear, love. Is there a connection between gardening and life’s major issues? Absolutely! Gardening is an incredibly powerful vehicle for connecting people to place, to themselves, to the universe. All the big questions are asked, and occasionally answered, in the garden. How long have you been planning this book? It’s the culmination of the five years I’ve spent pondering questions of plants, people and connection on The Planthunter. Also, it’s the natural progression of a creative partnership with Daniel Shipp. This book is a reflection

nt to truthful storytelling. What do you hope to achieve with it? We wanted to explode common perceptions of what a garden is and can be, and draw in people who don’t think of themselves as readers of garden books. The book features profiles of 24 gardeners. What do they have in common? They’re all constant gardeners, committed to the cultivation of the earth and, through this, the human spirit. What type of gardens feature in the book? A wide range, from a wild indoor wonderland in Melbourne to a renegade street garden in Los Angeles, a farm in New Zealand to a tiny courtyard in inner-city Sydney. What will readers love about your book? I hope they’ll feel the truth of each story, and be inspired and excited about the ways in which they can garden the earth and, in turn, themselves. # theplanthunter.com.au

The Planthunter ($59.99; Thames & Hudson).

‘A garden is not only a fenced-off suburban backyard. It’s anything that involves a conversation between nature and culture.’ Georgina Reid

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Text by Elizabeth Wilson (interview). Photograph by Daniel Shipp.

GEORGINA REID, TH

TOP

20th anniversar y

Best Indoor-Outdoor Connection Splinter Society Architecture “Congratulations to Splinter Society Architecture on achieving a seamless indoor-outdoor connection with their creative execution of textures, shapes and earthy colour infusion. This is a masterpiece, a true work of art.” Tony Cassar, Victory Curtains and Blinds (Indoor-Outdoor Connection category sponsor)

WINNERS’ CIRCLE

H&G’s 20th annual design showcase, in the year of our 70th birthday, was an auspicious opportunity to canvass the talent thriving in Australian design today. Here are the rooms and schemes that charmed the judges. Congratulations to all!

2018 Room of the Year Louise Walsh Interior Design “Exhibiting architectural integrity, innovation, a beautiful palette and lovely use of materials, Louise’s room ticks all the boxes and inspires a ‘Wow!’ response.” Above

Lisa Green, H&G editor in chief BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Best Kitchen Brett Mickan Interiors “What drew me to this kitchen was the fact that it seemed to ﬁt inconspicuously into its space, while having a subtle elegance and functionality.” Kylie Peterson, Blum Australia (Kitchens category sponsor)

Photography by Maree Homer (Louise Walsh), Evolved Images (Enoki), Jack Lovel (Splinter Society), Thomas Dalhoff (Brett Mickan), Tatjana Plitt (Coy Yiontis), Chris Warnes (Studio Prineas), Prue Ruscoe (Madeleine Blanchﬁeld), Felix Forest (Nina Maya) & Dion Robeson (Dalecki).

ROOMS

Best Use of Colour

Best Bathroom

Enoki “I love the way the designers allowed building materials to provide the colour, then softened and blended the tones with whitewashed joinery and brought the garden inside with a splash of emerald.” Melanie Stevenson, Porter’s Paints (Colour category sponsor)

Coy Yiontis Architects Left, top “A superb space enveloped in luxurious style while demonstrating utter simplicity. It’s a delight to see materials and ﬁnishes used in such a skilful way.” Nora Moriarty, Parisi (Bathrooms category sponsor)

Best Use of Lighting Studio Prineas Second from top “The holistic way in which light has been considered in this kitchen, from natural to artiﬁcial, delivers a sublime space that feels exciting and visually stimulating, despite its minimalist appearance.” Dana Tomic Hughes (Top 50 Rooms judge)

Best Use of Materials Madeleine Blanchﬁeld Architects Third from top “A masterful blend of old and new is the key attribute of this rigorously detailed, texturally rich bathroom. The result looks both effortless and special.” Dana Tomic Hughes

Best Use of Soft Furnishings Best Outdoor Room Dalecki Design “A stunning contemporary design combining beauty and durable materials. Outdoor rooms have replaced backyards. They suit small-lot homes and terrace houses. It’s important for outdoor rooms to embrace design, especially when they’re the outlook from indoor rooms.” Christian Hansen, James Hardie Australia (Outdoor Rooms category sponsor)

Nina Maya Interiors Bottom “I love the reﬁned elegance of this room. The layering of sumptuous textures creates a warm, luxurious and inviting atmosphere. The use of velvet for the wallcovering is a beautiful touch!” Janey Ridge, Warwick Fabrics (Soft Furnishings category sponsor) YOU COULD BE A WINNER! Vote for your favourite room in our Top 50 showcase and you’ll be in the running to win a voucher valued at $3000 from Warwick Fabrics PLUS a $600 gift card redeemable at participating Mantra hotels and resorts in Australia. Exercise your vote and have your say at homestolove.com.au/ Top50vote. Voting opened on October 8, 2018, and closes at 11.59pm (AEDST) on November 11, 2018. Open to Australian residents only. Entrants under the age of 18 years must have prior parental or legal guardian consent to enter. One vote permitted per person. Full terms and conditions available at homestolove.com. au/Top50vote. See Contents page for location of our Privacy Notice. Promoter is Bauer Media Pty Limited (ABN 18 053 273 546).

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

H G INSIDER

ON HOME By Liz Ellis

This former netball champion is happy to live with a little chaos because it’s a messy reminder of her two little miracles.

am sitting in my living room, surrounded by mess. Glorious, Evelyn was born, the dream house became a reality and magnificent mess. Balls, dolls, tea sets, tractors, Thomas – we assumed – we were well on the way to filling it with the Tank Engine and all sixty squillion of his train friends rambunctious urchins. Then the reality of secondary litter the floor. It’s the type of mess that only a two-year-old infertility set in. We went through years of trying to make can make, and only when he is enabled in the pursuit of said little occupants for big bedrooms, of trying to give Evelyn mess by his six-year-old sister. It stretches from the living a sibling, of trying to make our family complete. Yet we had area down the hallway and into the bedrooms of both kids. little to show for it other than three miscarriages, a box full And you know what? I love that mess. of ultrasound pictures (of babies that would never be born), Actually, it’s not so much the mess itself that I love, but receipts for IVF treatment and lists of supplements rather the fact that it exists at all. It’s the sort of mess – guaranteed to help us get our baby. created by two scheming siblings, currently oscillating I had started to feel foolish about building a house with between laughing and squabbling in their bedrooms – that so many bedrooms. People would innocently ask when we I never thought I would have in my were going to fill it. I would not so home. For me, that mess is not just innocently want to scream back at ‘We went through something that will have to be tidied them that we were trying and they years of trying to make up later (likely by me, singing “This is should mind their own bloody little occupants for big how we put the toys away at the end of business. I felt guilty about our bedrooms... to make our the daaaaaay…” in an attempt to get a decision to live on a farm so far out little bit of help from the creators of it), of town with an only child. Would family complete.’ but rather, it is a reminder that life is Evelyn remember a childhood of good and I am happy. loneliness? Of no one to play with? Of kicking aimlessly Six years ago, my husband Matthew and I made the around acres of grass and trees with just a dog, some chooks decision to leave the city for the country and build our and cows and her dorky (old) parents for company? dream home there. We had decided to start a family and Yet after nearly five years of fertility treatment, we were thought that living on a farm would be perfect for our kids. physically, emotionally and financially spent. My sister had We had every reason to be confident this would happen. generously offered to donate her eggs for us, and we At the time, I was pregnant with our first baby, who was had decided that if it wasn’t successful, we were done trying conceived within a stupidly short time frame, given the fact for another child. Then fate intervened. While we were that I was 37 and Matthew was 42. sorting out the logistics of a donor cycle, I fell pregnant the

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FROM H&G

with love

old-fashioned way. After all the years of trying and heartbreak, I couldn’t believe it was happening. That I was pregnant again. That this baby was sticking around. That a new life would be coming into our new home. Nine months later, Austin arrived. In the two years since then, he has added the finishing touches to our home. They’re the sort of touches only a two-year-old can get away with, like pen marks on furniture, Tonka truck scars on walls and smears of peanut butter everywhere in-between. A small part of me wants to be cross at this desecration of my dream home, but that’s always overruled by the much larger part, the part that wants my home to be one where kids feel safe and comfortable, one that’s filled with laughter and memories. It’s the part that reminds me every day that I am now a mum of two beautiful, energetic and sometimes mischievous kids, and with that comes chaos, mess and dirt. And it’s more than balanced by the fact that they also bring lots of love and kisses and cuddles. My journey through infertility taught me about patience and strength and gratitude. I also learned how to not sweat the small stuff. So when I have a choice between tidying up and joining in the fun with the kids I never thought I would have, the kids win every time. # The mess can wait. Liz Ellis is a former captain of Australia’s national netball team, with an 18-year career at the top. This year, she was named an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO). Liz is also an experienced broadcaster and media personality. Her book, If At First You Don’t Conceive ($34.99, Macmillan), is a fully researched guide for Australian couples facing infertility issues.

What I’m reading… We asked Liz to name the books on her bedside table: Force of Nature by Jane Harper – “It is a terrific follow-up to her debut novel, The Dry.” The Nowhere Child by Christian White – “An absolute page-turner. I loved it.” Yummy, Easy, Quick by Matt Preston – “Every recipe in his latest offering is a winner.”

From the pages of Australian House & Garden, 70 years of architecture, interiors, gardens and people.

ON SALE DECEMBER 1 AVAILABLE FOR $59.99 AT MAGSHOP.COM.AU AND WHERE ALL GOOD BOOKS ARE SOLD

H G INSIDER

Design mome

AKARI

Traditional Japanes inspired the Akari lig has in turn become a design classic, writes Chris Pearson.

merican sculptor Isamu Noguchi (pictured) was visiting the Japanese town of Gifu, about 300km west of Tokyo, in 1951 when he quite literally had a light-bulb moment. The local mayor had asked him to revitalise the town’s ailing lantern industry by creating a lamp for export. Noguchi was watching night fishing on the Nagara River, illuminated by traditional fire-lit lanterns, when he conceived of fusing those lanterns – made from bamboo and washi paper – with electricity. Since the 1940s he had been toying with illuminated sculptures, and in these new abstract shapes he combined the Zen-like simplicity of the Japanese aesthetic with crisp Modernist design. Aptly, he called his invention Akari, meaning ‘light’, a nod to the lamps’ weightlessness as well as their capacity to provide illumination. Comparing them to cherry blossoms and falling leaves, Noguchi wrote, Akaris are “poetic, ephemeral, and tentative... The harshness of electricity is transformed through the magic of paper back to the light of our origin – the sun – so that its warmth may continue to fill our rooms at night.” The lanterns also embodied his Japanese American heritage. Born in Los Angeles in 1904, Noguchi was the son of an American mother and a Japanese poet. Straddling two cultures, he spent his childhood in Japan before returning to the US for his education. After working with sculptor Constantin Brâncusi in Paris, he became an artist in New York, where he began melding elements of Japanese art with Western modernism. Honouring his undertaking to the mayor of Gifu, Noguchi wanted his light sculptures to

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and styles, the Akari can be ﬂatpacked, shipped with ease and concertinaed into a beauteous open form. Above are some of Noguchi’s classic pendant lights; below are two more recent lamp designs, the 3AD (left) and 7A

WHAT IT MEANS TO US Noguchi produced more than 100 table, ceiling and floor iterations of the Akari. And the design is ever fluid – as well as 39 models currently in the range, three new models debuted at the recent Paris Maison & Objet trade fair, says Barbara Friedli, head of corporate and brand communications for Vitra (the Swiss company that obtained rights to produce Noguchi furniture for Europe and Australia from 2002). “A modern continuation of the Japanese handcraft tradition, the lights seem to float.” “I love the romance of Akaris,” says Sydney interior designer Sarah Davison. “The way they emulate moonlight – uniquely warm and soft – is beautiful.” And they suit any interior. “I’ve used them in Victorian terraces, 1970s apartments and contemporary buildings.” Akaris offer a combination of “repose and dynamism we seldom see in lighting”, adds Jo Mawhinney, director of product brand and experience at Living Edge, the local distributor for Vitra. “Its many forms celebrate flexibility and fun – flexibility in the sense that it works in a host of interior styles, and fun in that it makes you smile.” #

Photography from Alamy (Isamu Noguchi) & Vitra.

be produced by the town’s traditional methods. Akaris have been made by the Ozeki Company (paradoxically, Ozeki means ‘sumo wrestler’) ever since. Each Akari is crafted from washi paper derived from the bark of the mulberry tree, which is cut into strips and glued onto a bamboo frame stretched across a wooden mould. Once the glue has dried and the shape set, the mould is disassembled and removed. The result is a resilient paper form, which can be collapsed, ﬂatpacked for shipping and reshaped using Noguchi’s metal-wire stretcher and support system. “Noguchi’s electriﬁed paper, bamboo and metal light sculptures have quietly become among the most ubiquitous sculptures on Earth,” says Dakin Hart, senior curator of the Noguchi Museum in New York.

SUMMER 2018/19

SUM M ER

ALFRESCO

SUMMER 2018/19

B R I N G A T O U C H O F M O D E R N W I C K E R T O YO U R POOLSIDE LOUNGE ZONE WITH THE STRIKING C U RV E S O F T H E P I P O N C H AT S E T T I N G .

P R E V I O U S PAG E E s c a l a 2 - p i e ce o u t d o o r l o u n g e ( W 2 8 2 x H 7 7x D 8 1 c m , o t to m a n W 1 3 3x H 3 0 x D74 c m) $ 1 2 9 9 ; N ov a o u t d o o r u m b r e l l a i n g rey $ 1 7 9 ( b a s e a l s o av a i l a b l e $ 69) ; o u t d o o r c u s h i o n s i n b l a c k a n d w h i te s t r i p e $ 39 e a c h . L E F T PAG E P i p o n 3 - p i e ce t u b c h a i r p a c k a g e i n w i c ke r $9 9 9 ; A l f re s co i n d o o r/o u t d o o r r u g i n n i g h t s i l ve r $ 2 9 9 ( 1 6 0 x 2 3 0 c m) ; b r a i d e d o t to m a n o p a l $ 2 9 9 ; o u t d o o r c u s h i o n m o s s w i t h j u te b o rd e r $ 39 ; t ro p i c a l l e a f v a s e m e d i u m $ 1 9 . R I G H T PAG E C L O C K W I S E B owd e n 3 - p i e ce c h a t s e t t i n g $ 7 9 9 ; S h e r i d a n S o u t h B ay b e a c h towe l i n s a n g r i a re d w i t h t a u p e reve r s e $ 7 9 ; o u t d o o r c u s h i o n i n te r r a c o t t a w i t h j u te b o rd e r $ 39 ; o u t d o o r c u s h i o n s i n b l a c k a n d w h i te , c i t ro n a n d w h i te , o r o p a l a n d w h i te s t r i p e $ 39 e a c h ; A m a r a s u n l o u n g e i n w h i te o r c h a rco a l $ 49 9 ; H a r k aw ay hy a c i n t h ov a l b a s ke t s e t of 2 (o n e s h ow n) $ 1 7 9 . Additional items stylistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own.

CHANNEL POOLSIDE CHIC WITH BOLD CUSHIONS

MORNING DIP Wake up with a refreshing pre-breakfast dip that will get you energised and ready for the day ahead.

V I S I T D O M A Y N E . C O M . A U T O B R O W S E O U R F U L L R A N G E O F F U R N I T U R E , B E D D I N G A N D H O M E WA R E S .

SUMMER 2018/19 JUST CHILL Capture summer’s morning rays with a good book, a hat and a quiet space to retreat. An outdoor lounge will provide plenty of room for you to stretch out and relax. Don’t forget the sunscreen.

V I S I T D O M A Y N E . C O M . A U T O B R O W S E O U R F U L L R A N G E O F F U R N I T U R E , B E D D I N G A N D H O M E WA R E S .

W I T H T H E VA L E R A O U T D O O R L O U N G E , T H E W H O L E F A M I LY C A N R E L A X I N S T Y L E – WITHOUT EVEN SHARING A CUSHION. P L U S , T H E S T Y L I S H P OW D E R - C OAT F I N I S H W I L L W I T H S TA N D E V E N T H E H A R S H E S T S U M M E R S A N D L O O K G R E AT F O R Y E A R S TO C O M E .

Va l e r a 4 - p i e ce o u td o o r m o d u l a r l o u n g e p a c k a g e $ 39 9 9 ( W 2 6 5x H 9 2 x D2 6 5 c m) ; M e r i t t v a s e $ 39 . Additional items stylist’s own.

SUMMER 2018/19

A PLACE IN THE SHADE

L E F T PAG E C L O C K W I S E F e rg u s o u td o o r c u s h i o n i n b l u e ( 5 0 x 5 0 c m) $ 39 ; D u n c a n o u td o o r c u s h i o n ( 5 0 x 5 0 c m) $ 39 ; H i g h l a n d s o u td o o r c u s h i o n i n b l u e ( 5 0 x 5 0 c m) $ 39 ; Fr a s e r o u td o o r c u s h i o n ( 3 0 x 5 0 c m) $ 3 4 ; D u n c a n o u td o o r c u s h i o n ( 3 0 x 5 0 c m) $ 3 4 ; o u td o o r c u s h i o n i n b l u e a n d w h i te s t r i p e $ 39 ; Fa ro c h a i r i n b i s c u i t , b l a c k o r g rey $ 249 ; o u td o o r r u g wove n i n n a t u r a l $ 1 9 9 ; S h e r i d a n Wa te g o s b e a c h towe l i n ti d e $ 8 4 ; A rc h e r 9 - p i e ce o u td o o r d i n i n g s e t t i n g w i t h e x te n s i o n t a b l e $ 24 9 9 ( W 24 0 -3 6 0 x H 74x D1 0 0 c m) ; o u td o o r c h a i r p a d f a u x s t r aw i n n a t u r a l $ 39 e a c h ; M o s cow b o t tl e s to p v a s e i n g re e n l a rg e $ 7 9 . R I G H T PAG E A m a r a o u td o o r ex te n s i o n d i n i n g t a b l e i n w h i te ( W 2 2 0 -3 4 0 x H 76x D1 0 6 c m) $ 2 9 9 9 ; Z a n e d i n i n g c h a i r i n w h i te $ 7 9 e a c h ; E l iz a t a l l v a s e i n n a t u r a l ( 1 4x 24 c m) $ 4 4 ; E l iz a t a l l v a s e i n n a t u r a l ( 1 6x 3 2c m) $ 69 . Additional items stylistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own.

THE LONG SUMMER LUNCH Nothing says summer like a long, lingering lunch with good food and even better company. Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s close friends or unexpected guests, an extendable table means youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re always prepared.

V I S I T D O M A Y N E . C O M . A U T O B R O W S E O U R F U L L R A N G E O F F U R N I T U R E , B E D D I N G A N D H O M E WA R E S .

SUMMER 2018/19 C a t a n i a 8 - s e a t o u td o o r t i m b e r d i n i n g t a b l e ( W 2 2 0 x H 7 7x D1 0 1 c m) $ 7 9 9 ; C a t a n i a ti m b e r d i n i n g c h a i r s w i t h s e a t p a d s $ 1 9 9 e a c h ; S c a l e s w h i tew a s h r e s i n p i l l a r h o l d e r s m a l l $ 49 ; S c a l e s w h i tew a s h r e s i n p i l l a r h o l d e r l a rg e $ 69 ; o u td o o r c u s h i o n i n m o s s w i t h j u te b o rd e r $ 39 . Additional items stylistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own.

W I T H T H E WA R M N E U T R A L S A N D C L A S S I C L I N E S O F T H E C A TA N I A S O L I D T I M B E R S E T T I N G , YO U C A N H AV E YO U R OW N S L I C E O F T H E M E D I T E R R A N E A N W I T H O U T H AV I N G T O L E AV E YO U R B A C K YA R D .

V I S I T D O M A Y N E . C O M . A U T O B R O W S E O U R F U L L R A N G E O F F U R N I T U R E , B E D D I N G A N D H O M E WA R E S .

SUMMER 2018/19

GREEN ZONE Create your own urban oasis with stunning artificial plants that stay as fresh as the day you bought them – no green thumb required.

C L O C K W I S E S i m o n e p o t te d a r r a n g e m e n t ( 5 0 c m) $ 1 49 ; J a g g e r p o t i n b l a c k l a rg e $ 49 ; F e r n i n p o t i n g re e n (8 9 c m) $9 9 ; P o t t y p l a n te r i n b l a c k $ 3 0 ; n e e d l e s u c c u l e n t (2 3 c m) $ 3 9 ; s t a g h o r n s p r ay (4 0 c m) $ 24 ; G i u l i a c e r a m i c p o t i n n a t u r a l a n d w h i te ( 1 9 . 5x 2 2 . 5 c m) $ 59 ; l e a f g a r l a n d h a n g i n g ( 1 6 0 c m) $ 39 ; J a g g e r p o t i n b l a c k s m a l l $ 39 ; P o t t y p l a n te r i n l i g h t g rey $ 1 9 ; A m a l f i b ro n ze h u r r i c a n e l a n t e r n m e d i u m $ 1 2 9 , l a rg e $ 1 9 9 , e x t r a l a rg e $ 2 59 ; S i m o n e p o t te d a r r a n g e m e n t ( 5 0 c m) $ 1 49 ; d e s e r t c a c t u s (8 2c m) $ 1 59 , ( 1 1 5 c m) $ 249 ; A z u re c u b e p o t l a rg e $ 1 59 ; N a m i b i a c a c t u s l a rg e $ 1 7 9 ; A z u re c u b e p o t s m a l l $ 4 4 ; B re e ze l a n te r n i n l i g h t b l u e l a rg e $ 39 ; d e s e r t c a c t u s ( 3 1 c m) $ 49 ; b r a i d e d ro u n d o t to m a n i n o p a l $ 2 9 9 ; t r ave l l e r s p a l m w i t h 1 6 l e ave s ( 1 8 0 c m) $ 3 2 9 ; A z u re c u b e p o t m e d i u m $9 9 . Additional items stylist’s own.

V I S I T D O M A Y N E . C O M . A U T O B R O W S E O U R F U L L R A N G E O F F U R N I T U R E , B E D D I N G A N D H O M E WA R E S . Domayne® stores are operated by independent franchisees. Advertised prices valid at NSW stores only. Prices may vary between states due to additional freight costs. Accessories shown are not included. Ends 19/12/2018.

Styling by Jacqueline Kaytar. Photograph by Cathy Schusler.

Step inside ﬁve homes brimming with fresh ideas for the festive season.

Anjelica’s home in Brisbane is the hub of her extended family’s Christmas celebrations. The garland on the staircase is handmade with olive-leaf foliage tied with grosgrain ribbon and paired with stars. All the timber is solid silky oak painted Dulux Whisper White. Rugs, Milton Cater Oriental Carpets. Turn the page for more. >

Fiesta time

A north-Brisbane family have poured heart and soul into their 1933 Spanish-style home, just made for entertaining. STO RY Deborah Grant | ST Y L I N G Jacqueline Kaytar | P H OTO GR A PH Y Cathy Schusler

HOUSES H G

HALL/LIVING The feature flower in the Simpson/Craig household this Christmas is bougainvillea, announced by a wreath at the front door. The house is named Jilaine, derived from the Latin for ‘youthful’. It sums up the family’s attitude to life perfectly. Arne Jacobsen ‘Egg’ chair, Cult. Persian cushions collected over time. Alvar Aalto ‘Stool 60’, Anibou. Artworks by Chris Worfold. Above is an olive leaf garland adorned with silver-stencilled clay stars. Original floorboards stained Feast Watson Black Japan. PAVILION Daughter Lucia with cat Poppy prepare the hacienda-style outdoor dining space. >

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

ome people might baulk at the thought of a three-day Christmas celebration. Not this Brisbane clan, who gather together every year for a mega family event. It involves the five members who live at Jilaine – Angus Craig and Kirsti Simpson and her three daughters – hosting Kirsti’s three sisters and their families (each with a husband and three children) plus Grandad in the sprawling fourbedroom Spanish Mission-style home. The cousins commandeer the pool and almost all their activities are water-based. Kirsti bought the house in 2006 after it had been on the market for some time. “It wasn’t lived in and felt really mysterious,” she says. “We lived

‘We have a family dinner in the pavilion every night so it feels like the centre of our world.’ Kirsti Simpson, owner

Family festivities

Every year the Simpson/Craigs and their large extended family gather for Christmas lunch in the pavilion. This year it’s decorated with a ﬂoral canopy made from fresh bougainvillea attached to a piece of driftwood with twine and hung from existing hooks in the ceiling. “We also put up decorations my sisters and I made when we were children,” says Kirsti. “Plus handmade ones the girls create every year. It does get a bit eclectic.”

one block down on the same corner and there was something crazy-beautiful about it that was really appealing.” Despite the ivy growing up to the roof and in the gutters, they moved into the home and retained as many of its 193Os features as possible. They continued the creative vibe by allowing Mathilda, 15, Lucia, 13, and Anjelica, eight, the luxury of painting the downstairs walls themselves and assembling creative little collections of objects in some of its corners. Four years ago, the couple called in architects Twohill and James to create a new main bedroom and below that, a shady pavilion next to the pool. They also added a pool house and a one-room studio to accommodate guests. As it stands

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now, the main dwelling is on three levels with three bedrooms. Kirsti is a commercial interior designer and university lecturer and has filled it with her favourite furniture from Space, Dedece and Living Edge, along with an impressive art collection and family pieces. Almost all the entertaining happens around the pool, which was built in the mid-1960s and refurbished in 2014. The pavilion is level with the kitchen and has an outdoor fireplace that allows it to be used in summer or winter. “This is one of the most used areas of the house,” says Kirsti. At Christmas, the kids make all sorts of decorations and string them up with special pieces from their mothers’ childhood. They also

write festive messages on the front gate in chalk. Meanwhile, the adults haveaspecialcocktail–last year it was a floral-infused Ink Dry Gin & Tonic – and Angus cooks an organic turkey according to a family recipe. Everyone loves the feeling of generosity the house conveys. “It has a community feel; we have gates between the yards in both directions and have made lifelong friends through those connections,” says Kirsti. “Only one family owned Jilaine before us. They built it, then two more generations lived here. That really appeals to me, > especially the idea of us doing the same.” Twohill and James, Fortitude Valley, Queensland; (07) 3257 0700 or twohillandjames.com.

PAVILION Angus and Kirsti with (from left) Anjelica, Mathilda and Lucia. ‘Basix’ table runner in Tempest and ‘Floca’ tablecloth in Ayrton, both Hale Mercantile Co. Plates and bowls handmade by Luna Ceramics. Verner Panton chairs. Smart buy: ‘Basix’ European linen napkins in Tempest, $22 each, Hale Mercantile Co.

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H G HOUSES ‘We’ve had some fabulous parties and wonderful celebrations here. Christmas is a time for everyone to make this house theirs.’ Kirsti DESSERT Pavlova is a Christmas favourite for the family. This one is a shell from Jocelyn’s Provisions, crowned with vanilla cream and raspberries. Behind is pain d’épice, covered in white chocolate like snowflakes. Smart buy: ‘Gabriella’ cake stand (with pavlova), $69, Pottery Barn. KITCHEN In 2006, Kirsti and Angus fell in love with the original columns, one of which is framed in the new kitchen’s doorway. The brick-shaped white tiles reference the brick paving outside. Black-stained oak cabinetry and stainless-steel benchtops. Kartell ‘GE Metallic’ pendant light, Space. The A letters above the door were arranged by Anjelica. LIVING ROOM A half-wreath made from olive-leaf foliage (some painted silver) and bougainvillea gives a festive feel to this magical white space. The clay stars are handmade and painted white. Eero Saarinen ‘Tulip’ tables from Dedece. The artworks on the table are by Krista Berga (the large sculptures, plus the works on the display shelf at left), Michael Zavros (rose) and Lyndal Milani (foetus). Photographs by Eugene Tan. TABLE DETAIL Kirsti says the cutlery is a “random collection of silver from antique stores”. Iittala Champagne glasses, Make. NIBBLES Popcorn and sweet treats fill a table in the living room. Bowl and wine bucket, Pottery Barn. >

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THE PALETTE Dulux Whisper White (throughout)

Brick pavers (around pool)

Feast Watson Black Japan stain (on timber floors)

THE LAYOUT

Pool house Pool Entry Dining

Living

GROUND FLOOR

Pavilion Garden room

Kitchen Bath

Sunroom Bed

Bed

Main bed

WIR

Bath

FIRST FLOOR

Bath

Bed

Living STUDIO

Bath Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;dry

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FIREPLACE DETAIL The mantelpiece is backed by glazed bricks and holds Kirsti’s beloved candelabra collection. “It’s a bit of an addiction,” she admits. MAIN BEDROOM above right and opposite Kirsti and Angus’s space overlooks the pool; the corner with the steel grille is open to the house. In Millennial pinks and white, the ensuite is light and lovely. Oak bench upholstered in Pelle leather. Bed linen, Linenshed. Throw, Hale Mercantile Co. Artworks by Matteo Grilli (feathers), Linder Sterling, Keith Burt, Felicity Gutteridge and others. Designer buy: Artemide ‘Tolomeo Mini’ wall lamps, $468 each, Image Lighting. BEDROOM Lucia and Anjelica in their room. Having the beds on the eastern side called for a commercial blockout blind. Artwork by Tess van den Bergh. >

‘ There is something crazy-beautiful about this house that makes it really appealing. We love living here.’ Kirsti

MAGNOLIA GARDEN The girls decorate the Magnolia grandiflora tree throughout the year, for all sorts of reasons. This Christmas has a silver and red theme. All the presents are wrapped in an assortment of silver wrap and natural kraft papers, one with foiled-silver spots. Each is tied with natural twine and decorated with olive leaf and bougainvillea, as per the front-door wreath and garlands throughout. Leaning over the wall is a bird-attracting Drunken Parrot Tree. POOL HOUSE In 2013, the family renovated the pool and added the shade structure so they could spend more time here in summer. Four articulated seat backs line the rear. Climbing ivy and star jasmine grow over the pergola. Persian cushions, from the family collection. Grey cushions, Woven Image. Alvar Aalto ‘Stool 60’, Anibou. TERRACE Friends gifted the deckchairs, which came from an outdoor cinema. “The numbers are still visible on the sides,” says Kirsti. Terracotta pots look great with the red roof tiles and brick pavers. Chinese ceramic (silver) table. Timber tables made by a friend. For Where to Buy, see page 212.

FEATURE TREES & PLANTS Drunken Parrot Tree (Schotia brachypetala) Crepe myrtle Murraya Bromeliad

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This is the life

The family were initially attracted to all the arches and columns in their home but have come to love the lifestyle its outdoor spaces afford just as much. Most of the activity takes place around the pool and the various gardens and rooms that lead off it. In the magnolia garden (behind the wall), the Drunken Parrot Tree attracts birds in ﬂowering season. “We are woken every morning by a parrot party outside!” says Kirsti. #

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No place

LIKE HOME The joy of togetherness is woven into every element of this sparkling Sydney abode.

FRONT COURTYARD above and opposite Homeowner Judy Renkert (seated at right) with fashion-designer daughter Lizzie, grandchildren Luella and Max and son-in-law Andrew Foy, who was also the builder on the project. Daisy the cavoodle is never far away. The dining table belonged to the previous owners. Tablecloth, Linen House. Dining chairs, Le Forge. Climbing star jasmine creates a fragrant frame for the water feature by Sam Hiney of Bespoke Masonry. The courtyard is paved with stone-look porcelain from Armstone. “We opted for porcelain pavers because they don’t require any maintenance,” says Judy. Landscaping by Adam Robinson Design. Smart buy: DLT84129 marble fan mosaic tiles (on wall), $30/sheet, Di Lorenzo Tiles.

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Stylist’s assistants: Sara Åkesson & Jamie Walsh.

STO RY Tamarah Pienaar | ST Y L I N G Kayla Gex P H OTO G R A P H Y Maree Homer

This is the life

The private garden was a real drawcard for Judy and her husband Stephen. Landscaper Adam Robinson refreshed the design, concentrating on trees for the front, a rear terrace featuring Judy’s favourite white hydrangeas on the southern boundary, and a subtropical zone on the lower level. Judy has done the majority of the new work herself. “The garden is everything to me,” she says. “I am out here nearly every day.” >

unny thing about houses... While one might fit the bill on a practical level, it will never feel like home if you don’t have an emotional connection to it. This was the case for Judy and Stephen Renkert, who downsized in 2011 to a lovely apartment on Sydney’s northern beaches but soon realised it wasn’t for them. “Family is very important to us and we wanted space for our growing brood of grandchildren,” says Judy. “We also missed having a garden.” Seeking something “manageable and unpretentious”, the couple found exactly what they were after on the lower north shore: a three-bedroom 1920s cottage with views of Sydney Harbour. “I knew the second I stepped through the door that this was the home for us,” says Judy. “It felt like the house wrapped itself around me.”

As warm and welcoming as the home was, Judy and Stephen initiated a few modifications to make it perfect. “We wanted to draw in more light and to reconfigure the floor plan to make the most of the view,” says Judy. They also decided that the kitchen, awkwardly situated near the entrance, should be moved to the rear and incorporated into a more family-friendly kitchen/dining/family area adjacent to the existing living room. A new wraparound verandah would deliver an additional entertaining zone. Finally, the lower-ground level (containing the third bedroom and laundry) would be expanded to make space for a bunkroom, a family room/guestroom, an additional bathroom and a larger laundry. With family as the prime motivator, every inch of the brick house had to be useable, nothing too precious >

KITCHEN this page and opposite, bottom right Relocating the kitchen was pivotal to the renovation; it’s now Judy’s favourite room. Design by The Kitchen Maker. Pendant lights, The Light Site. ‘St Tropez’ bar stools, Alfresco Emporium. Corian benchtops. Smeg stove and rangehood. Wreath, Koch & Co. Cake stand, Williams-Sonoma. Limed American oak flooring. Foliage and flowers throughout, Mandalay Flowers. Local hero: Gingerbread village (guarded by Max and Luella), from $295, including chocolate box with lollies, Scrumptious Chocolates and Cakes. PORTRAIT Luella helps spread the festive joy. GIFTS See following pages for tree, gift wrap and decoration details. TABLE SETTING “My Christmas table always has a white tablecloth and touches of silver and gold,” says Judy. Napkin, Peacocks and Paisleys. Charger, Pottery Barn. Blue and white ornaments, Alfresco Emporium.

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‘I knew the second I stepped through the door that this was the home for us.’ Judy Renkert, owner

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THE PALETTE

Family festivities

Dulux Lexicon Quarter (main interior walls) Porter’s Paints Chintz Grey half strength (main bedroom feature)

Judy’s Christmas kicks off in early December when she and her grandchildren have a special tree-trimming day. “I love decorating,” says Judy. “I have a different theme every year.” On the big day, Judy hosts a traditional sit-down dinner for family, continuing the merriment more casually on Boxing Day. “We’ll have a seafood feast or barbecue lunch, maybe walk down to the beach, then head home and carry on the celebrations.”

to touch. Judy was also keen for it to look and feel timeless, with the original home and new work in harmony. The couple’s son-in-law and builder, Andrew Foy of Dreamscape Constructions, proved invaluable in achieving the brief. Raked ceilings in the new section amplify the light and space, while beautifully detailed joinery – referencing the 1920s picture rails – adds character and that all-important element of continuity. Family was top of mind when decorating, too, with treasured heirlooms and pieces the Renkerts have cherished for decades playing a starring role. “I think homes should be filled with memories and reflect the people who live in them,” says Judy. “We’ve collected lots of bits and pieces over the years that we still love.” A coastal palette of white, soft blues, greys and taupes is used throughout, teamed with robust limed American oak flooring upstairs and honed travertine downstairs. “The colours tie in with the trees and water outside, and instantly create a sense of calm,” says Judy. “It’s so peaceful – the antidote to our busy lives.” Judy says contentment is the prevailing feeling at home now. “The kitchen is my favourite room because that’s where my family congregates, and the floor plan flows so well that I can see almost every other area in the house from there. It’s charming but not precious. The whole > family loves spending time here.” Dreamscape Constructions, Cremorne, NSW; 0414 620 000 or dscon.com.au.

Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.

Stone-look porcelain (courtyard)

HOUSES H G LIVING The built-in shelving is original to the house; its detail inspired the design of the joinery throughout the home. Judy bought the armchair and silver side table years ago. Custom sofas by Kirsty Keir Interior Styling. Table lamp and ottoman, The Classic Outfitter. Glass-topped iron table, Renee’s House of Designs. Cushions in Schumacher ‘Hothouse Flowers’. Christmas tree, Big W. Assorted decorations from Myer, Big W, My Christmas and Ivory House. Gifts wrapped in a selection of paper and ribbon from Finmark, Fox & Fallow, Koch & Co and Vandoros Fine Packaging. Rug, The Natural Floorcovering Centres.

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‘Homes should be filled with memories and reflect the people who live in them.’ Judy

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THE LAYOUT Dining/family

Kitchen Bed Sunroom

Bath

Living

Bed

Entry Outdoor dining

Bunkroom

L’dry

GROUND FLOOR

Bath Storage

Bed

LOWER GROUND FLOOR

FAMILY ROOM Glass doors slide open to bring in the harbour views of this indoor-outdoor space. Coffee table, Kirsty Keir Interior Styling. Rug, Home & Giving Mosman. Faux topiary in pot, Florabelle. Crackers from The Paperie. Planter (on verandah), Copper Beech. Smart buys: ‘Bermuda’ chairs, $649 each, and ‘Hampton’ outdoor sofa, $2499, all Alfresco Emporium. MAIN BEDROOM opposite, top and bottom left Porter’s Paints Chintz Grey (half strength) is used below the dado rail and in the nook. “I wanted wallpaper, but Stephen wouldn’t let me,” says Judy, laughing. The artworks are limited-edition Norman Lindsay prints. Bedhead, The Classic Outfitter. Coverlet, Alfresco Emporium. The silver side table and mirrored bedside table are old favourites. Lamp base from Renee’s House of Designs with shade in Parish Hadley for Lee Jofa ‘Allegra’ fabric. The crystal bowl (filled with hellebores) belonged to Judy’s grandmother. Secondhand chair. ‘French Wreath’ wool carpet in Taupe, Feltex. CONSOLE In this vignette by the entrance, an artwork by Stephen’s aunt, a pair of candlesticks that were a wedding present and a much-loved lamp are teamed with a console table Judy found by the side of the road and restored. For Where to Buy, see page 212. #

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SLAM DUNK

Building on a sizeable corner block meant a Perth family gained two generous living wings and the space to enjoy all their favourite sports. STO RY & ST Y L I N G Anna Flanders | PH OTOGR A PH Y Dion Robeson

DINING/LIVING Owner Lisa (far left), daughters Georgia and April (at the table, from left) and son Henry (with back to camera) love entertaining friends at home. Pet dog Taxi, a spoodle, often snoozes under the Jardan dining table. Dining chairs, Innerspace. Design House Stockholm candleholder, Table Culture. ‘Urkiola’ pitcher, Georg Jensen. George Nelson pendant lights, Living Edge. Christmas tree, Balsam Hill. Swivel chairs, Jardan. Sofas, Lounge Innovation. >

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H G HOUSES hile doing a U-turn on a school run in 2013, Lisa Ashton spotted a fallen-down auction sign in a leafy central Perth suburb and immediately put in a call to herhusbandMal.Thecouple discovered the auction had been cancelled and the owners were now open to offers. Within days they had secured the site and, with it, the chance to build their dream home. While the rundown house on the site had to go, the 1470m2 corner block was just what they were looking for. During their house hunt, the couple had come across a build by Klopper & Davis Architects (KADA) featuring an internal-courtyard concept they admired, so they quickly booked a meeting with the practice. “After the first meeting, KADA came up with an initial design that we loved,” says Lisa. “The team then took my brief and

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designed a family house that’s so ‘us’, it’s more individual than we could ever have imagined.” The Ashtons requested a contemporary but warm ambience and a functional layout for their children: April, 15, Henry, 12, and Georgia, 10. They wanted beautiful spaces with modern textures and finishes, a sense of open space and the cocooning effect of a private ‘compound’ in which the family could live and play. The resulting home delivers on all three. KADA’s design cleverly takes advantage of the site’s slope to fulfil the family’s desire for privacy, separation of sleeping and social spaces, and secure outdoor-living spaces. A breeze-block wall sweeps around the perimeter. The house itself is elevated, with a walled terrace on one side and a balcony atop a garage on the other. Stepping inside, a large entrance area features a drop-off zone for bags

and keys. A corridor to the left leads to five bedrooms, a bathroom and laundry, plus a multipurpose zone. On the other side, where the land falls away, a bridge-like walkway passes over a lap pool underneath, past an office, a children’s study and a powder room to a large kitchen, living and dining space. The lower-ground level accommodates a garage, gym and storage space. Outside, a basketball half-court, a pool with a 25m lap-swimming leg, a shaded dining area and sunny conversation pit are contained between the two living wings. “The house is interesting, practical and beautiful,” says a satisfied Lisa. “The finishes and fixtures are resilient and have tolerated three dogs and three children > really well. It’s our kind of luxury.” Klopper & Davis Architects, Subiaco, WA; (08) 9381 4731 or kada.com.au.

Family festivities

Christmas Day in this household starts with the fun of watching children open pillowcases full of presents and continues with an extended family celebration. “Now that we have a great home for summer entertaining, we’ll have everyone over and spend the day eating and swimming,” says Lisa. The menu will feature lots of prawns, a roast turkey and homemade pudding with hidden coins, a cherished tradition from Lisa’s family.

KITCHEN The command centre for Christmas lunch preparations features a benchtop in recycled Queensland spotted gum with joinery in vibrant shades of blue, Lisa’s favourite colour. Custom chevron-striped doors reveal a coffee and cocktail station. Herringbone brick flooring was on Lisa’s wish list. ‘Slim D30’ mixer, Abey. Blue Calligaris bowl, Ultimo Interiors. Champagne cooler and Kate Spade cocktail shaker, Table Culture. Local hero: ‘Bowral50’ bricks in Gertrudis Brown (as flooring), from $2475/1000, Austral Bricks.

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LIVING Henry plays with English bulldog Poppy and Taxi. Coffee table, Design Farm. Rug, Armadillo & Co. The cushions are made from ethically sourced textiles, always a consideration for Lisa. White planter, La Luna. STUDY This timberscreened space is the children’s dining zone when friends are over. Table, Ethnicraft. Chairs, Innerspace. Menu ‘Dancing’ pendant light. Rug, Tretford. Wreaths sourced from The Chrysie Place, decorated with local flowers such as Geraldton wax. BALCONY Lisa and a friend take in the green park views. DINING Interweaving banksia, waratah, protea, olive leaf, aranthera and anthurium along the centre of the table makes a sweet-scented alternative to a textile runner. Mud Australia plate, napkin, IVV tumbler and LSA Champagne glass, all Table Culture. Designer buy: Cutipol ‘Moon’ cutlery in Matt Gold, $549/16-piece set, Table Culture. STAIRS Lisa scouts hiding spots for gifts. Calligaris bowl, Ultimo Interiors. >

THE PALETTE

Honed granite floor tiles (entry)

Laminex in Calypso Blue (various cabinets)

Dulux Tidal Wave (front door)

FEATURE TREES & PLANTS Leopard tree (Libidibia ferrea) Bay trees (Laurus nobilis) Verbena

THE LAYOUT

Crafty idea

Balcony Living Basketball court

Conversation pit Lawn

Dining Kitchen

Study Main Bed bed Bath

Bath

Bed

Bed Flexible space Bed L’dry

Bath Entry

Ofﬁce

GROUND FLOOR

Bath Gym Store

Store Pool Garage Lap pool

LOWER GROUND FLOOR

Store

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This is the life

Lisa loves the look of the breeze blocks, white walls and minimal windows along the ground-level side of the home. “It feels like my compound and gives security without having a boundary fence,” she says. “You expect darkness when you walk in, but once the house is revealed the light pours in.” Mal says his favourite spot is the cosy main living space, while Lisa nominates the expansive kitchen/dining zone.

ENTRANCE Blue and grey hues are paired throughout. The front door opens to a Mondrian-style arrangement of Laminex panels. Guaxs vase, Ultimo Interiors. Rug, Remedy. ‘Inca Grey’ granite floor tiles, Bernini Stone & Tiles. GARDEN The conversation pit is an ideal spot to chat or keep tabs on the kids playing basketball. Landscaping by Mon Palmer. Pebbles, Creation Landscapes Supplies. HENRY’S ROOM Pegboard panels become a neat advent calendar made from small lidded boxes with number stickers. Boxes, The Chrysie Place. Washi tape and ribbon, Spotlight. Stool, Editeur. The blanket is from Mexico. Smart buy: Pegboard panels, $29 each, Kmart. For Where to Buy, see page 212. #

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Bolt from the blue A crack in the swimming pool was the impetus for this water-loving Sydney family to renovate their bayside home. STO RY Rosa Senese | ST Y L I N G Sarah Maloney | P H OTO G R A PH Y Chris Warnes

DECK Owner Charissa and son Flynn relax with labrador Fletcher on the open-air platform under two perfectly positioned willow myrtles. Coffee table, Outdoor Elegance. Side table and Adirondack chairs, Polywood. Custom cushions. ‘Sonora’ goblets, Williams-Sonoma. Candleholder, Canvas+Sasson. Australian House & Garden throw (on chair), Myer. Smart buy: ‘Capri Sands’ throw (used as tablecloth), $179, Canvas+Sasson. ENTRANCE Charissa and Fletcher head out for a walk. The home’s exterior features ‘Barrimah’ sandstone from Eco Outdoor and Scyon ‘Linea’ cladding. Visual Comfort outdoor pendant light, Laura Kincade. ‘Chelsea’ outdoor light (over garage), Dunlin. Christmas wreath, Balsam Hill. Planter, Polywood. ‘Endicott’ stone paving, Eco Outdoor. The house was built by SFD Construction. Landscaping and outdoor construction by Entrenched Landscapes & Design. >

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oving was never an option for Charissa and Shane Gannon, but a nasty crack in their kidney-shaped pool was the sign that finally convinced them to rethink their house. They’d bought in 2010 and by 2017 it no longer suited their family of four. The block of more than 1200m², situated between parkland and a boat-dotted bay in Sydney’s south, called for a redesign to take full advantage of its potential. “Shane was fixated with opening up the rear of the house,” says Charissa. “I also wanted to restyle the interiors, as all our furniture was from our old house and showing plenty of wear and tear. I thought the casual elegance of the Hamptons style, with a contemporary feel, would be the perfect complement to our property and its view.” Building designer Anthony Maiolo of Luxitecture rose to the challenge with a transformation that completely reconfigured

‘The light, airy kitchen with waterfront aspect is great to cook and entertain in.’ Charissa, owner

the ground floor. “The changes were not only about obtaining views, but creating a seamless line between indoors and out,” he says. Most of the internal walls on the ground floor were removed and structural beams installed to create spaces oriented towards the water, bringing in more light and life. At the entrance, a new gable roof, classic-looking weatherboards and stone cladding give the impression of a grand estate. Inside, two guestrooms, a bathroom and media room line up along one side of the foyer, with a cellar, gym, laundry and study nook on the other. Past the stairs, the kitchen and two distinct living/ dining areas flow in an L shape around an alfresco entertaining zone. The first floor accommodates four more bedrooms, including the main; three open onto a new rear balcony that shades the alfresco area underneath. Outside, there’s an outdoor kitchen and barbecue, and the old swimming pool has been > reshaped and tiled to align with the house.

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KITCHEN top and bottom left; opposite Lining boards on the walls add to the Hamptons vibe, while the sliding-door pantry offers discreet functionality. Benchtops in Quantum Quartz Calacutta. Tray, Nel Lusso. Star topper, Papaya. Cutting boards, Ivory House. Cake stand, Williams-Sonoma. ‘W’ barstools, Cafe Culture+Insitu. Floor tiles, Living Tiles. Artwork by Mark Tipple, Otomys. DINING top and bottom right Kartell ‘Ghost’ chairs allow the rustic table to shine. Cushion, Canvas+Sasson. Throw, L&M Home. Candlesticks and blue plate, Bed Bath N’ Table. Blue glass vessels, Myer. Napkin ring and charger, Pottery Barn. Napkin and runner, Barkly Lane. Cracker, The Paperie. Designer buy: ‘Marc’ wicker Christmas trees, $330/set of three, Ivory House.

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THE PALETTE Resene Quarter Truffle (living/dining)

Custom V-joint lining boards (kitchen)

Grasscloth wallpaper (hallway)

Family festivities

The Gannons prepare for Christmas by decorating their tree with ornaments collected from around the world. “The 25th is an all-day affair for up to 30,” says Charissa. After a celebratory lunch, guests traditionally play Dirty Santa, a spin on Kris Kringle. “We put wrapped gifts in a circle. Everyone draws a number and then, in numerical order, has the option of choosing a gift from the circle or taking someone else’s opened gift!”

LIVING ROOM The ethanol fireplace platform is put to good use all year round. Vitrocsa large-format sliding doors create a smooth indoor-outdoor flow. Coffee table and rug, GlobeWest. Cushion in velvet ikat (on armchair) from Westbury Textiles. Faux spruce Christmas tree, Balsam Hill. Tree ornaments, Myer, Ivory House and Balsam Hill. Small trees, Papaya (on console) and Albi (coffee table). ‘Albo’ wooden bowls with metal interiors, L&M Home. ‘Marc’ star ornament (on coffee table), Ivory House. Custom artwork by Ingrid Bowen, Saint Cloche. Designer buy: ‘Axiom’ chair, $1085, GlobeWest.

HOUSES H G Critical to the indoor-outdoor nexus is a Swiss-designed system of sliding doors – seven panels of approximately 200kg each – with tracks and frames hidden within the home’s architecture. “When the doors are tucked away, you really lose the sense of where the house starts and finishes,” says Anthony. Interior designer Fiona Shakespeare took the Hamptons theme and gave it a personal spin for the Gannons. “The style needed to be formal but also approachable, comfortable and functional for entertaining,” she says. Fiona also consulted on the colour scheme, making every element from the roof to the letterbox part of a well-considered whole. “The family loves water sports and spending time in the sun, so we chose sandy grey [greige], navy blue and off whites, with touches of green and leather.”

Beautiful, practical solutions abound, from custom furniture to solar roof tiles. In fact, the whole house is akin to a complex puzzle that has been meticulously resolved. By the time the final pieces came together, just in time for a housewarming party in March this year, the owners and their children – Eliza-Grace, 17, and Flynn, 15 – were head over heels in love with their new house. “We’re now happy to holiday at home instead of staying in hotels,” says Charissa.” We had an expectation that we would downsize once our youngest had finished school, but now we > can’t see ourselves moving ’til we’re old and grey!” Luxitecture, Pyrmont, NSW; 0404 804 302 or luxitecture.com.au. Shakespeare Design, Balmain, NSW; (02) 8060 5788 or shakespeare-design.com.au.

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THE LAYOUT GROUND FLOOR Pantry Media

Bed

Outdoor Kitchen entertaining Casual L’dry dining Formal living Living Bath

Entry

Garage Gym

Pool

Dining Fireplace

FIRST FLOOR

Bed

Bath

Bed

Bed Balcony Main bed Bath

HALL The grasscloth wallpaper by Phillip Jeffries is a textural highlight. Console table, lamp and artwork, Coco Republic. Cushion, Canvas+Sasson. Throw, L&M Home. Australian House & Garden stocking, Myer. Basket, GlobeWest. MAIN BEDROOM Textiles build up layers of comfort. Bed and side table, Domayne. Green cushion and bedcover, Canvas+Sasson. Blue cushion, L&M Home. Pendant light, Articolo Lighting. POWDER ROOM Sunlight bounces off glazed tiles from Skheme. Brodware taps. Vase, Georg Jensen. Towel, MissoniHome. POOL The old kidney-shaped design was rebuilt by Entrenched Landscapes & Design. Table and lounger, Coco Republic. ‘Niebla’ tiles (waterline), Ezarri. Glass, Myer. ‘Kebony’ decking, Mafi. For Where to Buy, see page 212.

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This is the life

“We love sharing this home with people,” says Charissa. “We open up all the doors when we entertain, which easily doubles the space available for guests to circulate and allows them to enjoy the views.” Everyone in the family has their favourite way to enjoy the house. “Shane’s is watching sport on the outdoor screen behind the barbecue, while mine is the warm spa and its lovely therapeutic qualities.” #

‘Our brief was for a modern pool and alfresco entertaining space that would connect the house, outdoor areas and bay.’ Charissa

FEATURE TREES & PLANTS Willow myrtle (Agonis flexuosa) Orange jessamine (Murraya paniculata) Tuckeroo (Cupaniopsis anacardioides) Philodendron ‘Xanadu’

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BRIGHT LIGHTS Being close to the city was imperative for this Perth family, who found the perfect site and built a glamorous home beﬁtting it. STO RY John McDonald | ST Y L I N G Jo Carmichael | P H OTO GR A PH Y Jody D’Arcy

LIVING Foliage wrapped around a simple wire ring is an easy wall decoration for the living room. Arbee metal ring from Spotlight, finished with a garland by Floral Army. Vintage glass Christmas tree, Editeur. Peruvian Chulucanas black and gold-leaf pottery, CB2. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Chocolatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; mirrors, Natuzzi Italia. WA Kitchens made the base units for the sideboard and a Florim Calacatta porcelain top from European Ceramics was added. Artwork by Nickolas Gurtler. >

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ometimes a location seals the deal. The little cottage that the Vilardi family – mum Nancy, dad Sergio, daughter Tayla (now 20) and son Joshua (16) – purchased in 2015 was old and quaint but completely unsuited to a renovation. The block of land, however, was awesome. Thus plans were drawn up for a new home on the 680m² plot in central Perth, just north of the CBD. The house took 12 months to complete and the family moved there in December 2017. The architect was Gavin Hestelow and their builder was Tony Ricciardello of Weststyle – both were chosen for their excellent reputations in local residential work. “We opted for Weststyle as we’d been admiring Tony’s homes for years,” says Nancy. “Serge and I wanted a contemporary, luxurious, well-constructed home that would meet the needs of our family. Our days are always very busy and we needed a builder we could rely on.” Palm Springs architecture was the inspiration and its open, luxe feel was just what the Vilardis were after. As you approach the house, the exterior brickwork is a striking feature. It’s a gorgeous chocolate brown with a textural look; the bricks were laid alternately side on and lengthways in a tessellated pattern, and the wall is curved. Enter through the front door and you find yourself in an airy foyer. To the left is a powder room, a TV room and an open study area that leads to Tayla and Joshua’s bedrooms and their bathroom. Beyond the foyer is the dining area, and to the left are the kitchen and living spaces.

An alfresco zone – an enclosed outdoor room complete with fireplace – adjoins the dining area and is easily reached through bifold doors; the alfresco and living spaces share a chocolate facebrick dividing wall that echoes the exterior. “That’s what I love the most about our home: the brown-brick feature wall in our family room,” says Nancy. Off to the right of the dining room is the parents’ retreat, with a large ensuite and walk-in robe. Through the alfresco area and down a flight of floating stairs is a basalt-tiled terrace and swimming pool. It’s all practical, purposeful and finished with great flair. In the initial stages of the build the Vilardis began searching for furniture and decorative items but found the process rather overwhelming – they were flat out running their family scaffolding business as well as a side enterprise, Blazaball, which makes clever fire-starting metal cages for fireplaces and fire pits. Hiring interior designer Nickolas Gurtler proved a masterstroke. “We wanted to achieve modern luxury, style and sophistication, but we also wanted our house to feel like a home that family and friends would enjoy as well. We certainly weren’t disappointed,” says Nancy. “It took a load off, and we just love the result, especially around Christmas when we can relax and reflect on > what’s gone before and what lies ahead.” Nickolas Gurtler, Cottesloe, WA; 0414 338 069 or nickolasgurtler.com.au. Weststyle, Balcatta, WA; (08) 9345 1565 or weststyle.com.au.

EXTERIOR A mix of ‘Jackson’ and ‘Cascade’ bricks from Austral Bricks – the first chosen for its smooth look, the second for its textured finish – have been laid in an interesting geometric pattern. The front door is cedar with a Brazilian walnut stain. DINING The showstopping pendant light is from Hollywood Interiors. Saarinen dining table and vintage Platner chairs by Knoll. ‘Vionnet Cross’ console, GlobeWest. Artwork by Nickolas Gurtler. KITCHEN Nancy loves to entertain at home. The kitchen was designed by Hayley Prendiville of Weststyle and built by The Maker Designer Kitchens. All the cupboards are Dulux White Polar. The 3m-long polished-concrete island bench was manufactured offsite by Concrete Studio in three pieces and assembled onsite, which allowed for the negative detail at the top of the end pillars. Resident ‘Tangerine’ stools, District. TV ROOM A Christmas garland and some spruce foliage enliven the secondary living space. The ‘King Cloud III’ reclining sofa by King Living is a tasteful take on media-room furniture. ‘Ido’ coffee table and ‘Zen’ floor lamps, Natuzzi Italia. Paper-circles garland and Tom Dixon ‘Bump Cone’ clear-glass vase, both Editeur. The wall sculpture was purchased at a Paris flea market. ENTRY HALL DETAIL Presents can look gorgeous even when wrapped in inexpensive materials such as these newsagency papers and ribbon offcuts.

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HOUSES H G

This is the life

A Palm Springs-inspired vibe was the aim of the build and ﬁtout, to foster openness, maximise light and create the perfect setting for gatherings. “That’s been achieved in spades,” says Nancy. “It’s glamorous, but functional and comfortable.” She says the family love the leafy green suburb and are passionate about their dogs, Rexie and Bessie. “They both enjoy walking to local cafes and parks with us and saying hi to everyone.”

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LIVING Lofty ceilings screamed out for large-scale art and furniture. Nancy loves fashion, so this Gucci F/W 2010 photograph by Mert and Marcus was an apt choice. The Flexform ‘Groundpiece’ sofa from Innerspace fits the bill, too. ‘Element’ Carrara marble and steel coffee table, Camerich. Vintage Knoll ‘Saarinen side table’. ‘Christine’ lounge chair in Light Grey, Clickon Furniture. Assorted cushions from Editeur, Kelly Wearstler, Natuzzi Italia and West Elm. ‘Moscow’ rug, Bayliss Rugs. The tree – a blue cypress – is festooned with fairy lights from Bunnings and gem decorations. American White Oak floors by Art of Timber. Designer buy: ‘Meteor’ brass objects (on tables), $520/three sizes, James Said. >

THE PALETTE

Dulux Ceiling White (throughout)

Polished concrete (island bench)

American white oak flooring (throughout)

THE LAYOUT Bath Bed

Laundry

Bed

Living

Kitchen TV room

Bath

Entry

r n

Dining Main bed

Garage

MAIN BEDROOM Everything about this room is pure luxe. Silk wall panel by Argyle Furniture Designs. ‘Vittoria’ bed and ‘Axiom’ dresser, both GlobeWest. Kelly Wearstler bed linen and cushions with a small velvet cushion from West Elm. Designer buy: Eichholtz ‘Eldorado’ clear-glass table lamp, $2395, James Said. TERRACE Lush foliage forms a beautiful backdrop to family gatherings in summer. Outdoor dining setting, Segals Outdoor Furniture. On the table is an ethically sourced coral cluster from Marine Arts. Tom Dixon ‘Tank’ whisky decanter and wine glasses, Editeur. Glass pitcher, West Elm. Basalt pavers, Bernini Stone & Tiles.

Bath WIR

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Family festivities

“We look forward to the Christmas season, chaos and all,” says Nancy. Their festive lunch always extends to dinner with immediate and extended family and friends. “We love celebrating the day at our place. The barbecue is on, the glazed ham is in the oven, and there is also a smorgasbord of special Italian dishes laid out. Plus there are always drinks and laughter by the pool. It’s a really special time for us.” #

FEATURE PLANTS Tiger grass (Thysanolaena maxima) Mondo grass Philodendron ‘Xanadu’ Giant bird of paradise (Strelitzia nicolai) Bird of paradise (Strelitzia reginae)

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BRAND PROMOTION

design tips with Shannon Vos

Furniture is just the start of increasing an outdoor space’s appeal and useability. Plants, lighting, blinds, BBQ, heating and storage options can all also help to enhance a space – no matter how big or small.

LOUNGING ABOUT Relax in style this summer on the Mimosa ‘Lava’ Corner Lounge with Side Table, $1399.

@home SHANNON VOS with interior designer

Outdoor inspiration

SUMMER SPACES Some products are not available in certain Bunnings Warehouse stores, but may be ordered.

Create an outdoor space that will increase its liveability all year round, with tips from interior design expert Shannon Vos.

n outdoor space done right can be a standout feature of any house or apartment. Whether it’s a place to entertain, a retreat or casual dining area, it can easily become one of the drawcards of your home. For Shannon Vos, interior designer and former winner of The Block, a great outdoor space doesn’t have to cost a fortune and can be added to over time to enhance its practicality and appeal.

“If you have the room, it’s great to divide your outdoor space into zones – ideally one for chilling out and one for dining,” says Vos. “I also advise to keep your outdoor spaces similar in colour and tone to your indoor spaces to increase the ﬂow from inside out,” he says. “Repeat colours, timbers, tones, textures and ﬁnishes to make your indoor/outdoor aesthetic work. Outdoor lighting will also help to make the space more appealing.”

“With summer here, now’s the time to update and make the most of your outdoor area.” SHANNON VOS, INTERIOR DESIGNER

LEFT TO RIGHT: Mimosa 220 x 100cm ‘Lava’ Dining Table, $327; Mimosa ‘Lava’ Sling Dining Chair, $59 each; Jumbuck 6 Burner Hooded Comet Plus BBQ with Side Burner, $499; Coolaroo Solar Motorised Outdoor Blind in Gun Metal from $399; Arlec 12V LED Stainless Steel Spotlight – 4 Pack, $121.

OUTDOOR BLINDS If your outdoor space gets a lot of afternoon sun, a blind will help to take the heat off. A well placed blind is also an easy way to increase ambience, screen off less attractive garden areas and provide privacy from neighbours.

OUTDOOR LIGHTING Good lighting will extend how often you can use your space. Consider lighting your planted elements – mature palms, ferns and trees look great with warm lighting. Alternatively, choose an attractive feature like a rock wall or some detailed timberwork to create a focal point.

Photograph by Simon GrifďŹ ths.

With commanding views to the Indian Ocean, this Western Australian garden is arranged in descending layers that showcase an intriguing textural mix of hardy, spiky flora and gravel mulch. Turn the page for more on this low-water gem. >

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WINDSWEPT WONDER Desert landscapes inspired this tapestry of striking shapes, textures and colours, a beautiful buffer around a high and dry WA property. STO RY Christine Reid | P H OTO GR A PH Y Simon Griffiths

The owners of the property opted for desert-adapted plant species, including euphorbias, aloes, agaves and yuccas, with the aim of creating a fireproof barrier around their home. >

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uring winter, huge fluffy clouds roll in from the horizon across the Indian Ocean, dropping their moisture as they make landfall. Against patches of blue sky they look like giant cotton-wool balls stained with grey, violet and ink-blue blots. But summer in this south-west corner of Australia is a totally different story. Burning-hot winds swing in from the north and north-east for days – even weeks – on end, drying out the land. Gardeners who live in cooler or well-watered regions of the country can only admire those who take on the challenges of long, dry summers, uncertain rainfall and soils that pose real demands. These are the daunting practical concerns facing gardeners in the southernmost part of WA. Bill and Di Mitchell’s property, Down South, on the very edge of our immense continent, sits in the wilderness of the Leeuwin–Naturaliste National Park. The view from their elevated home – on a limestone ridge overlooking Smiths Beach, near Yallingup – is spectacular. Blinding white sand, big waves and crystal-clear blue water make the beach a surfer’s paradise, which is the reason the Mitchells bought their 10ha site for a holiday home in the 1980s. They loved the area so much that, after Bill retired, they became permanent residents. However, this magnificent scenery comes at a price. They live in what is a designated ‘flame zone’, an area with the highest level of bushfire risk. Even the road signs here are different: vivid-yellow diamond shapes warn that you are in an area of extreme fire danger, and need to worry about bushfires far more than kangaroos bouncing out of the bush. Native vegetation is the culprit. As the coastal heath, and banksia and peppermint trees dry out, it only takes a spark to explode them into flame. The plucky couple are members of the volunteer bushfire brigade and have prepared for evacuation twice in the past few

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years. In a frightening event in 2011, a rapidly moving bushfire destroyed historic Wallcliffe House in nearby Margaret River. Since then, Bill has taken the threat even more seriously. He has two approaches to combating fires: first, using 21st-century technology and updating it regularly; and second, surrounding the house with fire-retardant plants. His technical approach is impressive, with a system of cameras, roof sprinklers, water pumps and even a drone, which can all be switched on by sending a text via mobile phone. This system means that Bill can still try to protect his home, even when he’s away from it. “I can dial into my app, which takes me to the live cameras – installed on the roof and around the verandah – to see if we’re under ember attack,” he says. “If that is happening, I can remote-start the diesel pump by text message and direct water onto the roof and surrounding garden.” Water storage is crucial; the more the better. The Mitchells are not on a town supply so they capture ‘dirty’ water run-off from paths and driveways around the house via cleverly located speed humps that direct the water into hidden holding tanks underground. ‘Clean’ water (rainwater collected from the roof) flows into another tank for the drinking and washing supply. All up, the Mitchells have 600,000 litres of water to use. Bill and Di’s wisdom on fire prevention has come with experience. “We weren’t always so smart,” says Bill. “When we first came here, we planted lots of Rottnest Island pines (Callitris preissii) as windbreaks. We had them hanging over the gutters at one stage.” They had also used woodchips as mulch. “We realised that we needed to change our thinking when we implemented our fire-management plan and had to reduce the fuel load,” says Bill. “We began by replacing all the woodchips with gravel mulch. That took about a year, by which time our plants were looking healthier due to the trace elements in >

Colossal rosettes of Agave attenuata are dotted throughout the garden, their broad and pointed grey-green leaves contrasting sharply with the red-flowering euphorbia plants. The gravel and stone mulch stays in place even during rain, adding a visual and physical sense of unification to the garden beds. OPPOSITE Down South enjoys stunning views across the rocky wilderness of the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park to the Indian Ocean.

FEATURE TREES & PLANTS Ponytail palm (Beaucarnea recurvata) Dragonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s blood tree (Dracaena draco) Golden barrel cactus (Echinocactus grusonii) Agave attenuata Euphorbia milii Cotyledon sp Yucca sp

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the gravel. Another bonus! We also excavated some of the limestone boulders, and that was really the beginning of our current garden landscape. I thought a Mexican desert theme might look good. It was while researching fire-retardant plants on the internet that I came across succulents.” For someone who claims that he had “never been in a garden for more than five minutes” until a few years ago, Bill, with Di’s help,hastransformedtheirlivesalongwiththegardenmakeover. Around the house, one hectare has been mass-planted with xerophytic plants. They’ve adapted to surviving with little water. The Mitchells call this area Fire & Beauty. It’s a woven tapestry of colour, shape and texture, and they love the diversity: blackleaved aeoniums, the bright red and green flowers of Euphorbia milii, the golden balls of the Echinocactus grusonii barrel cactus and the masses of aloes. “I have about 460 aloe plants here and it’s considered one of the largest private collections in Australia,” says Bill. “The 20 or so varieties make a magnificent sight from March to September.” Bill says he knows nothing about botanical names, yet they trip off his tongue with great ease, from dragon’s blood trees (Dracaena draco) to ponytail palms (Beaucarnea recurvata) and

all the different aloe cultivars, from ‘Erik the Red’ to ‘Venus’, ‘Moonglow’ and ‘Bottlebrush’. He admits to being swept up in “this whole succulent thing”, however, and has made many connections with other enthusiasts around the globe. “I get letters addressed simply to ‘The Cactus Man, Yallingup’. They come from people who have heard about or visited the garden, offering me rare gems from their own gardens.” As well as the beauty of the succulents and cacti, the Mitchells now enjoy a safer environment. “We water once a week with drippers, so we have a prolific growth rate – much faster than in true desert conditions,” says Bill. “With the plants, we’ve been able to create a fire shield around the house of about 30m. The closest natural bush is now 40m away.” His latest project has been to create an artificial sand dune justbeyondthesucculentgarden.It’sthebaseforametalsculpture of a surfer by British-born artist April Pine. Titled Pause, it was purchased after the Mitchells saw it in a local Sculpture by the Sea exhibition. The poised figure holds a surfboard as if at the water’s edge, assessing the waves before taking the plunge. It’s an image that neatly sums up Bill’s life choices these days: gardening or surfing. As he admits, gardening often wins. #

ABOVE left to right Silver-grey cotyledons thrive amongst the rocks. The local climate is perfect for this Mediterranean-inspired partnership of olive trees with lavender. Golden barrel cacti in beds of white stone and gravel mulch are thriving in the hot, dry conditions. OPPOSITE Having a pair of Acapulco chairs on the terrace is essential for taking in the beautiful aspect. Gazing out to sea is the surfer sculpture the Mitchells discovered in a Sculpture by the Sea exhibition on Perth’s Cottesloe Beach. Bill created an artificial sand dune as a base for the sculpture, which stands next to a dragon’s blood tree (Dracaena draco).

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‘ I T H O U G H T A M E X I C A N D E S E RT T H E M E M I G H T L O O K G O O D . I T WA S W H I L E R E S E A R C H I N G F I R E - R E TA R DA N T P L A N T S O N T H E I N T E R N E T T H AT I C A M E AC R O S S S U C C U L E N T S .’ Bill Mitchell, rookie-gardener-turned-aloe-expert

This is an edited extract from Gardens on the Edge by Christine Reid ($59.99, Murdoch Books). Photography by Simon Griffiths.

Standing proud

Lyndall loves the sculptural shape of these rush-leaf bird of paradise plants (Strelitzia juncea) against the white wall of the home. At the base of the vine is Aloe barbadensis and Carex comans ‘Frosted Curls’.

Exotic accent One of the original plants in the garden, this Bougainvillea ‘Scarlett O’Hara’ needed maintenance. “We pruned it and restored its vigour. The pink is a wonderful accent colour in among the lush green.”

How to

WORK A ROUND

This Sydney garden has been elevated in more ways than one, with a mix of circular lawn, modern coastal planting and a wonderful palette of silver and green. STO RY Elizabeth Wilson | P H OTO G R A P H Y Simon Whitbread

Changing conditions One side of the garden is shady, the other is in full sun. “It was a challenge to create symmetry of plant colour, texture and tone,” says Lyndall. Two plants that occur on both sides are Crassula ovata and Senecio serpens. The lawn is Sir Walter buffalo, a hardy evergreen grass.

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Lush carpet

The homeowners wanted Japanese clumping grass (Zoysia tenuifolia) to feature in the garden. Lyndall used it as a groundcover, embedding the stepping stones within. “The Zoysia grows in full-to-medium sun. It sends out runners and grows in soft, wave-like clumps,” says Lyndall. It also features in the white planter on the steps.

Texture & colour This bed of “textured greens with silver highlights” includes silver teaspoons (Kalanchoe bracteata), Rhaphiolepis ‘Oriental Pearl’, lime-green money plant (Crassula ovata), blue chalksticks (Senecio serpens) and coastal rosemary (Westringia fruticosa).

LYNDALL KEATING Co-founder, Garden Society

The project Hilly terrain can pose challenges to garden-making, but it can also be the catalyst for a truly dynamic design. Pre-renovation, this front garden in Sydney’s undulating eastern suburbs consisted of a few trees dotted around a steeply sloping lawn dropping one storey down to the street level. The homeowners’ brief to Lyndall was for a garden that would help to soften the strong geometry of the home’s architecture and existing hard surfaces, including two timber decks. Above all, they were seeking to create a private, lush garden with a central area of lawn. The solution Tonnes of soil were brought in to raise the level of the lawn, which Lyndall designed as a circle roughly 10m in diameter. This resulted in a garden of lovely curves, the perfect counterpoint to the strong lines of the house. The plant mix is all about textured greens with silvery highlights, creating a lush and layered effect. A curved path of light-coloured stepping stones embedded in Japanese clumping grass (Zoysia tenuifolia) serves to connect and visually soften the two timber decks. Designer statement “This is a modern, coastal garden. I love its layers and multiple dimensions. It is wonderful to walk through and beautiful viewed from above.” > AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

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Entry to the garden is now a journey through different layers of green. “We used lower-level plantings around the stairs and more architectural plants as you reach the upper lawn level,” says Lyndall. The garden bed at the top of the retaining wall is ﬁlled with blue chalksticks (Senecio serpens), a hardy, drought-tolerant succulent with silver-blue foliage. Flowing over the wall is Dichondra ‘Silver Falls’. A cardboard palm (Zamia furfuracea) can be seen on the left.

Side lines

The lawn is ringed with 75mm-high Corten steel edging, which helps to define the lawn and separate it from the Zoysia grass and garden, which is planted as a 1.5m-wide ribbon of dense, low-level foliage.

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Olive branch

Cute cluster

Three mature olive trees and the greyed-off timber boardwalk were all part of the original garden. Lyndall drew on those elements by including silvery-grey tones in the new plantings.

A group of pots creates a focal point at the corner of the lower deck. A frangipani in an oversized pot lends height while an eye-catching foxtail fern (Asparagus densiflorus ‘Myersii’) fills the lowest pot.

Stepping out

Big screen

The stepping stones are ‘Endicott’ split stone from Eco Outdoor. They were individually hand-cut and the spacing between them was designed to suit the homeowner’s stride.

A thick hedge of Viburnum odoratissimum screens the garden from the street, ensuring complete privacy. The viburnum tolerates full sun, copes with coastal winds and even reduces the noise from the street.

The success of any garden lies in the gardener’s ability to work with the inherent strengths and idiosyncrasies of the site. Lyndall sheds light on her approach:

✚ Choose plants that will thrive in their locations, bearing in mind that conditions can vary within a garden. In this case, one side of the garden is shady while the other enjoys full sun. ✚ Accentuate key design elements with plants. Here, we selected round-leaved Carissa grandiﬂora ‘Desert Star’ and Crassula ovata because they echo the circular lawn. Other plants are clipped into ball shapes for the same reason. ✚ Work with the existing elements. We played up the silvery-grey tones of the timber deck in the plant palette – lots of greens with silver-foliage highlights.

A Stepping stones among the Japanese clumping grass (Zoysia tenuifolia). B A variously sized group of pots containing (from left) century plant (Agave geminiflora), foxtail fern (Asparagus densiflorus ‘Myersii’) and a yellow frangipani (Plumeria acutifolia) underplanted with Dichondra ‘Silver Falls’. C The perfect perch from which to view the circular garden. D Magnificent Bougainvillea ‘Scarlett O’Hara’ in all its dark-pink glory. LEFT An aerial view of the garden showing the circle of lawn and textural planting. The beautiful crown of a kentia palm (Howea forsteriana) can be seen on the top edge of the circular lawn. #

Garden Society, Narrabeen, NSW; 0413 689 499 or gardensociety.com.au.

H G GARDENING

At this time of year, gardens explode with colour and stop-you-in-your-tracks ﬂoral displays. Helen Young shares her favourite show plants.

ZINNIA

HIPPEASTRUM

If you’re space-poor, these brightly coloured annuals with double, daisy-like blooms punch well above their weight. Their intense red, yellow, orange, purple and pink flowers perfectly reflect their Mexican origins, and provide a showy display into autumn. Feed with a liquid fertiliser fortnightly and dead-head regularly. Use them in pots, in planter boxes and to fill any bare spaces where they can enjoy full sun and plenty of heat. Zinnias are great as cut flowers, too. Start with seed in late spring or plant punnets of seedlings. ‘Gold Medal’ reaches 1.2m, ‘Lilliput’ is a compact 50cm.

Hippeastrums are bulbs with big, bold flowers in red, white and pink. There are double forms and wonderful bicolours among the dozens of varieties available from bulb specialists. They’re simple to grow in warm-tohot climates. Unusually, the huge bulbs are planted with their necks well above soil level. The sturdy flower stems emerge just before the leaves, to bloom in early summer. ‘Hippies’ look best planted as a group, but also grow well in pots, which you can bring inside for a week or so to enjoy the blooms. The leaves die down in autumn and bulbs should be kept dry over winter.

Colour in the garden

SMOKE BUSH (Cotinus)

BUTTERFLY BUSH (Buddleia)

Smoke bush is named for the tall, hazy flower plumes that follow the less obvious flowers. It’s a wonderful display through summer until autumn on a large, deciduous shrub best suited to cooler areas. The leaves also give brilliant autumn colour before falling. The straight species has green leaves, but popular varieties are ‘Purpurea’ with deep burgundy-purple foliage, and ‘Grace’, which has reddish-green leaves and pink clouds of ‘smoke’. They’re tough, fast growing and suited to sun or light shade. Prune by half in winter time.

Butterflies adore the fat flower spikes of buddleias, which come in white, pink, crimson, mauve and purple. The nectar-rich flowers attract birds and have a sweet honey fragrance. These softly spilling shrubs have a cottagey style, but are tough as old boots and can bloom from late spring until autumn’s end. They suit frost-free climates in a sunny, well-drained spot and grow quickly. The taller varieties can reach 3m, but dwarf types such as the ‘Lo and Behold’ and ‘Buzz’ ranges grow 1-1.5m tall and wide. Prune by one-third after each flush of flowers.

IXORA Sometimes called jungle geranium, these small-tomedium shrubs provide masses of hot-coloured flowers in subtropical and tropical climates where the humidity is high. ‘Prince of Orange’ has fiery orange flower heads, but subtler colours are available in coral, peach, pink, gold and yellow. Use them in pots, as a low hedge or to add splashes of summer and autumn colour to your garden. The attractive, leathery leaves form a dense, rounded shrub that is remarkably tough, especially when it has enriched soil, summer water and wind protection. #

✚ Hot colours such as red, yellow and orange are high energy and vibrant. ✚ Tone down hot colours by combining them with cool ones. Use plenty They add excitement and tend to take prominence. Use them in bright of green foliage, especially with red flowers, or add some deep purple sunshine, where pastels can appear washed out. or bronze for a moody combination. ✚ Cool colours such as blue, green, violet and silver have a calming effect ✚ Yellow and blue makes for a fresh and lively mix. and recede into the background. Use them to create a sense of depth. ✚ Bringing in white flowers adds a lightness and brightness, especially ✚ Combining yellow, orange and red will intensify all three but can when combined with green. Use white sparingly or it will end up be overpowering. grabbing all the attention.

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Photography by Brent Wilson/bauersyndication.com.au (ixora), Alamy (smoke bush), Aussie Winners (butterﬂy bush) & bauersyndication.com.au (hippeastrum).

SPLASHES OF SUMMER

CLIPPINGS GA R DEN S

PLANTS

3 OF A KIND

Ceramic

BOOKS

Earthy yet refined, the ‘Undercut’ planter is made from hand-thrown clay, with drainage holes and drip tray. Various sizes, from $105. anchorceramics.com

BEAUTY SP OT V I C TO R I A’ S M U C H - L OV E D M U S K

Text by Elizabeth Wilson. Card illustration by Lisa Koesterke.

Peas on Earth Choosing a Christmas gift for an empathetic soul? Help a family living in extreme poverty by purchasing a CareGift card. The Family Vegie Garden gift card (below), $65, provides seeds, tools and training to help a family grow a vegetable garden. It’s the gift that keeps on giving. caregifts.org.au

FA R M G A R D E N ( A B OV E ) , N E A R DAY L E S F O R D , I S O P E N TO T H E P U B L I C O N N OV E M B E R 2 4 & 2 5 . C H E C K O U T I T S 1 4 E XQ U I S I T E LY R E S TO R E D G A R D E N R O O M S A N D N E W R O S A R I U M . A D U LT E N T RY I S $ 2 5 ( I N C L U D I N G T R A I N S H U T T L E ) A N D YO U C A N B O O K O N L I N E AT O P E N G A R D E N S V I C TO R I A O R G AU

Weird and wonderful See intriguing carnivorous plants – 25,000 of them – in all their glory at The Calyx in the Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney this month. The Plants with Bite display also touches on global efforts to protect them. Book at rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au.

From little things... Melbourne vegie aﬁcionado Fabian Capomolla, aka The Hungry Gardener, has launched a range of heritage seeds – kale, basil, tomato, carrot, fennel, onion, beetroot, broccoli and cabbage – at $6 each. We love the packaging, too! Buy at thehungry gardener.com.au.

The glazing of the ‘Landscape XXL’ planter is beautifully fluid. Made from wheel-thrown stoneware, the 18x22cm design has a drainage hole and saucer; $220. leafandthread.com

p , plant stand/pot in Chalk White makes an elegant statement. It’s 28cm tall and 24cm wide; $129. angusandceleste.com

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1800 685 899 • andico.com.au

Styling by Lynda Gardener. Photograph by Marnie Hawson.

A family Christmas feast that’s fresh, delicious and easy to prep in advance.

A platter of fresh summer fruit – here, peaches, raspberries and blueberries – with luscious whipped cream is always appealing and the perfect accompaniment to Alla Wolf-Tasker’s scrumptious strawberry fritters (see page 153 for recipe). >

LUNCH BY THE LAKE Wow your Christmas crowd with these mouthwatering make-ahead recipes by Alla Wolf-Tasker, renowned chef and proprietor of the Lake House in Daylesford, Victoria. ST Y L I N G Lynda Gardener | P H OTO G R A P H Y Marnie Hawson

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Art comes together in many ways at Lake House in Daylesford, Victoria. Alla Wolf-Tasker (second from left) is one of Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest culinary talents, her husband Allan (standing) is a painter, their daughter Larissa (left) is a media maestro, and Larissaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s husband Robin Wilson is a wine expert. Running a restaurant demands precision and discipline but family time is informal and fun. > AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

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CRÈME FRAÎCHE WITH TROUT ROE Fill a ramekin or other serving container ¾ full with good-quality crème fraiche. Cover with a layer of hand-milked trout roe (available from Yarra Valley Caviar). Serve with fresh crusty bread, such as spelt sourdough. HEIRLOOM TOMATO SALAD Prep: 10 mins. Serves 4-6 as a shared dish.

Wash 1kg very ripe but still ﬁrm heirloom tomatoes (assorted sizes and colours). Slice large tomatoes thinly, arranging on a platter by colour. Slice miniature varieties in half and scatter over. Season with pink salt (such as Mount Zero from WA), black pepper and drizzle with fruity olive oil. >

Summer vegetable & trufﬂed pecorino custard tart with kale

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Crème fraîche with trout roe Heirloom tomato salad

Trout Niçoise

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‘Rather than being an elaborate banquet, this menu has much that relies on a very straightforward treatment of delicious seasonal produce and also on several things that can be made well in advance.’ Alla Wolf-Tasker

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Strawberry fritters

Steamed & fried buns with smoked salmon ﬁlling Elderberry spritz

To drink ELDERBERRY SPRITZ Mix 45ml elderberry vodka per person (Lake House uses its own from berries grown on hedgerows in summer), 90ml Prosecco, ice and a dash of soda water. Garnish with mint and citrus slices or wedges.

With truffled pecorino custard tart Maison Lapalus Chardonnay 2017. With trout Niçoise and tomato salad Joshua Cooper Ray-Monde Vineyard Pinot Noir 2017. With strawberry fritters Redesdale Estate Sparkling Shiraz Rosé 2016. >

H G CHRISTMAS ENTERTAINING

SUMMER VEGETABLE & TRUFFLED PECORINO CUSTARD TART WITH KALE Prep: 1 hr. Cooking: 45 mins. Serves 4.

Pastry 225g plain flour 150g butter ½ tsp salt 25ml chilled water 1 pastured egg Truffled pecorino custard 1 cup (250ml) milk 2 pastured eggs 200g truffled pecorino, diced into small cubes (available from good delis) 1 tsp (5g) quality truffle paste (optional, available online or from good delis) Summer vegetables 12 small heirloom carrots (various colours), peeled 12 medium spears asparagus, trimmed 4-5 small zucchini, cut into ribbons 50ml grapeseed or vegetable oil 120g cold butter, diced Lemon juice, to taste Kale puree 150g shallots, sliced 50g butter 1 bunch kale Kale crisps 1 bunch kale, leaves only, washed and dried well Vegetable oil, for deep-frying 1 To make pastry, place flour, butter and salt in a bowl and rub to a coarse crumb. Add egg and sufficient water to bring mixture together. Form dough into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 30 mins. Roll dough to 5mm then use to line 5x 10-12cm-diameter tart tins. Rest a further 10 mins or refrigerate overnight. Blind bake at 180˚C (160˚C fan) until set but not coloured, about 10-15 mins. 2 To make kale puree, place shallots and butter in a frypan and saute until soft. 152 |

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Meanwhile, pick kale leaves from stalks, then cook in salted boiling water for 4 mins. Drain, squeezing out excess water, then place in blender with shallot mixture. Puree at high speed for 2 mins, scrape down sides, then blend a further 1-2 mins or until mixture is completely smooth. Pass through a fine sieve into a bowl set over ice. Season well, continuing to stir until completely chilled. Refrigerate until needed. 3 To make kale crisps, tear leaves into pieces. Heat oil in a large saucepan to 160˚C and deep-fry for 30 secs (do this in batches). Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towel. Season while still warm. Store at room temperature in an airtight container until needed. 4 To make filling, place milk, eggs and truffle paste in a bowl, whisk to combine, season. Divide pecorino cubes among tarts, then divide milk mixture between tarts. Bake at 180˚C (160˚fan) until cheese has softened and custard is just set, about 15- 20 minutes, just as a guide. Keep warm. (If making ahead, refrigerate baked tarts, then reheat in low oven for about 15-20 mins before proceeding.) 5 Meanwhile, make vegetables. Cook carrots until tender, drain and refresh in iced water. Dry well and trim to 10cm lengths. Cook asparagus until tender, drain and refresh in iced water. Dry well. Heat oil and 1 cube of butter in a frypan over medium heat. Add carrots and sauté 1-2 mins. Add zucchini, cook a further 2 mins, adding a little more butter if needed. Add asparagus, cook a further 2-3 mins, continuing to add butter 1 cube at a time until all used; toss pan occasionally to ensure all vegetables are equally cooked. Add lemon juice and salt and pepper to taste, and continue to baste vegetables with pan juices. Remove vegetables from heat and remove tarts from oven. Roll zucchini ribbons into spirals and divide these, carrots and asparagus between tarts. Spoon pan juices over. 6 Reheat kale puree; adjust seasoning if needed. Spoon some kale puree onto serving plates. Place tarts on plate and finish with 2-3 kale crisps.

TROUT NIÇOISE Prep: 10 mins. Cooking: 30 mins. Serves 4-6 as a shared dish.

2 whole rainbow trout (about 350g each), cleaned, filleted (skin on), pinboned 1-2L vegetable or chicken stock 3 sprigs fresh parsley 2 cloves garlic, peeled, flattened with a knife 4 black peppercorns 6 slices lemon 8 medium chat potatoes, well scrubbed, left whole 300g small green beans, trimmed 4 pastured eggs Handful pitted Kalamata olives, to serve (optional) Salsa verde 1 cup loosely packed flat-leaf parsley leaves 1 cup loosely packed basil leaves 1 clove garlic, chopped 2 tsp capers, drained ½ cup (125ml) extra-virgin olive oil Juice of 1 lemon Mustard vinaigrette 2 tbsp Dijon mustard ⅓ cup (80ml) lemon juice 200ml extra-virgin olive oil 1 In a deep, flameproof baking tray (tray should accommodate fish snugly) pour enough stock to fill tray about half way up the sides. Add parsley, garlic, peppercorns and lemon. Place baking tray on stove and bring stock to the boil. Simmer 5-7 mins, then turn off heat and arrange trout fillets, side-by-side and skin-side down (fish should be completely submerged in stock). Stand 5 mins. 2 Using a broad lifter, carefully lift each fillet onto a large serving platter (side by side, skin side up). Starting at the tail end, remove skin. Drain any liquid from platter; season. Wrap fish and platter completely with plastic wrap and refrigerate. May be made the day before.

3 Place potatoes in a saucepan of cold water and bring to a simmer over mediumhigh heat. Simmer for 12 mins or until a knife easily passes right through. Drain and allow to cool a little. 4 Meanwhile, make vinaigrette. Place mustard and lemon juice in a bowl and whisk to combine. Continuing to whisk, drizzle olive oil in a thin stream, until emulsified. Season to taste. Slice each potato in half, place in a small bowl and toss a generous amount of vinaigrette through. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. May be made the day before. 5 Bring a medium saucepan of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook beans for 6 mins or until cooked through but still firm. (Beans should not ‘squeak’ when bitten into.) Drain, refresh in iced water. When cold, drain, dry and refrigerate in an airtight container. May be made the day before. 6 Bring a small saucepan of salted water to the boil. Gently lower the eggs into the water with a slotted spoon, cook 7 mins, then immediately drain and transfer to a bowl of iced water. Peel when cool. Store whole in an airtight container in the fridge. 7 To make salsa verde, place parsley, basil, garlic and capers in a food processor and process until finely chopped. With the motor running, add oil and 2 tbsp lemon juice and continue to process until well combined and smooth. Pass through a fine sieve. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Decant to an airtight container and refrigerate until needed. May be made several days in advance. 8 To serve, add 1 tbsp of vinaigrette to beans and toss through, adjust seasoning if needed. Toss potatoes through dressing. Slice eggs in quarters. Brush trout fillets with a little vinaigrette. Place beans and potatoes around fish, then arrange eggs and olives on top. Drizzle salsa verde over.

Part cookbook, part coffeetable book, Three Decades On: Lake House and Daylesford makes a great gift for foodies! $69.95; lakehouse. com.au.

STEAMED & FRIED BUNS WITH SMOKED SALMON FILLING Prep: 20 mins. Cooking: 20 mins. Makes 20.

It’s best to use electronic scales to weigh ingredients for this recipe. Buns 3g dried yeast Heaped ⅔ cup (105g) strong white flour 1 tbsp (16g) sugar ½ tbsp (8g) milk powder ½ tsp (2.5g) salt, plus extra for seasoning 0.4g bicarb soda 0.4g baking powder 1 tsp (5g) duck fat or clarified butter, melted Filling 150g smoked salmon 1 tsp lemon juice 1 tbsp (20g) cream cheese 1 Place yeast in a jug with 60ml lukewarm water and mix well. 2 Combine all dry ingredients in bowl of a mixer fitted with a dough hook. Add water and yeast, mix to combine, then stir in melted fat. Continue to mix to a smooth dough, then cover with a clean tea towel and place in a warm place until doubled in size. Knock back dough, turn on to a board, then weigh into 10g pieces and shape into balls. Place on sprayed steamer trays and cover with plastic wrap and allow to prove again. Steam in a steam oven at 100˚C for 8 mins or in a bamboo steamer over rapidly simmering water until firm. Allow to cool. To serve, deep-fry in vegetable oil at 180˚C, basting all sides until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on greaseproof paper. Season with additional salt. Allow to cool a little. 3 Meanwhile, make filling. Place all ingredients in a food processor and puree until smooth. Pipe into buns and serve.

STRAWBERRY FRITTERS Prep: 5 mins + standing. Cooking: 5 mins. Makes 30.

½ cup (75g) plain flour 1 whole pastured egg, plus 8 eggwhites extra, at room temperature 2 tbsp (40ml) beer Caster sugar, for finishing 30 ripe but firm strawberries, hulled Vegetable oil, for frying Whipped cream, to serve Fresh seasonal fruit, such as raspberries, peaches and blueberries, to serve 1 Place flour, whole egg and beer in a bowl and mix to a smooth paste; stand 2 hrs at room temperature. 2 Whisk eggwhites to firm peaks, then fold through beer mixture until combined. 3 Place oil in a small saucepan and heat to 160˚C. Thread 1-2 strawberries onto the end of a long metal skewer. Dip into batter, ensuring fruit is well coated, then fry until golden. Drain on paper towel and roll in caster sugar. Repeat until all strawberries are cooked. Serve with fresh fruit and whipped cream on the side. TIP The hotter the oil, the quicker batter will cook and the firmer strawberries will remain. If you prefer a ‘jammier’ result, maintain oil at low heat to cook fritters more slowly. #

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Truff MAKES 10 PREP TIME 300g NES Chocolat 395g can Condens 1 cup (100 chocolat Fine gold shimmer powder, finely crushed pistachios and NESTLÉ Cocoa, to coat MINI PAVLOVAS 3 egg whites ¾ cup (165g) caster sugar 1 cup (250ml) thickened cream Fresh cherries and chocolate curls, to decorate

1 Combine NESTLÉ PLAISTOWE dark chocolate, NESTLÉ Sweetened Condensed Milk and crumbs in a large bowl. Refrigerate 1 hour or until firm. 2 Preheat oven to 120°C (100°C fan-forced). Grease a large oven tray. Draw a 25cm circle on a sheet of baking paper. Turn, pencil-side down, on tray. 3 MINI PAVLOVAS Beat egg whites in a bowl with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add the caster sugar, beating until sugar is dissolved, about 10 minutes. 4 Transfer meringue mixture to large piping bag with 1cm nozzle. Pipe 10 mini pavlovas around the inside of the circle. Make an indent in the top of each with the back of a spoon. Bake 50 minutes – 1 hour or until dry to touch. Cool in oven with door ajar. 5 Roll 2 teaspoonfuls of trufle mixture into balls. Sprinkle one-third of the trufles with crumbled gold shimmer powder. Roll one-third in nuts and remaining in sifted NESTLÉ Cocoa. Place on a tray; refrigerate until firm. 6 Transfer mini pavlova wreath to serving plate. Decorate with fresh cream, trufles, cherries, chocolate curls and baby mint leaves, if desired.

Truffles can be kept in an airtight container for up to 4 weeks and can be a thoughtful home-made gift for Christmas.

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NESTLÉ Sweetened Condensed Milk is made from fresh Australian milk and over 100 years of know-how, helping to make your baking a sweet success.

CHRISTMAS ENTERTAINING H G

Lay of

THE LAND

Inspired by the earthy hues of the Australian outback, these tabletop treasures will shine at Christmas and beyond.

Stylist’s assistants: Nonci Nyoni & Michele Mandalinic.

ST Y L I N G Sarah Maloney | P H OTO G R A P H Y Kristina Soljo

‘Gerti’ teak bench with leather seat, $990, and ‘Juno’ rattan dining chair, $249, both MRD Home. ‘Vintage’ linen throw, $189, Aura Home. Snow Berry garland (used as wreath), $65, My Christmas. For similar string lights, try Target. ORNAMENTS from left For similar snowflake (on flower arrangement), try Heaven in Earth. By Wirth ‘Hang On’ brass pinecone ornament, $25 (left), and holly ornament, $27 (top), both Nordic Rooms. ‘Vintage’ glass ornaments, $40/nine assorted, My Christmas. Beaded snowflake ‘B’ (on chair), $6, Ivory House. Turn the page for table details. >

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

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Handcrafted designs with unusual textures and forms mix beautifully with Australian natives. Add sparkling glass and metallic hints and you have a special occasion.

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FROM PREVIOUS PAGE on table from left Zafferano ‘Ultralight’ red-wine glass, $176/pair, Casa e Cucina. ‘Tillie’ glass vase, $70, Country Road. Stoneware balloon vase, $285, Young Vessels+Objects. ‘Carrie’ stoneware teapot, $40, French Bazaar. ‘Lumberjack’ ash candlestick, $65, Curious Grace. For similar cake stand, try Davis & Waddell. Nordstjerne paper ornaments, $17 each, and velvet bauble, $27, Nordic Rooms. ‘Wrap’ ceramic cup, $39, Clay Canoe. Ceramic bowl, $44, Hart Studios. ‘Piama’ linen napkin, $13, Papaya. ‘Speckle’ stoneware dinner plates, $130/12-piece set, Ecology. Snow Berry garland (as before). THIS PAGE on table from left Ferm Living ‘Ripple’ blown-glass Champagne saucer, $79/pair, Designstuff. Stoneware kitchen tray, $80, Curious Grace. Porto ‘Peacock Fleet’ glass decanter, $150, CWM Homewares. Roshi Ceramics drop vase, $79, Curious Grace. Small bowl in Peach, $30, Rhiannon Gill Ceramics. Stoneware bowl, $48, and dinner plates, $60 each, Young Vessels+Objects. Ceramic bottle, $120, Clay Canoe. ‘Vintage’ glass ornament, $40/nine assorted, My Christmas. ‘Lain’ glass vase, $70, Country Road. ‘Cadiz’ stainless-steel cutlery, $495/56-piece set, Noritake. Nordstjerne tassel ornament, $17, Nordic Rooms. ‘Pebble’ resin vase, $150, Dinosaur Designs. ‘Veneziano’ glass carafe, $130, Casa e Cucina. ‘Sixties’ glass tumbler, $144/six, Noritake. ‘Sunset Kisses’ candles, $90 and $70, The Escape Co. ‘Malmo’ ceramic bowl, $95, Papaya. ‘Crystal Palace’ blown-glass ornaments (silver), $399/35 assorted shapes, and ‘Georgetown’ painted-glass ornament, $399/35 assorted shapes, Balsam Hill. ‘Linea’ terracotta vase, $90, Ecology. ‘Vintage’ glass ornament, $40/nine assorted, My Christmas. House Doctor ‘Low Forms’ glass vase, $45, Telegram Co. ‘Vintage’ linen throw in Clay, $189, Aura Home. ‘Lovely’ linen tablecloth in White (145x300cm), $306, Casa e Cucina. ON WALL Nkuku ‘Talini’ metal star ornament, $40, Telegram Co. Lime Wash paint in Plaster of Paris and Putty, both $50/L, Porter’s Paints. >

CLOCKWISE from left ‘Oiva’ rubberwood serving platter, $235, Marimekko. Porcelain trinket bowl in Pale Blush, $30, Hart Studios. ‘Vintage’ glass ornament, $40/nine assorted, My Christmas. ‘Dew’ resin salad servers, $125/pair, Dinosaur Designs. Zafferano ‘Juta’ stoneware platter, $95, Casa e Cucina. ‘Vintage’ glass ornament, $40/nine assorted, My Christmas. Walnut habotai silk ribbon, from about $16/m, Feathers & Stone. Personalised acrylic gift tag, $5 each, Design By Was. ‘Misty’ linen napkin, $93/set of four, Casa e Cucina. ‘Tapas’ stoneware side plate, $55/set of four, Country Road. Stoneware dinner plate in Desert, $40, Rhiannon Gill Ceramics. ‘Sukat Makkaralla’ glass wineglasses, $59 each, Marimekko. Gift wrapped in ‘Vintage’ linen napkin, $60/set of four, Aura Home. Blush habotai silk ribbon, from about $16/m, Feathers & Stone. Personalised acrylic gift tag (as before). White Basics ‘Edge Coupe’ 23cm plate, $8, Maxwell & Williams. Mottled Yellow stoneware dinner plate, $60, Young Vessels+Objects. Shallow stoneware dish in Satin White, $15, Rhiannon Gill Ceramics. ‘Nolan’ stainless-steel cutlery in Gold, $179/16-piece set, Country Road. Mini stoneware dish in Pastel Watercolour, $14, Rhiannon Gill Ceramics. ‘Vintage’ glass ornament, $40/nine assorted, My Christmas. Speckled stoneware dish, $30, Young Vessels+Objects. Stoneware side plate in Peach, $35, Rhiannon Gill Ceramics. Caramel habotai silk ribbon, from about $13/m, Feathers & Stone. Personalised acrylic gift tag (as before). ‘Basix’ linen napkin, $22, Hale Mercantile Co. White Basics ‘Edge Coupe’ 27.5cm plate, $10, Maxwell & Williams. ‘Lovely’ linen tablecloth in White (145x300cm), $306, Casa e Cucina. >

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Currency conversions correct at time of printing.

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Pure linen and silk ribbons in complementary shades are a delightful pairing.

Strike a balance between delicate glassware and textured ceramics... tried and true tablemates.

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Currency conversions correct at time of printing. For Where to Buy, see page 212.

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CLOCKWISE from top ‘Italian Ivory’ cutlery, $69/five-piece place setting, Maison et Jardin. Caramel silk ribbon, from about $13/m, Feathers & Stone. ‘Basix’ linen napkin, $22, Hale Mercantile Co. ‘Meredith’ ceramic dinner plate, $15, Ecology. ‘Vintage’ glass ornaments, $40/nine assorted, My Christmas. Normann Copenhagen liqueur glass, $65/pair, Curious Grace. Stoneware dinner plate in Satin White/Yellow Ochre, $40, Rhiannon Gill Ceramics. ‘Stone’ resin platter, $310, Dinosaur Designs. Ferm Living ‘Fein’ brass salad servers, $99/pair, Designstuff. Glass wine glasses, $14 each, French Bazaar. Ferm Living ‘Fein’ brass spoon, $19, Designstuff. Porcelain ring dish in Rose Pink, $28, Hart Studios. Stoneware small plate in Pastel Watercolour, $25, Rhiannon Gill Ceramics. Porcelain dinner plate in Blush Pink, $55, Hart Studios. ‘Vintage’ linen throw in Clay, $189, Aura Home. ‘Lovely’ linen tablecloth in White (145x300cm), $306, Casa e Cucina. OPPOSITE, ON TABLE from left Christmas tree candle, $6, Ivory House. ‘Atlanta Gold’ stainless-steel cutlery, $11/ piece, Porto. Ferm Living ‘Ripple’ glass Champagne saucer, $79/pair, Designstuff. ‘Ball’ resin bowl, $110, Dinosaur Designs. ‘Basix’ linen napkin, $22, Hale Mercantile Co. ‘Kali’ stoneware side plate, $59/set of four, Aura Home. Speckle stoneware platter in Peach Dream, $45, Rhiannon Gill Ceramics. Zafferano ‘Ultralight’ sparkling-wine glass, $163/pair, Casa e Cucina. Lindform ‘Anna’ porcelain vase in Stripes, $58, and ‘Bari’ porcelain vase in White Sprinkles, $49, Funkis Swedish Forms. ‘Gold’ aluminium candlestick, $25/three assorted, French Bazaar. Porcelain condiment dish, $30, Hart Studios. Roshi Ceramics ‘Tokai’ ceramic vase, $55, Curious Grace. ‘Lovely’ linen tablecloth (as before). ON WALL Beaded snowflake garland, $30/1.5m, Ivory House. #

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Control your food’s freshness with DynamicAir Technology that regulates the interior temperature so it’s even throughout.

LCD CONTROLS Adjust your fridge settings and storage conditions in just one swipe with advanced touch controls that respond to even the lightest touch.

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WHY YOU NEED IT SAVE YOUR BACK – AND YO U R S PA C E – W I T H A BOTTOM-MOUNT F R I D G E F R E E Z E R T H AT I N T E G R AT E S S E A M L E S S LY INTO YOUR KITCHEN.

HIDDEN BENEFITS

THE BEST FREEZER TECHNOLOGY IS BEHIND STYLISH DOORS

Reversible doors allow you to change the way they open to optimise your space, while soft-closing hinges make for gentle, precise closing every time. CONVENIENCE AND FLEXIBILITY O F I N T E G R AT I O N FOR A SEAMLESS STYLISH LOOK.

Keep your kitchen space clean and chic with the integrated bottom freezer, so cleverly built into the design you wouldn’t even know it existed.

Have precise control over your settings with responsive LCD touch controls that can be adjusted with just a simple, light touch.

AEG 276L BOTTOM MOUNT I N T E G R AT E D FRIDGE SCN81800CO (two shown side-by-side)

$3299

each

ON TAP

ICE IN AN INSTANT Enjoy a touch of luxury with ice and filtered water available on demand – and at the press of a button – with the in-built ice and water dispenser.

MIELE I N T E G R AT E D ALL FRIDGE K1801VI

$ 14 , 599 MIELE I N T E G R AT E D ALL FREEZER F1471VI

$12,599

WHY YOU NEED IT Create the perfect environment for all your food with moisture-regulated drawers that keep produce fresher than the day it went in. W I T H T H E S E A M L E S S LY I N T E G R AT E D F R I D G E AND FREEZER, YOUR UNIT WILL BE A STYLISH CENTREPIECE I N T H E K I TC H E N T H AT YOU’LL BE PROUD TO D I S P L AY. Optimise food freshness with the DynaCool system, which distributes air evenly throughout the fridge. KEEP YOUR DRINKS CHILLED AND YOUR GUESTS HAPPY WITH T H E I N T E G R AT E D ICE-MAKER AND W AT E R D I S P E N S E R . Soft halogen lights illuminate the interiors to create the perfect ambience.

LUXURY INTEGRATED STYLE THE GOLD STANDARD IN REFRIGERATION MASTERCOOL MASTERFRESH Keep your produce crisp and fresh with the MasterCool drawers that store food in individual, humidity-controlled micro-climates that are ideal for all types of food.

MAXIMUM FLEXIBILITY WITH DROP AND LOCK COMPARTMENTS Never be stuck for storage space again with the clever drop-andlock door compartments that are height adjustable for maximum flexibility – so you can always fit more wine.

Show your food in its best light with BrilliantLight halogens that illuminate the area in stylish soft light.

PULL OUT DRAWERS Pull the drawers out to full depth for easy filling and visibility of the contents of your fridge and freezer.

TAKE FRESHNESS TO THE NEXT LEVEL WITH DYNACOOL Optimal food and wine storage isn’t just about temperature, it’s about air moisture, too. With the smart dynamic cooling system, an integrated ventilator creates the perfect distribution of air, so food is fresh no matter where it sits in your fridge.

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S H O P AT YO U R LO C A L S TO R E , O N L I N E AT H N . C O M . A U O R C A L L 1 3 0 0 4 6 4 2 7 8

Harvey Norman® stores are operated by independent franchisees. Ofers end 26/12/2018. Accessories shown are not included.

H G LIVING TICKLED PINK

Drinks

POP CULTURE For this year’s Christmas toast, reacquaint yourself with the bubbly personality of French rosé Champagne, writes Toni Paterson.

to have come from a brief maceration of red grapes, resulting in a pink-hued juice. There is also a reference to elderberries being used as a colorant. ‘Pink’ or ‘rose’ Champagne was also being sold in London in the early 19th century, though the references are scant, and once again it seems to have been a niche product for the wealthy. Veuve Clicquot is thought to have been the first Champagne house to produce a modern rosé Champagne, which involves the addition of red wine, back in 1818. Today, there is an excellent range available in Australia, varying in style from delicate, pale examples to deeply coloured, assertive wines. I’m a firm believer that the right food can bring out the best in Champagne. Dishes with a distinct umami element, such as a savoury pastry made with ham, parmesan and mushroom, will draw out the flavours in the most magnificent way. #

Try these NV DEUTZ ROSÉ, $110 Pale pink, stylish and reﬁned, with a ﬁne bead, gentle savouriness

and excellent palate tension. NV CHARLES HEIDSIECK ROSÉ RÉSERVE, $160 A gloriously rich and expressive Champagne, with great style and depth. NV RUINART ROSÉ, $120 Incredibly fresh and racy, with impressive palate weight, harmony and intensity. NV HENRI ABELÉ BRUT ROSÉ, $95 This is a highly complex Champagne, with nuances of savoury pastry, cream and meringue. Outstanding length and ﬁnesse. PIPER-HEIDSIECK ROSÉ SAUVAGE, $75 A powerful rosé Champagne with a deep pink colour and assertive nature. Its weighty mid-palate and gentle tannins make it fabulous with food.

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Champagne tastes

Champagne is one of the world’s most prestigious and alluring wines. It’s also expensive, so serving it correctly is important if you want to enjoy Champagne at its best. I like to serve it very cold – straight from the fridge or an ice bucket – because it tends to warm up quickly otherwise. There are ﬁve to seven pours per bottle. If serving it as an aperitif, ensure everyone gets at least one glass, allowing a bit extra for a top-up. I like to have a chilled extra bottle or two in reserve in case a bottle proves to be corked (when it has picked up an undesirable taint from the cork). Flutes are elegant to drink from, but if they’re too narrow you won’t be able to fully appreciate the aroma, so look out for designs with a rounded bowl. Riedel recently launched the Vinum Champagne wineglass (the ﬂutes shown above, far left and top), featuring a relatively wide-rim diameter that allows the aromas of the Champagne to be fully expressed.

Styling by Sophie Wilson. Photograph by Will Horner.

“C

hampagne – the word alone brings into everybody’s mind festivities, celebrations and happiness.” Well, it seems nothing much has changed since these words were written in Britain’s Guardian newspaper more than 60 years ago. Champagne has a natural affinity with the festive season. This year, I recommend seeking out one of the many excellent rosé Champagnes, which are not only fashionable but also delicious, complex and satisfying. Rosé Champagne has had a long history. Records at the Ruinart Champagne house show that its first batch was shipped in 1764. Only small volumes were produced, despatched to wealthy European aristocrats. This early version was described as ‘oeil de perdrix’ (eye of the partridge) in reference to its pale pink colour and coppery sheen, which was likened to the eye of the bird. This colour was thought

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E S S E N C E

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H G LIVING 1

Beauty

SETS APPEAL

Indulgent skincare and fragrance gift sets bring boxfuls of Christmas joy with a minimum of fuss for the buyer, writes Elisabeth King.

Jo Malone London Christmas Cracker ($78) Renowned for its black-ribboned boxes, Jo Malone is top of mind for year-round gifting. But the spirit of celebration shifts up several gears at Christmas with the brand’s limited editions. At centrestage is the ever-popular Christmas cracker, filled with three miniatures: cologne, hand and body wash, and body cream. Burt’s Bees Bounty Trio ($15) Burt’s Bees’ bestselling lip balms are crowd-pleasers across the age spectrum. This nourishing threesome – in Honey, Beeswax and Coconut & Pear – will add a touch of shine and hydrate lips throughout the day. Add in a collector’sedition box that doubles as a tree ornament and it’s excellent value. MOR Perfumed Pomegranate ($30) With more and more of us looking for small pleasures as an escape from the pressures of modern living, sales of bath and body products are booming. MOR has long been a standout choice for Australian-made bodycare and fragrance, and this year’s Keepsake collection covers all bases for Christmas giving, from baubles under $10 to deluxe indulgences. Who wouldn’t love this fruity yet sophisticated trio of hand cream, soap and perfume oil for her travel bag or gym kit?

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Vera Wang Princess set ($35) Buying for Gen Z and Millennials can be tricky. Celebrity fragrances come and go, but Vera Wang’s fresh, flirty Princess has been a hit with younger women for over a decade. This duo of 30ml fragrance in a heart-shaped bottle and 75ml scented body lotion is a bargain buy that’s sure to score you brownie points. Exclusive to Priceline. Medik8 Daylight Radiance ($49) Skincare has become a popular stocking filler. For one thing, it’s a smart way to let the recipient trial something new. Medik8 is a British professional skincare range that has built up a strong fan base in Australia. This duo of C-Tetra Lipid Vitamin C antioxidant serum and Advanced Day Total Protect moisturiser is aimed at fast-tracking brighter, more even-toned skin. A thoughtful present for new mums or women aged 30-plus who need a pickup at the end of a busy year. L’Occitane Shea Delightful Tea Shower Foam ($39) Giving back is a major theme of L’Occitane’s festive treats. The #NotJustAGift hashtag underlines the brand’s commitment to natural ingredients from Provence, the empowerment of Australian women through the Dress for Success campaign, and a Fair Trade agreement for its shea butter sources in Burkina Faso – all reasons to feel good about giving this scented foam in vibrant yellow packaging created by French design house Castelbajac Paris. It leaves skin feeling super-soft. #

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

4 6

Styling by Sophie Wilson. Photograph by Will Horner. For Where to Buy, see page 212.

eauty treats are always winners at Christmas time. Gorgeous boxed sets of pampering products and scents are everywhere – many of them reasonably priced – and offer the perfect way to spice up your gift list. Don’t forget to reward yourself as well!

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Minimalism reigns supreme with the exclusive LG SIGNATURE line. Design your home around your distinguished lifestyle with LG SIGNATURE refrigerators that stand out by blending into almost any interior space. Make your space a reflection of your style with LG SIGNATURE.

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H G LIVING GO FOR THE BURN

If you’re eating more kilojoules than usual, ﬁnd ways to burn them up, says exercise physiologist Beth Sheehan, spokesperson for Exercise & Sports Science Australia. Look for opportunities to move more, she says. “Use the stairs, walk up escalators and park the car further away. Incorporate physical activities into social occasions. Join the kids for bike rides and ball games, or jump on the trampoline.”

Health

SEASON’S EATINGS

hristmas is a tough time for keeping the kilos off, not because of the day itself but rather the social marathon that starts in November and extends into the New Year. “You could have up to 10 parties on the calendar, and that means a lot of treat foods,” says Melbourne-based dietitian Melanie McGrice. We also cling to the old idea that Christmas is a time for feasting. That was fine a few generations ago when we had less food, but high-kilojoule food is now so abundant that we’re feasting all year round. On average, Australians gain between 800g and 1.5kg over Christmas, according to Nutrition Australia, and research suggests this weight often stays put. But with the right mindset and forward planning, you can kick off 2019 at your pre-Christmas weight, says McGrice. Here’s how… ‘Suggest active get-togethers over the Be realistic about future holidays. Combine a social catch-up weight loss “One reason people with a picnic and a walk or swim.’ put on weight is [having] the Beth Sheehan, Exercise & Sports Science Australia attitude that it’s okay to indulge over Christmas because they’ll lose it in the new year, but for some people this weight is harder to take off,” says McGrice.

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Have a plan Decide on a couple of occasions for enjoying treat food, but stick to healthy eating the rest of the time. If you eat a big lunch, keep your dinner light. Eat… just enough. You might even enjoy Christmas food more if you eat less of it. “Some people eat to the point of discomfort,” says McGrice, “but where’s the enjoyment in that?” Lend a hand Be the guest who offers to pass the food around or to help out in the kitchen. As McGrice points out, you are less likely to be picking at food if you’re busy. Take control If you’re invited to a party or barbecue, take a healthy dish to share – perhaps a great salad. When it comes to drinks, try to limit your intake of alcohol as it’s high in kilojoules. Otherwise, look for lowerkilojoule options such as wine or vodka spritzers with soda water. “People are becoming more conscious of staying on track with healthier food through the holiday season,” says McGrice. If you’re eating out more often than usual, check restaurant menus ahead of time to make sure they include leaner options such as fresh seafood, salads, stir-fries or barbecued meat. #

Illustration by Domenic Bahmann.

You can avoid the kilo creep during the party season with a few healthy tactics, writes Paula Goodyer.

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Minimalism reigns supreme with the exclusive LG SIGNATURE line. Design your home around your distinguished lifestyle with LG SIGNATURE washing machines that stand out by blending into almost any interior space. Make your space a reflection of your style with LG SIGNATURE.

Find your LG SIGNATURE washing machine at www.LGSIGNATURE.com TWINwashÂŽ Mini is cold wash only to take care of small and specialty loads.

3 OF MULTI-GOLD SHIRAZ

WORTH

SAVE $142 on 12 smooth, rich reds plus FREE DELIVERY! DELIVERY! Australian House & Garden readers are personally invited to enjoy a very special offer, thanks to our good friends at Laithwaite’s Wine People, just in time for the festive season. Enjoy a superb collection of 12 rich reds plus 3 FREE bottles of bestselling FOUR-time Goldwinning Zonte’s Footstep ‘Lake Doctor’ Shiraz (worth $75), all for just $119.99. Plus FREE DELIVERY! Indulge in a lavish McLaren Vale Shiraz from Richard Hamilton, an estate noted for its “quality, style and consistency” (Halliday) and a big Barossa Shiraz that impresses with its intensity. Sip on plush and velvety Eden Valley Merlot,and savour Andrew ‘Big Mac’ McPherson’s juicy, ripe Full Fifteen ‘Big Red’. He’s managed to shoehorn oodles of flavour into a standard size bottle! There’s an inky-rich and deliciously complex Fleurieu Cabernet Sauvignon (ideal for the Christmas table) and last, a dazzling Gold-medal Shiraz from Jimmy Watson Trophy-winning John Quarisa. Plus 3 FREE bottles of bestselling Zonte’s Footstep ‘Lake Doctor’ Shiraz and FREE DELIVERY – all for $119.99! These rich reds are perfect for festive entertaining, and exceptional quality for the price. Don’t miss this!

YOUR ORDER INCLUDES: 12 WINES FOR ONLY $119.99 Choose a mixed, all-red or all-whites case 3 FREE BOTTLES of bestselling ‘Lake Doctor’ Shiraz from Zonte’s Footstep worth $75 FREE DELIVERY That’s $336.99 of wines delivered to your door for ONLY $119.99.

Order now on 1300 683 446 quoting ‘4223002’ (Lines open Mon-Fri 7am-7pm, Sat 9am-12.30pm AEDT)

or visit www.winepeople.com.au/4223002 Terms and conditions: Offer available while stocks last. Valid for new customers only. Three bottles of Zonte’s Footstep Lake Doctor Shiraz per household. Order acceptance and the contract between you and us will only be formed on the dispatch to you of the product(s) ordered. Orders not accepted (nor will wine be delivered to) persons under the age of 18 years. Most orders are fulfilled within a week but please allow a few extra days if you live in a remote area. We do not deliver to parcel lockers, and unfortunately due to rising delivery costs and current liquor laws are unable to deliver to the Northern Territory. If a wine becomes unavailable, a similar wine of equal or greater value will be supplied. If you are unhappy with the substitute we’ll refund you. The Wine Handbook will only be sent to new customers. $142 saving is off normal retail prices of the reds case only as provided by the wineries at time of printing. All our wines are covered by our guarantee – if you don’t like a wine for any reason Wine People will refund you and arrange to collect the wine. Please see our full Terms and Conditions of Sale and Privacy Policy available here: www.winepeople.com.au/terms or call us on 1300 762 832. Wine People Pty Ltd (licence No. 514 00724, LIQP770016550) 200 Chalk Hill Rd McLaren Vale SA 5171.

brought to you by

AUDIO DYNAMITE A soundbar enhances the output of the latest-generation televisions, which are generally too slim to have speakers with audio to equal the screen’s visual quality. Cue the entry of slim, discreet soundbars such as Samsung’s N950 plug-and-play audio system, delivering atmospheric sound to your living room. Turn the page to read more about what’s new in home entertainment. >

Home entertainment equipment is smarter and sleeker than ever before.

H G ADVICE

Special report

STATE OF PLAY

Home-entertainment equipment has changed out of sight in recent years. From super-crisp images to voice-controlled audio, here’s what’s new and exciting today, writes Sarah Pickette.

echnology has reached a tipping point in our living rooms: digital streaming has opened the floodgates so there are virtually limitless options for what we can watch and listen to, as well as how and when. “Just as our viewing options are broader than ever, our televisions are bigger, better and smarter,” says Sean Dixon, director of Harvey Norman in Preston, Victoria. “Not so long ago, the 55-inch was considered a big TV, but we’ve seen a spike in sales of 75-inch models recently and that’s because of the buzz around 4K viewing.” Ultra High Definition or 4K (a reference to the horizontal display resolution of approximately 4000 pixels) screens play digital images of such clarity that you no longer need to sit a certain distance back from them to take in the picture. They’ve also driven an overwhelming improvement in colour richness, black purity, brightness, contrast and how much detail you can see in any given shot. And as more manufacturers roll out this technology,

4K screens are coming down in price (from about $600 for an entry model to $4000$6000 for a leading brand). Technology forges the way for content and there’s no shortage of exciting 4K news, with Foxtel just launching its own 4K channel, allowing sports lovers to see their games in crystal-clear definition. Apple, Netflix, Stan and Amazon Prime all have 4K offerings, and you can also use a 4K screen to its potential via a Blu-ray player and compatible games consoles. “There are two main categories of 4K TVs to consider today,” says John Milonas, televisions buyer for The Good Guys. “OLED TVs give you the best blacks and arguably the best picture, while QLED TVs have become the best LED LCD TV you can buy.” If you think 4K is impressive, wait until you lay your eyes on an 8K screen, says Hass Mahdi, head of Samsung Electronics Australia’s audio-visual division. “Earlier this year, Samsung unveiled the world’s first QLED TV with 8K technology. TV sizes are growing, so we’re dedicated to

For Where to Buy, see page 212.

developing ways to dramatically improve the viewing experience and 8K results in an incredible picture quality.” Dixon likens 8K viewing to “watching 3D TV without the glasses”, but says it will be a few years before this prototype technology hits the market in Australia. What’s already here is artificial intelligence and voice activation, says Tony Brown, marketing manager for home entertainment at LG Electronics Australia. “Our new OLED AI ThinQ TVs listen when you press a button on the remote, allowing you to activate all sorts of functions with your voice. This kind of technology is all about making things easier for people.” As well as accessing your usual smart TV functionality, you can ask it what the weather will be like in Perth, to show photos from your family holiday, pull up a map or display events synced from your phone’s calendar. Now we’re consuming more content on personalised screens, the TV has assumed the role of ‘social screen’, says Brown. “It’s where we gather to watch a game or The Bachelor, but you also have your phone or tablet, where you can personalise what you watch and where.” Bigger screens have kept product designers busy developing new ways to make them a good aesthetic fit for our homes. Samsung’s Clear Connection Cable ensures your TV’s cabling virtually disappears into the wall; set the screen to Ambient Mode and it has the potential to do the same. Also from Samsung comes The Frame, a TV designed to look like a piece of art when not in use, while the LG Signature Wallpaper, at a mere 4mm thick, is so thin it sits almost flush to the wall.

Thin TVs perform at their best when accompanied by soundbars – and they’ve become neat and slimline themselves, says Dixon. Soundbars, and home-audio gear in general, are now blessedly simple to install. “Audio set-up used to be daunting and you’d have to get someone in to cable your home; now, with wireless technology, all you need is connectivity and a powerpoint.” Smart speakers such as Google Home, Amazon Echo, LG’s ThinQ and Apple’s HomePod will play your music via voice command. Meanwhile, products such as the Bose Sound Speaker 500 and Sonos One are being marketed as smart speakers for music lovers, for their rich sound and voice-control functionality. Bang & Olufsen recently launched the innovative Beosound Edge; its circular shape allows it to be placed on the floor as a centrepiece of a room, against a piece of furniture or on the wall. Proximity sensors detect when people are near the speaker, discreetly illuminating the touch interface. To adjust the sound, you roll the Beosound Edge forwards and backwards to increase and decrease the volume. It’s a clever, great-looking speaker – so long as you’re good for the $5000 outlay. “Televisions or audio, the future is fast approaching,” says Dixon, “and whilevoice control is all very well, it’s just the tip of the iceberg. Smart home-entertainment equipment will really come into its own when it’s intuitive enough to know that you like to listen to a particular podcast while you’re cooking or to watch a certain news program at the same time eachnight and switches it on for you. Then it will # truly be smart.”

SOUND ADVICE Investing in a good audio system? James Johnson-Flint, CEO of Cambridge Audio, has these tips:

✚ “The beauty of a home-audio system is that you can tailor it to your precise needs. If you’re a keen user of a streaming service such as Spotify, TIDAL or Apple Music, or perhaps have an archive of music files on a hard drive, including a network player in your set-up is a must. ✚ If you’re into vinyl, you will want a record player or turntable. You will also need a good-quality amplifier; this is the part of an audio system that takes on the job of powering the music and is where you can control the volume. It’s the muscle of your system. As for your speakers, you don’t need a massive pair to make your music sound amazing.”

2 1

Opposite The Frame 55-inch 4K UHD television, $2699, Samsung. This page 1 Amazon Ech’ (2nd Generation) smart speaker in Sandstone, $149, Beacon Lighting. 2 Google Home Mini smart speaker, $74, Harvey Norman. 3 HomePod smart speaker in White, $499, Apple. 4 Hay Sonos One speaker, $349, Sonos. 5 Boom 3 portable speaker, $200, Ultimate Ears. 6 BeoPlay A1 speaker, $379, Bang & Olufsen. 7 55-inch C8 OLED AI ThinQ television, $3899, LG.

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |

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H G ADVICE

Pets

CLOSE ENCOUNTERS Teaching children how to interact comfortably with dogs an comes with life-long rewards, writes Roger Crosthwai

or some kids, pets are integral to their lives – members of the family, familiar and easy to relate to. Having a dog lick their hand or a cat sit on their lap and purr comes naturally to kids when they’re raised with pets in the home. And the ease that comes with having pets themselves translates to ease with other people’s animals: dogs they encounter in the street or cats who step up for a cuddle when they visit someone else’s home. And as noted by mental-health professionals for decades, a little inter-species schmoozing is a great way to de-stress. But what if, instead of joy and delight, a child’s reaction to a dog or cat coming close to them is one of fear and panic? Some kids may never have recovered from a first meeting with a rambunctious dog that knocked them over in an attempt to play, or a cat that lashed out and scratched them when they accidentally frightened it. The animal might not have meant any harm, but the child doesn’t know that, and uncomfortable early interactions with animals can lead to a lifetime of mistrust and unease around them. Children don’t automatically know how to relate to animals. They need to be taught. And even when they know what to do – and, more importantly, what not to do – when interacting with a new cat or dog in the family home, they still need to recognise that every dog or cat they encounter isn’t necessarily going to react in the same way.

‘ THE DOG WAS CREATED ESPECIALLY FOR CHILDREN. HE IS THE GOD OF FROLIC.’ Henry Ward Beecher, social reformer (1813-1887)

So, how do you familiarise your kids with animals, especially if you don’t have pets yourself? Introducing them to the pets of friends and relatives is a great place to start, just as long as the animals they’re going to be meeting are calm and gentle, and familiar with children and strangers in general. A bit of supervised patting and playing will help toddlers get used to the idea of interacting happily with animals, but that’s just the start. The RSPCA offers great opportunities to familiarise kids with animals. For instance, the organisation’s Queensland headquarters in Brisbane offers tours for kids to meet and have physical contact with various animals. The Victorian branch has holiday programs for kids aged five and over, where they can interact with all sorts of animals at the Burwood East Education Centre. And in NSW, courses in dog safety and responsible pet ownership can be accessed in or out of schools, with holiday programs for kids run at the NSW RSPCA’s numerous locations. Check with the RSPCA in your state to see what’s appropriate and available, so your kids can grow up experiencing the fun of frolicking – without the fear. #

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e rf au.

Designed for hours of furry fun, this cross design is made from recycled paper. Cat scratcher wedge in Brown/Blue, $10, Kmart; kmart.com.au.

This ceramic bowl with cream coloured interior has a lid that makes it easy to save food for later. ‘Granny’ bowl, $69, Lavish Tails; lavishtails.com.au.

SHOP THE LOOK

BASIN $149 PEDESTAL $9842

DISCOVER THE CLASSIC STYLE OF MAESTRO

TOILET $183

Create your dream bathroom for a stunning price with MAESTRO one of the unique and affordable styles from Mondella.

BASIN MIXER $129

SHOWER HEAD $9968

SHOWER MIXER $59

H G ADVICE

Green house

EARTHLY DELIGHTS

Here’s a line-up that gets to the heart of thoughtful giving... Ten planet-friendly gifts for everyone on your list, writes Sarah Pickette. 8

Good gifts 9

7 1 5

1 Made from vegetable matter, including bamboo powder and corn starch, this biodegradable cutlery is heat-resistant to 1 . three-piece cutlery set in Navy, $9, Flora & Fauna; floraandfauna.com.au. 2 Heavy-duty truck-tyre inner tubes have been repurposed and given beautif new life in these planters. Recycled-rubber 50cm planter with handles, $60, Upcycle Studio; upcyclestudio.com.au. 3 This made-in-Brisbane gift will give its recipient a real buzz and help nurture our beleaguered bee population in the process. Biome recycled timber and bamboo bee house, $65, Biome; biome. com.au. 4 Encourage someone you adore to grow at least some of their own food and cut down on packaging and food miles in the process. Microgreens windowsill grow kit, $50, Urban Greens; urbangreens.com.au. 5 This certified organic hand and body wash contains essential oils and exfoliates courtesy of jojoba wax – no microbeads here. VM Body & Home Lemon & Eucalyptus 500ml exfoliating hand & body wash, $80, Vanessa Megan; vanessamegan.com. 6 This little goer adjusts from push-trike to balance bike and has a frame entirely made from recycled carpet. Wishbone Recycled balance bike and trike, from $249, Little Earth Nest; littleearthnest.com.au. 7 Crafted in Melbourne using soy wax, lead-free cotton wicks and recycled glassware and packaging. Tända ‘Woods Collection’ 300g soy-wax candle in Le Santal, $42, Tända; tandamodern.com. 8 These notebooks are designed and printed in Australia using environmentally responsible paper sources. ‘Botanical’ 200-page recycled-paper journal by Sophie Gilmore, $30, Notely; notely.com.au. 9 Ditch the single-use plastic with a collapsible silicone bottle that rolls up, by a company that contributes 10 per cent of its profit to an ocean clean-up initiative. 600ml roll-up food-grade silicone water bottle, $25, Rollabottle; rollabottle.com.au. 10 Queensland ceramicist Kim Wallace makes each piece to order and generates almost no waste in her work. Ceramic bowl and salad servers set in Bluegum on Stone, $145, Kim Wallace Ceramics; kwceramics.com.au. #

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FAMILY HUB 3.0 6 3 4 L F R E E S TA N D I N G F L AT D O O R FRENCH-DOOR FRIDGE SRF630BFH2

Property

BEST SELLERS

$5499

Choosing a professional to market your property isn’t a clear-cut process but doing your homework could pay off handsomely, writes Harvey Grennan.

good real-estate agent is worth their weight in gold, but how do you find the professional who will actually deliver the best possible sale price for your property? The first step in choosing a real-estate agent is to obtain appraisals from at least three agencies and then weigh up their estimates. On no account should you tell them the price you’re hoping to achieve, because they won’t want to lose your listing by quoting below that figure. Some agents will overquote to secure the listing, while others will underquote so they can make a quick sale. “Remember that everything you discuss with a potential agent is entirely negotiable,” says Malcolm Gunning, president of the Real Estate Institute of Australia. “Understand the market conditions and have a grasp of average fees, then consider incentivising your agent.” By this, he means talking to them about setting a basic commission and agreeing to some form of bonus payment should your agent achieve an outcome that’s above the agreed price. It pays to enter into any sales process with a sound understanding of just what’s going on in the local market. Inspect properties for sale in your neighbourhood and keep track of the auction and sales results. In addition, do your research on the agents themselves, advises Gunning. “Some agents specialise in, say, apartments, so if that’s what you’re selling, it makes sense to check them out first.” A few years ago you might have found yourself paying out a commission of

more than three per cent of the sale price; today, a rate of two per cent – or even less – is common. But beware commission rates that seem too good to be true. How hard will the agent work for you if the reward is going to be so meagre? As an agent once said to me, “If I am careless with my own money, imagine what I will do with yours.” Many agents will press for an auction campaign in which they will be the exclusive agent and you will pay all the advertising costs. Auctions work best in a ‘hot’ market; in a buyer’s market, private treaty may be the best tactic. But even in a private-treaty sale, an agent may want you to pay advertising costs. And they will present you with an exclusive-agency agreement to sign, rather than an open-agency one that would leave you free to use other agents. My personal rule is to sign up for an exclusive agency for a limited period, and only if the agent pays for at least some of the advertising. At the end of the day, chemistry also counts, so choose the agent you feel most comfortable with if he or she ticks all the other boxes. #

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Open to scrutiny

Go to house inspections in your area to check on the professionalism of local agents. How enticing and how well produced is their advertising material? Do they interact well with potential buyers? “Ensure you’re comfortable with how they communicate,” says Gunning. “Some people want a detailed verbal report from their agent after every open house, others are happy with a one-line email. Make sure you know what sort of feedback you’ll be getting.”

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1. Men’s personalised socks (set of 5) 2. Gigi chemise 3. Australian whisky advent calendar 4. Cork yoga mat 5. Bubble O’ Bill dangly earrings 6. Men’s trunk in LA vista 7. The WeDo Game family edition 8. Shower wine holder 9. Long-sleeve white nautical rashie 10. Reusable handblown glass coffee cup 11. Personalised stainless steel drinking straw 12. Family crest pendant 13. Personalised monogram cut glass tumbler 14. Teacher key ring in silver 15. ‘The Grandfather’ men’s T-shirt 16. Personalised three watch box 17. Men’s personalised coordinate bracelet 18. Dip-dyed scarf in hazelnut and dusty pink 19. Sasha tunic 20. Hygge 2203 men’s fashion watch 21. Premium leather dog collar and lead (various colours) 22. Pure French linen poet’s tunic (various colours) 23. First World Problems card game 24. ‘I pick you’ guitar pick and leather pouch

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S E A S O N â&#x20AC;&#x2122; S T R E AT I N G S ! G I F T S F O R E V E R YO N E O N YO U R L I S T. w w w. h a r d t o f i n d . c o m . a u

Tree

TIME

Thoughtful presents for the important people in your life.

From foodies to nature lovers – fab gifts for one and all.

Stylist’s assistants: Nonci Nyoni, Michele Mandalinic, Rong Tao & Sue Meldrum.

ST Y L I N G Sarah Maloney | P HOTO G R A P H Y Nic Gossage

‘Carlo’ velvet-covered armchair in Dark Cardamom, $899, West Elm. ‘Euclid’ oval cast-metal accent table, $299, Pottery Barn. ‘Slab’ ceramic platter in Midnight Blue, $40, Woodfolk. Wrapping paper and ribbons throughout from a selection at Barama, Finmark, Fox & Fallow and Heaven in Earth. For similar tumbler, try Papaya. For similar artificial Christmas tree, try Balsam Hill. Baubles on tree from the Australian House & Garden range at Myer. Wall in Lime Paint in Moorland, $120/4L, Bauwerk Colour. >

ON WALL Gold bunting, part of a 2.4m three-garland set, $22, The Party Cupboard. Stephanie Alexander ‘Eucalypt’ cotton-linen tea towel, $17, Albi. Wall and boxes in Lime Paint in Moorland, $120/4L, Bauwerk Colour. ON BOXES AT LEFT left to right from top ‘Oslo’ glass goblet, $70/set of four, Nel Lusso. 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, $85, Voyager Estate. VertuoPlus coffee maker, $299, and Master Origin Mexico coffee pods, $10/10, Nespresso. For similar mug, try Ikea. Ruffoni ‘Historia’ copper 24cm cake mould, $160, Williams-Sonoma. ‘Mahabharata’ bone-china cup and saucer, $30, T2. Enjoyed for Generations book, $69, Haigh’s. Boxed maplepecan brittle, $45/453g, Williams-Sonoma. Blue Fluted Mega’ 1L porcelain teapot, $199, Royal Copenhagen. ON BOX IN MIDDLE left to right from top Cotton oven glove in Blue/White, $13, H&M Home. Painted stoneware rolling pin with bamboo handles, $30, Tara Dennis. Signature oval cast-iron 3.2L casserole, $429, Le Creuset. ON BOX AT RIGHT left to right from top ‘Ardan Mara’ crystal champagne flute, $100/pair, Waterford. ‘Monsigny Premier Cru’ Champagne, $25, Aldi. ‘Scandi’ wooden bread board, $12, Kmart. ‘Marble+Copper’ marble and metal mortar and pestle, $64, West Elm. ‘Magnolia’ linen tea towel, $30 Few and Far. ON FLOOR ‘Butterfly Bloom’ two-tier cake stand, $149, Wedgwood. ‘Specially Selected’ gourmet gift set with dukkah, olive oil and vinegar (not shown), $15, Aldi. Careel Bay Honey Co raw honey, $12/300ml, The Boathouse. ‘Lily’ ceramic platter, $135, and ‘Palm’ brass salad servers, $60/pair, Few and Far. Gift-boxed scorched almonds, $22/250g, Haigh’s. Glass vase, $25, H&M Home. Abode Wide Board vinyl flooring in Tromso Oak, $56m², Choices Flooring. >

GIFT GUIDE H G

GOURMET DELIGHTS Savoury delicacies to sweet treats – give something that’s not normally on the menu.

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Currency conversion correct at time of printing.

H G GIFT GUIDE

WONDERFUL WARES Homebodies will appreciate the finer things: sensuous textiles, exotic homewares and luxury treats.

For similar screen, try OpenShutters. ‘Posy’ linen kimono, $200, Eadie Lifestyle. Greys print, $189, Alfresco Emporium. Mayflower Wallpaper ‘Solaris Culebrita Lighthouse’ wallpaper, $249/10m roll, Scandinavian Wallpaper & Décor. ON FIRST BOX Linear glass vase, $9, Kmart. Orange & Bergamot hand lotion, $42, and bath/ shower gel, $39, Molton Brown. Satin eyemask in Evening Bloom, $15, Tonic. ON SECOND BOX ‘Cube’ vegan leather make-up organiser, $40, Tonic. ‘Moscow’ cotton face cloth, about $23, hand towel, about $37, and bath towel, about $171, Otto Loom. ON THIRD AND FOURTH BOXES Leaf Supply book, $50, Few and Far. Small ‘Glitter’ light-up house ornament, $35, Pottery Barn Kids. Marble serving plate with dome, $49, Davis & Waddell. ‘Twinkle’ LED string lights (3m), $5, Kmart. ON FLOOR from left ‘Copper+Cane’ stainless-steel, glass and rattan tray, $139, West Elm. ‘Bow’ cotton cushion in Light Blue, $25, Pillow Talk. ‘Bolla’ date-leaf baskets, $130/set of two, Amalfi. ‘Rhapsody Blue’ cotton-linen cushion, $89, Alfresco Emporium. ‘Canoe’ stoneware platter, $45, Woodfolk. ‘Malaga’ clay water jug, $115, The Boathouse. Flooring (as before). >

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CRAFTY DESIGN Those who love to make and be surrounded by beautiful things will not be disappointed.

Boxes in Lime Paint in Sapphire, $120/4L, Bauwerk Colour. ON WALL ‘Ombre’ polyester fabric in Fjord (as backdrop), from $72/m, Sparkk. Garland with glass balls and LED lights (1m), $40, Ivory House. ON SHELF Sunset print, $140, Amalfi. ‘Futuro’ stoneware vase, $275, Young Vessels+Objects. House Doctor steel toolbox in White, $100, Telegram Co. Winsor & Newton oil paints, $98 each, and ‘Otto’ recycled-plastic storage drawers, $25, all Officeworks. 2019 ‘Seasonal Shift’ recycled-paper art calendar, $39, Hannah Fox. ON BOXES ‘Mode’ velvet backpack, $110, Eadie Lifestyle. Wooden palette, $4.50, and synthetic-fibre filbert brush in size 12, $42, Officeworks. Oil paint (as before). Octaevo waterproof paper vase, $40, Telegram Co. ‘Eucalypt Crescent Moon’ stoneware vase, $40, Woodfolk. OPPOSITE Hardwood and rope ladder, from $70, Swingz & Thingz. ‘Falling Star’ fabric garland, $50, Kido. Wall in Lime Paint in Sapphire (as before). ON LADDER Hellolulu polyester backpack, $119, Telegram Co. Boy’s denim shorts, $12, Best&Less. Aussie child’s cotton T-shirt, $17, Bonds. ON BOXES Lilu wicker suitcase in White, $185, Happy Go Ducky. Banwood ABS children’s helmet, $70, Kido. For similar miniature Christmas tree, try Koch & Co. Baubles from the Australian House & Garden range at Myer. Pig the Elf book, $17, Scholastic. Wooden toy truck, $59, Pottery Barn Kids. Cotton toy whale, $175, Kido. ON FLOOR Wooden toy caterpillar, $35, Happy Go Ducky. ‘First Go’ steel-framed balance bike, $290, Kido. Polaroid OneStep2 instant camera, $199, Officeworks. ‘Twinkle’ LED string lights (3m), $5, Kmart. Saltwater sandals in Patent Yellow, $75, Kido. Blueant ‘Pump Soul’ wireless headphones, $169, Officeworks. Porcelain Christmas snow globe, $149, Wedgwood. Wicker stool with cotton cover in Heather, $110, Happy Go Ducky. ‘Seated Unicorn’ cotton toy, $15, TK Maxx. >

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YOUNG HEARTS Tick the box for tots to teens with active minds and lives.

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ON THE MOVE For those on the go who wish to travel in style.

Star bunting, from a 2.4m three-garland set, $22, The Party Cupboard. Faux magnolia wreath with LED lights, $179, Pottery Barn. ON FLOOR from left Imitation suede men’s loafers in Dark Blue, $45, and cotton men’s shirt in White/Black, $40, H&M. ‘Banksia Grey’ cotton tie, $60, Peggy and Finn. Pebbled leather iPhone X case in Grey, $70, Code Republic. ‘Nature’ PVC yoga mat in Grass, $60, Until. Ahead wireless headphones in Coral, $175, and S’Well stainless-steel insulated bottle in Lanai, $60, Until. ‘Tokyo’ canvas and leather bag, $220, Toffee. Hay Sonos One limited-edition speaker, $349, Hay. ‘Freedom’ PCU sandals, $40, Kido. Everdure by Heston Blumenthal ‘Cube’ portable charcoal barbecue in Graphite, $197, Bunnings. Cotton throw in Navy/ Natural, $49, The Boathouse. Washable paper lunchbag in Grey, $79, Uashmama. Australia’s Best Nature Escapes book, $40, Dymocks. Flooring (as before). >

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Experience centuries of history, legend and enchantment in luxury and style. Uncover unexpected delights as you journey through iconic destinations on a European discovery.

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RIVER CRUISING

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of a quiet spot on deck, or mingle

exploring historical towns, but like

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the idea of travelling with like-minded

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people and a knowledgeable guide,

My recommendation is the Viking

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pre-cruise accommodation

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With over 100 locations Australia wide, book an appointment with an experienced travel adviser today.

13 70 71

travel-associates.com.au/houseandgarden

*Travel restrictions and conditions apply. Prices are per person, twin share and subject to availability. Valid for sale until 22 Nov 18, unless sold out prior. Collette Discover Croatia Tour (deal 5324064): Price based on select departures between 1 Jan 2019 – 30 Apr 20. Azamara Eastern European Cruise (deal 5326134): Price based on 10 Jun 19 departure. Viking Portugal River Cruise (deal 5310709): Price based on 14 Dec 19 departure. Flight Centre Travel Group Limited (ABN 25 003 377 188) trading as Travel Associates. ATAS Accreditation No. A10412 TA18023

H G GIFT GUIDE OUTDOORSY PURSUITS

FROM CEILING Timber snowflake ornaments, from $35 each, Ivory House. Children’s canvas and hemp swing set in Natural with pillow in Denim Stripe, $159, Swingz & Thingz. ON FLOOR from left Small ‘Winston’ cat nest with microfibre-fleece interior in Latte, $50, Pillow Talk. Milligram red ceramic baubles, $33/set of four, Telegram Co. ‘Mimosa’ hardwood director’s chair, $48, Bunnings. ‘Manolo’ terracotta planters, from $15 each, Pillow Talk. For similar treestump stool, try Inartisan. The Thoughtful Gardener hand trowel and fork set, $40, Until. ‘Palm Leaf’ cane picnic basket, $50, TK Maxx. Wool picnic blanket with leather straps, about $171, Mavis & Osborn. Glass hanging pod, $30, Nel Lusso. ON CHAIR Fringed straw hat, $139, The Boathouse. ‘La Plage’ round cotton towel, $99, The Beach People. ON STUMP ‘Tribal Drum’ citronella candle in terracotta holder, $14, Waxworks. ‘Lakeside’ nylon dog leash, $90, Peticular. Twisted metal baubles from the Australian House & Garden range at Myer. Flooring (as before). #

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Currency conversion correct at time of printing.

Whatever the weather, these gifts bring people and nature together.

Nespresso Quest

All coffee GREAT & SMALL

From a large and robust Alto to a cheeky Espresso, the Nespresso VERTUO machine guarantees outstanding coffee for all tastes – in ﬁve delicious sizes.

TH E M I GHT Y 414M L

T H E N E W 230 M L

alto

mug

Start your day extra large with Nespresso’s biggest cup size, delivering a generous 414ml per cup.

Hold on to your coffee experience longer with the Nespresso VERTUO Mug. Perfect for anyone who loves to add milk to their coffee. Measures 230ml in total.

BRAND PROMOTION

and one touch made them all... What goes into an extraordinary cup of coffee? An intelligent barcode technology that adjusts to each capsule, whatever your coffee style. The light on the Nespresso VERTUO machine tells you that the capsule has been automatically recognised and the extraction parameters will be adjusted accordingly. The extraction process has started to craft your cup of coffee. What is the most difﬁcult part? Making it that simple. Experience one-touch technology.

L I NG ER W I T H T H E 150 M L

A QU I CK 80 M L

TH E 40M L

gran lungo

double espresso

espresso

A long-extracted Espresso, the Gran Lungo is the perfect size – somewhere between a long and short coffee. Extend your enjoyable moment just that little bit more … 150ml to be exact.

The newest size in the range, this special cup of delicious Double Espresso Chiaro is two times the intense pleasure of an Espresso, at just 80ml.

There’s no time to waste. Keep it short and sweet with this Espresso that delivers 40ml of coffee in one quick, short hit.

nespresso.com/ver tuo

Dedication Quarter

Dedication Half

Dedication

Curtsy

Polly

Fuzzy Peach

Bloom

Baby Melon

Flower Centre Quarter

Flower Centre Half

Flower Centre

Tunisian Stone

Apricot Fool

Bundaberg Sand

Yellow Warbler

Burning Flame

Vanilla Frost

Parachute Silk

Blushing Peach

Peach Melba

Simply Peachy

Peanut Butter

Vanilla Frost Quarter

Foundation Quarter

Foundation Half

Foundation

Light And Low

Milky Maize

Face Mark

Hawker’s Gold

Crunch

Wheaten White Quarter

Wheaten White Half

Wheaten White

Butter

Cooled Cream

Soft Straw

Butterblond

Golden Sand

Moo Quarter

Ringlet Quarter

Ringlet Half

Ringlet

Butter Fingers

Cheesy Grin

Rapunzel

Corn Kernel

Take On All Shades of Weather Coledale Surf Club endures it all: Blistering heat. Torrential rain. Even the local seagulls. How? Dulux Weathershield, the paint designed to withstand Australia’s harshest climates. So whatever weather colours the horizon, this tough little club has all the protection it needs. Colours shown are as close as possible to actual paint colours. Please note, due to limitations of the printing process, photographic and printed images may not represent the true colour. ®Dulux, Worth doing, worth Dulux and Weathershield are registered trademarks of DuluxGroup (Australia) Pty Ltd.

SHOPPING H G

9 by design

CHRISTMAS STOCKINGS 1 Pure wool hand-knitted stocking in Grey, $95, Down To The Woods. 2 ‘Sack Me!’ green-gingham stocking, $30, Leo & Bella. 3 ‘Scroll’ quilted velvet stocking in Grey, $34, Pottery Barn. 4 White fluffy stocking, $5, Kmart. 5 Christmas foil stocking, $5, Big W. 6 Fabelab ‘Christmas Dreamy’ stocking in Mauve Velvet, $50, Leo & Bella. 7 Knit metallic thread starburst stocking, $34, West Elm. 8 Australian House & Garden eucalyptus hessian stocking, $20, Myer. 9 Velvet santa sack in Jade Green, $69, Kip&Co. Nofu ‘903’ solid ash bench, $639, Curious Grace. #

Produced by Sophie Wilson. Photograph by Will Horner. For Where to Buy, see page 212.

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9 by design

COOKIE CUTTERS

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1 Polypropylene star cookie cutter, $5/graduated set of five, Kmart; kmart.com.au. 2 Stainless-steel Christmas tree cookie cutter with internal detailing, $7, Cookie Cutter Shop; cookiecuttershop.com.au. 3 Wiltshire stainless-steel heart cookie cutter, $3, Big W; bigw.com.au. 4 ‘Drömmar’ stainless-steel elk cookie cutter, $5/set of six animal shapes, Ikea; ikea.com.au. 5 Raine & Humble brass Christmas bauble cookie cutter, $15/set of two, Marval Designs; marvaldesigns.com.au. 6 Tin snowflake cookie cutter with copper finish, $3, Wheel & Barrow; wheelandbarrow.com.au. 7 & 8 Meri Meri stainless-steel reindeer and Santa Claus cookie cutters, $20/set of two, Pulp Creative; pulpcreativepaper.com.au. 9 Australian House & Garden copper-plated stainless-steel gingerbread man cookie cutter, $5, Myer; myer.com.au. For similar wooden bowl, try the mango-wood plate range, from $14 each, at The Banyan Tree; thebanyantree.com.au. #

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Styling by Sara Åkesson. Photgraph by Nic Gossage.

Barista quality coffee with just one touch. We understand the skill and precision that a dedicated barista brings to a great tasting coffee. Every step your barista takes to create your perfect espresso coffee is replicated inside a Deâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Longhi Fully Automatic coffee machine. With a range of Fully Automatic coffee machines to choose from, we are sure to have the perfect fit for you. Learn more at delonghicoffeemachines.com.au

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H G SHOPPING

Fast find

SERVING PLATTERS Well-presented food always tastes extra delicious, so offer up your fare with ﬂair, writes Rose-Marie Hillier.

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1 ‘Marlo’ platter Feast your eyes on this hand-glazed stoneware platter with moody colour treatment. Perfect for serving up hot party treats. 37cm long; $40. templeandwebster.com.au 2 Gordon Ramsay ‘Maze Grill’ platter A hammered surface texture distinguishes this glazed white stoneware platter, which could be a centrepiece in its own right. 40cm long; $60. royaldoulton.com.au

3 ‘Denver Plaid’ platter Playing on a traditional Christmas theme, this stoneware piece has a glazed finish that’s dishwasher- and microwave-safe. 43cm long; $84. potterybarn.com.au

4 ‘Oiva/Siirtolapuutarha’ platter Featuring a botanical design, this platter is ideal for crudités and dips. It’s safe for the oven, microwave and dishwasher. 32cm wide; $119. marimekko.com.au 5 ‘Marble Inlay’ serving board Brass inlays add eye appeal to a bargain buy in luxe white marble. Picture it as the base for French cheeses and dried fruit. 30cm wide; $12. kmart.com.au

6 ‘Smoke’ platter

A new design from the Australian company’s Crystallised resin collection, it has a unique, almost mesmerising appeal. 41cm long; $310. dinosaurdesigns.com 3

7 Black on Black ‘Dune’ oval platter Organic motifs interpreted as tone-on-tone surface decoration lend a modern edge to this dramatically dark porcelain platter. 40cm long; $200. noritake.com.au

8 ‘Theo’ round platter

Crafted from solid oak, this handsomely grained platter with handle abounds in rustic charm. It’s ideal for barbecues. 50cm wide; $129. countryroad.com.au

9 ‘Vintage Lace’ serving platter Pretty enough for cakes, desserts and cheese courses, this lace-imprinted porcelain platter comes boxed for gift-giving. 32cm wide; $159. kwceramics.com.au 5

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10 ‘Paris’ platter in Bottle This large porcelain piece with high sides is ideal for special occasions as it allows you to feed a hungry crowd. 51cm wide; $294. mudaustralia.com #

BRAND PROMOTION

CHRISTMAS DELIGHTS

Add a touch of authentic ﬂair to your festivities with beautiful decorations from the Australian House & Garden range, only at Myer.

Bring the outdoors inside with enticing eucalyptus, red bush berry wreaths, decorative green glassware and the smooth subtlety of mango wood – it’s Christmas in colour, but authentically Australian in nature.

ON DAY BED ‘Gisborne’ linen cushion in White, $59.95. ‘Rockingham’ woven cushion, $59.95 (available mid-November). ‘Rye’ yarn dye cotton cushion in Green, $49.95. ‘Venus Bay’ cotton cushion, $59.95 (available mid-November). ON TABLE ‘Eucalyptus’ natural glitter poinsettia clip, $9.99. Green bubble glass bottles (33cm), $79.95 each (available mid-November). ‘Eucalyptus’ red berry pick, $16.99, and white berries and silver pinecones pick, $19.99. ‘Eucalyptus’ whitewashed bark tree, $29.99. Handmade mango wood tray (54cm), $119.95 (available in selected stores). ‘Eucalyptus’ glittered red berries and leaves wreath (55cm), $89.99. ‘Eucalyptus’ cutout MDF LED star (25.5cm), $19.99. Assorted hanging decorations, from $4.99 each. ON TREE Assorted hanging decorations, from $4.99 each. ‘Eucalyptus’ hessian poinsettia and gold glitter pick, $14.99. ‘Eucalyptus’ light metal grey tree skirt, $59.99.

See more of the new and exclusive Australian House & Garden collection instore and online at myer.com.au.

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Buyerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s guide

PARTY ESSENTIALS

Photograph by Maree Homer.

Create a magical setting with twinkling glassware, moody candlelight and the latest tableware, writes Georgia Madden.

ntertaining season is here, when we open our homes to welcome friends and family. Whether you’re planning an elegant dinner or a casual barbecue, a little preparation makes all the difference; you’ll be able to relax and enjoy the event rather than being stuck in the kitchen. And once you tick off the big jobs, such as invitations and shopping lists, it will be time for the fun stuff: party decorating. “A beautifully styled table will instantly make an occasion feel special,” says Amanda Smythe, a Sydney-based interior stylist. “While most Australian dinner parties have a casual element to them these days, it’s still nice for your guests to see that you’ve made an effort.” InteriorstylistEmmaBlomfieldconcurs, adding, “Preparing your home for your guests is not only a welcoming gesture, but also a great opportunity to make it spick and span.” This season, the best-dressed tables are embracing a natural look, says Smythe.

BEST DRESSED

Drinking glasses don’t have to match; an eclectic mix can work very well, says Varley. “Another trend is to use glasses that are designed to maximise the enjoyment of specific drinks, whether it’s particular wine varieties or different spirits.” And when you’re entertaining, it’s a good idea to have a couple of spare glasses on hand in case of breakages. Forasmooth-runningsocialaffair,allow plentyof time for preparations.“Plan your to-do list well in advance: sending savethe-datesorinvitations,looking upstyling ideas, and researching which flowers will be in season,” advises Allison Barrett, owner of event-planning specialists My Perfect Party. “Once the RSVPs come in and numbers are close to being finalised, order the food and drinks.” And don’t forget the small details, Barrett adds. “Before guests arrive, clear any clutter near the front door and remember to dim the lights; nothing kills a party vibe like bright lights. Candles are

On-trend ideas for DIY table decoration from interior decorator and stylist Amanda Smythe: ✚ Opt for colour combos such as white or ivory paired with sage or soft green, enlivened with splashes of muted indigo. ✚ Choose natural fabrics with an open weave, such as linen, for napery and table runners. ✚ Go for natural foliage and incorporate eucalyptus or other Australian natives. For a subtle injection of colour, use banksias in soft pink shades. ✚ Keep glassware and dinnerware simple: think organic lines and neutral colours. ✚ For stylish, casual outdoor dining, set out shared platters of salads and seafood that everyone can dip into. ✚ Consider how the food will look as well as taste. Salads, for example, can add texture and colour to your table setting.

‘A B E AU T I F U LLY ST Y L ED TA BL E OR PARTY SPACE SE TS THE INITIA L “ WOW! ” V I B E A N D GETS EVE RYONE IN THE SP IRIT.’ A L L I S O N B A R R E T T

SMOOTH OPERATOR

“Consider natural foliage as a centrepiece, and chunky, woven textures in neutral shadesofivory,beigeandgrey,pairedwith muted colours drawn from nature, such as sage green,” she suggests. “For a casual get-together, opt for a runner that will leave your table surface partially exposed, particularly if it’s a timber table. Leave tablecloths for more formal events.” Quality glassware is a must, according to Smythe. “Like fabric napkins, it adds an elegant touch to even the most relaxed soirée. Glassware needn’t be formal, but it should be fine and crystal-clear. You’ll find great options in all price brackets.” Cutcrystalisexperiencingaresurgence, says Jane Varley, marketing manager at Fiskars Living Australia, suppliers of Waterford,Iittalaandotherqualitybrands. “And not just for special occasions; people are enjoying gorgeous glasses at home to elevate everyday moments.”

perfect for creating ambience. If you intend to entertain outdoors, be sure to have a wet-weather back-up plan.” Flowersprovideanidealfinishingtouch. “Colour-blocking flowers in clear glass vases is popular. You can make a really bold statement on your table: think hotpink tulips next to vases of red roses and purple sweet peas,” suggests Blomfield. “Another trend is using citrus branches to add a pop of colour to a white and green arrangement. Vary the stem heights for a wild,relaxedeffect.”Foranovelalternative to a runner, consider a line of interwoven natives running down the middle of the table. “Sturdy varieties such as kangaroo pawandeucalyptusleavescanstandbeing out of water for a few hours.” Once your home is party-ready, pour a drink, open the front door and get ready to make some wonderful memories with > your favourite people.

Allison Barrett, owner of My Perfect Party, shares her top tips for the smooth running of a drinks party: ✚ Hire bar staff to serve drinks, keep the bar stocked, clear glasses and tidy up. A great investment for about $150. Consider hiring a drinks fridge, ✚ too. In the hotter months, ice melts quickly and can get messy. ✚ Buy a few more bottles than you think you’ll need. Have a return arrangement with your bottle shop for any unused ones. ✚ If you’re holding a party around a pool, consider good-quality plastic or acrylic glasses, and keep fragile glass away from the pool enclosure. Set ✚ up a hydration station stocked with jugs of water or a glass water dispenser. ✚ Keep a dustpan and broom close by in case of breakages.

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Glassware

Candleholders

‘Terroir’ wine glasses, $40/four A classic tapered form in sparkling crystalline (a type of crystal with a low lead content). These glasses make the perfect finishing touch for the table, whether you’re celebrating Christmas with family or hosting a dinner for friends.

‘Kastehelmi’ votive in Clear, $25 The design of this 6cm-high Finnish glass votive is inspired by morning dewdrops and produces a lovely play of light when the candle is lit. It’s just the thing to bring a touch of the outdoors to an indoor table setting.

Freedom; freedom.com.au

Iittala; iittala.com.au

IVV ‘Sixties’ glasses in Leaf Green, $151/set of six These handmade, vintage-style tumblers will fit beautifully within a nature-inspired setting, indoors or out. Each glass in the set features a unique geometric pattern inspired by a 1960s icon, from Audrey Hepburn to Brigitte Bardot.

Glow ‘Halo’ candleholder in Gold, $35 Add festive flair to your table with a sculptural candleholder in iron and glass. The curved handle makes it easy to carry on and off the table and, at 27cm high, it’s a centrepiece in its own right. Also available in Black.

Noritake; noritake.com.au

Salt & Pepper; saltandpepper.com.au

‘On the Rock’ Champagne coupe (left) and wine glass, both $191 Make a statement with these striking designs by British designer Lee Broom. They’re crafted from fine lead crystal with a solid Carrara marble base. A matching martini glass is also available.

‘Tunes’ candleholder, $65 A clean and contemporary take on a time-honoured form, this 11cm-high Scandinavian design is sure to make any dinner party all the more special. The mirrorpolished stainless steel creates soft, romantic reflections of flickering candlelight.

Space (02) 8339 7588 or spacefurniture.com.au

‘Clarendon’ Champagne flutes in Emerald, $449/pair Raise a toast with these classic, hand-cut crystal flutes in a striking jewel shade. They come boxed and ready for gift-giving. If they’re for you, a little TLC over time (handwashing is advised) should turn them into family heirlooms. Waterford; waterfordcrystal.com.au

Georg Jensen; georgjensen.com.au

‘Marble’ tealight holder, $70 Use the holder with the elegant candle included in the price, or pop in some small plants to customise your own botanical table display. Measuring 15cm in height, it features a solid round marble base and shapely glass top. Mr and Mrs Jones; mrandmrsjones.com.au

SHOPPING H G

Vases

Bud vases, $5/set of three A sweet ceramic trio with a silvery finish and staggered heights, these are ideal for staging a display of delicate blooms. When not on your dinner table, they would look pretty on a hall console or mantelpiece.

Napkins ‘Bay’ napkin in Light Grey, $13 French linen has been given a subtle, sophisticated colour and frayed-edge detailing in this simple 45x45cm design. It also comes in Crisp White and Dark Grey, so go for a monochrome effect or mix and match. Machine-washable.

Kmart; kmart.com.au

Papaya; papaya.com.au

‘Opal’ vase, $59 The glass body on this 36cm-high vase has a pearlised surface that looks seductively soft by daylight and eye-catching at night. Its slender brass neck makes for a striking contrast that will draw attention to your table, with or without blooms.

Australian House & Garden ‘Sorrento’ napkin in Lunar Rock, $20/four With sweet stitchwork and a neutral hue, these 46x46cm cotton napkins have a refined look and a lovely feel in the hand. Machine-wash on a warm, gentle cycle. Also available in White.

Domayne; domayneonline.com.au

Myer myer.com.au

‘Jolie Mauve’ vase/tealight holder, $60 The sumptuous, curvy lines of this , 17cm-high handmade crystal piece were inspired by the shape of closed blossoms and executed in a rich wine-red hue. It’s perfect for either flowers or tealights. Also available in clear and blue shades.

‘Tehni’ napkins in Azure/White, $48/four Lending themselves to summery Australian celebrations are these graphic 50x50cm cotton napkins block-printed in navy and white by skilled Indian artisans. They can be safely machine-washed and tumble-dried.

Villeroy & Boch; villeroy-boch.com.au

Zanui; zanui.com.au

le’ vase, $228 rated floral t in this vessel of ilicate glass. The base – in FSC-certified s 18cm vase a asket-like feel. Use it un, quirky vibe when asual yet chic table. gn.com.au

‘Field Floral’ napkin in Gold, $145/six Printed by hand with gold foil, these 45x45cm linen napkins will shine a little magic on your special-occasion setting. After the party, wash them by hand or pop in a cold machine cycle. # Bonnie and Neil; bonnieandneil.com.au

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H G STOCKISTS

WHERE TO BUY

Locate your nearest stockist by contacting the following suppliers. A Aalto Colour 1800 009 600; aaltocolour.com Abey 1800 809 143; abey.com.au Acre of Roses acreofroses.com.au Adam Robinson Design (02) 8354 1077; adamrobinsondesign.com Albi (03) 9474 1300; albi.com.au Aldi aldi.com.au Alfresco Emporium (02) 9919 0601; alfrescoemporium.com.au Amalfi (03) 9474 1300; amalfihomewares.com.au Anibou (02) 9319 0655; anibou.com.au Apaiser (03) 9421 5722; apaiser.com.au Apple apple.com/au Argyle Furniture Designs argylefurniture.com.au Armadillo & Co (02) 9698 4043; armadillo-co.com Armstone 1300 560 560; armstone.com.au Art of Timber artoftimber.com.au Artemide 1300 135 709; artemide.com.au Articolo Lighting (03) 8595 8011; articololighting.com.au Astra Walker (02) 8838 5100; astrawalker.com.au Aura Home 1300 304 269; aurahome.com.au Austral Bricks 132 742; australbricks.com.au B Balsam Hill (02) 8046 6228; balsamhill.com.au Bang & Olufsen (02) 9356 8111; bang-olufsen.com Barama 1300 227 262; barama.com.au Barkly Lane barklylane.com.au Bauwerk Colour (08) 9433 3860; bauwerk.com.au Bayliss (03) 9708 6664; baylissrugs.com Beacon Lighting 1300 232 266; beaconlighting.com.au Bed Bath N’ Table (03) 8888 8100; bedbathntable.com.au Bernini Stone & Tiles (08) 9388 1193; bernini.com.au Best&Less bestandless.com.au Big W 1300 244 999; bigw.com.au Bisanna Tiles (02) 9310 2500; bisanna.com.au Blu Dot (02) 9313 5400; bludot.com.au BoConcept boconcept.com.au Bonds 1800 054 321; bonds.com.au Bristol 131 686; bristol.com.au British Paints 132 525; britishpaints.com.au Bunnings (03) 8831 9777; bunnings.com.au Burgg burgg.com.au Burt’s Bees 1300 855 479; burtsbees.com.au C Cabot’s 1800 011 006; cabots.com.au Cafe Culture+Insitu (02) 9699 8577; cafecultureinsitu.com.au

Camerich (02) 9699 1088; camerich.com.au Canvas+Sasson (03) 9790 1266; canvasandsasson.com.au Casa e Cucina (02) 9958 3271; casaecucina.com.au Cavalier Bremworth 1800 251 172; cavbrem.com.au CB2 cb2.com Cedar Sales 1800 156 455; cedarsales.com.au Choices Flooring choicesflooring.com.au Clay Canoe claycanoe.bigcartel.com Coco Republic 1300 000 220; cocorepublic.com.au Code Republic coderepublic.com.au Concrete Studio concrete.studio Copper Beech (02) 8964 1751; copperbeech.com.au Corian 1800 267 426; corian.com.au Covered in Paint (02) 9519 0204; coveredinpaint.com.au Creation Landscape Supplies (08) 9335 7383; creationlandscapesupplies.com.au Cult 1300 768 626; cultdesign.com.au Cultiver cultiver.com Curious Grace (03) 9687 6878; curiousgrace.com.au D David Jones 133 357; shop.davidjones.com.au Davis & Waddell (03) 9474 1300; davisandwaddell.com.au Dymocks dymocks.com.au Dedece (02) 9360 2722; dedece.com.au Design By Was @designbywas Design Casa designcasa.com.au Designer Rugs 1300 802 561; designerrugs.com.au Designstuff (03) 9592 2960; designstuff.com.au Di Lorenzo Tiles (02) 8818 2950; dilorenzo.com.au District (08) 9388 1855; district.com.au Domayne domayneonline.com.au Domo (03) 9277 8888; domo.com.au Douglas & Bec (03) 9419 1146; douglasandbec.com Down To The Woods (03) 9421 2281; downtothewoods.com.au Dulux 132 525; dulux.com.au Dunlin (02) 9907 4825; dunlinhome.com.au E Eco Outdoor 1300 131 413; ecooutdoor.com.au Ecology (03) 9765 5700; ecologyhomewares.com.au Ecolour 1300 326 568; ecolour.com.au Eadie Lifestyle eadielifestyle.com.au Editeur (08) 9385 1964; editeur.com.au Entrenched Landscapes & Design entrenched.com.au

Ethnicraft ethnicraft.com European Ceramics (08) 6240 0100; europeanceramics.com.au Ezarri ezarri.com F Feast Watson 1800 252 502; feastwatson.com.au Feathers & Stone feathersandstone.com Feltex Carpets 1300 130 239; feltex.com Fenton & Fenton (03) 9533 2323; fentonandfenton.com.au Few and Far (02) 4441 8244; www.fewandfar.com.au Finmark (08) 8277 0555; finmark.com.au Florabelle florabelle.com.au Floral Army floralarmy.com.au/ Flos Botanical flosbotanical.studio Flos, available from Euroluce (02) 9356 9900; euroluce.com.au Fox & Fallow 0405 162 861; foxandfallow.com.au Freedom 1300 135 588; freedom.com.au French Bazaar (03) 9017 7892; frenchbazaar.com.au G Georg Jensen 1800 536 736; georgjensen.com.au Gerflor 1800 060 785; gerflor.com.au Gift Packaging & Accessories (03) 9546 1188; giftpackaging.com.au GlobeWest 1800 722 366; globewest.com.au Green Kitten Vintage greenkittenvintage.etsy.com H H&M 1800 828 002; hm.com/au H&M Home 1800 828 002; hm.com/au Haigh’s Chocolates 1300 424 447; haighschocolates.com.au Hale Mercantile Co halemercantileco.com Hannah Fox hannahfox.com.au Happy Go Ducky happygoducky.com.au Hart Studios 0414 872 000; hartstudios.com.au Harvey Norman 1300 464 278; harveynorman.com.au Hay (02) 9358 0855; hayshop.com.au Haymes Paint 1800 033 431; haymespaint.com.au Heaven in Earth (02) 4423 2041; heaveninearth.com.au Hermès 1300 728 807; hermes.com HK Living (03) 9500 9991; hkliving.com.au Home & Giving Mosman (02) 9968 2890 Hope & May (07) 5455 6325; hopeandmay.com Hunting for George huntingforgeorge.com I Iittala iittala.com.au Ikea (02) 8020 6641; ikea.com.au Image Lighting imagelighting.com.au In The Sac (02) 8323 5789; inthesac.com.au Inartisan 0401 818 157; inartisan.com

Innerspace (07) 3252 1461; innerspace.net.au Inspirations Paint 1300 368 325; inspirationspaint.com.au Ivory House (03) 9560 1777; ivoryhouse.com.au J James Said (08) 6180 3615; jamessaid.com.au Jardan (03) 8581 4988; jardan.com.au Jo Malone 1800 661 062; jomalone.com.au Jocelyn’s Provisions jocelynsprovisions.com.au K Kartell 1300 135 709; spacefurniture.com.au Kelly Wearstler kellywearstler.com Kido Store (02) 9045 7777; kidostore.com Kiko Design kikodesign.com.au King Living 1300 546 438; kingliving.com.au Kip & Co kipandco.net.au Kirsty Keir Interior Styling @kirstykeirinteriorstyling Kmart 1800 634 251; kmart.com.au Knoll, available from Living Edge 1300 132 154; livingedge.com.au Koch & Co 1300 555 624; koch.com.au Koskela (02) 9280 0999; koskela.com.au L L&M Home (03) 9419 6800; lmhome.com.au L’Occitane (02) 8912 3000; au.loccitane.com La Luna (08) 6150 9730 Laminex 132 136; laminex.com.au Laura Kincade (02) 9667 4415; laurakincade.com Le Creuset 1300 767 993; lecreuset.com.au Le Forge (02) 9516 3888; leforge.com.au Lee Jofa, available from Elliott Clarke 1300 355 468; elliottclarke.com.au Leo & Bella leoandbella.com.au LG 1300 542 273; lg.com.au Lincraft 1300 730 140; lincraft.com.au Linen House (03) 9552 6000; linenhouse.com.au Linenshed linenshed.com.au Living Edge 1300 132 154; livingedge.com.au Living Tiles (02) 9818 0000; livingtiles.com.au Loom Rugs (03) 9510 3040; loomrugs.com Lounge Innovation loungeinnovation.com.au Luke Furniture (03) 9999 8930; luke.com.au Luna Ceramics, available from Humanmood humanmood.com.au M Mafi (03) 9689 7606; mafi.com.au Maison et Jardin (02) 9362 8583; maisonetjardin.com.au Major Minor majorminorwares.com Make makedesignedobjects.com Mandalay Flowers (02) 9362 5000; mandalayflowers.com.au Marimekko (02) 9281 6519; marimekko.com

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

Mark Douglass Design 0414 540 110; markdouglassdesign.com Mavis & Osborn mavisandosborn.com Maxwell & Williams (03) 9318 0466; maxwellandwilliams.com.au Medik8 medik8.com.au Menu menu.as MissoniHome (02) 9212 6747; spenceandlyda.com.au Molton Brown 133 357 Mon Palmer 1300 746 000; monpalmer.co Mondo Luce (02) 9690 2667; mondoluce.com MOR Modern Apothecary (03) 9600 4599; morboutique.com MRD Home (03) 9331 7533; mrdhome.com.au Mud Australia (02) 9569 8181; mudaustralia.com Murobond Paint 1800 199 299; murobond.com.au My Christmas 1300 551 960; mychristmas.com.au Myer 1800 811 611; myer.com.au N Natuzzi Italia natuzzi.com.au Nel Lusso 1800 147 538; nellusso.com.au Nespresso 1800 623 033; nespresso.com Nique nique.com.au Nordic Rooms nordicrooms.com.au Noritake (02) 9316 7123; noritake.com.au O Officeworks 1300 633 423; officeworks.com.au OpenShutters openshutters.com.au Orange Wagon orangewagon.etsy.com Otomys otomys.com Otto Loom ottoloom.co.nz Outdoor Elegance outdoorelegance.com.au P Paint Place 1800 008 007; paintplace.com.au Papaya (02) 9386 9980; papaya.com.au Peacocks and Paisleys peacocksandpaisleys.com.au Peggy and Finn peggyandfinn.com.au Pelle Leathers (02) 9460 9222; pelleleathers.com.au Peticular peticular.com.au

Phillip Jeffries, available from Pierre + Charlotte (03) 9329 4414; pierreandcharlotte.com Pillow Talk 1800 630 690; pillowtalk.com.au Planet (02) 9211 5959; planetfurniture.com.au Polywood polywoodoutdoors.com.au Porter’s Paints 1800 656 664; porterspaints.com Porto, available from CWM Homewares (03) 9765 5700; cwmhomewares.com.au Pottery Barn 1800 232 914; potterybarn.com.au Pottery Barn Kids potterybarnkids.com Priceline priceline.com.au Provincial Home Living 1300 732 258; provincialhomeliving.com.au Pulp Creative Paper (02) 9948 1191; pulpcreativepaper.com.au Q Quantum Quartz (02) 9772 9888; wk.com.au R Remedy (08) 9431 7080; remedyonline.net.au Renee’s House of Designs (02) 9969 7008; reneeshouseofdesigns.com.au Resene 1800 738 383; resene.com.au Rhiannon Gill Ceramics rhiannongillceramics.etsy.com Robert Gordon Australia (03) 5941 3144; robertgordonaustralia.com Rogue (03) 9474 1300; roguehome.com.au Royal Copenhagen royalcopenhagen.com S Sage x Clare sageandclare.com Salt&Pepper 1800 246 987; saltandpepper.com.au Samsung 1300 362 603; samsung.com.au Scandinavian Wallpaper & Décor (08) 9444 2717; wallpaperdecor.com.au Scholastic scholastic.com.au Schumacher fschumacher.com Scrumptious Chocolates and Cakes (02) 9363 8899; scrumptiousstore.com.au Scyon 1300 599 542; scyon.com.au Segals Outdoor Furniture segals.com.au Seletti Australia 1300 730 244; seletti.com.au Selkirk 1300 650 006; selkirk.com.au

Seneca Textiles (03) 9509 4999; senecatextiles.com SFD Construction sfdconstruction.com.au Shazza’s Knits shazzasknits.etsy.com Sheridan 1800 625 516; sheridan.com.au Sikkens 1300 745 536; tenaru.com.au Skheme (02) 8755 2300; skheme.com Smeg (02) 8667 4888; smeg.com.au Solver Paints (08) 8368 1200; solverpaints.com.au Sonos sonos.com/en-au Space (02) 8339 7588; spacefurniture.com.au Sparkk (02) 9313 8759; sparkk.com.au Spence & Lyda (02) 9212 6747; spenceandlyda.com.au Spotlight 1300 305 405; spotlight.com.au St Cloche saintcloche.com Stylecraft (02) 9355 0000; stylecraft.com.au Swingz N Thingz 0414 551 895; swingz.com.au T T2 (03) 8698 0600; t2tea.com Table Culture tableculture.com.au Tara Dennis Store taradennisstore.com Target 1300 753 567; target.com.au Taubmans 131 686; taubmans.com.au Telegram Co (03) 9318 0822; telegramco.com Temperature Design (03) 9419 1447; temperaturedesign.com.au The Beach People (07) 5523 4841; thebeachpeople.com.au The Boathouse theboathousegroup.com.au The Chrysie Place (08) 9382 2033 The Classic Outfitter (02) 9958 4500; theclassicoutfitter.com The Escape Co theescapeco.com.au The Fat Yarn Store thefatyarnstore.etsy.com The Kitchen Maker (02) 9905 5028; thekitchenmaker.com.au The Light Site lightsite.com.au The Maker Designer Kitchens 1300 270 000; themaker.com.au The Natural Floorcovering Centres (02) 9516 5726; naturalfloor.com.au

The Paperie thepaperie.com.au The Party Cupboard thepartycupboard.com.au The Textile Company 1300 852 994; textilecompany.com.au TK Maxx tkmaxx.com.au Toffee toffeecases.com Tonic Australia (03) 9523 1377; tonic.net.au Top3 by Design 1300 867 333; top3.com.au Trentham General 0416 032 111 Tretford (07) 3881 1777; tretford.com U Uashmama uashmama.com.au Ultimate Ears ultimateears.com/en-au Ultimo Interiors (08) 9201 2479; ultimointeriors.com.au Until (02) 9119 8700; until.com.au V Vampt Vintage Design (02) 9699 1089; vamptvintagedesign.com Vandoros Fine Packaging (02) 9966 8868; vandoros.com.au Verner Panton, available from Space (02) 8339 7588; spacefurniture.com.au Vikki Kassioras vikkikassioras.com.au Vishemir vishemir.etsy.com Vitrocsa vitrocsa.com.au Voyager Estate voyagerestate.com.au W WA Kitchens 0424 786 508; wakitchens.com.au Wallpaper Trader 0408 503 210; wallpapertrader.com Waterford 1300 852 022; wwrd.com.au Wattyl 132 101; wattyl.com.au Waxworks waxworksworks.com.au Wedgwood wedgwood.com.au West Elm 1800 239 516; westelm.com.au Westbury Textiles (02) 9380 6644; westburytextiles.com Weststyle weststyle.com.au Williams-Sonoma 1800 231 380; williams-sonoma.com.au Woodfolk woodfolk.com.au Woven Image 1800 888 650; wovenimage.com.au Y Young Vessels+Objects 0402 971 999; youngvesselsandobjects.com

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

starts from the floor up. choicesflooring.com.au

H G STOCKISTS PAPER DECORATING INSTRUCTIONS

STAR GARLAND

BON BONS What you need:

WRAPPING PAPER DETAILS

What you need:

Lightweight cardboard (to make tubes) Assorted decorative paper (we used tissue paper and kraft paper) Ribbon or string Small gifts Confetti (optional) Sticky tape

From page 46

Cardboard, cut into a ring of desired size A4 and A5 paper in assorted colours, cut into squares Pipe cleaners Craft glue Ribbon, to hang

What you need:

From page 43

What you need:

Cardboard or paper, cut into squares Sewing needle and fishing line, for hanging Method:

1 Fold square in half horizontally, then fold into a smaller square. Unfold into a rectangle, ensuring fold is at top, opening at bottom. 2 Fold bottom left corner to top centre. Unfold. Fold top left corner to bottom centre. Unfold. 3 Fold top right corner across to meet centre diagonal crease on left half. Take left corner of right half and fold to meet right edge (making a kite shape with that half). 4 Fold top left corner to centre fold. Fold back to ﬂatten. 5 Cut folded shape into a large obtuse-angled triangle. 6 Unfold shape and refold creases to reinforce structure (you may need to reverse the folds). Repeat steps 1-6 until you have the desired number of stars. 7 String stars together with ﬁshing line, securing with small knots around the holes.

Method:

1 Cut cardboard into rectangles and roll into tubes; secure with sticky tape. 2 Wrap tubes in decorative paper, twisting to seal at one end only. Fill with confetti (if using) and add gift. 3 Seal bon bons by twisting and secure both ends with ribbon or string.

For a step-by-step instructional video, visit us on Instagram @houseandgarden.

214 |

WREATH From page 45

From page 42

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

Method:

1 Shape paper into cones. 2 Glue cones, about 1.5cm from point, onto cardboard ring, leaving about 1-1.5cm gap between each cone. Continue gluing cones in concentric circles, arranging to ﬁll gaps, until wreath is complete. 3 Glue pipe cleaners around inner ring to ﬁnish. 4 Hang with ribbon.

Cardboard, preferably metallic Tissue paper Craft glue Method:

1 To make 3D baubles, cut 3-5 circles from cardboard, all the same size, for each bauble. 2 Stick ﬁrst circle ﬂat onto paper. Place a line of glue down centre of circle only and stick another circle on top. Repeat with remaining circles. 3 Glue string from top of bauble to edge of gift, then cover join with a small square of coloured cardboard. When glue is dry, lift and gently fold edges of circles to create 3D effect. 4 To make Christmas tree, cut 3 rectangles of tissue paper. Concertina fold, then pinch at one end. Arrange and glue in a tree shape. Finish with a star cut out of cardboard.

CHRISTMAS TREE From page 46 What you need:

Foilboard Sticky tape Stand Method:

Shape foilboard into large cones and secure with sticky tape. Arrange cones one on top of the other to make a tree shape.

Blum lift systems enable you to achieve a better workﬂow in your kitchen. Used in place of standard opening mechanisms for cabinetry doors, they enhance your kitchen’s efﬁciency. blum.com.

Add a little affordable luxury and allow the Mondella Signature LED Sensor Round Mirror, $279, to light up your bathroom with a simple wave of your hand. mondella.com.au.

Luxurious in appearance and comfort, the La-Z-Boy Rolf Nordic recliner might just be the perfect chair. It has a 360-degree swivel base, generous armrest and butter-soft leather seats. la-z-boy.com.au.

H&G ESSENTIALS The Fisher & Paykel 90cm Freestanding Cooker in Black offers a spacious gas cooktop with ﬁve burners and feature-packed 140L convection oven. Perfect for all home cooks. ﬁsherpaykel.com.

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

Let Fisher & Paykel lighten your load with the new 10kg Front Loader Washer. Enjoy perfect results for your favourite clothes, because life’s too short to worry about laundry. ﬁsherpaykel.com.

If you’re painting over a dark colour, try Dulux Weathershield +PLUS Super Hide. It provides two-coat coverage over any colour to save you time on the job. dulux.com.au.

With easy-to-follow formulas, inspiration, trends and reno advice, The Bathroom Happiness Lab Book is a must-have tool to create a bathroom you’ll love. Request your free book at reece.com.au/lab-book.

The new Smeg ‘Sicily Is My Love’ small-appliance collection is a collaboration with Dolce & Gabbana, featuring the design house’s strikingly beautiful Sicilian motifs. sicilyismylove.com.au.

Victory Curtains & Blinds has Australia’s largest indoor and outdoor window-furnishings range. It’s a one-stop shop for all your window-treatment requirements. victoryblinds.com.au.

Get the most out of your kitchen with Kaboodle’s cut-to-measure offering, available across all colours in a modern proﬁle. Order your kitchen components to the precise width you need. kaboodle.com.au.

The new Valkea votives by Iittala, $24.95 each, are inspired by the colours of Nordic nature. Shades of blue are teamed with earthy tones to create a calming ambience. iittala.com.au.

20th anniversary

A roaring success Vaucluse House Tearooms in Sydney was the elegant setting for this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Top 50 Rooms awards luncheon. Congratulations to the winners, and to our first Hall of Fame inductee. And to our sponsors, judges, winners and everyone who entered, a big thank you!

INSET Cam Warwick of Top 50 sponsor Warwick Fabrics with Room of the Year winner Louise Walsh, H&G editor in chief Lisa Green and event MC, Deborah Hutton. FIRST ROW Susanna Bilardo and Meaghan Williams from Enoki, Best Use of Colour winners. Fiorella Di Santo with Louise Walsh. Chris Stanley and Asha Nichols of Melbourne practice Splinter Society Architecture took out the honours for Best Indoor-Outdoor Connection. Flowers from Jardine Botanic Floral Styling graced the lavish table settings at Vaucluse House Tearooms. SECOND ROW Jade Nottage and Cushla McFadden of Tom Mark Henry. Lisa and Deborah take the stage. Charlotte Coote and Adelaide Bragg. Brett Mickan and Nick English of BMID won the Best Kitchen gong. Doyenne of design Meryl Hare was inducted into the Hall of Fame. BOTTOM ROW Bridget Webb and Eva-Marie Prineas won Best Lighting. Nina Maya Skrzynski with her trophy for Best Use of Soft Furnishings. The gift bags contained Voyager Estate wines, Haighâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Chocolates, Weave throws and other goodies. Guests mingle at historic Vaucluse House. #

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H G BOTANICA

Glad tidings

he traditional Christmas wreath of deep-green spruce and ribbons always has a wintry Northern Hemisphere ‘ring’ to it. How lovely it is, then, to see this very Australian version of a seasonal welcome, made by Perth ﬂorist Lisschele Masters. To create her wreath, Lisschele used a mix of fresh and dried materials in the muted, silvery-grey tones of our native bushland. “I chose these hues because, for me, they evoke the essence of an Australian Christmas,” she says. All the ingredients were gathered by Lisschele, from her own garden and a local ﬂower farm. She constructed the base of the wreath with lengths of grapevine, twisted and shaped into a circle. Threaded around the vines is a range of native and exotic plant material. Sprigs 218 |

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN

of eucalyptus and acacia are interwoven with the foliage of Magnolia ‘Little Gem’ (“I used the underside of the magnolia leaves to create those coppery-brown tones”) and a mix of dried materials – banksia ﬂowers, lotus pods, wattle seed pods, leucadendron and twigs. Pops of classic Christmas red come from clusters of hypericum berries, the only part of the wreath that’s not everlasting. “Wreath-making is completely meditative and soothing,” says Lisschele. “I love how all the materials come together in unity.” This wreath even smells like a hazy Australian summer, mainly because of the eucalyptus leaves. “They have the most beautiful and lingering fragrance, even in their dried state,” she adds. #

See Lisschele’s ﬂoral art on Instagram @lisschelemasters.

Text by Elizabeth Wilson. Photograph by Bo Wong.

The final flourish in a line-up of creations from leading florists, this lovely wreath wraps up H&G’s 70th-anniversary year. Hope you’ve enjoyed it as much as us!

Timeless style SYDNEY | MELBOURNE | BRISBANE | PERTH 1800 339 379