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Visit HB online for the latest news and ideas, plus style and decorating secrets to transform your home. homebeautiful.com.au

Got five minutes? Download your daily dose of expert advice, style hacks and design tips on your favourite podcast app. The Daily Home Edit

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Sign up for our e-newsletter at homebeautiful.com.au for HB’s weekly drop of design news. Want to find us? Email homebeautiful @pacificmags.com.au

EDITOR’S LETTER NEXT STEPS

PHOTOGRAPHY (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT) BRIGID ARNOTT, MAREE HOMER, SIMON WHITBREAD

Many years ago, I read some great advice in this very magazine about how to find your dream home, which I’ve been following closely: make up a list of the things you simply cannot live without, and then wait until a property comes along that checks every box. Easy, right? The obvious inclusions are the location and price range, but after that, there are many variables. For me, a north-facing backyard and the opportunity to update (not renovate – yet). For my husband, a pool and some serious wardrobe space (yep, he has more clothes than me). And for the kids, an area for them to play and a potential future teen retreat. When you’ve got your checklist sorted – and the more specific it is, the better – it makes editing down the many available homes so much simpler. Instead of chasing your tail all over town every Saturday, there might only be one new listing to see. The key is patience, and if you can master that, you’re golden. For us, it meant that there were really only two potential properties during a period of about six months. The first helped us set our budget, and the second – is now ours! It’s with great excitement that I start saving the pages of HB with fresh eyes, as my family embarks upon the next stage of our lives in our new home. It feels auspicious that this issue – months in the making, just like every issue – is, in fact, our dream home special, which is all about creating a home that works for your circumstances. Find inspiration from 159. It’s with mixed emotions that I write this letter, as it’s actually my final editor’s letter. I’ve decided to move on from Home Beautiful, which really has been my second home, and the team – my HB family for so many years. I will miss you all. But now I get to enjoy this incredible magazine from the other side – as a home renovator, decorator and reader. And that’s something to be excited about!

COUNTRY ROAD pg 102

A gorgeous rural retreat becomes the ultimate escape.

Sarah

SARAH BURMAN, EDITOR Contact me on Instagram @sarahjburman

DESIGNER DELIGHT pg 200

Special note: As Home Beautiful goes to press, the national response to the COVID-19 pandemic is intensifying. We at HB wish every Australian safety and good health, and know in this time, we will look out for each other.

Palm Springs meets coastal style in this stunning NSW home.

COVER LOOK HAMPTONS STYLE IS WELL AND TRULY ALIVE IN WA, COURTESY OF OUR STUNNING COVER HOME THAT BELONGS TO INDAH ISLAND’S NATALEE BOWEN AND HER FAMILY. WITH ITS CLASSIC BLUE HUES AND JEWEL-LIKE PENDANT LIGHTS, THE KITCHEN IS JUST ONE OF THIS HOME’S MANY HIGHLIGHTS. SEE MORE FROM PAGE 166. Photography: Cath Muscat Styling: Fiona Michelon MAY 2020

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C ONTENTS

COVER STORIES 45 62 118 129 147 159 166

Barely boho The laid-back look gets a makeover 100 pages of inspiring dream homes The hot list: Clever ovens for cool kitchens HB expert Sexy bathroom surfaces A beautiful Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day brunch Special: Dream Homes Real-life renovations, expert advice & ideas to steal Hamptons jewel Divine sunlit spaces and a masterclass in everlasting style

45 EASY 139

ELEGANCE

BEAUTIFUL BLOOMS

THE EDIT 19 Collection Check out L&M Home’s new beautiful bedding 20 In the know What’s hot in design inspiration and in stores 24 Now showing Divine pieces on the HB wish list this month 26 Trend: Vivid Dream Add pops of vibrant colour to your abode 28 Destination style Explore the wonderful delights of Stockholm 32 Designer’s diary New House Rules judge and founder of Lyfestyled,

PHOTOGRAPHY (OPPOSITE) ANASTASIA KARIOFYLLIDIS STYLING LESA LAMBERT

34 36 40 45

Kyly Clarke, shares the places she loves to browse Beauty Enjoy an at-home pamper session with a luxurious face mask Creative collection Meet Melbourne-based painter Kirsten Jackson Top 10: Mother’s Day Spoil mum with one of these heartfelt gifts La bohème Embrace the new way to style bohemian interiors

HOMES 62 Mountain song A 200-year-old house is given an honorary revamp 72 Sweet disposition Timeless style meets Scandi sensibility 82 Free spirit This picture-perfect abode is brimming with eclectic charm 92 In bloom Energetic and colourful, this family home has a life of its own 102 Old soul A century-old dairy farmhouse captivated this couple DESIGN FILE 118 Some like it hot How to choose the best cooking companion for you 129 Surface appeal Natural vs look-alike – we explore the options 136 On screen Meet the new faces behind House Rules: High Stakes 139 Pretty in pink Spread the cheer in your garden with camellias 144 Unearthed We dig up the best backyard buys and gardening tips ENTERTAIN 148 A day to cherish Celebrate Mum with a brunch bursting with flavour 154 Taste test Gourmet finds and kitchen essentials for all foodies REGULAR FEATURES 9 Ed’s letter After 14 years with Home Beautiful, Sarah bids farewell 12 Staff Who we are and where to find us 14 Connected What’s happening in the world of HB 212 Directory Like what you see? Here’s where to find it 218 Unsung icons: Cross stitch A nostalgic way to pass the time

118

HOT STUFF

148

CHEERS TO MUM

DREAM HOMES S P E C I A L 160 Meet the team Our five experts are here to help you transform your home into the design of your dreams 166 Grand oasis This humble family farmhouse gets the ultimate Hamptons makeover 178 Sweet treat Shelly Craft and her brood open the doors to their small but mighty beach cottage 190 Off the grid This couple have dreamt up and bought to life an incredible eco-friendly haven (left) 200 Earthly delight Palm Springs meets boho in this light-filled coastal home in western Sydney

MAY 2020

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EDITOR Sarah Burman MANAGING EDITOR Katrina O’Brien CREATIVE & FOOD DIRECTOR Imogene Abady

A RT & S T Y L E ART DIRECTOR Julia Hoolahan STYLE EDITOR Fiona Gould SENIOR DESIGNER Yasmine Parker PICTURE EDITOR Helen Petrou

F E AT U R E S FEATURES EDITOR Holly Byrne CONTRIBUTING SENIOR EDITORS Sue Wheeler, Karina Machado

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JUNIOR WRITER Kayla Wratten EDITORIAL CO-ORDINATOR/JUNIOR WRITER Harriet Sim

D I G I TA L DIGITAL CONTENT EDITOR Nicola Conville

A DV E RT I S I N G GROUP BRAND SOLUTIONS MANAGER Michelle O’Hanlon (02) 9394 2261 VIC SALES DIRECTOR Fran Vavallo (03) 8636 7526 QLD SALES EXECUTIVE Chris Constable (07) 3368 7402 SA ACCOUNT MANAGER Sara Coles (08) 7231 5909 HEAD OF CLASSIFIEDS Rebecca White 1800 620 745 STUDIO ART DIRECTOR Elyshia McKirdy STUDIO DESIGNER Grace Geier

C O N T E N T M A NAG E M E N T T E A M COPY DIRECTOR Chrystal Glassman

P R O DUC T I O N GROUP PRODUCTION MANAGER – PRINT OPERATIONS Mark Boorman PRINT PRODUCTION Alice Termer PRE-MEDIA SOLUTIONS Michael Tobar, Natalie Carter, Scott Gilleland DEPUTY PRINT OPERATIONS MANAGER Morgan Harris (02) 9394 2959

P U B L I S H I NG GROUP CONTENT & BRAND DIRECTOR Louisa Hatfield

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ACTING COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR Andrew Brain HEAD OF HOMES & FOOD Belinda Thornton MARKETING MANAGER Jana Williams (02) 9394 2816

C O R P O R AT E CHAIRMAN Kerry Stokes CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Gereurd Roberts CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Guy Torre COMMERCIAL MANAGER Mike Gray HEAD OF CIRCULATION Mark Darton

G ET I N TOUC H Editorial enquiries Telephone: (02) 9394 2000 Email: homebeautiful@pacificmags.com.au Write to: 8 Central Avenue, Eveleigh, NSW, 2015 Subscriptions Telephone: 1300 668 118

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

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Published by Pacific Magazines Pty Ltd (ACN 097 410 896) of Media City, 8 Central Avenue, Eveleigh, NSW 2015. Printed by Webstar Print (ABN 58 000 205 210). Distributed by Gordon & Gotch Limited (ACN 088 251 727). All prices and information are correct as at the time of printing. All material sent to Home Beautiful (whether solicited or not) will not be returned. Unless otherwise agreed beforehand, all rights including copyright in such material is assigned to Pacific Magazines upon receipt and Pacific Magazines may use or sell the material in all media worldwide in perpetuity without further consent or payment. Home Beautiful does not accept or assume responsibility for such material. All content © 2020 Pacific Magazines Pty Limited, all rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.

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T THE

Bathroom tiles needing a little TLC? We can tell, because our ‘Grout Cleaning Hack’ story received the most clicks online this month. To find out the secret to sparkling tiles, head over to homebeautiful.com.au.

HELEN PETROU, PHOTO EDITOR

“I’M IN THE MIDST OF RENO HELL AND AM FINDING THIS PODCAST IS ME DOWN. I DON’T FEEL QUITE AS ALONE!” The Daily Home Edit review via Apple Podcasts

calming

BEHIND THE SCENES HB’s style editor Fiona Gould and photographer Cath Muscat (below, from left) were the dream team behind this month’s cover shot. Explore this stunning Hamptons-inspired home from page 166.

DINING IN This month, HB junior writers Harriet Sim and Kayla Wratten were lucky enough to join celebrity chef Matt Preston in celebration of Marley Spoon and Tanqueray’s new limited-edition dinner party box. Flip to page 154 to read Harriet’s interview with Matt. 14

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COMPILED BY HARRIET SIM PHOTOGRAPHY (TOP RIGHT) JODY D’ARCY

How long have you been at HB? Helen: “I’ve actually been with HB for just over 11 years! I ﬁrst started out in magazines as a copy girl at Woman’s Day when I was 16, under the editorship of the legendary Nene King. By 18, I was editorial coordinator of Dolly magazine and also ended up being the Dolly Club president. One of my highlights there was helping out with the famous Dolly model search, which was when Miranda Kerr was scouted for the cover.” What is your favourite section of HB? “I really love our homes section – it’s so interesting to see how people inject their own style and tastes into their home, as well as the history and stories behind their own spaces.” Describe your favourite style when it comes to home decorating: “I would describe my home decorating style as ‘relaxed boho’. I love lots of indoor greenery and treasures from my life – my partner calls it clutter but I call it memories.” What’s been your most memorable HB feature? “It would have to be the inspirational shoot from our Christmas issue in 2017 with my two gorgeous daughters Layla and Indie (below). The shots are such a special memory and my girls had the best time – they’re still talking about it.” My favourite cover of the magazine: “I honestly couldn’t choose just one, because there’s something I love about each of our covers.” Do you have any daily HB rituals? “After turning on my computer, the ﬁrst thing I do every day is send a ‘quote of the day’ to the whole team for some motivation, positive vibes or a giggle. One of my favourites? Your best teacher is your last mistake – Ralph Nader.”

FA M O U S AUSTRALIAN STYLE

FA MOU S POL I S H GLASS

The Harmony collection. Made in Poland.

Upper ﬂoor extension Hardie's Linea weatherboard 180mm Dulux Light Rice ™

80s Bungalow to Contemporary Hamptons

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

HOUSE TO

PLANNING A RENOVATION? WE WANT TO HEAR ABOUT IT! There’s nothing quite as exciting as embarking on a renovating project or planning your dream home from scratch. And we’d love to see what you have in mind! The team at Home Beautiful would like to share your renovation journey, and perhaps lend a hand along the way! Be it just one room or an entire new home, your project might well be the next House to Home Beautiful.

IS YOUR HOME NEXT

Tell us more at homebeautiful.com.au/reno-tell-all

THE EDIT SHOP

I DISCOVER I DECORATE I STYLE I EXPLORE

COLLECTION:

L&M Home

PHOTOGRAPHY MARTINA GEMMOLA

As autumn shifts to winter and the mercury drops, falling leaves and bare branches lend a magical quality to the cosy season. The 2020 collection from luxury bed linen label L&M Home captures the enchantment. The beautiful bedding range exudes warmth and style through soft linen in tonal palettes, just in time for the last leaves to drop. Visit lmhome.com.au.

ABOVE FROM BACK: ‘Mondo’ French linen pillowcase in Tobacco, from $66; ‘Mondo’ French linen pillowcase in Rosa, $92/pair; ‘Nightwatch’ cushion, $130; ‘Archway’ cushion, $130; ‘Mondo’ French linen duvet cover set in Tobacco, from $473; ‘Hepburn’ blanket in Oatmeal, from $125; ‘Mondo’ French linen valance in Natural, from $253.

THE EDIT

IN THE KNOW:

WHAT’S HOT OUR ROUND-UP OF THE LATEST DESIGN NEWS, SHOPPING AND DECORATING Edited by KAYLA WRATTEN

SENSE OF SUNSHINE Designer and creative Sarah Ellison has released her much-coveted third furniture collection, Sol, a reference to the sun. Encapsulating her minimalist design aesthetic, the collection includes exaggerated sculptural furniture in textural materials and timber, and decor objects in glass and limestone – all infused with a ’70s-inspired palette and designed to create a sense of warmth. Explore the collection at sarahellison.com.au.

TIME-POOR BUT DREAMING OF RENOVATING? NEW DESIGN CONCEPT ‘THE KITCHEN COLLECTIVE’ OFFERS AN IN AS LITTLE AS EIGHT WEEKS. SEE THEKITCHENCOLLECTIVE.COM.AU

end-to-end kitchen design journey

we love: III ROOMS

THREE AUSTRALIAN FURNITURE DESIGN HOUSES, JARDAN (ABOVE LEFT), CULT DESIGN (ABOVE) AND MCM HOUSE (BELOW), HAVE EACH DESIGNED AN APARTMENT IN SYDNEY’S LATEST UNIQUE HOTEL ALTERNATIVE, III ROOMS. MANAGED BY CONTEMPORARY HOTELS, THE APARTMENT ACCOMMODATION EXPERIENCES EXUDE THEIR OWN MODERN STYLE AND PERSONALITY IN A HERITAGE BUILDING. BOOK IN FROM $700 A NIGHT AT THREEROOMSSYDNEY.COM.AU.

2 3 PAPIER X RACHAEL COCKER The designer and ceramicist’s debut collection with Papier includes personalised stationery for everything from your desk to your big day. “The designs share a bold, painterly quality and celebrate the joy and imperfections which come about through making by hand,” says Rachael. Visit papier.com/au/ 1. Wedding invitation, from $3.10/each. 2. Weekly planner, $46.99. 3. Notecard set, $45/10.

REGAL RUGS

playful pots

CERAMIC ENTHUSIASTS WILL BE OVERJOYED BY THE NEW ‘SPIRITED’ COLLECTION OF VASES AND POTS FROM HOMEWARES BRAND JONES & CO. THERE’S ABUNDANT SHAPES, PATTERNS AND PRINTS – FROM FACES TO STRIPES – TO CHOOSE FROM, HOWEVER, WE HAVE A SOFT SPOT FOR THE TERRACOTTA ‘WESTWOOD’ RANGE, FROM $44, JONESANDCO.COM.AU.

Update your ﬂoors with a hand-tufted rug designed by fashion illustrator Megan Hess. Her second collection for Designer Rugs, The Hidden Palace, was inspired by royal decadence. She says, “I wanted to invoke feelings of regal opulence and glamour, and to create a hidden palace for your very own home.” ‘The Palace Ballroom’ rug, $6137, designerrugs.com.au.

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE, BOTTOM LEFT) WILL HORNER (OPPOSITE, TOP CENTRE) DAVE WHEELER

TABLE MANNERS

Forego paper napkins and instead decorate your table with the pretty linen from new homewares brand Clementine & Co. Switch between nostalgic ﬂorals made of Liberty London cotton fabrics and the label’s own soft stripes.

TRAVEL IN STYLE

Set of 4 napkins, from $69.95, clementine andco.com.au.

The perfect companion for jet-setting women, Glasshouse Fragrance’s new travel atomiser set includes three destination-inspired eau de parfums – Forever Florence, Kyoto In Bloom and Midnight In Milan. A visual treat too, this Mother’s Day collection is wrapped in bespoke prints of abstract faces by Israeli fashion illustrator Shira Barzilay. ‘Signature Scents’ atomiser set, $74.95, glasshousefragrances.com. >

MAY 2020

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BOOK CLUB AN IN-DEPTH EXPLORATION OF STRIKING AUSTRALIAN ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN

DESIGN LIVES HERE BY PENNY CRASWELL (THAMES & HUDSON, $59.99) Editor, writer and curator Penny Craswell’s exquisite book highlights the best of contemporary Australian architecture, furniture design and bespoke objects while exploring the inﬂuence of our unique landscape on our homes.

A MOTHER-DAUGHTER DUO HAVE LAUNCHED DESTINATION LOVE AFTER ONLINE LOVE. DISCOVER ECLECTIC BRANDS AND AN IN-HOUSE TEXTILE RANGE AT LOVEAFTERLOVE.COM.AU.

homewares

ART WATCH: JACQUELINE COATES THE AUSTRALIAN FLORAL ARTIST HAS MADE A NAME FOR HERSELF TEACHING BOTANICAL PAINTING AT HER BLOOMS ART SCHOOL. NOW, HER ONLINE PAINTING PROGRAM HAS BEEN RELAUNCHED WITH EXCITING NEW SESSIONS. VISIT HOWTOPAINTBLOOMS.COM, AND FLIP TO PAGE 213 TO DISCOVER MORE ARTISTS.

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5 MINUTES WITH: GEORGIE CAVANAGH

THE EDIT

‘Musk’ duvet cover, $240. ‘Musk’ pillow cover set, $75.

HB TALKS ALL THINGS SLEEP WITH GEORGIE CAVANAGH OF LINEN BEDDING BRAND CARLOTTA + GEE (PICTURED LEFT, WITH CO-FOUNDER CARLOTTA CASALS) What are the benefits of linen? Georgie: “Linen is the most natural plant there is and, when grown in Normandy, France, there are no pesticides used in its production. It’s ecofriendly as every part of the plant is used, and it also has health benefits from the tiny holes in the fabric, which allow the body to breathe.” How do you choose bed linen to suit your interiors? “We encourage people to mix and match colours as you never know what combinations might work. Carlotta recently tried our ‘Marine Stripes’ duvet cover with ‘Oat’ pillowcases – it looked very stylish and fresh!” Tell us your idea of the perfect bedding situation: “A bedroom should always reflect your values and be pleasing on the eye, as you spend over a third of your time in there. A little trick in the summer is to remove the duvet itself and use the linen duvet cover alone, as it’s very cool and breathable.” What are your top tips for getting a good night’s sleep? “Make sure the room is organised. Slightly opening the window, having a glass of water next to your bed and spritzing pillow spray are good methods. It’s lovely to burn a nice smelling candle before you sleep, and definitely don’t look at your phone while in bed – instead, try reading.” What’s in store for Carlotta + Gee in 2020? “Big things! We are looking forward to continuing our relationship with fashion brand Assembly Label and we are extending our label with products such as linen robes.” Visit carlottaandgee.com.

THE EDIT

3 2

4 OUR PICK:

WISH LIST THE LATEST ADDITIONS TO OUR SHOPPING CART Compiled by FIONA GOULD

earthy

“CONTOURS AND TONES DELIVER UNDERSTATED GLAMOUR” ~ SARAH BURMAN, HB EDITOR 1. Sandstone arch bookend, $20, Target. 2. ‘Shield’ decorative loop mirror, $199, West Elm. 3. ‘Olive Eden’ cotton rug, $364/230cm x 160cm, Temple & Webster. 4. ‘Fabrienne’ armchair in Ochre, $1099, Zanui. 5. ‘Adelle’ table lamp, $230, Trit House. 6. ‘Lagoon’ cushion, $69.95, Milk & Sugar. 7. ‘Cooper’ agate accent chest, $6925, Max Sparrow. 8. Green marble arch, $89, House Of Orange. Stockists, page 212

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www.ara-anz.com

THE EDIT

“C OLOUR IN YOUR INTERIORS WITH THESE AND BEAUTIFUL HUES”

bright

~ FIONA GOULD, HB STYLE EDITOR

7 8 TREND:

VIVID DREAM TAKE IT BACK TO BASICS WITH A SPLASH OF BOLD PRIMARY COLOUR Compiled by FIONA GOULD

1. ‘Field’ candleholder in Blue, $29.95, Gingerfinch. 2. ‘Brushed Palette’ rug, $499/152cm x 244cm, West Elm. 3. ‘Bicoca’ table lamp in Yellow by Marset, $265, Finnish Design Shop. 4. ‘Vuelta 80’ armchair in Red by Wittmann, $7750, Domo. 5. ‘Bottoms Up’ vase in Electric Blue from Hay, $99, Royal Design. 6. Fermob ‘Bebop’ table in Honey, $1092/800mm, Trit House. 7. ‘Saladier 1’ ceramic salad bowl, $121, Lrnce. 8. ‘Alfie’ throw in Poppy, $360, Jardan. Stockists, page 212

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(IMAGE) A RUNWAY LOOK FROM THE ESTEBAN CORTAZAR SPRING/SUMMER COLLECTION AT PARIS FASHION WEEK

www.ara-anz.com

DESTINATION STYLE:

STOCKHOLM WE EXPLORE THE WORLD’S MOST EXCITING DESIGN DESTINATIONS Words LISA ARNOLD

or Swedes, subtlety and good style are not mutually exclusive. Take their wonderful concept of lagom: the optimal measure between too much and too little. The capital, Stockholm, is a celebration of Swedishness, not only in the world of shopping and dining, but also with the outdoors. Hotels, bars and even the smallest cafes are thoughtfully furnished and stylishly decorated, to form an effortless beauty in which everything finds its natural place. Read on to discover author Lisa Arnold’s guide to shopping, sleeping and eating like a local, and discover the true Swedish style.

SHOP 1. Byredo ‘Byredo’ is derived from the word ‘redolence’, which means ‘pleasant (often evocative) fragrance’, and the brand’s Swedish founder, Ben Gorham, a rather unconventional perfumer with tattoos and a former career as a basketballer, creates scents based on personal memories. Having already made its way into upmarket department stores in the US and Hong Kong, Byredo’s ﬂagship store sells the full range, including scented candles and accessories as well as perfumes. Visit: Mäster Samuelsgatan 6 Bookmark: byredo.se

2. Fablab For stylist and Vogue photographer Johan Svenson, his small store – a treasure chest of contemporary curios – is a playground of good design with a sense of humour. If you know your friends (very) well, you’ll ﬁnd unusual gifts among an eclectic selection of pithy self-help books, hipster cosmetics and little ceramic monkeys. And, if you’re shopping for yourself, you’ll come across home accessories that you never knew existed. An online shop provides a handy consolation for those who can’t make it during opening hours (Fablab opens from Thursday to Sunday only). Visit: Bondegatan 7 Bookmark: fab-lab.nu

3. RODEBJER WHEN CARIN RODEBJER WORE HER HANDMADE DESIGNS ON THE STREETS OF NEW YORK IN 1999, SO MANY PEOPLE ASKED HER WHERE SHE’D FOUND THEM THAT SHE TURNED HER PASSION INTO WHAT IS NOW A HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL WOMEN’S FASHION LABEL. THE SOFT SILHOUETTES, PLAYFUL PRINTS AND SUBDUED COLOURS GIVE HER DESIGNS AN UNMISTAKEABLY FEMININE TOUCH. RODEBJER EXPRESSES THE PERSONALITY OF WOMEN WHO AIM FOR AUTHENTICITY RATHER THAN PERFECTION. VISIT: SMÅLANDSGATAN 12 BOOKMARK : RODEBJER .COM/ WO/HOME

“DIM LIGHTS, VELVETY SOFAS AND ART DECO ELEMENTS ALL CREATE A LUXURIOUS VIBE” ~ LISA ARNOLD, AUTHOR, STOCKHOLM STYLE GUIDE

4 DINE

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE, BOTTOM RIGHT) SUSANA BLAVARG

4. Pharmarium This cocktail bar is well worth a visit, not only for its extravagant drinks menu, but also for its unusual interior. Sweden’s ﬁrst pharmacy opened here, at Stockholm’s market square, back in 1575, and the place is clearly still fascinated by ingredients that lie at the intersection between medicine and magic. Visit: Stortorget 7 Bookmark: pharmarium.se

5. Mister French This waterside restaurant on Gamla Stan island is a mecca for fans of good seafood. Lobster, oysters and prawns are all ﬁxtures on the menu, which is inspired by the cuisine of France’s former colonies. Despite being quite large, the space retains a sophisticated lounge atmosphere. Visit: Tullhus 2, Skeppsbrokajen Bookmark: mrfrench.se

6.VETE-KATTEN THIS LARGE CAFE, WHICH EXTENDS ACROSS SEVERAL ROOMS AND A COSY COURTYARD, IS A STOCKHOLM INSTITUTION. IT WAS FOUNDED BY ESTER NORDHAMMAR IN 1928, AT A TIME WHEN WOMEN HAD JUST BEEN GIVEN THE VOTE AND FEW OF THEM STARTED THEIR OWN BUSINESSES. THIS PATISSERIE HAS BEEN SYNONYMOUS WITH DELICIOUS CINNAMON SCROLLS, CAKES AND TARTLETS EVER SINCE. VISIT: KUNGSGATAN 55 BOOKMARK: VETEKATTEN.SE >

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THE EDIT

7. SEGLARHOTELL WITH ITS RED FACADE AND STRIKING TURRET, THIS HOTEL ABOVE THE HARBOUR OF SANDHAMN IS MORE THAN MERE ACCOMMODATION: IT’S THE ISLAND’S SOCIAL HUB. THIS IS WHERE SAILORS RELAX WITH ‘AFTER SAIL’ DRINKS AND LIVE MUSIC PLAYS ON SATURDAY AFTERNOONS. WHERE YOU FORTIFY YOURSELF WITH A HEARTY PIZZA IN THE LOUNGE AND EVERYBODY WHO DOESN’T HAVE THEIR OWN BOAT STAYS. VISIT: SANDHAMN 378 BOOKMARK : SANDHAMN.COM

EXPLORE 8. ArkDes The Swedish Centre For Architecture And Design (above) is associated with the Moderna Museet gallery, and entry is free. The centre is a lot smaller and has one or two special exhibitions, and a permanent exhibition where 3D models illustrate the development of Swedish architecture. Visit: Exercisplan 4 Bookmark: arkdes.se

“ETT HEM’S 12 ROOMS FEATURE SIMPLE DESIGNS, BUT EACH AND EVERY DETAIL IS OF OUTSTANDING QUALITY” ~ LISA ARNOLD, AUTHOR, STOCKHOLM STYLE GUIDE

STAY

9. Ett Hem You’ll discover Stockholm’s most exclusive boutique hotel sitting a little off the city centre, in among charming late 19th-century townhouses in the quiet residential suburb of Lärkstaden. British designer Ilse Crawford has converted one of these residences into a hotel, where you will immediately feel at home. Guests are treated to an inviting library and a lounge room with corner bar, and breakfast is served in the orangerie – deﬁnitely no soulless reception area here. Visit: Sköldungagatan 2 Bookmark: etthem.se

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HOW TO GET THERE Flying from Sydney to Stockholm will cost about $1500 return with Emirates. The best time to visit the Swedish capital is in summer (from June to August), but airfares will be pricier then. A taxi into the CBD from the airport will set you back between $40 and $60. Images and text from Stockholm Style Guide, by Lisa Arnold (Murdoch Books, $39.99), on sale now.

PHOTOGRAPHY (TOP RIGHT) ASA LUNDEN/MODERNA MUSEET

THE EDIT

DESIGNER’S DIARY:

KYLY CLARKE EARLY SETTLER “THEIR FURNITURE AND HOME DECOR IS ACCESSIBLE AND AFFORDABLE, SO YOU CAN CHANGE STYLES AROUND WHEN YOU WANT.” VISIT: STORES NATIONWIDE BOOKMARK : EARLYSETTLER .COM.AU.

THE HOUSE RULES JUDGE AND FOUNDER OF HOLISTICLIVING BRAND LYFESTYLED SHARES SOME OF THE PLACES THAT MAKE HER TICK

Cape Byron “I have a little spot in my heart for Byron Bay’s Cape Byron walking track. I love bushwalking and sightseeing, and this walk is so tranquil and relaxing.” Bookmark: visitbyronbay.com.

Compiled by KAYLA WRATTEN

Lyfestyled “A daily

TOBIAS OLIVER INTERIORS “I walked past [this interior design store] in London. There’s nothing better than adding something unique to your home so it becomes a talking point with your guests. Collecting pieces from around the world to showcase in your home reminds you of where you’ve been.”

ritual of lighting candles turned into a luxurious range of soy scented candles and diffusers, which deliver luxe aromas for your space.” Bookmark:

lshomewares.com.au. Follow: @kylyclarke

Visit: 85-87 High St, Berkhamsted, UK. Bookmark: tobiasoliverinteriors.com.

PEGGY PORSCHEN “I drove past this cafe and thought it would be the perfect spot for a fun cupcake and coffee with [my daughter] Kelsey Lee. The decor is pretty, Parisian and aesthetically appealing, and the atmosphere is so sweet.” Visit: 219 King’s Rd, Chelsea, UK. Bookmark: peggyporschen.com. Photography: Victoria Metaxas

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MAY 2020

“THIS BYRON BAY FASHION STORE PICKS THE MOST AMAZING PATTERNS, SHAPES AND STYLES” ~ KYLY CLARKE

SPELL & THE GYPSY “I LOVE THE FEEL OF BYRON BAY, AND THIS STORE GIVES YOU THE OPPORTUNITY TO TRANSFORM YOUR FASHION TO A STYLISH BUT RELAXED MODE... I HAVE A FASHION CRUSH ON THEIR TAKE ON RELAXED ‘BOHO’.” VISIT: 15 BROWNING ST, BYRON BAY, (02) 9159 6255. BOOKMARK : AUS.SPELL.CO.

T HE E DI T

BEAUTY:

TOP COVER INDULGE IN AN AT-HOME SPA EXPERIENCE WITH THE LATEST LUXURIOUS MASKS Styling SAMANTHA POINTON Photography SUE FERRIS

2 1

3 8 6 7

10 9

love

“I THE RICH HYDRATION BOOST OF A NIGHT MASK” ~ SARAH BURMAN, HB EDITOR

1. Fresh rose deep hydration sleeping mask, $78, Sephora. 2. Manuka honey detoxifying facial mask, $20.99, Swisse. 3. ‘R+R’ mask, $52, Summer Fridays. 4. Butt Naked rose pink clay face mask, $22, Biome. 5. Australian pink clay porefining face mask, $69.90, Sand & Sky. 6. Brightening Jeju volcanic colour clay mask, $14, Innisfree. 7. Glow Recipe ‘Watermelon Glow’ sleeping mask, $35/30ml, Mecca. 8. Irish Moor mud mask, $60, Peter Thomas Roth. 9. Allies Of Skin 1A retinal + peptides overnight mask, $151, Sephora. 10. Bareminerals ‘Dirty Detox’ skin glowing and refining mud mask, $56, Mecca. Natural tampico bristle nail brush, $12.95, French Knot. Bowls, board, spoons and fabric, stylist’s own. Stockists, page 212

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MAY 2020

A DV E RT I S E M E N T

ART IN NATURE THIS FAMILY’S SHARED PASSION FOR NATURE AND WILDLIFE HAS INSPIRED AN E XCITING CRE ATIVE COLL ABOR ATION

hen artist Nathan Ferlazzo founded his studio, Marini Ferlazzo, working with his mum Clare Ferlazzo was always on the agenda. “Our family has always been close,” he says. “Our love for nature and animals is what inspired our business and it deﬁnitely shows in our collections.”

CREATING BEAUTY With a passion for conservation, Nathan and Clare work extensively with wildlife initiatives to help protect the animals Nathan so lovingly draws. It’s a shared commitment that brings them joy. “Working together hasn’t created friction,” says Nathan. “In fact, it’s brought us closer together.” Now Marini Ferlazzo has extended its collaborative spirit to work alongside another family-founded business. Maxwell & Williams has created a stunning range featuring Nathan’s extraordinary signature pen-and-ink illustrations, designed to be enjoyed every day in your own home. The range of mugs, plates, tea towels, greeting cards and insulated bottles features Nathan’s intricate drawings on a white background, many with accents of colour. The vibrant, collectable pieces come alive with detail and are a perfect complement to the classic white pieces from the wider Maxwell & Williams collection.

DISCOVER THE MARINI FERLA ZZO COLLECTION AT MAXWELLANDWILLIAMS.COM.AU ALSO AVAIL ABLE IN DEPARTMENT STORES AND INDEPENDENT RETAILERS

“Our love for nature and animals shows in our collections”

TOP TO BOTTOM: Marini Ferlazzo Galah Mug, 450ml, $14.95 RRP. Marini Ferlazzo Giraffe Double Wall Insulated Bottle, 500ml, $19.95 RRP. Marini Ferlazzo Cockatoo Tea Towel 50 x 70cm, $14.95 RRP.

CREATIVE COLLECTION:

HAPPINESS ON A CANVAS AFTER LOSING HER MOTHER, MELBOURNE PAINTER KIRSTEN JACKSON FOUND REFUGE IN CREATING JOY-SPARKING ART BURSTING WITH COLOUR Words KAYLA WRATTEN Photography STEPHANIE ROONEY Styling GEORGIE FITZGERALD

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AT A GLANCE Who: Abstract artist Kirsten Jackson. What she does: Paints textural blocks of bright colour on canvas for local galleries and international shows. Where: Melbourne, Victoria. Why she does it: “I love that I am able to share and spread happiness,” she says. “I get really excited when I finish a painting.” Visit: kirstenjackson.com.au Follow: @kirstenjackson_gallery

THIS PAGE, TOP LEFT: Gelato-hued cans rest on the paint-splattered floor. TOP RIGHT: A collection of artworks on display in Kirsten’s beachside

showroom. She says her coastal location inspires her work: “When you think of Australia, you think of bright colours and the beach, which has influenced my paintings.” BELOW LEFT: ‘Happy Me’ portrait of Kirsten’s mother, measuring 153cm x 123cm. BELOW RIGHT: An assortment of paint tools lies in preparation for the creative day ahead. OPPOSITE PAGE: The artist Kirsten in her showroom, surrounded by her vibrant paintings. >

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s a teenager, abstract artist Kirsten Jackson found her creative outlet in painting, relishing the healing power inherent in splashing joyous colours across a canvas. “When I was three my dad passed away and, when I was 14, my mum died of leukaemia. I started painting because it was the only thing that made me happy,” shares the Melbourne-based painter. “I couldn’t do a dark piece; it wouldn’t be possible.” Her bright artworks are as contagiously bubbly as Kirsten herself, who still equates painting with peace. She likens walking into her studio to breezing through a yoga class. “I love my studio,” she says of the fresh white space, which provides a tranquil backdrop for

mixing acrylics, oil crayons, inks and watercolours to create textural blocks in coastal hues. As clients became collectors, Art2Muse gallery in Sydney offered representation and she expanded into her own showroom and studio in Melbourne’s south-east. “I never ﬁnished my course because I got so busy with galleries and commissions,” she admits. While her work is in high demand – she has 38 commissioned pieces on her wait list and eight international trade shows to prepare for every year – Kirsten’s success wasn’t as swift as it seems. “I submitted work to the Canterbury Art Show and, for the ﬁrst two years, I was really sad because nobody bought anything. My husband, Ian, said ‘I think you should do something else,’” she laughs, as though giving up was ever an

“I THINK PEOPLE CONNECT TO MY WORK BY PICKING UP ON MY ENERGY - IT’S DEEPER THAN WHAT YOU SEE ON THE CANVAS” ~ Kirsten her vibrant pieces. “My breathing changes and I get that ‘ahhh’ feeling. It’s like my meditation.” Despite painting for leisure throughout her life, Kirsten didn’t produce her ﬁrst series, Happy Faces – ﬁgurative portraits of her smiling mother – until she was in her early 30s. Before then she was immersed in a corporate sales career. But, with the arrival of children Taylor, now 22, and Alexander, now 19, she says: “I didn’t want to go back to work! Friends wanted to buy my paintings, so I thought I should just start selling them.” Kirsten embarked on a Visual Arts degree at Melbourne’s prestigious RMIT and converted her garage into a studio, where she developed her now-signature impasto style of layering and

option. Her grit comes from another passion that she picked up after losing her mother: running. “Running and art helped me heal,” explains the artist, who is training for the 2020 Boston Marathon. “In elite running you can’t give up after the ﬁrst couple of races. We all have failures, but you keep going until the universe rewards you.” On the surface, her rewards may be the chance to swap art with creatives such as Byron Bay artist Jai Vasicek, or having work exhibited alongside her childhood idol, iconic Australian painter Ken Done. But perhaps the greatest gift is channelling her mother’s spirit in every ebullient piece and ‘Happy Face’ painting. Kirsten says, “I feel like she is here in the studio with me every day.”

TOP LEFT: Kirsten squeezes thick acrylic paint onto her brush, showing off a dazzling collection of rings. TOP RIGHT: At the front of her studio, the shelves burst with bottles and tubes of bright paint, in every conceivable colour. BELOW LEFT: “I smile when I come into my studio; I talk to my paintings and tell them I love them,” says Kirsten. “Anyone would think I was a crazy lady!”

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TOP 10:

MOTHER’S DAY

CELEBRATE MUM WITH A COVETABLE GIFT THAT UPS THE STAKES IN STYLE Compiled by FIONA GOULD

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“THIS DRESSING GOWN IS AT THE TOP OF MY WISH LIST” ~ SARAH BURMAN, HB EDITOR

1. Panama cheese platter in White, $29.95, Maxwell & Williams. 2. ‘Gillian’ dressing gown, $129, Squeak Design. 3. ‘Dried Hydrangea’ photographic print, from $9.95, Olive Et Oriel. 4. ‘Donna Born In Roma’ fragrance by Valentino, $225/100ml, Myer. 5. Seychelles marble bookends, $95, Coco Republic. 6. ‘Betty’ tote by Kate Spade New York, $599.95/medium, David Jones. 7. ‘Halftone Clouds’ cushion cover, $85, Florence Broadhurst Fabrics. 8. Objet Aimee ‘Pirouette’ vase, $150, Bed Threads. 9. ‘Camelia White Lotus’ candle by Mews, $44.95, Myer. 10. ‘Honeycomb’ wine chiller, $156, Williams Sonoma. Stockists, page 212

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la bohème EMBRACE THE NEW TAKE ON BOHEMIAN STYLING – A LITTLE LESS BUSY AND A LOT MORE REFINED, YET STILL WITH THAT RELAXED HOLIDAY STATE OF MIND Words & merchandising ANNA McCLELLAND

PHOTOGRAPHY LOUISE ROCHE/VILLA STYLING

‘Folk’ cushion in Xander, $84.95; ‘Haven’ lumbar cushion in Jute, $89.95; ‘Whitehaven’ cushion, $44.95; ‘Lulu’ throw in Natural, $149.95; ‘Juno’ rug in Jute, $149; ‘Casa’ ottoman in Jute, $159.95; all Sea Tribe. Stockists, page 212 >

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STYLE MAKERS

The new take on boho decorating doesn’t have to spell ikat-everything and, while it holds on to that breezy essence of bohemia, it offers a little more sophistication. “The quintessential style we all know and love is in a phase of gentrification,” explains interior designer Mel Gubbin of Avenue Twenty Two. “The new look is pared back, cleaned up and calmed.” Lived-in, yet luxurious, it has that coveted carefree ambience without overwhelming a space, relying on subdued tones more than a cacophony of colour.

STYLE IT: “With simple, but strong, sculptural pieces that resonate, there’s little need to layer lots of accessories – it’s less fussy but still warm,” explains founder Danielle McEwan of Tigmi Trading.

STYLE IT: Look to pieces with a story to tell or that invite relaxation: think slouchy, low-profile linen sofas, hand-woven rugs and cosy floor cushions.

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MAY 2020

GET THE

new boho LOOK

‘Lark’ rug in Cream and Silver, $439, Temple & Webster.

STYLE IT: Forget about the cluttered, overcrowded rooms traditional bohemian style might conjure – the 2020 take on the trend veers more to minimalism than mess. “The key word here is restraint,” says interior designer Noël Coughlan of NC Interiors. Ensure everything has a purpose to avoid going overboard in decor.

‘Coogee’ pendant light, $2149, Interiors Online.

Bisque Interiors carved round coffee table, $2299, Interiors Online.

“TRAVEL, HISTORY AND SOUL STILL INSPIRE THE - BUT EXPRESSED IN MORE NATURAL AND SUBDUED TONES” ~ BONNIE HINDMARSH,

‘Wilkie’ sling occasional chair, $1375, Globe West.

new boho

PHOTOGRAPHY GREG COX/BUREAUEX

THREE BIRD RENOVATIONS

‘Maxine’ knit cushion, $89, Sage & Clare.

Bone inlay and mother of pearl commode in Grey Thin Zigzag, $2800, Fenton & Fenton. Stockists, page 212 >

STYLE IT: Drawing on natural elements such as rattan, cane and reclaimed or rustic timber, it’s simple to add a breezy boho vibe to a coastal, contemporary or Hamptons-style home.

FINISHING TOUCHES

The key to toning down a maximalist bohemian space lies in selecting natural materials and textures to create a soothing effect. “The new boho look is softer, with layering of natural colours combined with organic shapes, and finished with luxe moments of gold and marble,” says creative director Bonnie Hindmarsh of Three Birds Renovations. “When it comes to flooring, it needs to have character and imperfections.”

3. STYLE IT: “Timbers, natural stones, glass, cane and leather all add an element of comfort and warmth when layered simply,” says Danielle McEwan of Tigmi Trading.

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MAY 2020

“REFINE YOUR LOOK BY ELEMENTS WITH METALLIC ACCENTS, MARBLE TRAYS AND UNIQUE VINTAGE PIECES” ~ DANIELLE MCEWAN, TIGMI TRADING

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) JOHN DOWNS (OPPOSITE TOP RIGHT & BOTTOM LEFT) LOUISE ROCHE

mixing natural

OPPOSITE: 1. ‘Moroccan Bazaar’ tile in Grey/Blue/Baby Blue,

$165/sqm, Jatana Interiors. 2. ‘Avery’ palm screen, $865, Globe West. 3. ‘Mahieu’ flat-weave cotton and wool rug, from $499, Temple & Webster. 4. ‘Max Matt’ porcelain tile in Acacia Snow, $66.38/sqm, Marble Ceramic Corp. Stockists, page 212 >

PALETTE PERFECTION

OPPOSITE: 1. Wash & Wear in Spanish Olive paint, $48.55/L, Dulux. 2. Endure in Milk Cloud

paint, $43.05/L, Taubmans. 3. Flax linen sheet set in Ruby/Fog/Rust, from $260, Bed Threads. 4. Wash & Wear in Auburn Flair paint, $48.55/L, Dulux. Stockists, page 212

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) LOUISE ROCHE (OPPOSITE) PHOTOGRAPHY LISA COHEN, STYLING BREE LEECH

Just as the elements are pared back, so are the new hues. “Consider toning it down in the colour department by focusing on having more neutral shades,” suggests Noël Coughlan of NC Interiors. “White, cream and sandy tones work beautifully.” Sticking to a simple palette, rather than a riot of colour, keeps your boho interior clean and fresh and, in the absence of vibrant hues, you can build interest by incorporating plenty of textures and natural fibres.

STYLE IT: If you can’t resist a splash of colour, then channel your inner bohemian and choose one statement piece to form the basis of your palette, with some accessories and cushions picked out in a colourway that is complementary.

dreamy

“BOHO STYLE 2020 GOES BEYOND WHITE, ADDING NEUTRALS, GREIGES AND SOFT PASTELS TO THE PALETTE” ~ FIONA GOULD, HB STYLE EDITOR

STYLE IT: To help create a relaxing sleep zone with soft, subtle white walls, Dulux colour planning and communications manager Andrea Lucena-Orr suggests this trio of paint hues: Dulux Casper White Half, Natural White or Terrace White.

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Entertainer s ’ space WITH ADJUSTABLE HEADRESTS, WIRELESS CHARGING, AN L.E.D. READING LIGHT AND POWERED RECLINERS, RAISE THE BAR WITH A SOFA THAT’S MADE FOR GOOD TIMES

Alexa Fabric Modular Lounge Suite in ‘Luna’ Marble, $4499; Southport 7-Piece Timber Dining Setting (W200xD100xH77cm), $1799; JH Roderick Rug in Mocha (Medium), $799; Moon Coffee Table (W90xD90xH40cm), $229; Cayman Cushion – Mustard, $49.95ea; Sorrento Cushion – White, $49.95; Granada Cushion – Terracotta, $49.95; Azzu 18cm Vase, $29.95. All other props stylist’s own.

ABOVE: Provincial Carver Dining Chair, $349. RIGHT: Provincial Timber Dining Table (W304.6xD99.1xH80cm), $1999; Provincial Carver Dining Chairs, $349ea; Provincial Dining Chairs, $249ea; Sorrento Cushion – White, $49.95. All other props stylist’s own.

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ABOVE: Grand Boom Entertainment Unit – White/Grey (W354.7xD50.2xH209.9cm), $1999. All other props stylist’s own. LEFT: Brooklyn 3-Seater Fabric Powered Recliner Sofa with Chaise in ‘Nusuede’ Graphite, $3499; Brooklyn 2-Seater Fabric Powered Recliner Sofa with Console in ‘Nusuede’ Graphite, $2999; JH Roderick Rug in Ivory (Medium), $799; Pothos 180cm Potted Plant, $499; Blair Coffee Table (W130xD70xH40cm), $399; Gus Lamp, $299; Blair Lamp Table (W50xD50xH50cm), $249; Kanza Cushion, $64.95; Granada Cushion – Ink, $49.95; Vista Cushion – Ink, $49.95. All other props stylist’s own.

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Mykonos 7-Piece Outdoor Dining Setting, $2199; Mykonos 4-Piece Outdoor Lounge Setting, $1999; Banana Tree Potted Plant, $499; Hali Outdoor Scatter Striped Cushion in Driftwood, $19.95; Hali Outdoor Scatter Cushion in Driftwood, $19.95. All other props stylistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own.

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HOMES

PHOTOGRAPHY MAREE HOMER

THE STORIES, STYLE AND LOVE THAT MAKE A HOME BEAUTIFUL

OLD SOUL page 102

HOMES

MOUNTAIN SONG RENOVATED TO HONOUR ITS HISTORY AND HARMONISE WITH ITS TRANQUIL SURROUNDS, A FAMILYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BELOVED 200-YEAR-OLD HOME IS THE EPITOME OF PARED-BACK BEAUTY Story ROBYN ALEXANDER Styling TILLE DEL NEGRO Photography GREG COX/BUREAUX

STORY COURTESY OF BUREAUX

RUSTIC RETREAT With its history dating

back at least 200 years, ‘Ca’n Marquet’ (opposite), on the Spanish island of Mallorca, seems to rise naturally from the verdant landscape. For Londoners Mercedes and João, who’ve been regular visitors with their children Victoria and João for many years, a quest to honour the heritage of the home underpinned its recent renovation. To enhance outdoor living, two pergolas were restored, including this welcoming space (above), embraced by olive-wood trunks and abundant bougainvillea. The table and benches come from a local flea market, while Moredesign’s interiors arm, More Decor, sourced the attractive woven hanging lampshades (try the ‘Java’ rattan oversized light shade in Natural from Dianna-Lynn Decor). >

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or Mercedes and João, the hunt for the perfect home away from home was long, but well worth it. “We were looking for something a little out of the ordinary,” says Mercedes, who, along with João, had been visiting Mallorca for years prior to buying their dream holiday home on the idyllic Spanish island. Their wish materialised with the discovery of ‘Ca’n Marquet’, a rustic hideaway built from ancient, sun-warmed stone walls tucked away in a verdant landscape. Recalls Mercedes, “We fell for its charming appearance right away.” The love affair was no passing fancy. More than 15 years later, the London-based couple, their adult children Victoria and João, and the family dog Pollock are spending more time than ever at their second home in the Mediterranean, which harbours secrets its owners are still unearthing. “Unfortunately, we know very little about the history of the house,” explains Madrid-born Mercedes. “But we have learnt that initially two families lived in the house – and we also found an interesting underground alcove where, supposedly, contraband items were hidden hundreds of years ago.” Its shadowy past aside, the property offered scope that stretched beyond a base for the warmer months. “We are starting to use it in autumn as well, and because in the summer we usually invite friends and family, the off-peak months are a nice time for us to relax here,” she says. With the home playing an ever-more significant role in their lives, Mercedes and João recently decided to renovate, enlisting Mallorca-based architecture and design firm Moredesign. “The main aim was to modernise the house without spoiling its traditional Mallorquin characteristics,” says Mercedes. On the wish list: underfloor heating – a must, as the island’s winters are wet and chilly – as well as central airconditioning. The modern comforts had to be introduced “without ruining its original characteristics,” says Mercedes. “We also wanted to expand our outside area.” The solution – the island’s signature pergola, times two. Embraced by attractive grape vines or framed by fuchsia bougainvillea, the pergolas needed to be “in complete harmony with nature and the house,” says Mercedes. In this, as with elsewhere, Moredesign delivered, say the happy homeowners. “It has become a very comfortable, user-friendly, ‘all-year-round’ house,” she says. Asked about her favourite spot in the home, Mercedes picks the renovated kitchen, a sparsely radiant space refreshed by sage-green accents that recur throughout the home to lift stark white rooms warmed by timber touches. “The kitchen has a wonderful window facing the garden and the pool area,” she says. “You feel that you are outside and inside at the same time.” Secluded from crowds, the serene ‘Ca’n Marquet’ has evolved with the family, and today, the home is truly the retreat they always dreamed of. Sums up Mercedes, with a smile, “We simply love it all.”

KITCHEN Avid cook Mercedes spends a lot of time in her eat-in

kitchen (top left & opposite), where a wide window keeps her in touch with the family. “I love cooking, so it is ideal for me, as I can see what is happening everywhere,” she notes. Custom oak-panelled joinery by Moredesign (get the look with Laminex ‘Elegant Oak’) warms the space and complements the 80cm-wide stone wall, and the view that it frames. Local Binissalem stone creates a sleek countertop, while the pendants add an industrial touch (try the ‘Orion’ pendant light in Aluminium from Temple & Webster). Hans Wegner ‘Wishbone’ chairs from Carl Hansen are right at home at the table, where a simple tablecloth in an earthygreen shade (try the Habitat Pelham ‘Jadeite’ tablecloth from Pillow Talk) gives nod to the accent colour used throughout the home. PATIO Olive-wood trunks were seasoned for a year before being used

to support the pergola on the home’s north-west patio (left), where sky-coloured and Ikat-print cushions brighten up the space (for similar, try the Indigo Ikat indoor outdoor cushion from Temple & Webster). A waterproof cover of polycarbonate membrane and natural fibres works well during autumn downpours. >

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LIVING ROOM Built-in seating, a signature feature of pared-back

Mediterranean style, elevates this relaxing zone (below), where handdyed and stonewashed soft furnishings in Tibi Soft linen from Yutes (also on the couch, opposite) call to mind the outdoors, as do the stump side tables, a local find. The space is a quasi gallery for Portuguese artists; a piece by family friend Cristina Poppe above the built-in couch faces off with works by Pedro Proença (opposite, left) and a trio of smaller creations from Cecilia Costa, on the wall leading into the kitchen.

“I LIKE MY HOUSES TO LOOK CLEAN, SUBTLE AND COSY, TO REPRESENT OUR LIFESTYLE” ~ MERCEDES

WE LOVE...

sage green

A restful shade of earthy sage green permeates the interiors, a reminder of the homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural setting. In the living room, the hue takes over upholstery and soft furnishings, posing a gorgeous counter to stark white surfaces (for a similar shade, try Brugges Linen in Celadon from No Chintz). Visit nochintz.com. >

KITCHEN

LIVING

HALL

ENS MAIN BED

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FIRST FLOOR

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VICTORIA’S ROOM Pared-back beauty defines this bedroom (below),

all the better to showcase original terracotta floor tiles and built-in wardrobe doors by Moredesign that are akin to a work of art. Made of reclaimed oak, the doors feature hand-cut strips of wood, salt oxide-aged nails, and brass handles by Giara. “All the materials [used in the renovation] were typical local elements, as were the building techniques,” explains Mercedes. The bed, dressed in a serene sea-foam green bedspread (try the Mira Linen bedcover in Lena Sky from Cultiver) beckons beneath an arch, added in the renovation, that has recessed LED strips for soft light. For a similar wall lamp, try the ‘Brodie’ wall lamp from Mercator.

“THE RENOVATION PRESERVED THE AUTHENTICITY OF THE BUILDING AND ACCENTUATED THE HOME’S raw beauty WITH MALLORQUIN CRAFTSMANSHIP” ~ ORO DEL NEGRO, DESIGNER

BATHROOM A bespoke stone sink crafted by local artisan Miquel

Ramis from Artifex (above) is a stunning complement to the timber drawers, while simple exposed-bulb sconces keep the focus on the wash zone. Attractive locally sourced glass tumblers in a traditional Mallorquin style add a dash of turquoise to the pale palette. SHOWER Victoria’s ensuite has a shower cubicle (top left) clad in green Zellige tiles from Mozaic del Sur. Their oceanic tones offer a lovely counter to the Lefroy Brooks copper fittings (for a similar wall-mounted shower rail, see the Finley shower rail set in Brushed Copper from Abi Interiors). JOÃO’S BEDROOM In Mercedes and João’s son’s room (left), original

terracotta tiles (this time, in a check pattern) are an invitation to wonder who has walked on these floors during the past couple of centuries. Once again, glass lighting enhances the whitewashed simplicity of the space – these pendants were made to order, but you can get the look with the ‘Replica Classicon Selene Pendant’ from Temple & Webster. >

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POOL

As with the rest of this serene hideaway, the new pool (with Mercedes pictured enjoying the sunshine) is an exercise in stripped-back elegance â&#x20AC;&#x201C; take a bow Portuguese glass tiles, travertine slab edges, and the wide steps which descend into sparkling waters. The renovation also included landscaping and reshaping of dry-packed stone terrace walls, with the addition of diverse nooks featuring built-in benches and sunbeds for escaping to with a book and a beverage.

RUSTIC RETREAT the details

RIVERSTONE FLOOR See the range at Eco Outdoor.

OAK PANELLING Try Laminex ‘Elegant Oak’.

INSIDE STORY MERCEDES & JOÃO’S HOME WHO LIVES HERE? Mercedes, a homemaker; João, who

works in the renewable energy sector; their children, artist Victoria, 25, and student João, 21; and Pollock, the dog. HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE? Mercedes: “Not complicated, but different, and as elegant and simple as possible.” TELL US ABOUT YOUR USE OF GREEN INSIDE. “The green accent colour is for all the house to blend with the exterior colours of the surroundings, so it’s calm and integrated in the landscape.” “We love classic Mallorquin pergolas,” says Mercedes, whose home boasts two undercover alfresco zones.

WOODEN BEAM Scour your local salvage yards to get the look.

WHAT’S ONE OF THE MOST STRIKING FEATURES OF THE PROPERTY? “It’s around 200 years old. And the exterior walls

are more than 80cm in width and all made of rock!” WHY IS THIS LOCATION PERFECT FOR YOU? “The Serra de Tramuntana [mountain range] is a World Heritage site. It’s in the most unspoiled part of Mallorca – and this is why we love it here.” DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY FOR YOU. “Our day usually starts with an outdoor breakfast, followed by a walk up the mountain with Pollock. We enjoy the beautiful views of the island and unspoilt scenery. Then, we usually go out on the boat or stay at home by the pool.” SOURCE BOOK INTERIOR DESIGN moredesign.es.

ACTUAL PAINT COLOURS MAY VARY ON APPLICATION. CONTACT YOUR LOCAL COUNCIL FOR POOL FENCING REGULATIONS.

“WE WANTED TO FIND A HOUSE THAT WE COULD COME TO ALL YEAR AROUND” ~ MERCEDE S

Mercedes and João relax on built-in seating upholstered in weatherproof fabric.

An artisan-designed double stone sink has a striking rustic impact in the bathroom.

Canine visitor Pearl hangs out beneath the property’s original arched doorway.

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SWEET DISPOSITION

TRUE TO ITS OWNERS’ BRIEF, THIS REBORN FAMILY HOME MARRIES TIMELESS STYLE WITH A SCANDI SENSIBILITY – AND PERFECTLY PLACED SPLASHES OF COLOUR Story JACKIE BRYGEL Styling SARAH ELSHAUG Photography CAITLIN MILLS

HOMES

LIGHT & BREEZY With its gorgeous blend

of timeless Scandi chic and warm pops of colour, Christine and Richard’s weatherboard cottage in inner Melbourne has been transformed into a dream home for the couple and their three daughters, Charlotte, 13, Olivia, 11, and Pippa, eight. An expanse of glass and bright white walls in the airy living zones, including the northfacing family room (pictured), maximises a sense of light and space. The home has many treasured furnishings, such as the Jardan ‘Wilfred’ clover wool sofa in Nigella Seed, the Sketch ‘Nysse’ occasional chairs in Natural/Dove from Globe West and the ‘Reuben’ marble and oak nesting coffee tables by Arthur G. The Hay ‘Strap Mirror’ hanging above the fireplace was found at Cult. >

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or Christine and Richard, home is a place to retreat and relax, as well as recharge, with their three daughters, Charlotte, Olivia and Pippa. Today, their lovingly restored period abode in Melbourne’s leafy inner south-east delivers on all counts. The sublime setting is also the perfect showcase for the family’s cherished collection of locally designed furnishings, including the piece fondly dubbed Christine’s “fourth child” – the Jardan ‘Wilfred’ sofa in beguiling navy that takes centrestage in the home’s living room. “Most of the pieces in the home are ones we will have for a very long time,” says Christine. “We’re not gatherers of possessions – everything has been bought with a view that it will be here until it breaks and simply cannot be fixed or repaired.” With its handsome heritage features, the home is, in itself, a lesson in graceful longevity. Not that the couple were enamoured with everything about it when they moved in 12 years ago. “The house had undergone a minor renovation in the ’80s, with peach carpet, peach vertical blinds and lots of exposed timber architraves,” recalls Christine. “Our ensuite had maroon tiles to the ceiling and a cream bidet we only ever used for storing sports gear!” Back then, the couple added a rear extension that today houses an airy open-plan kitchen and living room, but Christine and Richard knew they would one day revamp the entire home. When that day came, KK Architecture reconfigured a more functional internal layout and Mil Constructions took charge of the 10-month build. Meanwhile, Christine and Richard called on interior decorator Sarah Elshaug of The Retreat Stylist to help create an interior scheme the whole family would love. >

LIVING ROOM Claiming pride of place above a ‘Marius’ sideboard in Grey and Oak, the ‘Sapphire

& Gold Hills’ painting by local artist – and family friend – Antoinette Ferwerda is a favourite (above). “Our middle daughter fell in love with this piece, as it reminded her of surfboards standing in the sand at the beach!” says Christine. The sweet ‘Haus’ and ‘Mr Potts’ and ‘Mrs Potts’ vases were found at Kiss With Style, while the plush ‘Magic’ rug in Storm is from The Rug Collection.

KITCHEN AND DINING Interior decorator Sarah Elshaug of The Retreat Stylist introduced the stunning glazed pendants (above) from Mark Douglass Design in Steel Blue, Aubergine and Clear, along with the retro penny round mosaic tiles in Indigo from Byzantine Design that line the splashback. “The minute Sarah showed them to us, we knew they were the ones,” says Christine. A trio of ‘Dita’ stools in Navy and White from Grazia & Co draw the home’s favoured accent colour into the cooking zone, too. Centred by a bespoke oak table from Arthur G, and ‘Boston’ leather chairs in Rose Blush from Barnaby Lane, the designated dining zone adjacent to the kitchen flows through into the outdoor area (below), where the family (pictured from left Pippa, Christine, Richard, Olivia and Charlotte) love to gather for meals and play.

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“WE LOVE NATURAL PRODUCTS AND TEXTURES THAT HAVE AND A TIMELESS LOOK” ~ CHRISTINE

warmth

“Both the family’s lifestyle and the layout of the house lent itself beautifully to the Scandi ethos,” explains Sarah. “I knew from the start that this project would be about picking beautiful but restrained finishes and creating wow factor with a few unexpected details and colour choices.” Against the home’s timeless base palette of crisp whites and organic timbers and stone, the carefully considered highlights of deep navy, emerald green, misty grey and soft pink truly bring the home into its own. “Seeing loved pieces in a new light just adds to the feeling of comfort and luxury in these renewed spaces,” says the interior decorator. With the renovation behind them, the family has well and truly settled into their reborn abode. Their lovingly chosen pieces are also right at home. “Wilfred is definitely here to stay,” says Christine, laughing. “He’s not going anywhere – and neither are we. This is a home that is continuing to grow with us as a family.”

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MAIN BEDROOM

BATHROOMS

Overlooking the garden, the couple’s bedroom (top left & opposite) offers rest, with Storm Cloud ‘1’ and ‘2’ photo prints by Katie Carmichael setting a dreamy theme. “You do get lost in these images,” says Christine. A leather ‘Kent’ bench seat from Barnaby Lane injects warmth, propped against the bed layered with Cultiver linen and a throw from Adairs.

In the girls’ bathroom (top right), a grey terrazzo benchtop from Signorino Tile Gallery is flanked by large-format tiles in Steel from G-Lux and Amano square tiles in Musk. “When Sarah showed us the beautiful terrazzo, we both said, ‘Wow!’” says Christine. The grey mood extends to the family bathroom (left), where ‘Liquid Glass’ subway tiles from Perini Tiles encase the feature wall.

WE LOVE...

a leather bedhead

Dramatically set against navy grasscloth wallpaper from Ascraft, this tan bespoke bedhead from Arthur G seems spotlit amid the room’s deep tones. “The leather introduces a beautiful natural material to the space,” says Sarah. “It also brings a warmth that contrasts with the coolness of the navy wall and the greys of the cloud photographic works on the opposite wall.” Visit arthurg.com.au. >

GUTTER CREDIT NAME HERE

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“SARAH WORKED WITH EACH OF THE GIRLS WHEN IT CAME TO CHOOSING AND PIECES FOR THEIR BEDROOMS” ~ CHRISTINE

colours

PIPPA’S ROOM

“The iron bed belonged to Pippa’s great-grandmother,” says Christine of the heirloom that inspired the decor in Pippa’s stylish room (opposite & right). “We had it refurbished and repainted in emerald green. We wanted a vibrant colour for an eight-year-old that wasn’t pink!” The ‘Belle’ pendant in Jade from The Family Love Tree, the Baltic velvet custom window seat and loose cushion from Zepel and Inform Upholstery are in keeping with the highlight hue. Jimmy Cricket ‘Seeds’ wallpaper creates a feature wall behind Pippa’s antique bed, dressed in a custom hand-printed ‘Cloudy’ quilt cover by Little Louli. Other pretty touches include a ‘Numero 74’ star cushion sourced from Mondocherry, and a W&V swing shelf from Kiss With Style. ENSUITE

Christine and Richard’s ensuite (top left) has a curvaceous duo

of Roca Inspira basins and a terrazzo vanity top from Signorino Tiles. Ross Gardam ‘Flare’ wall lights in Brushed Copper are matched with stylish Astra Walker copper tapware. The overarching look is functional and glamorous. CHARLOTTE’S ROOM

“Charlotte has loved and collected all things fox-related for many years, so we had to keep a ‘little fox’ in the new makeover,” says Christine, referencing the framed fox print (from unknown supplier) on the Dulux Blue Balm bedroom wall (top right). Two framed prints – ‘Ikaros’ and ‘Summer Pink’ by Magdalena Tyboni – from Norsu Interiors enhance the sleep zone’s magical feel. An Adairs ‘Newport’ chunky knit throw in Dusty Pink and Closely Knit ‘Soleil’ white pom pom cushion from Norsu Interiors create a soft-as-clouds effect, while the ‘Florence’ pendant from The Family Love Tree adds charm. >

EXTERIOR Charlotte (pictured from left), Olivia and Pippa take time

out on the steps of the period home, its exterior painted in Resene Friar Grey. Behind the magnolias, a glorious weeping cherry tree keeps guard over the home and offers lush shade throughout the warmer months. “I fell in love with this tree the moment I saw it,” recalls Christine. “It’s such a prolific grower and I do feel it brings the home privacy and protection.”

CLASSIC COOL the details

WALLPAPER ‘Seeds’ by Jimmy Cricket.

SPLASHBACK Penny rounds in Indigo from Byzantine Design.

INSIDE STORY CHRISTINE & RICHARD’S HOME WHO LIVES HERE?

Christine and Richard, who both work in the legal profession; and their daughters Charlotte, 13, Olivia, 11, and Pippa, eight. WHAT WAS YOUR BRIEF TO SARAH WHEN REVAMPING THE HOME?

Christine: “We really wanted the home to be light, fairly minimal, and very practical and functional with three young kids.” BEST ADVICE TO OTHERS EMBARKING ON A RENOVATION?

“Do as much homework as you can before getting started. The decisionmaking can feel overwhelming, so the more prepared you are, the better.”

‘Pure’ outdoor dining table from Trit House with ‘Marina’ sleigh outdoor dining chairs from Globe West.

WERE YOU AND RICHARD ALIGNED ON ALL OF THE CHOICES?

“We actually were – and Sarah gave us a lot of direction, too .” DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE FEATURED TONE?

“I love the navy. I particularly like its boldness and the depth of the colour.” SOURCE BOOK THE RETREAT STYLIST theretreatstylist.com.au,

Instagram: @theretreatstylist. KK ARCHITECTURE Kon Kotzapavlidis, kkarchitecture.com.au. MIL CONSTRUCTIONS milconstructions.com.au.

The doors of a dining-room console are painted in Dulux Ahoy, and feature an art-deco routed pattern.

ACTUAL PAINT COLOURS MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

“THE COLOUR WAS ALL SARAH. SHE CAME TO US WITH A MOODBOARD AND WE BOTH SAID, ‘OH YES! THAT LOOKS AMAZING!’ SHE REALLY NAILED IT” ~ CHRISTINE

The ‘Sapphire & Gold Hills’ painting by Antoinette Ferwerda lifts the living room.

The home’s dining and living zone opens directly to the covered timber deck and leafy garden.

The ‘Reuben’ marble coffee table from Arthur G is an elegant addition to the living room.

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FREE SPIRIT

A STYLIST WHO’S NEVER BEEN ONE TO STICK TO THE RULES HAS CREATED A PICTUREPERFECT FAMILY HOME THAT’S WARM, WELCOMING AND BRIMMING WITH ECLECTIC CHARM Story KARINA MACHADO Styling LESA LAMBERT Photography ANASTASIA KARIOFYLLIDIS

ORIENT EXPRESS Unique pieces that tell a story, swathes of timber to enliven white walls and the exotic opulence of old-world brass create an

oasis-like welcome in this modern central Gold Coast Queenslander that stylist Lesa shares with her husband, Greg, and the youngest of their three children, son Reid, 16. “Even when the sun’s not out, it’s still beautiful and light and airy,” says Lesa (pictured), who collects vintage brass vessels (above left). “I pull those vases out sometimes and put beautiful fresh flowers in them. I’m forever styling.” Lesa’s collector’s eye is also evident in both the dining room (above right), where old Indian screens are grouped to striking effect on ‘Palm Black’ wallpaper from Affordable Decorators, and in the family room (opposite), where a cluster of crosses gathered across the years are a conversation starter. FAMILY ROOM The pink-andrust tones of the Linen House cushion from Pillow Talk (opposite far left, on the Oz Design Furniture couch, alongside a Habitat macrame square cushion in Meerkat from Pillow Talk) inspired the palette for the “relaxed look” Lesa created in the welcoming family room. Here, her collection of Japanese vintage calligraphy brushes draws the eye atop the oversized coffee table – she has two of these “precious” centrepieces, as she calls the former Ikat weaving tables she bought years ago from a boutique homewares store that is no longer trading. “You could throw a mattress on it and turn it into a daybed if you like, they’re that solid,” says Lesa, whose “much adored” white Moroccan ottoman from Maison & Maison softens the scene. >

HOMES

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WE LOVE...

plant passion

Lesa’s thriving indoor plants lend vitality to her interiors and are the envy of visitors. Of the devil’s ivy trailing in her dining area (above), she says, “Friends come over and snip a bit off and take it home. They come back the next time and say, ‘It’s back on the ground. What are you doing?’” Her secret involves plenty of light and the occasional drenching in the shower.

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DINING ROOM Lesa’s penchant for reviving timber with white

paint is evident in the dining room (below), where she has given the table top a fresh look with Jolie Paint. Cane chairs and an inviting vista of the verdant outdoor sitting area deliver a tropical, year-round holiday vibe. “The cane chairs stole my heart,” she adds. “They’re from a second-hand dealer. They’re solid and wonderful.” (To find similar treasures, try Ebay and Gumtree). The relaxed feel extends through to the kitchen (right), where cross-back stools sourced from Pillow Talk create an impromptu bar at the all-white kitchen bench. “The pendant lights jumped in my suitcase from Bali a few years ago,” says Lesa, with a laugh (get the look with the ‘Cabana’ woven rattan pendant from Paradise Living Co.)

hat began with a plan to buy an investment property in an area close to their youngest son’s school evolved into something quite unexpected – and beautiful, in every sense – for veteran renovators Lesa and Greg. When a 20-year-old Queenslander-style home came up for sale in what Lesa identified as “the best street” in the Gold Coast suburb, the couple rushed to inspect the property. “I pulled up out the front and I just thought, ‘Oh my God, I could make this house so good,’” recalls Lesa, a stylist. “I know that you’re not supposed to be happy in front of the real estate agent, but I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face!” That enthusiasm didn’t wane, even when she was confronted by “a big purple wall” and a “hideous green bathroom” inside. Sparkling in northern light, and encased by wraparound verandahs, the living spaces spoke their own language to Lesa. “I just thought, ‘Nah, green bathrooms, purple walls? I can do this.’ And we bought it. Thirty days later, we were in here,” she says. Four years on, Lesa’s signature warmth and infectious joy are evident in beautifully curated spaces – indoors and out – that inspire new friends to feel at ease and old ones to pop in on a whim with a bottle of bubbles. “Everyone loves it!’” says Lesa, who played up the wonderful natural light in the four-bedroom home by painting walls white, then injecting warmth and soul with one-off timber furniture, lush indoor greenery and unique collections. After renovating and living in more than 10 homes in the Gold Coast area, “I’ve treated it and styled it like it is my forever home,” she reflects. Melding Asian, Moroccan and “white rustic” influences, her style is best described as “eclectic”, sums up Lesa. “I’ve collected beautiful pieces and I’ve put them together and told my own story,” she says. Her treasures include intricate Indian and Chinese screens displayed as wall art, a collection of vintage brass, and vast coffee tables that, in their former lives, were Indonesian weaving tables. “The families would sit around those tables and weave; they all do the Ikat design, so they’ve got a lot of history behind them. The one inside has got the family’s name carved on the side,” she says. >

“I LOVE LINEN, LUSH LAYERS OF . PORTUGUESE COTTON IS ONE linen THINGS AND I LOVE COTTONS OUT OF INDIA, TOO” ~ LESA OF MY

favourite

For Lesa, putting her own unique stamp on interiors means staying true to her instincts and taking risks with furniture pieces. “Ten years ago, I painted something and someone said to me, ‘Oh no, you shouldn’t paint that, it’s Indian teak.’ So I stopped. Then I thought, ‘Stuff that, I’m going to find my own groove’,” recalls Lesa, who shares her home-decorating journey on her popular Moss And Twine Instagram account. And yet, as picture-worthy as her home may be, these are no look-but-don’t-touch showrooms. It’s a loved and lived-in family home for Lesa and Greg, who have two adult children, as well as son Reid, 16, whose HQ is downstairs. “I laugh because my house is actually like this all the time,” says Lesa, who’s set aside, for now, the original plan to do an extensive renovation and sell on. “People think, ‘Oh no, that’s just an Instagram shot,’ and I have a giggle to myself and go, ‘Actually, it’s not.’ I’m a really house-proud person. There’s a lot of love here, there’s a lot of warmth.” SPARE ROOM

This space (top) “currently accommodates my middle child, Hayden, while he is home from his world travels,” explains Lesa. “I hand-painted the bedhead with chalk paint six years ago. Its first life was as an Indian room divider.” Dark-hued tribal cushions from Bandhini Design create dramatic contrast against the stunning piece, while feathered cross and heart artworks by the window

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were a gift from Lesa’s friend, Gold Coast-based artist Kim Raath. BATHROOM

“We upgraded the bathrooms from the tree-green original, pretty much in the first few months,” says Lesa of the wash zone (right). And the benefit was immediate. “A neutral palette will not outdate and allows me to bring in a pop of colour with my towels, and texture with a hanging plant,” she says.

MAIN BEDROOM Painted in a fresh and restful pale sage (Green

Frost Half by Dulux is similar), Lesa’s bedroom showcases her specialty – arranging layers of linen to create an irresistibly inviting bed (above). “My friends say, ‘I want my bed to look like yours,’ so I go into their linen cupboards and rip everything out and start again,” she says. Here, the fringed pillow in the foreground is from Bungalow Living Bali, while the rest of the cushions and linen are by Pillow Talk. “I love to escape to my bedroom with a great magazine or interesting podcast,” says Lesa, who bought the duo of lamps from a Byron Bay boutique that’s since closed (get the look with the ‘Cylinder Eve’ porcelain table lamp from Temple & Webster). “It’s such a comfortable place, as it’s layered with luxe linen and natural fibres, of course.” >

“I REALLY AUTUMN HERE, WITH THE TEMPERATURE AROUND adore 20 DEGREES, THE HIGH ELEVATION AND THE verandahs WRAPPING HALFWAY AROUND THE HOME” ~ LESA

BACK DECK “This is the heart of our home, our central hub to gather

on the weekends,” says Lesa of the back deck (left), anchored by “a very solid, oversized daybed from Indonesia I’ve had for 15 years.” (See the range at That Bali Shop for a similar look) and the second teak weaving table atop an outdoor rug from Pillow Talk. An abundance of greenery from green-thumbed Lesa enhances the sense of an exotic retreat. The exterior gates (above) are Lesa’s best bargain buy. “I picked them up on the side of the road in a ritzy Gold Coast street for $50,” she says. > FLOOR PLAN

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FRONT PORCH “This is where we come when my friends rock up with a bottle of wine and say, ‘It’s wine time!’” says Lesa, of the idyllic spot (above) where they can get comfy on the Bayview outdoor setting from Pillow Talk (cushions at right, from front to back, are from H&M, Bandhini Design and Bungalow Living Bali). For that outdoor-bar feel, guests can perch on “$10 stools” she painted pale pink. “The bar is an old tool bench I made over,” explains Lesa, who also painted the Teak Indian coffee table white. “I love mixing the old with the new.”

ECLECTIC DREAM the details

WALLPAPER From Affordable Decorators. PAINT For a similar shade, try Green Frost Half by Dulux.

INSIDE STORY LESA & GREG’S HOME WHO LIVES HERE?

Lesa (pictured) and her family gather in the dining/kitchen area that captures the essence of the home’s unique style – heritage heart with a modern aesthetic.

Lesa, a stylist for Pillow Talk; Greg, a concreter; and their sons, Hayden, 27, and Reid, 16. WHAT’S YOUR TOP DECORATING TIP?

Lesa: “One of my biggest tips is to add a feather cushion insert. There’s nothing better than buying a $20 cushion, adding the feather insert and it’s just like they make magic together.” DOES YOUR HOUSE LEND ITSELF TO ENTERTAINING?

“Our front patio is a great spot to enjoy an early morning coffee or a bottle of bubbles on a Sunday afternoon. The back patio seats 15-plus family members for end-of-year celebrations.” HAVE YOU ALWAYS BEEN A GREEN THUMB?

“Yes, I love it! I come home from work and my plants are just like my babies. But I don’t mind mixing the fake ones in as well.” WHAT INSPIRES YOU IN GENERAL?

“My girlfriends, most of all. They’re a broad bunch of women who believe in me; all are positive and empowering, and some are addicted to interior decorating, like myself!” QUILT COVER From Pillow Talk.

SOURCE BOOK STYLING INSPIRATION @mossandtwine on Instagram.

ACTUAL PAINT COLOURS MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

“I WANT MY HOME TO FEEL REALLY HOMELY, WARM AND COSY”

The two-storey Queenslander has a tropical feel, inside and out, and all year round.

Brass vessels Lesa collected from “the back streets of Bali” add a dash of warmth to her spare room.

~ LE SA

A display of vintage mugs against ‘Black Palm’ wallpaper from Affordable Decorators.

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HOMES

IN BLOOM A FLORIST’S PASSION FOR PLANTS, NATURAL MATERIALS AND BURSTS OF COLOUR HAS CREATED A HARMONIOUS FAMILY HOME WITH A LIFE OF ITS OWN Story ANNA McCOOE Styling JULIA GREEN Photography ARMELLE HABIB

weetness meets strength at this vibrant home on Victoria’s Surf Coast. Owner Jodie, a florist, is adept at balancing the elements – adding and subtracting until the mix feels right. “I go by feel,” says the mother-of-two (pictured), who started her business, Flower Bowl in East Geelong, 15 years ago. “When I might be heading too far in one direction, I add in something out of left field to even it out.” Her approach to the home she shares with her two little ones, Annie and Tommy, takes a lot from her fancy-free way with arranging flowers. In both fields, she subscribes to the usual rules of proportion, colour, texture, harmony and balance, but also adds in an element of surprise. “I like to shake it up,” she says of her fearless blend of eras and influences. Here, concrete, brick and steel are her structural base, just like the foliage to a bouquet, while pops of dusty rose, sage green and teal bring the pretty. Plant life and artwork provide the X factor that sparks the home to life. Back in 2012, when the house became Jodie’s home, it was a humble but charming three-bedroom, one-bathroom beach cottage. A two-storey extension in 2018 saw the house grow to include an open-plan kitchen and living area out the back, which flows through to the deck and pool. A guest bedroom, ensuite and laundry were tucked along the side of the ground-floor addition and the new upstairs area was turned into a main suite. Jodie worked with interior designer Melanie Hustler from MHI Studio to fine-tune the vision, while Geelong Building Co took care of project management and the build. True to stylish form, Jodie relishes the contrast of the classic weatherboard cottage details with the cleaner lines of the concrete and brick extension, although a similar palette of colours and

materials bridges the two areas. VJ panelling has migrated from the front of the home into the kitchen joinery and the matt charcoal colour from the steel window frames in the extension was introduced to the original rooms in the form of carpet and floor tiles. The homeowner kept her base as simple as possible. The concrete floors are a cement with no aggregate and the paint colour is white – not natural white or chalk, but the pure, untinted base colour. As Jodie explains, “I didn’t want it to throw any colour.” On the styling front, the mix of classic, retro and contemporary influences throughout the property is anything but safe. “Colour is how I make it work,” says Jodie. “If I love something, I buy it, but I tend to be drawn to a lot of pink, green and other colours that work with those tones.” As a florist, her passion for plants permeates the home in the guise of lush potted plants and loose flower arrangements. “Plants have a way of softening everything up,” she says. “And it’s exciting to have a layer of living things in the house, watching them grow and change.” Jodie’s flowers also show up in artworks by local artist Kimmy Hogan, which enliven the entry and living room. “Kimmy buys her flowers from my shop,” she explains. “I love supporting her and seeing my flowers in her work.” Jodie’s ethos of supporting local artisans from Geelong and Melbourne also extends through to the Sage & Clare and Society Of Wanderers textiles featured through the living room and bedrooms, and the Toast & Honey planters grouped en masse around the home for high impact. Jodie is delighted with the way the elements have come together. “Walking in at the end of the day, there is so much space and we have all our favourite things around us,” she reflects. All in all, it’s a spectacular arrangement.

SPACE TO GROW Energetic and colourful, Jodie’s renovated family

home on the Victorian coastline combines eras and influences. The living room features armchairs collected years ago from Living Etc, plus a retro-flavoured West Elm rug Jodie says is so comfortable it’s a favourite place to sit (below). A fiddle leaf fig that’s been going strong for two years highlights a bright corner by the steel-framed windows. “Fiddle leaf figs had a real moment, but that’s because they work beautifully to fill a space,” she says. “They are still a favourite.” >

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surrounded

“I LOVE BEING BY FLOWERS, PLANTS AND TEXTURES” ~ JODIE

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DINING ROOM “I had my eye on that pendant light for a long time,” says Jodie

of her ‘Ora’ light by Ross Gardam in Musk (above). The fixture brings her favourite colour into the space, pairing perfectly with cabinetry painted in Dulux Silkwort. “I never get tired of pink,” declares Jodie, pictured above with Annie and Tommy by the Ascot dining table from Globe West and Thonet dining chairs. KITCHEN Designed for socialising, and fitted out by Ore Designs, the kitchen (opposite) is centred around a huge island “with lots of room for big platters,” says Jodie. The island is topped by Corian in Snow from Newgrove Benchtops and fronted with VJ panelling, in a nod to the original weatherboard cottage. The black rangehood was custom-made to tie in with the steel window frames. It was also key to Jodie that the finish be fully matt to offset the shine of the marble splashback. “It’s one full piece!” she says. “Not fun to install, but worth it.” American oak, a unifying force in the house, pops up in the joinery edges and the stools from Life Interiors. ENTRY From the moment of crossing the threshold, Jodie’s affinity with flowers

and foliage is apparent (top left). Her console is a pedestal for ever-changing plant life, complemented by works by artist Kimmy Hogan. The hall piece is a “very, very old” purchase from Living Etc in Geelong, but Globe West’s Viva console is similarly sleek. LIVING ROOM As soon as the extension to Jodie’s house was conceived, she knew

she wanted a wall of recycled bricks, which now stands proudly beneath a staircase by Ore Designs (left). The wall of recycled reds is a beautifully textured backdrop to a Bonnie Gray artwork and contrasts nicely with the grey Oz Design Furniture couch. >

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WE LOVE...

eclectic bedding

From the Sage & Clare quilt to the Society Of Wanderers linens and Create Estate fluted bedhead from Greenhouse Interiors, Jodie’s bed is a roll call of Victorian creatives. It is all tied together loosely with a dusty colour palette, but Jodie isn’t one to restrict her choices. “If I truly love something, I will make it work,” she says. Visit sageandclare.com.

“THIS HOUSE IS FULL OF ALL THE THINGS I LOVE: , PRETTY THINGS, FUN C OLOUR AND MY BEAUTIFUL LITTLE FAMILY” ~ JODIE

memories

MAIN BEDROOM The upstairs extension encompasses a spacious suite

(opposite & top left) including a walk-in robe and ensuite. The entrance to the bedroom (complete with a love seat from Globe West and a limitededition print by Jen Sievers from Greenhouse Interiors) is announced by the recycled brick wall, rising up from the lower floor. Here, a fiddle leaf fig in a giant Uashmama paper bag in Quartz enlivens the corner with two of Jodie’s favourite things: greenery and a pop of dusty pink. ENSUITE Her own private haven, Jodie’s main ensuite (above & left)

displays a saturated version of the palette used throughout her home, right down to the pink tiles sourced from Signorino Tile Gallery. “Sometimes I think I overcommitted with the tiles, but I am yet to regret them,” she says. A pink fleck in the terrazzo floor tiles from Fibonacci ties the look together with the Reece bath, and the vanity (above, topped with Corian and an Omvivo basin) carries on the theme. Custom-made in American Oak, it has a slight pink undertone. The space’s secret sauce is matt black accents, by way of the Dowel Jones lights and Meir tapware. >

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“COLOUR IS A THING FOR ME. IT MAKES ME ”

big

~ JODIE

KIDS’ BATHROOM Located in the original part of the cottage, the

children’s wash zone blends past and present (above), showcasing old glazed doors alongside modern updates, including large-format grey tiles and a Reece freestanding bath. And, since no room in the home is complete without plant life, the florist added an umbrella plant in a Toast & Honey planter from her store, Flower Bowl. The ‘Nudie Rudie’ bath mat by Sage & Clare is a crowd-pleaser. “My kids think it’s hilarious,” says Jodie. ANNIE’S BEDROOM The children’s rooms showcase Jodie’s talent for

making spaces whimsical without being “wishy-washy,” as she puts it. With its feminine velvet ‘Sybilla’ bed from Incy Interiors (opposite) and Adairs tepee (top right), Annie’s bedroom is seriously sweet, but contemporary touches, including the Miffy light and the freckle rug (both found online) keep it interesting. The ‘Woodlands’ wallpaper by Fleur Harris from Jimmy Cricket was one of the first pieces on Jodie’s wish list for the house. TOMMY’S BEDROOM For her little boy’s room (right), Jodie added

a dramatic touch, courtesy of the metal bed from Incy Interiors and the prints (artist unknown) and freckle rug, sourced online. >

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happy

“FROM THE MOMENT I SAW THIS I KNEW I NEEDED IT IN MY HOME” ~ JODIE

wallpaper

LAUNDRY

Tucked away beside the kitchen, alongside the guest bedroom and ensuite, the laundry is a practical part of everyday life. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am the kind to put on a load of washing as the kettle boils, so accessibility was important,â&#x20AC;? explains Jodie of the prime location. Storage and style were also key, with the American oak joinery, Corian benchtop and VJ panelling echoing the material and colour palette in the kitchen.

COASTAL COLOUR

Jodie walks through her light-filled hallway, where original floors were sanded back and lightened (try Porter’s Wood Wash in Shore). The walls are a pure, untinted white paint.

the details

WALLPAPER ‘Woodlands’ by Fleur Harris, from Jimmy Cricket.

VJ PANELLING Try the Easycraft range at Bunnings.

INSIDE STORY JODIE’S HOME WHO LIVES HERE? Jodie, florist and owner of Flower

Bowl; along with her children, Annie, four, and Tommy, five. THE SECRET TO LIVING WITH PLANTS? Jodie: “Don’t move them around too much, leave them to do their thing. And water once a week. For me, it’s a Sunday afternoon ritual.” HOW DO YOU APPROACH FLOWERS AT HOME? “I keep it loose – I don’t want to feel like I am always at work, but I still love having flowers around me. I grab a big bunch of whatever I like that day, get all my bottles and vases around and divvy them up.” FAVOURITE SPACE: “I love the pool and the deck – it’s great to have that outlook and makes entertaining so easy.” SOURCE BOOK INTERIOR DESIGN AND DRAFTING Melanie Hustler,

MHI Studio, mhistudio.com.au. BUILDER AND PROJECT MANAGEMENT Geelong Building Co. ENSUITE Square porcelain tiles from Signorino Tile Gallery.

0422 244 232, 0438 296 024, geelongbuildingco.com.au. FLORIST Flower Bowl (03) 5229 6506, flowerbowl.com.au.

ACTUAL PAINT COLOURS MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

“PINK HAS ALWAYS BEEN A FAVOURITE OF MINE” ~ JODIE

A wall in recycled red bricks (try the Recycled Building Centre). Artwork by Kimmy Hogan.

Marshmallow Magic from Dulux, a gentle shade of pink, makes a statement in the kitchen.

Ficus hedges are planted by the pool. Landscaping by Outdoor Vision.

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OLD

Soul

A THOUGHTFULLY RENOVATED CENTURY-OLD DAIRY FARMHOUSE CAPTIVATED A SYDNEY COUPLE LOOKING TO ESCAPE THE GRIND OF INNER-CITY LIVING Words & styling KERRIE-ANN JONES Photography MAREE HOMER

HOMES

aking their way up the gravel driveway overlooking a picturesque vista of coastal-country NSW, Linda and her husband, Mark, felt an instant affinity with the beautiful homestead perched upon the hill. Stepping inside the thoughtfully renovated, century-old dairy farmhouse called ‘Mayfield’, they lost their hearts. They bought the home on the spot and, in August 2017, after selling their inner-Sydney apartment, moved in with their Boston terrier, Scout. “We had made a decision to move to the South Coast as we love the beach, but also wanted to have small acreage,” explains Linda. “We were also looking for a house that had history and personality. One that sat nicely within the landscape, too.” Built in 1901, ‘Mayfield’ originally belonged to a local family of generational dairy farmers. Upon retiring the dairy farm in 2015, it was sold – for the first time – to a couple who completed a beautiful and respectfully designed renovation. That suited Linda and Mark, who didn’t want to take on a place that needed too much work done, and so they became the lucky new owners of “this old girl,” as Linda affectionately calls her country home. “We love the calming nature of the house, with high ceilings and big rooms, and there is plenty of space,” she says. Honouring the generous dimensions and refined period features, she kept the styling classic and simple, favouring a neutral palette and natural textures which pay homage to their surrounding landscape. “My style of decorating is rustic, with a little bit of Hamptons,” explains Linda, who decorated her home with a mixture of vintage finds and more contemporary staples. “I don’t like clutter, or too many colours. I haven’t put many pictures on the walls, as I love the sense of space with the white walls and the lack of noise, which too many artworks can throw at you.” The kitchen – Linda’s favourite space – perfectly epitomises the keen cook’s preferred white-on-white aesthetic, while her and Mark’s bedroom (a close runner-up in the favourite-room stakes) showcases a darker sensibility fit for the perfect night’s sleep. “Waking up to the sunrise each morning in here is heaven,” says Linda. In partnership with nature – and the past – this home seems to thrum with a sense of harmony, palpable to the couple and visitors alike. When their adult children, Alexandra and Jackson, come to visit with their little ones, the family loves nothing more than gathering by the firepit in the evenings. “It’s wonderful to sit around it late into the night, talking, enjoying the stillness and peace,” says Linda. Spending time indoors is idyllic, too, since the home’s northerly aspect means it basks in glorious sunshine all day, all year round. Yet it’s now, in the golden months, as the leaves fall and the days draw in, that Linda tends to fall in love with her home all over again. “Autumn is my favourite season here; it’s beautiful,” she muses. “The light in the sky at dawn and sunset is gorgeous. The days are still warm and the nights are cool. It’s just lovely.”

BREATHING SPACE Homeowners Linda and Mark love sitting on

the verandah of their country farmhouse on the NSW South Coast (left), soaking up the rays and gazing out on the green landscape. Greeting guests with the scent of a pair of rose bushes that flank the entrance, the four-bedroom home, built in 1901, had been beautifully renovated to honour its stunning period details when the couple fell in love with it at first sight in 2017. “Country air, no traffic, slower pace,” sums up Linda. “When our friends and family come down, we get to spend more time with them, other than a couple of hours in a noisy restaurant.” >

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HALLWAY

A majestic arch – one of the property’s many original features that was restored during an earlier renovation project – makes a grand impression in the light-filled entry way (below), where oversized pendants balance the scale of the soaring ceilings (get the look with the ‘Sash’ chandelier in White from Design Hunter). Rust-coloured rugs (try Temple & Webster’s ‘Red Chevron’ cotton and jute rug for similar) add warmth and texture to the white scheme that defines the home.

EXTERIOR Proudly in place since the home was built in 1901, the ‘Mayfield’ plaque at the front door (top left) announces the farmhouse’s rich history. LIVING ROOM Nestled behind the sofa in the living room (top right), a bench seat serves

as the perfect nook for Linda (pictured) to curl up with a cup of tea and gaze out at the view. Upholstered in grey ticking (try the Ticking Stripe Cotton Home Decor Fabric in Grey from fabrictraders.com.au), it continues the home’s restful colour palette. MUDROOM Linda has styled her laundry/mudroom (above left) with a mix of vintage pieces. The artwork sitting on the high shelf is by her mother, Julie Pethard, while a dairy cream can from Dirty Janes in Bowral pays homage to her home’s history and landscape. “I bought it as a tribute to the dairy country that surrounds us,” explains the homeowner. DINING ROOM DETAIL The black-and-white photographic print of a Boston terrier that sits above the mantle was a gift from a friend (above right), and it reminds Linda and Mark of their dog, Scout (pictured opposite).

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HOMES

“I LOVE THE

ceilings, THE SIZE OF THE ROOM,

THE FIREPLACE. I LOVE TO KICK BACK

ILLUSTRATION KENZIEDESIGN.COM

AND READ ON THE WINDOW BED” ~ LINDA

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FLOOR PLAN DRESSING ROOM

BED

DINING

LIVING

MAIN BED

KITCHEN

BATH

BED

L’DRY

MUD ROOM

ENTRY BED

STUDY

LIVING ROOM Neutral colours and tactile

materials enhance the sense of relaxation in this wide, white and light living room (pictured), where comfy sofas from Coco Republic are paired with an Ikea sisal rug (below). The bespoke coffee table by Reso & Co “is my favourite piece of furniture,” says Linda. “I love the grainy ridged wood. You don’t need to be precious with it.” The striking image opposite the combustion wood fireplace is a conversation starter, and also Linda’s most-loved artwork. “It’s a large photograph of a boy from an orphanage in Africa,” she explains. “One side of the photo is him as a small boy, and the other is him 10 years later. It was taken by Zoe Morley, a friend of our son’s, who raises funds for the orphanage.” >

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KITCHEN With all-white walls, floors

and cabinetry (below & opposite below right), Linda felt her kitchen needed a rustic touch for warmth, so she added a rolling timber kitchen trolley from Suzie Anderson Home, spotlit by a generous pendant (try the rattan ‘Wicker’ ceiling light in White from Fat Shack Vintage). The trolley also serves as a practical go-between surface for the cooker and kitchen bench. A rusted metal peace sign from Mark Tuckey in the butler’s pantry adds an element of surprise.

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“I LOVE TO COOK, AND THIS KITCHEN HAS

light and space

LOTS OF TO MOVE AROUND, WITH A GORGEOUS VIEW OUT THE WINDOW” ~ LINDA

COOKER Linda had shelves built from reclaimed timber to

keep her cookbooks handy, especially when she is whipping up delicious meals on the black Smeg cooker (top left). The cooker perfectly suits her home’s farmhouse heritage. “I love the country style of it, and it is great to cook on too,” she says. DINING ROOM The Bay Leaf table and Coco Republic dining

chairs (top right, modelled by Scout) were purchased when Linda and Mark lived in Sydney. During the period between selling and moving into their home, the table served as a communal table in a friend’s cafe. “It became a bit battle weary there at the cafe, but that’s how I like it now,” says Linda. A striking chandelier accentuates the dining zone (get the look with the ‘Barrhill’ vintage pendant light from Lighting Illusions). >

BATHROOM The home’s previous owners gave this bathroom a classic makeover (above), via white subway tiles on the walls,

large grey travertine tiles on the floor (try Beaumont Tiles for a similar look) and a traditional-style pedestal sink and tapware (try The English Tapware Company). The view from the window here is just as picturesque as that from the front verandah, enthuses Linda: “There is not a room in the house that doesn’t have a view.” This is particularly relevant in the bathroom. “There is nothing better than pondering the day ahead looking out to the cows in the paddock,” says the homeowner.

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WE LOVE...

moody monochrome

A monochromatic scheme in Linda’s bedroom soothes, with white floors, a wall hanging from Cabana Jo’s and black linen from In Bed. A white throw from In Bed and textured cushions add contrast. The look “is simple and doesn’t make the room feel busy,” says Linda. Visit inbedstore.com. >

VERANDAH “Depending on the weather, this is where we would sit for a cuppa or for a wine in the early evening,” explains Linda of the front section of the verandah that embraces the home (below). “As we came from a small apartment in Sydney, we didn’t have any outdoor furniture. Fortunately, we were able to buy this French cast-iron outdoor setting from the vendors.” (For a similar look, try Le Forge).

COUNTRY CHARM the details

This compact, functional zone echoes the classic white provincial style in the kitchen. The cabinetry in this luxe laundry room is even a matching set to that used in the kitchen.

SOFA Try the ‘Kingston’ timber sofa from Coco Republic. TILES Try the ‘Artifact’ floor tile in Vintage Taupe from Beaumont Tiles.

INSIDE STORY LINDA & MARK’S HOME WHO LIVES HERE?

Linda, who’s retired from hospital administration; her husband Mark, a marketing consultant; and their Boston terrier, Scout. HAVE YOU DONE ANY WORK ON YOUR RENOVATED HOME?

Linda: “We fixed the front verandah that had a very obvious lean on both sides of the house, as the sandstone footings were slowly sinking... And by enclosing the side of the verandah, we added a dressing room.” WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE LOCAL PLACES TO SHOP?

“Berry has fantastic homewares stores: Amara Home, Few And Far and The Picnic Shed. Nowra has The Retreat, which has a unique collection.” DESCRIBE A TYPICAL MORNING AT HOME

“It starts with a very early coffee, around 5.30am/6am. I read the headlines, then the washing goes on. I love how my washing smells after the sun has dried it – a luxury we didn’t have with apartment living.” WHAT’S A HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR DAY?

“We sleep with the blinds up and windows open – there is nothing better than the country air and light to rise with.” FLOOR Try Feast Watson Floor Paint in White Satin.

SOURCE BOOK KITCHEN SHELVES A Block Builders, ablockbuilders.com.au.

ACTUAL PAINT COLOURS MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

“WE RUN THE FIREPLACE IN THE LIVING ROOM ALL WINTER” ~ LINDA

Linda cuddles up with her pup Scout on the family’s comfortable Coco Republic sofa.

Installed by the previous owners, the firepit is a drawcard for evening gatherings when family and friends come to visit, offering a special treat for those travelling from the city.

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PROPERT Y

ON THE MARKET

HOW IMPORTANT IS MARKETING YOUR PROPERT Y FOR SALE AND IS IT REALLY WORTH THE INVESTMENT? IN ASSOCIATION WITH

elling your home may well be one of the largest transactions you will ever make, and naturally, you want to achieve the highest return possible. While some vendors may initially shy away from the expense involved in marketing their property for sale, the benefits of investing in a strong strategy can be huge. A favourable financial outcome is one reason a marketing plan makes good business sense. The other is a quick, efficient sale. The more exposure your property receives, the more

A DV E RT I S E M E N T

interest it will generate, which will increase competition and turn that ‘for sale’ sign into ‘sold’. The best place to start is by seeking out an agent who not only has a strong database, but also maintains a line of contact with clients. They will know who your potential buyers are and will leverage their relationships and expertise to match appropriate buyers to your home. An experienced agent will also know how and when to ramp up momentum, which is critical to a successful sale. Charles Tarbey, Chairman of Century 21 Australia, advises that “Even if there is substantial interest in a property within the ﬁrst week or two, the intensity of a marketing campaign should not be reduced.” Essentially, you are campaigning your home, so keep interest in your property alive right through to the sale.

strategy, the more expensive it will become. Ultimately, it comes down to how strongly you want to push for a sale. As Mr Tarbey says: “Most sellers will want to avoid paying a lot to advertise their home, however, the most expensive advertising can generate that one extra buyer needed to create serious competition.”

A MULTI-MEDIA APPROACH The ‘for sale’ sign perched outside your property is the ﬁrst step to generating interest, especially among those who are looking speciﬁcally in your area. When it comes to building a marketing strategy with your agent, using a combination of both traditional and digital tools will ensure your property is centre-stage where buyers are looking. Of course, the more intricate the marketing

YOUR MARKETING TOOLBOX It pays to have photos taken by a professional photographer who will showcase your property in the best light and from its best angles. Invest in a quality ﬂoorplan to accompany your photos. Digital platforms are generally the ﬁrst port of call for buyers and can reach thousands of people instantaneously. A combination of both traditional and digital tools will ensure your property pops up wherever buyers are looking. Print advertising, particularly in local papers, is a great way to reach people looking in your area. Consider virtual tours or drone footage.

FOR HELP WITH BUYING AND SELLING PROPERTY VISIT C21.com.au

ONLY

$14.99

ON SALE NOW Available in selected newsagents or buy online at bhgshop.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY STEPHANI BUCHMAN/REBECCA HAY INTERIORS

I I I I

SOME LIKE IT HOT page 118

DESIGN FILE

SOME LIKE IT HOT AS TECHNOLOGY PUSHES THE HUMBLE OVEN INTO NEW AND EVER MORE COMPLEX REALMS, HEREâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HOW TO NAVIGATE THE OPTIONS AND FIND THE BEST COOKING COMPANION FOR YOU Words VANESSA KEYS

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PHOTOGRAPHY SHANIA SHEGEDYN

ust as our taste in food has moved on, so has our choice in ovens. Appliances that offer speed, health and convenience now dominate the market, and our desire to cook restaurant-quality dishes calls for ovens to guide the cooking process. “The big trends aim to make our hectic lifestyles easier and healthier,” says oven expert Colin Jones of Winning Appliances. “There are now many affordable steam ovens on the market, and ovens with built-in smart probes are becoming increasingly popular,” he says. Read on for our hot tips on choosing the perfect one. >

FR E ES TA N DI N G B E AU TI ES The freestanding oven is an alluring mix of beauty and brains, so while it’s often chosen for its aesthetic qualities it also has a range of functional benefits over its built-in alternative. “As well as providing a statement centrepiece to the kitchen – whether it’s professionalstyle stainless steel or a colourful finish – a range cooker can offer so much more in terms of cooking capacity and flexibility,” says marketing manager Robin Werth of Falcon. If you’re an avid cook, feeding a large family or partial to entertaining, the large internal space of a freestanding model is a real drawcard, and compartmentalised models even allow you to cook a variety of foods at once. In terms of positioning, freestanding ovens are straight forward to install and easy to move around when designing and updating a kitchen, as they’re not restricted by a fixed location. However, they have a more traditional set up, with the stove top above the oven, so before investing in your new centrepiece, make sure you have the space to accommodate the cooker and create a seamless fit.

TOP 3 CHOICES MIX DESIGN AND FUNCTION IN YOUR KITCHEN

FR EE STAN DIN G

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) JENNIFER HUGES/STEPHANIE GAMBLE INTERIORS (OPPOSITE) SOFI SYKFONT/HOUSE OF PICTURES

Freestanding ovens are often chosen for their style and to complement or make a statement in a beautifully designed kitchen, such as this one by Stephanie Gamble Interiors.

Falcon 110cm freestanding gas upright oven/stove, $9394, Winning Appliances.

Smeg ‘Portofino’ pyrolytic freestanding cooker with gas cooktop in Sunshine Yellow, $6990, Harvey Norman.

An entertainer’s dream, this compartmentalised 132L oven allows various dishes to be prepared at once.

This dual fuel oven allows for great multitasking. It has 16 cooking functions and 20 pre-programmed menus to ‘set and forget’.

60cm freestanding natural gas oven/stove, $1739, Westinghouse. This 60cm-wide, fan-assisted oven is a great option for limited spaces. Despite its size, it has a huge 80L capacity. Stockists, page 212 >

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T H E MU LT IF U N CT I ON CON VEC T IO N OVE N

Side-by-side ovens not only look super slick, but each one is also easy to access. In order to create a coherent kitchen design, try to tie in other fixtures, such as tapware – as seen here in this stylish black tapware from Phoenix.

“CON SIDER WHAT YO U L I KE TO CO OK AS TH I S WILL DIC TATE THE TO LOOK FOR IN YO UR OVEN ”

functions

~ CO L I N JO NE S , W I NN I NG A PP L IA NC ES

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PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) ARMELLE HABIB (OPPOSITE) ALEX LUKEY/COLLECTIVE STUDIO DESIGN

Also known as a fan-assisted oven, a convection oven uses a fan and exhaust system to circulate hot air evenly around the food, which helps to speed up the cooking process. “These days, most convection ovens are multifunction ovens, which offer a number of different functions to choose from to best cook food,” explains oven expert Colin Jones of Winning Appliances. “Common functions include baking, grilling, roasting, defrosting and some even offer steam-assisted functions.” The most popular choice for modern Australian homes, multifunction ovens come in a huge range of styles, formats and sizes, including compact built-in ovens for small spaces, double built-in ovens for keen cooks and striking freestanding models. Before you buy, Colin suggests thinking about what you’d change about your current oven, plus what and how you like to cook. “Do you cook for a small or large household? Do you entertain? Does your kitchen require a built-in oven or not? What kind of fuel do you prefer? Once you’ve answered these, you’ll really be able to filter your options down,” he says.

The freestanding stainless steel oven offers a large cooking capacity and a sleek design that fits seamlessly into this modern country-style kitchen. Get inspiration from Miele’s oven range.

TOP 3 CHOICES

MU LTI FUN CT IO NA L

FIND THE PERFECT PARTNER TO YOUR COOKING STYLE

Built-in 60cm pyrolytic oven, $3299, Fisher & Paykel. At 60cm-wide, but boasting a 85L capacity, this pyrolytic built-in oven has 16 functions including bake, grill and pizza setting.

BP VitroLine pyrolytic oven, $8099, Miele. Miele’s clever FoodView technology makes overcooking a thing of the past. Watch your food in real time via an in-oven camera that connects to your smartphone.

60cm multifunction pyrolytic oven in Dark Stainless Steel, $2939, Electrolux. Meat lovers will appreciate this oven’s built-in smart probe, which turns the oven off when your food is cooked to your liking. Stockists, page 212 >

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T HE STE AM OVE N

Steam ovens can be on the pricey side – expect to pay anything between $4000-$12,000.

TOP 3 CHOICES

STEAM OVENS

TAKE YOUR PICK FOR SUCCULENT AND HEALTHY COOKING

Smeg 60cm ‘Dolce Stil Novo’ thermoseal plus pyrolytic oven with steam assist, $5990, Winning Appliances.

AEG 60cm ‘SteamPro’ steam oven with sous-vide, $4999, Harvey Norman.

60cm ‘400 series’ combi-steam oven, $11,999, Gaggenau.

This oven has more than 20 different cooking modes to choose from and steam-assisted feature that injects moisture into your cooking.

This clever oven calculates exactly the right combination of heat and steam for your dish, using an advanced humidity sensor.

This luxury oven has a sous-vide cooking function, temperature probe, full surface grill and fully automatic cleaning system.

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) RYAN LINNEGAR/TESS MATHEWS/TM DESIGN STUDIO (OPPOSITE) BRIGID ARNOTT

Steam ovens work by boiling water into steam, which then circulates around the food and cooks it. “This super-fast, high-pressure style of cooking means the food retains more vitamins, nutrients and flavour,” says general manager of design Mark Elmore of Fisher & Paykel. “It doesn’t require the usual added oils, fat and seasonings so it’s also healthier.” The options? A steam-only oven (only ideal if you also have a traditional oven) or a combination steam oven, which offers both methods plus a combination of both. “Steam prevents food from drying out, which means juicer roasts, flakier fish and super moist pastries,” says Mark. “However, it doesn’t brown food, so a combination oven means you get the best of both worlds.”

“W E A RE S LOWLY SEEING A T RE ND TOWA R DS F ULL-S IZE MOD ELS OF MICROWAVE OVE NS”

combination

~ M A JA P E JOV I C , B OSC H

TH E CO MB IN AT ION MIC ROWAV E OVEN

“Before purchasing, double-check you’re buying a combination microwave oven rather than a microwave with hot air function to make sure you get the right set of features,” says Maja Pejovic.

TOP 3 CHOICES WHICH COMBINATION WORKS FOR YOU?

iQ700 45cm studioLine compact combi-microwave oven, $2699, Siemens.

Fisher & Paykel 60cm built-in combination microwave oven, $2899, Winning Appliances.

Bosch 45cm ‘Series 8’ compact combination microwave oven, $2599, Bing Lee.

Siemens’ varioSpeed technology merges the power of the microwave with the heat of the oven to speed up cooking time.

This sleek 60cm oven is great for those who want the convenience of a combination microwave oven, but crave more cavity space.

If most of your cooking is roasting, baking or re-heating you’ll love this oven and its 14 pre-set automatic programs. Stockists, page 212

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CO MBI NAT ION MICROWAV E

This multitasking oven combines the power of oven technology with the speed of a microwave. The pros are numerous: the compact size and dual heating methods mean you save on space and cooking time, making them perfect for modern, fast-paced lifestyles. “They’re particularly good at high-temperature cooking like roasting meat and baking pastries or casseroles,” says brand manager Maja Pejovic of Bosch. Its convenience does come at a price, explains Maja. “With a separate microwave and oven, you can use both together, but with a combined appliance, you’re limited to one at a time. Size is another big factor,” she says. “Most are 45cm compared to 60cm and although larger models are coming through, cavity size can still be limited.”

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Water, water, water! We wash everything with water… so why don’t we wash everything with water?

Washing

Stop washing/drying

Start drying

Control water/air temperature Control water pressure Control nozzle position

The future of toilets is here. And it’s smart. The built-in bidet functionality offers complete customisation of water temperature, pressure and direction via remote control to cleanse and refresh. Roca In-Wash® Inspira Smart Toilet BTW Pan and Wall Hung available

reece.com.au/roca

DESIGN FILE

BATHROOM:

SURFACE APPEAL THAT NATURAL LOOK IS A HUGE TREND IN BATHROOM FINISHES, BUT DO YOU REALLY NEED THE REAL DEAL? WE EXPLORE THE OPTIONS Words KYLIE JACKES

PHOTOGRAPHY NIKOLE RAMSAY

oday weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re spoilt with a smorgasbord of stunning materials to choose from when planning our dream bathroom, and when it comes to major surfaces such as floors, walls and vanity tops, you want to get it right. For some purists, natural materials top the wish list, yet modern engineered products can be ingeniously deceptive, with various finishes resembling marbles through to tactile concrete and rich timbers. Many of these look-alike materials can also withstand the rigours of a high-use wet area, making them worth your serious consideration. Whether you opt for the real thing or an engineered alternative often comes down to personal preference, cost and upkeep. >

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CONCRETE

One of the hottest trends in bathrooms right now is concrete. With its raw organic patina, clean lines, and extensive colour and textural options, it offers incredible scope. “Concrete can look quite minimalist and industrial or exude bold style, depending how you personalise the bathroom with tapware, tiles and accessories,” explains Linda Hannah of Caesarstone.

THE REAL DEAL Whether you decide to go white, classic grey or choose a custom tint, rendered concrete walls and floors create a sleek wet-room vibe. “Beyond its functionality, concrete makes a statement, with bespoke options ranging from concrete baths to basins, freestanding vessels and vanity tops,” says Kate Lett of Concrete Nation. In wet areas, concrete walls and floors need to be waterproofed and sealed, while slip resistance should be considered when choosing how floors are finished. Aside from its good looks, a major consideration is concrete’s sheer weight. “If your bathroom is on an upper level, check with your builder or architect to see if any extra reinforcing is required to support the load,” says Kate. Caring for concrete finishes is similar to natural stone. “Use a mild spray and wipe with a soft cloth and avoid harsh and abrasive cleaners, which can break down sealants and leave scratches,” advises Kate. Pricing for custom concrete varies based on thickness, size and shape of the area or surface chosen, but you can expect to pay upwards of $1100/sqm for a basic benchtop.

SHOPPING: real & engineered

‘Airy Concrete’, from $900/sqm installed, Caesarstone.

Custom concrete benchtop, from $1100/sqm, Concrete Nation.

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X-Bond polished stone in Smoke, from $180/sqm (supplied and installed), Alternative Surfaces.

MAY 2020

‘Rugged Concrete’, from $900/sqm installed, Caesarstone. X-Bond polished stone in Dust, from $180/sqm (supplied and installed), Alternative Surfaces.

‘Topus Concrete’, from $900/sqm installed, Caesarstone. Stockists, page 212

PHOTOGRAPHY(THIS PAGE) JELTJE JANMAAT/HOUSE OF PICTURES

“People are using concrete on the floors, walls, vanities, basins and baths. When done right, it adds a real warmth to the space” ~ Kate Lett, Concrete Nation

ENGINEERED ALTERNATIVES An innovative product to hit the market is a cement finish overlay system called X-Bond. “It’s a mixture of stone, liquid polymer and colour pigment applied onto floors, walls, ceilings and joinery,” says national manager Laura Di Bartolo of Alternative Surfaces. A hand-trowelled finish adds texture and colour variation, and its minimal depth mirrors the concrete look without the weight. “It can be applied over plasterboard, tiles, FC sheeting, laminate and brick, so it’s a great, cost-effective retrofit option,” adds Laura. Concrete’s popularity has inspired Caesarstone’s range of tactile engineered stone surfaces for all areas of the bathroom (pictured in this shower recess is ‘Airy Concrete’). Linda says, “It’s chip and stain resistant, making it very user-friendly and easy to maintain.” Cement-look tiles are another option for floors and walls. Prices start at $900/sqm for Caesarstone Concrete; concrete-look ceramic tiles start at around $30/sqm. >

TIMBER

A key ingredient in a beautiful bathroom palette is often timber. “It complements many styles – organic, bohemian, period or modernist – as it adds warmth and texture to the space and a relaxed feel which helps us unwind,” says designer Jenefer Gordon of Eat Bathe Live.

A great substitute for natural timber are wood-look finishes that can withstand bathroom conditions. “For vanity units and inbuilt/freestanding furniture, brands like Laminex and Polytec have some fantastic options with woodgrain textures,” explains Jenefer Gordon. Underfoot, timber-inspired products are increasingly popular. Plankstyle tiles, waterproof vinyls and laminates, such as Quick-Step’s Impressive Ultra range from Premium Floors (pictured right), replicate the colours and patterns of woodgrain. “Porcelain tiles that resist water are ideal as they can be used on every surface, including walls and floors,” says marketing manager Josh Earp of Earp Bros. A key consideration with timber-look tiles is size. “For larger formats on the floor, it’s a good idea to plan the design and slope of the floor directed to a strip drain, resulting in easier installation and a better overall aesthetic,” advises Josh. Timber alternatives are available in qualities, formats and designs to suit any budget.

“Timber-look tiles allow for wood finishes in wet environments where timber really shouldn’t be used on the floor” ~ Josh Earp, Earp Bros

SHOPPING: real & engineered Timber-look porcelain floor tile in Tanzania Almond, $98/sqm, Earp Bros. Eligna Estate oak in Light Grey, from $54.95/sqm, Premium Floors.

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Stratera oak brushed natural oil, from $120/sqm, Woodos Australia.

MAY 2020

Laminex veneer in Planked Urban Oak, from $89.21/sqm, Laminex.

Laminex veneer in Natural Ash, from $89.21/sqm, Laminex.

Quick-Step Impressive Ultra Classic oak in Beige, from $69.95/sqm, Premium Floors. Stockists, page 212

PHOTOGRAPHY(OPPOSITE) PRUE RUSCOE/ALWILL INTERIORS/LUIGI ROSSELLI ARCHITECTS

ENGINEERED ALTERNATIVES

THE REAL DEAL Genuine timber, particularly on horizontal surfaces, can be problematic in wet areas. “Water can penetrate natural timber causing marks, swelling and movement,” says Jenefer Gordon. “This can happen even if the timber is sealed, because in a high-use area like the bathroom, seals can be easily damaged.” If your heart is set on natural timber, Jenefer suggests limiting it to vertical surfaces on vanity cabinets, incorporating it through mirrors, wall hooks and lighting, or adding decorative items such as freestanding timber ladders and stools. Alternatively, create a truly luxe interior using timber wall panels, like those shown here, by architect Luigi Rosselli and Alwill Interiors. Ensure surfaces are sealed and that the area is well ventilated to keep it in tip-top condition. >

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ENGINEERED ALTERNATIVES An abundance of solid-surface products evoke marble’s appeal. Many manufacturers use quartz as a key ingredient to create a highly durable, virtually non-porous finish. “Some people like the colour and pattern consistency of engineered materials like SmartStone or Caesarstone, and the design possibilities of products like Dekton’s ultra-slim slabs, which can be used on walls, bathroom furniture and cabinet doors,” explains designer Jenefer Gordon of Eat Bathe Live. Boasting scratch, stain, chip and heat resistance, engineered finishes are ideal

in busy bathrooms susceptible to make-up and lotion spills. A recent Silestone addition are sinks made from a single piece of quartz, which marketing manager Kate Deakin-Bell of Cosentino says creates a sleek look when paired with a benchtop in the same material (see the Silestone Silver Lake and Iconic Black bathroom, above). Another option is porcelain and ceramic tiles, in polished, matt and textured finishes that cleverly resemble their genuine counterparts and don’t require sealing. “For supply only, marble-look tiles range between $60-$250 per sqm, while engineered surfaces start from around $350 per sqm,” says Jenefer Gordon.

“A custom-fabricated surface offers unlimited design options, from flowing vanities to sleek inset shelving and seamless shower walls” ~ Linda Hannah, Caesarstone Australia

SHOPPING: real & engineered Perth Tumbled Carrara-look matt tile 300mm x 600mm, $89/sqm, Tile Cloud.

‘Statuario Maximus’, from $1100/sqm installed, Caesarstone.

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‘Smokedrift Prima’, $1025/sqm, Corian.

Bianco Carrara marble, $418/sqm, CDK Stone.

MAY 2020

‘Empira White’, $1100/sqm installed, Caesarstone.

New Savior limestone, $407/sqm, CDK Stone. Stockists, page 212

PHOTOGRAPHY(OPPOSITE) SARAH ELLIOT/ELIZABETH ROBERTS ARCHITECTS/INTERIOR ATHENA CALDERONE

MARBLE

Revered for its enduring appeal, serene colour tones and intricate veining, marble lends itself to myriad styles. From large one-of-a-kind natural slabs and decorative Carrara mosaics to honed Calacatta tiles and beyond, marble offers a timeless and striking backdrop that has inspired a slew of alternatives.

THE REAL DEAL “For centuries, natural stone has been the pinnacle of luxury,” says director David Onesti of CDK Stone. “As each slab is unique it offers exclusivity and inherent natural beauty – whether it’s translucency, a certain sparkle, or distinctive veining variation – which can’t be replicated with engineered products,” he explains. Marble’s biggest drawback is its porousness, making it susceptible to staining. To maintain its grandeur and provide protection, David advises using an impregnating sealer after installation and a natural stone specific cleaner. Prices vary depending on quality, variety, availability and natural features, yet David says you can expect to pay upwards of $200/sqm for a natural marble slab, with marble tiles starting at about $100/sqm.

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ON SCREEN:

HOUSE RULES: HIGH STAKES HB EXPLORES THE NEW CHALLENGES AND FRESH FACES OF THE HIT RENO TV SHOW Edited by KAYLA WRATTEN

E CHALLENG

H IG

H ST

AKE S

This year, eight new teams on Channel 7’s popular reno reality series will tackle the transformation of a 33-storey penthouse on Queensland’s sunny Gold Coast. The twist? This game changer will push competition to the next level, as pairs need to earn their place – only six teams will hand over the keys to their homes to their competitors for a mind-blowing makeover.

5 MINUTES WITH: Abbey Way

DE SIGN F ILE

The hosts of House Rules: High Stakes, Jamie Durie (left) and Abbey Way.

CHANNEL 7 PRESENTER AND SPORTS JOURNALIST ABBEY WAY JOINS HOUSE RULES: HIGH STAKES THIS YEAR AS A CO-HOST ALONGSIDE NEW HOST AND FORMER JUDGE JAMIE DURIE. SHE CHATS TO HB ABOUT HER JOURNEY TO HOUSE RULES What do you love about being a TV presenter?

Abbey Way: “Fresh out of high school, I received a scholarship to study journalism and, as they say, the rest is history. My job is so diverse, and I absolutely love it. It’s such a privilege to be able to tell people’s stories, and it just doesn't get old. I’ve met the most amazing people and I feel so lucky to do what I do.” What are you most excited for about co-hosting House Rules?

“House Rules presents a whole new genre for me and it’s just so much fun. Watching our contestants as they see their life-changing home renovations for the ﬁrst time is the biggest thrill. Working with Jamie has been a blast, too.”

A glimpse into one of the newly updated spaces that will feature on House Rules: High Stakes.

How would you describe your interiors style?

“My style is ever evolving, and the pieces I love are a bit eclectic. I ﬂit between loving minimalism and organised chaos, so one day, when I have my own home to deck out, I’ll be interested to see where the pendulum lands. Right now, the apartment we [Abbey and husband Ben Way] rent in Sydney’s eastern suburbs is very relaxed and coastal.” Do you have any design rules you live by?

“My rule would be, don’t follow trends and have fun. I try to choose styles for myself, not for anyone else. Oh, and don’t be afraid of colour!” Watch House Rules: High Stakes on Channel 7.

THE JUDGING PANEL HAS BEEN SHAKEN UP AHEAD OF THE 2020 SEASON. BRITISH TV PERSONALITY LAURENCE LLEWELYNBOWEN (PICTURED RIGHT) RETURNS TO THE SHOW FOR HIS FOURTH SEASON, WHILE TWO NEWCOMERS – INTERIOR DESIGN ENTREPRENEUR KYLY CLARKE (CENTRE) AND HOME BEAUTIFUL ’S VERY OWN RENOVATION EXPERT AND AUSSIE HOME BUILDER SAUL MYERS (LEFT) – JOIN THE SHOW FOR THEIR HOUSE RULES DEBUT. ALL THREE OF THE EXPERTS ADMIT THAT THEY HAVE HIGH EXPECTATIONS OF THE TEAMS’ TRANSFORMATIONS.

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PHOTOGRAPHY (BOTTOM LEFT) JOHN DOWNS

meet the judges

NEED A NEW LIPSTICK? ( d o n ’t w o r r y, w e ’ v e d o n e t h e h a rd w o r k f o r y o u )

D I S C O V E R W H Y W E A R E A U S T R A L I A’ S N U M B E R 1 O N L I N E B E A U T Y D E S T I N AT I O N

beautycrew.com.au B eaut y crew

@B ea uty c rew

@ Be aut yc rew

* BE A UTY crew is A u str al ia’s numb er on e d e di c ated on l i ne b eau ty d es ti n ati o n, as ra ted by N ielsen w it hin t he ap pa rel an d b ea uty ca t eg o r y. S ource : N i els en Market Int e ll i ge nc e ( Do mes ti c ), Ave rag e Dai ly Uniqu e B row sers , as a t 18/5/ 2 01 7.

FASHION MEETS INTERIORS

ON SALE APRIL 13

OU T D O O R S

PLANT PROFILE: CAMELLIAS

pretty in pink

ADD A TOUCH OF ELEGANCE TO YOUR GARDEN WITH THESE PERFECTLY EXQUISITE BLOOMS

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF TAVERNE AGENCY

Words TAMMY HUYNH Photography SABRINA ROTHE

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ew flowering shrubs can evoke the feelings of awe and wonder in us quite like camellias. The highly ornamental blooms, with perfectly arranged petals, flower prodigiously from autumn, breathing life into what can sometimes be a gloomy garden. And when the plant is not in flower, the handsome, evergreen foliage lends itself beautifully to landscape. Allow yourself to fall under the spell and discover their colourful splendour.

CAMELLIA DREAMING If you were to choose one ﬂowering shrub in your garden, make it a camellia. Their exquisite blooms are available in an extraordinary range of forms, including single, semi-double, semi-formal, formal, formal-double, peony, and anemone forms, which can vary in size from miniature to large. You’ll ﬁnd them in shades of red, pink and white, or often a combination of colours, and despite their showy nature, they’re fairly low maintenance once established. Collectively known as camellias, there are many different species, with Camellia sasanqua and Camellia japonica (‘Margherita Coleoni’ opposite), being the most common. They mostly thrive in shady areas, and the shiny green foliage brings dark corners to life. According to landscape director Paula Benneian of POD gardens, there’s one to suit every garden situation, too. “Camellias range from groundcovers through to large shrubs, so whether you’re after something low or a feature piece, they have you covered,” she says.

“THERE’S A PLACE FOR A CAMELLIA IN EVERY GARDEN - WITH

thousands

OF VARIETIES, YOU’LL FIND ONE OR MORE TO MEET YOUR NEEDS”

PAULA BENNEIAN, POD GARDENS

GARDEN GOALS Camellias will suit any garden scheme, but seamlessly incorporating them into the landscape depends on what you are trying to achieve in your space, says urban horticulture expert Matthew Gerakios of Phyton Australia. Are you trying to screen an area, create focal points or simply brighten up a shady space? “Larger varieties of japonica camellias can form a gorgeous evergreen backdrop to the garden and grow into a near impenetrable hedge to screen an ugly fence, while smaller varieties can be used as attractive understorey plantings,” explains Matt. “Survey the garden, note potential planting spots and avoid crowding out with plants of a similar height range.” It’s also important to take into consideration how much space you have and the aspect, advises Paula. “Not all camellias are the same as they range in height and aspect requirements,” she says. “For full sun, go for sasanquas or if you’re looking for a groundcover, try Marge Miller.”

TOP LEFT: Soft, blush pink camellias are a romantic addition to the garden. For similar, try ‘C.M. Wilson’ or ‘Mignonne’. Pick flowers and float them in a bowl of water to continue their magic indoors. BELOW LEFT: While beautiful as a single feature planting, camellias are absolutely charming when planted amongst foliage plants in the garden. Here, Camellia ‘Lasca Beauty’ and Camellia ‘Vega’ soften the architectural form of dracaena to create a beautiful scene. OPPOSITE: One of the true delights of camellias is the enchanting carpet of fallen petals around the shrub. Feeling inspired? If you’re after a particular flower arrangement or colour, head to your local nursery to see what’s on offer. >

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GROWING GUIDE CLIMATE Camellias will grow in most climates, from subtropical to cold zones. Depending on the species, some camellias are more heat or frost tolerant than others. Source plants from your local nursery, as they will stock varieties suitable for your area. ASPECT Most camellias prefer a slightly shaded position, although sasanquas, reticulatas and hybrid camellias can handle slightly more sun (but always check plant labels when purchasing). Avoid planting in areas with hot dry winds and if you live in a frosty area, avoid morning sun as the sun hitting the morning dew on the shrub can burn flowers. SOIL Well-drained soil enriched with plenty of organic matter and compost is essential. They also prefer a slightly more acidic soil, with a pH of 5-6.5, so add a soil acidifier, if required. WATER Water regularly and mulch well with an organic mulch such as lucerne or bark chips – this will help prevent their shallow roots from drying out. Once established, camellias are quite tough and can withstand dry conditions (provided they’re well mulched). FERTILISER To get the best out of your camellias, feed in early spring and autumn with a specialised azalea and camellia plant food. Don’t be tempted to overfeed though – this will do more harm than good.

“YOU WANT

camellias to shine

, RATHER THAN C OMPETE FOR

ATTENTION WHEN FLOWERING”

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MATT GERAKIOS, PHYTON AUSTRALIA

CAMELLIA SASANQUA

CAMELLIA JAPONICA

CAMELLIA RETICULATA

CAMELLIA HYBRIDS

Dotted with a profusion of small dainty blooms, sasanqua camellias bring a garden to life from late summer to winter. They are the first to flower of camellias, but their blooms last a couple of days, before shattering and falling, leaving behind a magical carpet of precious petals. BEST USED FOR: The small leaves and dense growing form of sasanqua makes them ideal for hedging, particularly along narrow areas, such as the area beside the driveway.

As the garden begins to awaken from its winter slumber, the flowers of japonica camellias open. Japonicas can grow into large shrubs or small trees and they have large blooms that can last up to 3-4 weeks on the plant. BEST USED FOR: Grow as a feature shrub or small tree, a privacy screen or informal hedge for lightly shaded areas of the garden. Pick flowers and float them in a shallow bowl or vase. There are thousands of different varieties to choose from.

Often described as the ‘glamour girls’ of camellias, reticulatas have the largest flowers, producing blooms up to 25cm in diameter for certain varieties (and can grow between 5m and 8m tall). The extravagant blooms, often with frilled edges, appear from late winter and continue to flower for many months. BEST USED FOR: They are a stunning specimen plant placed in full sun or bright dappled light. Cut the flowers and enjoy the blooms indoors.

Experience the best of both worlds with camellia hybrids. These plants are a cross between two camellia species, specifically selected for hardiness, floriferous habits, fragrance or flower size. Miniature hybrids, with their sweet, delicate blooms are an especially adorable addition to the garden. BEST USED FOR: Anywhere in the garden where most camellias feature and thrive – check plant labels or consult a camellia specialist for local advice.

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Camellias add instant colour to any arrangement – for something similar to these blousey blooms, seek out ‘Betty Ridley’, ‘Debutante’, ‘Drama Girl’ or ‘Laurie Bray’.

OUTDOORS

LATEST IN:

UNEARTHED WE DIG UP THE BEST BACKYARD BUYS AND UNCOVER TOP GARDENING TIPS Edited by KAYLA WRATTEN

BOOK CLUB A CELEBRATION OF NATURE AND AN INSPIRING KEEPSAKE FOR EVERY GREEN THUMB

PETAL: THE WORLD OF FLOWERS THROUGH AN ARTIST’S EYE ILLUSTRATED BY ADRIANA PICKER (HARDIE GRANT BOOKS, $60) Botanical illustrator Adriana Picker has translated a lifelong passion for ﬂowers into her fourth book, called Petal. Here, her detailed art is paired with inspiring words by Nina Rousseau on the meaning and folklore behind the blooms.

Embers hanging planter in Charred, from $71.

THE TESSELAAR FLOWER FIELDS CELEBRATE THEIR FESTIVAL OF FLOWERS THIS APRIL. ENJOY FIELDS AND A BESPOKE FLOWER CIRCUS. BUY TICKETS AT KABLOOM.COM.AU.

bursting with colour

YING & YANG

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GIVE YOUR PATIO A BIT OF EXTRA LOVE WITH DESIGN-SAVVY PIECES. HERE IS OUR PICK OF THE BUNCH:

2. Deco outdoor rug by Gloster, from $1680, coshliving. com.au.

1. ‘3 Tier’ plant stand, $19, kmart. com.au.

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

3. ‘Hourglass’ floor lamp, $1655, harbouroutdoor.com.au.

MAY 2020

save the rain

With many parts of Australia still suffering drought and water restrictions in place, conserving rainwater is essential. Cue the rain garden, a sunken area or above-ground box planted with shrubs and flowering perennials to capture rainwater run-off. “A huge amount of stormwater is lost to us and adds pollution to our waterways as unfiltered rain runs straight into rivers and oceans,” explains co-founder and creative director Matt Leacy of Landart Landscapes. “Rain gardens are self-watering, reducing water use in the garden, as well as filtering and purifying water so that it is then safe to be reused.” Rainwater can be captured from downpipes, pathways or tanks in various ways, including a green roof (as pictured above). To create your very own rain garden, head to homebeautiful.com.au/outdoor, and to hear more water-saving tips from Matt, listen to The Daily Home Edit podcast.

PHOTOGRAPHY (BELOW RIGHT) JASON BUSCH

ROUND-UP:

outdoor decor

In the collaboration of our design dreams, Sydney-based landscape and interior designer Adam Robinson has partnered with homewares brand Zakkia to create a collection of beautiful – and practical – outdoor pots called Embers. Handmade in Vietnam by a proud family of artisans, each pot is unique thanks to a reactive glaze process. Visit zakkia.com.au.

ENTERTAIN EASY AND DELICIOUS FOOD TO SHARE WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS

toast of the town

Set the table with fragrant roses in autumnal shades and celebrate Mother’s Day. We’ve created a scrumptious brunch menu brimming with zesty flavours – and liberally sprinkled with love.

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Nimes linen napkin in Grey, $39.99/set of 4, Linen House. Katherine Mahoney mini dipper, $15, Home Industry. Pewter jug, $185.95, Tara Dennis Store. Champagne coupe, $16.95, The Lost And Found Department. Etched water glass, $45/set of 6, Home Industry. Dinner plate in Pistachio, $53, and salad plate in Mist, $37, both Mud Australia. Vintage fork, $25/set of 4, and vintage knife, $25/set of 4, both Home Industry. Vases, stylist’s own. Stockists, page 212

ENTERTAIN

A DAY

to cherish

RAISE A GLASS TO MUM AT A CELEBRATORY BRUNCH BURSTING WITH FRESH FLAVOURS AND CLOSING ON A SWEET AND TANGY HIGH NOTE Recipes & food styling KERRIE WORNER Styling JOHN MANGILA Photography CATH MUSCAT

FENNEL, APPLE & CUCUMBER SALAD WITH ESCHALOT DRESSING See recipe on page 153

SMOKED TROUT AND PEA QUICHE See recipe on page 153

THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Dinner plates in Pistachio, $53 each, Mud Australia. Balloton tumbler in Apple Green (two displayed), $19.95, and pewter jug, $185.95, all Tara Dennis Store. Linen tea towel, $17, and round mango wood board, $69.95, both The Lost And Found Department. Knife, stylist’s own. OPPOSITE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Katherine Mahoney mini dipper, $15, Home Industry. Small cheese plate in Mist, $90, Mud Australia. Vintage tablespoon, $195, The Bay Tree. Nimes linen napkin in Grey, $39.99/set of 4, Linen House. Cut glass jug, $15/small, Home Industry. Vase, stylist’s own. Stockists, page 212

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SALUTE! LILLET, GIN & GUAVA AUTUMN ROSE Serves 4 400ml Lillet Rose, chilled 125ml gin 1 cup guava & apple juice, chilled 320ml chilled soda water 1 tbsp lime juice Edible flowers, to garnish

Pour all ingredients in a large jug over ice and stir to combine. Serve with edible flavours to garnish.

TREAT YOURSELF AND MUM TO A COCKTAIL THAT EVOKES THE RUSSET TONES OF THE SEASON THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Kensington cocktail shaker, $49.95, Tara Dennis Store. Etched champagne glass, $85/set of 6, Home Industry. Aluminium tray with rattan handles, $49/large, Tara Dennis Store. Nimes linen placemat in Rose, $12.99, Linen House. Cut glass coupe, stylist’s own. OPPOSITE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Small cheese plate in Mist, $90, Mud Australia. Vintage tablespoon, $195, The Bay Tree. Salad plate in Mist (two displayed), $37, Mud Australia. Vintage fork, $25/set of 4 (four displayed), and vintage knife, $25/set of 4 (three displayed), both Home Industry. Balloton tumbler in Apple Green (two displayed), $19.95, Tara Dennis Store. Dinner plate in Pistachio (two displayed), $53, Mud Australia. Nimes napkins in Grey, $39.99/set of 4, Linen House. Champagne glass (two displayed), $85/set of 6, Home Industry. Mango wood board, $69.95, The Lost And Found Department. Katherine Mahoney mini dipper, $15, Home Industry. Knife, stylist’s own. Stockists, page 212

FENNEL, APPLE & CUCUMBER SALAD WITH ESCHALOT DRESSING See recipe on page 153

SMOKED TROUT & PEA QUICHE See recipe on page 153

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GIN & LIME CAKES See recipe opposite

THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Pressed glass jug, $35/large, Home Industry. Glass cake stand (dome not shown), $65, The Bay Tree. Small cafe-style ceramic plate (displayed on top of glass stand), $40, Tara Dennis Store. Nimes linen napkin in Natural, $39.99/set of 4, Linen House. Bread plates in Blossom, $37 each, Mud Australia. Olive forks, $25/set of 5, Home Industry. Stockists, page 212

PETITE AND OH-SO-PRETTY, THESE GIN & LIME CAKES ARE THE PERFECT FINAL FLOURISH FOR A GATHERING THAT'S FILLED WITH LOVE AND GRATITUDE

SMOKED TROUT & PEA QUICHE Serves 4-6 350g whole hot smoked trout 2 tbsp olive oil 2 small leeks, white part only, thinly sliced 2 cloves garlic, crushed 5 eggs

300ml pure cream 1 tbsp Dijon mustard 12 sheets filo pastry 85g butter, melted ½ cup grated vintage cheddar 2 tbsp dill tips

1. Peel and discard head from trout. Remove flesh from the bones and flake into large pieces. You should have about 200g meat. Set aside. 2. Heat oil in a medium, non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Add leek and garlic and cook, stirring, for 5 minutes, or until soft. Remove pan from the heat. 3. Whisk together eggs, cream and mustard until combined. Season. 4. Grease a 25cm x 3½cm deep, fluted flan tin with removable base. Place tin on an oven tray. Take 6 sheets of filo and layer atop one another, brushing each sheet with butter as you go. Line tin with layered sheets, pressing into edges with a folded double thickness of pastry. Allow long end of filo to overhang sides. 5. Cover with plastic wrap to prevent filo from drying out. Repeat with remaining 6 sheets and butter, and place in tin in the opposite direction. Spread leek mixture over the base of the pastry. Arrange trout on top. Sprinkle with cheese and 1 tablespoon dill. 6. Pour over egg mixture. Sprinkle with peas and remaining dill. Season. Bake at 180°C for about 55 minutes to 1 hour, or until set in the middle. Lay a sheet of foil over the top of quiche after 40 minutes to prevent filo from overbrowning. 7. Cool for 20 minutes before removing from tin. Serve warm or at room temperature. FENNEL, APPLE & CUCUMBER SALAD WITH ESCHALOT DRESSING Serves 4-6 2 small bulbs fennel ¼ cup small mint leaves 1 Granny Smith apple 2 small red apples 1 large cucumber Eschalot Dressing 2 tbsp white wine vinegar

1 tbsp lemon juice ¼ cup olive oil 2 tsp caster sugar 1 tsp dry pink peppercorns, lightly crushed 2 tsp baby capers in vinegar ½ tsp Himalayan salt flakes 2 small eschalots or 1 small red

1. To make the dressing, combine vinegar, juice, oil, sugar, peppercorns, capers and salt in a small bowl. Add eschalot

or onion and stir to combine. Set aside whilst preparing salad. 2. Trim the ends and outer coarse leaves of fennel. Cut bulbs in half lengthways. Thinly slice fennel halves with a vegetable peeler or mandolin. Place in a bowl of iced water with mint leaves for 15 minutes. 3. Use an apple corer to remove apple cores. Thinly slice apples on a mandolin. Place in iced water with fennel. Thinly slice cucumber on mandolin and place in a large bowl. 4. Drain fennel, mint and apple. Shake off excess water or spin in a salad spinner. Add to bowl with cucumber. Toss and arrange on serving platter. Spoon over dressing to serve. GIN & LIME CAKES Makes 12 Olive oil cooking spray, for greasing 80g unsalted butter, at room temperature ½ cup caster sugar 1 tsp finely grated lime zest 1 egg 1 cup self-raising flour

⅓ cup buttermilk 2 tbsp gin Edible flowers or grated lime zest Icing 1¼ cup icing sugar mixture 1 tbsp gin 1-2 tbsp lime juice

1. Preheat oven to 180°C. Grease 12 holes of a mini cheesecake pan (see tip, below) with oil spray. Line bases with small rounds of baking paper. Cut 5cm wide strips of baking paper and line sides. 2. Put butter, sugar and zest in the small bowl of an electric mixer and beat until pale and creamy. Add egg and beat until combined. Sift flour over the top of mixture. Add combined buttermilk and gin and stir until combined and free of lumps. 3. Spoon into holes until three quarters full. Bake cakes for about 20 minutes, or until springy to touch on top and lightly golden. Cool for 15 minutes before inverting and pushing out of pan. Cool on a wire rack over a large tray. 4. To make icing, sift icing sugar into a large bowl. Add gin and 1 tablespoon juice. Mix until combined. Add just enough remaining lime juice until icing has a thick pouring consistency. 5. Place teaspoonfuls of icing on top of each cake and spread to the edges, allowing it to run down the sides. Allow to set completely. Decorate with edible flowers or sprinkle with lime zest.

tip You can double the mixture and make two batches. Pan must

be washed, greased and re-lined for second batch, or make larger cakes in a standard-size muffin pan. MAY 2020

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THE EDIT

TASTE TEST GOURMET FINDS AND KITCHEN ESSENTIALS TO DELIGHT ALL FOODIES Edited by HARRIET SIM & KAYLA WRATTEN

picnic picks

MAKE THE MOST OF THE OUTDOORS WITH A BOTTLE OF YOUR FAVOURITE DROP AND A COMPLEMENTARY SPREAD. WANT TO UP THE LUXE FACTOR? INVEST IN A WHIMSICAL PICNIC BASKET TO TRANSPORT YOUR WINE AND SNACKS, SUCH AS THIS BASKET WITH CHEESE BOARD LID, $199, THEBEACHPEOPLE.COM.AU.

TEAS & C’S Slow Sunday afternoons are best enjoyed curled up with a good book and a teacup in hand – preferably one from Maxwell & William’s new Teas & C’s Kasbah range. Inspired by Moroccan and Turkish tile designs, the cups, pots, cake stands and more sport vibrant designs. Kasbah footed cup & saucer, $19.95, maxwellandwilliams.com.au.

Nat HANGOVER-FREE DRINKS For a party minus the hangover, try a delicious alcohol-free distilled botanical spirit. These beautiful blends of natural distillates make great alternatives to your usual alcoholic tipple. We’ll drink to that!

1. ALTD, from $64, altdspirits.com. 2. Cedars, from $49.99, ceders-alt-gin.com. 3. Seedlip, from $49.99, seedlipdrinks.com.

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5 MINUTES WITH: MATT PRESTON

IN THE KNOW:

AWARD-WINNING FOOD JOURNALIST, RESTAURANT CRITIC AND TELEVISION PERSONALITY MATT PRESTON SITS DOWN WITH HB FOR A LESSON IN DINNER PARTY ETIQUETTE

What is the secret to throwing a great dinner party? The people! As a host, your aim should be to spoil your guests – introduce common links between those who don’t know each other well and try and prepare as much of the meal as you can in advance so you can spend plenty of time with them. My mum always said if you are sitting next to someone at a dinner party, you should leave knowing more about them than they know about you. Having a good playlist is important; I like the idea of everyone sharing the phone and picking their own tunes. Who are your dream dinner party guests? Lizzo (singer), Meghan and Harry (members of the royal family), Sam Pang (comedian), Adam Gilchrist (cricketer), Melissa Doyle (television presenter) and Fiﬁ Box (radio presenter). What’s your biggest dinner party disaster? I once had friends round and thought it would be funny to dye mash potato blue, and the baked beans extra red. That was pretty bad, but I think sometimes the best memories are made from the biggest disasters and you just make it work – say you made a dodgy creme brulee from a recipe you read online, well now it’s a custard. What’s your best advice for minimising dinner party angst? It can be overwhelming cooking and hosting friends and family, especially when you are trying to make a good impression. Minimise the stress by planning ahead and try not to leave anything to the last minute. This is the aim with the Tanqueray x Marley Spoon collaboration I’ve been part of. It’s designed to make dinner parties a breeze with pre-portioned ingredients and step-by-step recipes, leaving the entertainment and enjoyment up to you. Shop Matt’s curated Tanqueray x Marley Spoon Ultimate Dinner Party Box range, from $269 (for six people), at marleyspoon.com.au/specials/tanqueray until 26 April, with deliveries available between April 6 and May 3.

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N EW PO DCAST !

BETTER

REAL ESTATE BUY SELL RENT INVEST

LISTEN NOW YOUR INSIDER GUIDE TO AUSTRALIAN PROPERTY AND LIVING

oin your hosts Dora Papas and Greg Fahey as they take you on a journey to find and create a home you’ll love. With special guests from the property and finance industries, plus lifestyle experts from the wider Better Homes and Gardens team, Better Real Estate has all your property needs covered.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Search for ‘Better Real Estate’ in your favourite podcast app (Android or iPhone) or visit bhg.com.au/podcasts.

BE SURE TO SUBSCRIBE!

MEET YOUR HOSTS DORA PAPAS BHG editor

GREG FAhey BHG DIY editor

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HO M E S P E C I A L

GRAND OASIS Page 166

OFF THE GRID Page 190

EARTHLY DELIGHT Page 200

SWEET TREAT Page 178

DRAW INSPIRATION FROM FOUR FAMILIES WHO HAVE TRAVELLED DIFFERENT PATHS TO CREATE THEIR OWN DREAM HOMES â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PLUS, MEET THE EXPERTS WHO CAN MAKE IT HAPPEN FOR YOU Edited by HOLLY BYRNE

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HO M E S P E C I A L

THE DREAM TEAM TO TRANSFORM YOUR HOME INTO THE DESIGN OF YOUR DREAMS, YOU’LL NEED POWERHOUSE PROFESSIONALS BY YOUR SIDE. OUR FIVE EXPERT PANELLISTS DISCUSS THE KEY ROLES IN GETTING IT RIGHT Words KAYLA WRATTEN

ehind every remarkable reveal in a home renovation – from the revived kitchen to the reimagined garden – lies a team of devoted experts. And for most homeowners grappling with the mammoth task of renovating, extending or managing a new build, confusion can shroud the process of pulling together a winning team. “A renovation is like making a movie; there are so many roles to bring together to make the feature,” says Joe Snell, director of Studio Snell. With this in mind, here’s our guide to the key professionals that you will need to consider for a star-studded cast of your own.

THE ARCHITECT

If you’re building from scratch or undertaking a renovation that involves changing the structure and function of your home, an architect is a must-have. As well as designing and drafting plans, he or she can also act as a project manager (for an extra fee) and oversee the entire process, so be clear on how much involvement you require based on your budget. “Architects listen to your brief and then, with the circumstances of your specific building and site, design a home for your future,” explains Joe. “They are then with you throughout the project to liaise with the builder, the council and other consultants to get the building built.” Finding the right architect should be a renovator’s top priority, so dig deep to discover your ideal match. “Do your research, ask your friends and family for recommendations and always talk to more than one architect,” says Joe. “Interview a number of architects and choose someone you trust.” >

THE TEAM

JOE SNELL Director and architect, Studio Snell

KATE WALKER Interior designer and founder, Kate Walker Design

MATT LEACY Co-founder and creative director, Landart Landscapes

MELISSA BONNEY Interior designer and director, The Designory

SAUL MYERS Home Beautiful renovation expert and House Rules: High Stakes judge

PHOTOGRAPHY(THIS PAGE) GREG COX/BUREAUX

“ARCHITECTS ARE EXPERTS IN CREATING BUILDINGS THAT BRING AND TO YOUR LIFE, AS WELL AS ADD VALUE TO YOUR HOME” – Joe Snell

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“Selecting a qualified and experienced builder for the job is essential, as they’re responsible for delivering your finished product on spec, on time and on budget,” says Melissa Bonney, founder of multi-disciplinary design studio The Designory. So, what qualifications should you be looking for? “They need to hold a builder’s licence and must have completed a trade qualification, such as a Diploma of Building and Construction, and have two years’ industry experience,” she explains. Sift through their past projects to be certain the quality of their work aligns with your vision. “Due diligence is required,” adds HB renovation expert Saul Myers. “You need to get references from your builder – most will be proud to show you previous projects they’ve done.” And don’t be afraid to door knock. “Building or renovating is such a personal venture and most people will share their experiences, good or bad,” he says.

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different,

“EVERY PROJECT IS SO THE MORE PROJECTS A BUILDER HAS COMPLETED, THE MORE THEY’LL BE ABLE TO TROUBLESHOOT AND PROVIDE SOLUTIONS” – Melissa Bonney

strong

PHOTOGRAPHY(THIS PAGE) SHANIA SHEGEDYN (OPPOSITE) AMELIA STANWIX/ STYLING GEORGIA EZRA/AG CONSTRUCT

THE BUILDER

THE INTERIOR DESIGNER

Trained to redesign interior layouts, draft plans and source finishes, fixtures and fittings, these design gurus commit to far more than styling, which is why they should be on board from the get-go. “Engage an interior designer at the concept stage, so they can work alongside your architect with the space planning,” advises interior designer Kate Walker, director of Kate Walker Design. “They ensure the sight lines are right, make sure the furniture will fit, and that the intended joinery design will work in the space.” Art selection, furniture sourcing and room layouts can all be taken care of by an interior designer – as it was within this space, designed by Studio Ezra. These experts can also ensure you stay on top of your budget, and even manage relationships between your other professionals. Choosing your interior designer will depend on your personal style, whether it be coastal, Hamptons or modern, as they direct the home’s visual theme. “Often, people will engage a designer based on their particular design aesthetic,” says Kate. Check out a designer’s online portfolio, as well as their social media accounts, to see if their work aligns with your vision and, before your first meeting, gather inspiration and visual references to show them what you have in mind. >

“ IT’S IMPORTANT TO LOOK FOR AN INTERIOR DESIGNER WHO YOU FEEL IS AND AND, MOST OF ALL, WHO LISTENS TO YOU – Kate Walker

genuine

authentic

“ FIND A LANDSCAPE DESIGNER YOU CAN

push

TRUST, AND THEN TRUST THEM TO YOU OUT OF YOUR C OMFORT ZONE TO DELIVER SOMETHING ” - Matt Leacy

amazing

“The changes a landscape designer can make outside are just as important as the changes an architect can bring about inside,” says landscape designer Matt Leacy, describing how a well-designed garden can “soften and complete a building”. As their key role involves designing outdoor spaces, including pools, alfresco areas and facades, they need to foster a connection with the homeowners to understand their lifestyles. “Landscape designers should take on board how the client would like to use their outdoor space and deliver something they couldn’t think of on their own,” says Matt. When searching for your perfect match, Matt recommends choosing a designer with “a good track record. Meet them to make sure you gel with them as a person and are inspired by their thoughts and ideas.” These garden gurus also handle the nitty-gritty, such as designing to legislation, to keep a renovation running smoothly. “There’s a lot of work that goes into facilitating all the necessary approvals and certifications to build your project,” he explains. “Landscape designers deal with heritage consultants, arborists, hydraulic engineers and council officers on behalf of a client.” These outdoors experts also bring a level of professionalism to every detail, as they understand the turf and can provide advice on paving, planting and power and lighting requirements.

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PHOTOGRAPHY(THIS PAGE) DEREK SWALWELL (OPPOSITE TOP RIGHT) GREG COX/BUREAUX

THE LANDSCAPE DESIGNER

EXTRA HANDS

These experts are a helpful addition to your renovation journey. Here’s why: The structural engineer Structural engineers are important if renovation works affect your home’s stability by altering features such as doors, internal walls and floors. “They’ll ensure the building is structurally sound,” says Joe. The draftsperson A draftsperson prepares sketches and detailed technical drawings of the site. However, unlike architects, they won’t design your home. The energy efficiency consultant Need to meet an energy efficiency requirement for council approval? These experts check the design of your projects against standards that determine how energy efficient a home will be. The building certifier A vital part of the team if you’re doing any major renovation work, building certifiers ensure all construction meets council approval. The surveyor For a new build, surveyors ensure that local building codes and regulations are met, while also drawing and measuring the site. Their plans can also assist the landscape designer and architect.

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HO M E

S P E C I A L

E D I T I O N

EAST COAST CLASSIC

GRAND OASIS AN 1860S COTTAGE HELD BY A FAMILY FOR FIVE GENERATIONS FORMS THE SENTIMENTAL HEART OF THIS PALATIAL HAMPTONS-INSPIRED FARMHOUSE

Words KYLIE JACKES Styling FIONA GOULD Photography CATH MUSCAT

LIVING ROOM

Homeowners Natalee (pictured opposite) and husband Mark had long fantasised about buying the cottage that his great-grandfather built. When the dream was realised two years ago, a grand plan to renovate the decrepit little house was put into action. Natalee’s Hamptons-inspired vision is reflected in every element of the build and in the exquisite finer details. In the main living area (below), a soaring eight-metre-high ceiling and wall of French doors and transom windows, by Jason Windows, floods the room with natural light. The crowning glory is a one-metre-wide chandelier from One World, which hangs majestically over the lavish space. Prior to the floor plans being drawn up, Natalee – the founder of interior design brand Indah Island – had chosen and positioned almost all of the furniture. “I always visualise how I want spaces to look and the furniture I want, then design the size of the room accordingly,” she says. Key pieces include sofas from Molmic, a timber coffee table from Abide Interiors, rattan pieces available through Indah Island and a sea of blue and white custom cushions from Tigger Hall Design and Westbury Textiles. >

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atalee and Mark’s home is well off the beaten track. Set on sprawling farmland in the Western Australian Wheatbelt, it’s a good hour-long drive from Perth and 20 minutes from the nearest country town, yet as you meander up their dusty driveway, this stately manor is impossible to miss. “It’s not your average farmhouse, it’s more like a beacon, particularly at night when it’s lit up – you can spot it two to three kilometres away,” says Natalee. For the couple and their children Dakotah, 16 and Indianah, 14, rural life is still something of a novelty, after the opportunity arose to buy a 78-acre farm from Mark’s cousin and build a forever home. “The land has been in Mark’s family for five generations and his greatgrandfather built the original brick cottage on the site in the 1860s, so it holds a lot of history,” says Natalee. “Mark’s dad was born in the cottage, relatives have got married there and even though it had become quite derelict over time and should have really been bulldozed, we really wanted to preserve the family’s heritage.” For the designer, whose company, Indah Island, is renowned for its bespoke Hamptonsstyle projects, the cottage and its vast landscape provided an irresistible opportunity to create something of grand proportions that’s unique, yet also personal. “True American Hamptons homes are quite extraordinary in scale and I really wanted to emulate that,” she explains. The design took shape around the original cottage with adjoining north and south wings built on either side. Inside, the bedrooms and bathrooms for Indianah, Dakota and eldest daughter Ebonee, who visits on weekends, were created within the cottage’s cosy footprint, while the generous extension allowed for a modern open-plan layout, with numerous living areas as well as a luxurious parents’ retreat, mezzanine level and a self-contained studio. Surprisingly for such a large project, the build was completed in just 11 months, for which Natalee credits a dedicated team of tradies who worked to a tight schedule. A highlight since moving in last year was hosting Christmas. “We had 25 people for lunch and 18 stayed until New Year, which was a lot of fun,” says Natalee. “I love having a house full of people and, because of the size, it does feel like a comfortable resort with plenty of space for everyone to spread out and do their own thing.” Large Christmas gatherings now seem likely to become a tradition, in a home that is well-loved by a huge extended family. “Everyone’s incredibly appreciative we kept the cottage and because it’s come through the generations, the house will always stay in the family,” she says. After 160 years and a sizeable extension, it’s enjoyed more than ever and is now ready for its next chapter.

“IT WAS JUST FANTASTIC TO BE ABLE TO RUN WILD AND

do anything

I WANTED TO WITH

THE DESIGN” ~ NATALEE KITCHEN & DINING Keen to create something different rather than “cookie cutter”, the couple’s starting point for the kitchen design was a trio of bespoke timber-beaded chandeliers, available through Indah Island, which form a dramatic focal point above the three-metre island bench. Choosing the perfect shade of blue for all the elaborate custom under-bench joinery was also critical – Natalee deliberated for several months before choosing Saxby Blue. “Because the space is connected to several eating areas and the main living area, it needed to be just right so it worked with all the surrounding blues and greens,” she explains. A splurge throughout was Ralph Lauren fabrics – used to upholster bar stools from Abide Interiors, dining chairs from Home Styling Warehouse and the lampshades of a pair of chandeliers from The Montauk Lighting Co, which command attention above the dining table. >

FLOORING Laminate in Rustic Oak, Formica.

TH E DREAM WHO: Natalee and Mark, who own Indah Island, their children Dakotah, 16, and Indianah 14, plus dogs Tia, Baxter, and Alfie, and cats Louie, Coco and Trixie. Eldest daughter Ebonee visits on weekends. WHERE: An hour east of Perth. THE DREAM: “To create a Hamptons-style estate in the country, with a resort feel,” says Natalee. WHY NOW: The chance arose to buy the family farm from Mark’s cousin.

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DINING NOOK

When itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just Natalee, Mark and their two youngest daughters at home, they prefer to eat at the smaller more intimate dining nook off the kitchen. Indianah, pictured here with rescue cat Trixie, enjoys the sun-drenched spot. The round timber table is teamed with rattan chairs (both from Indah Island) and sofa from One World, topped with custom fabric cushions, while a striking Indah Island pendant brings individuality to the space. Luxaflex plantation shutters boost the Hamptons feel and help modulate the flow of light and air.

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KITCHEN To take advantage of sweeping views across the farm while washing up, Natalee positioned a Parisi butler sink beneath the kitchen window. Elegant porcelain drop handles from Tradco create the perfect match for the classic blue and white cabinetry. >

“THE SHEER SCALE OF THE HOUSE DID

surprise

ME DURING THE

BUILD, BUT THE CRAZY THING IS, I COULD HAVE GONE BIGGER” ~ NATALEE

BENCHTOP Et Statuario ‘Eternal’ by Silestone.

“I HAD A

clear vision

FOR THE HOUSE AND

AS SOON AS I PUT PEN TO PAPER THE DESIGN CAME TOGETHER QUICKLY AND SEAMLESSLY”~ NATALEE ENTRANCE

Old meets new in the entrance area (top left) where the original walls of the brick cottage transition into the newer section of the house, defined by striking wallpaper from 3Beaches. For Natalee, choosing wallpaper is like selecting art. “There are so many beautiful designs, but I was particularly drawn to this one because it has proteas, which evoke an Australian feel,” she says. “I think you just have to go with what you love.” The aqua hues are picked up in a bespoke Indah Island chandelier and Chippendale chairs with custom upholstered seats. LIBRARY

Library shelving, complete with a ladder (top right), provides tiered surfaces to curate collections and create eclectic vignettes. It shows off treasured pieces picked up on the couple’s travels, including their many trips to the East Coast of the US. For a cosy atmosphere, Natalee punctuated the space with dark timber pieces and custom fabrics for chairs and lampshades in caramel and duck egg tones, inspired by the surrounding landscape. “Outside we see fields of dry wheat and big blue skies, so I brought those colours into the interior,” she explains.

HALLWAY Even transition zones such as the hall (left) are furnished as places to sit and take time out. Coastal blues in a Kerri Shipp artwork, the statement lamp from St John Lamps and a textural throw pair beautifully with British Colonial vintage-style cane furniture from Indah Island. “Hamptons isn’t just one look, its very layered and eclectic, but all the elements need to talk to one another,” says the owner of her decorating.

“EVERY SPACE HAS A SLIGHTLY DIFFERENT LOOK, BUT EVERYWHERE I’VE COMBINED BEAUTY WITH A HOMELY,

relaxed

FEEL” ~ NATALEE

LIVING AREA

There’s no TV in the home, instead rooms such as the living area are designed as social spaces to gather and enjoy simple pleasures, including sitting by the gas fireplace from Fireplace Corner, or stretching out on a comfy Molmic chaise with a good book. Big, blowsy hydrangeas are synonymous with the Hamptons and are also one of Natalee’s favourite flowers, so the ‘Club Hamptons’ artwork by Felicia Aroney takes pride of place above the charming fireplace mantel from Schots Home Emporium. The striped Carnival Homewares rug adds classic formality, while the patterned fabrics provide interest and depth. >

RUG Recycled cotton rug in Durban Denim, Carnival Homewares.

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WALLPAPER Peacock on grasscloth, 3Beaches.

“THERE’S JUST SOMETHING ABOUT BEING IN THE COUNTRY – THE AIR IS BETTER, YOU

sleep better

AND THE DAYS SEEM LONGER” ~ NATALEE

MAIN BEDROOM

“I love soft colours with a crisp feel and always use duck egg blues in main bedrooms,” says Natalee of the serene palette in the bedroom (opposite). A delicate Peacock grasscloth wallpaper by 3Beaches in a custom colour creates a stunning backdrop for the luxurious upholstered bedhead by Indah Island. Textural layers, such as the custom cushions and a velvet throw from Her Shed, add to the feminine feel. A One World lamp paired with a St John lampshade provides perfect illumination for bedtime reading. ENSUITE

Natalee wanted to make the ensuite (top left & right) “really spectacular and special”. Herringbone Soho Carrara tiles from Beaumont Tiles provide a sophisticated foundation for the roomy bathtub from Schots Home Emporium with ‘Neu England’ Brodware taps, which is positioned by the verandah to soak up rural views. A pineapple chandelier and wall sconces from Lighting Collective add a tropical vibe, while the owner’s love of Chinoiserie motifs is reflected in stools, vases and a pair of intricate mirrors from Abide Interiors. “It’s probably more full-on than something I’d create for a client, but I just love it,” she enthuses. EBONEE’S BEDROOM All of the cottage’s original bedrooms were revitalised and the couple’s eldest daughter Ebonee has claimed this one for weekend stays (right). The decorative Intrim mouldings and wainscoting by Perth Bespoke Carpentry in Dulux Lexicon pop against walls in Dulux Rottnest Island, evoking a heritage feel. Linens from Her Shed, Ralph Lauren fabric cushions and Kerri Shipp artworks from Driftwood Interiors create a harmonious palette of classic beige and blue. As with every space, the finishing touch is statement lighting – this stunning chandelier is a collectable that was sourced years ago from a vintage store. For similar, try One World. >

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VERANDAH

A popular place to congregate is the verandah, which wraps around the entire home. Keen to avoid the mammoth task of oiling timber, the homeowners opted for low-maintenance composite decking from New Tech Wood’s Coastal range in Antique, which has a lovely rustic look and feel. Robust James Hardie Scyon Linea Boards, painted in Dulux Milton Moon, were chosen to provide that quintessential Hamptons style. In keeping with the resort-like feel, comfort is still key outside, where an array of plump wicker chairs and sofas are clustered for casual entertaining. “When all the bi-fold doors open up it really functions like an extension of our living area, so I continued the same beautiful blues and greens in the soft furnishings outside,” explains Natalee, of custom scatter cushions and ottomans in 3Beach textiles by The Cushion Factory.

DREAM I DEAS Interior designer Kate Walker shares her advice on getting your home style just right

1. Your design style finds you rather than you searching for it. Your own design style comes from imagery that evokes emotion and that heartfelt response leads you toward a particular look. 2. It’s important to take the architectural style of the property into account. The style you choose needs to work with your architecture rather than fight with it.

3. Look for the existing key elements in your home and decorate in a synergistic way to create a harmonious aesthetic.

POOLSIDE Pooches Alfie (pictured on a lounger) and Baxter have embraced rural living. “They love being by the pool just as much as we do,” says Natalee. For an effortless green lawn, synthetic turf from Urban Turf envelops the Hamptons Blue Pool by Aqua Technics, which is defined by Horizon Light Grey tiles from Beaumont Tiles. A row of Osier Belle loungers creates a relaxing spot for pool parties and frilly ‘Flamenco’ umbrellas by Santa Barbara Designs, from 3Beaches, provide plenty of shade in the prettiest way possible.

WIR

GAMES ROOM

BATH

OFFICE

ENS

BED BED BATH PWDR

BED

KITCHEN

PANTRY

BED

MUD/LDR’Y

ILLUSTRATION KENZIEDESIGN.COM. ACTUAL PAINT COLOURS MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

Although it’s a general rule of thumb not to use different metals in the one zone, Natalee says the size of the house meant she could get away with mixing it up. “I’ve used black handles throughout, polished nickel tapware and pendants with brass tones, but there’s enough of everything to create balance and because it’s on a big visual scale it all works together,” she says.

MAIN BED

F LO OR PLAN

KITCHEN

DINING

LIVING

CONTACTS

INTERIOR DESIGN & BUILD: Indah Island, 0413 370 006, indahisland.com. KITCHEN: Colray Cabinets, (08) 9303 4300, colraycabinets.com.au. LANDSCAPE DESIGN: Franklin Landscape Design, (03) 9598 1094, franklinld.com.

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HO M E S P E C I A L

THE DOWNSIZER

SWEET TREAT SMALL IN SIZE BUT MIGHTY IN HEART, A 1950S BEACH COTTAGE IS THE FOREVER-FOR-NOW HOME OF SHELLEY CRAFT AND HER FAMILY Words KAYLA WRATTEN Photography & styling LOUISE ROCHE

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FACADE

This gelato-hued entrance adds playful personality to the home of TV presenter Shelley, her husband, Christian, and their two daughters, Eadie and Milla (pictured opposite). “I looked up the history of the home and saw that [the exterior] had gone from greeny-blue to baby blue,” says Shelley. “So my husband and I chose this bright Dulux colour, Diorite. It just makes you happy when you walk in the door.” Bursts of colour – spot the bright yellow cushion from Zaab Homewares – hint at the pretty palette that continues inside the home. >

TH E DREAM WHO: Shelley, husband Christian and daughters Milla, nine, and Eadie, seven. WHERE: North Coast, NSW. THE DREAM: “The idea was to have a light, bright, colourful and fun cottage, a little bit different to the usual Byron boho seaside aesthetic,” says Shelley. WHY NOW: “It’s considerably smaller than the last place we were in and, as I had really hoped, am enjoying that we’re much closer as a family,” she explains.

“ONCE YOU GET TO CHOOSING THE C OLOUR PALETTE TO DRESS A ROOM, YOUR

artwork ~ SHELLEY

IS YOUR BEST GUIDE”

own-to-earth TV presenter Shelley Craft and her husband, Christian, owner of real estate agency Pacifico Property, have a penchant for home renovations. “I always call them my ‘forever-for-now homes’ because we move a lot, but they’re always designed with great love and liveability for my family,” says Shelley. “If we decide it’s time for us to move on, at least I know I’ve created something that we loved.” When the couple sold their last house, a quick settlement left them scrambling to find a new fixer-upper for their family, including daughters Milla, nine, and Eadie, seven, plus their two Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs, Rocko and Aldo. As luck would have it, an original 1950s beach cottage “just popped up for sale”, says the host of reno reality show The Block. “It’s a home I’d driven past every day for the last five years taking the girls to school. I had always dreamed about doing the quintessential beach shack renovation.” The pair committed to a swift nine-week transformation, beginning with essential asbestos removal, which left only the stud walls and the roof. “We took this as an opportunity to open up the back wall with sliding doors instead of windows, and added a deck space off the back,” explains Shelley, who is overjoyed with the nourishing indoor-outdoor connection created as a result (left). Aside from this welcome addition, the original layout remained unchanged, saving time and money and ensuring the cottage kept its charm. Downsizing has its advantages and this cosy abode has given the busy family a new-found sense of intimacy. “Your home should be that place where you feel safe and secure and totally yourself,” explains the renovation expert. “As long as we’re all together, home really is where the heart is.”

PAINT Cotton Sheets, $74.90/4L, Taubmans.

FRONT ENTRANCE “I’m usually petrified of colour,” admits Shelley. “Our last few homes have been very much those natural palettes, lots of stone and concrete – very earthy.” So, although splashing the pastels in spades might seem out of character for this homeowner, her daughters’ (pictured above) playful energy has inspired a change of heart in her decor choices. “They allow me the freedom to be a bit more colourful and bright,” she explains. The banquette seating (above and left) was upholstered by The Dusty Road in a beautiful and cheerful coral fabric. DINING ROOM

An abstract painting entitled ‘Desert Tracks’ by Myee Harlow sets a high standard for the open-plan space. The striking piece is flanked by ‘Kymi’ wall sconces from Astro Lighting, matching the wall’s clever concave panelling. “It’s just about adding a bit of detail that isn’t your normal VJ sheeting,” says Shelley of the unique feature, which is made of moulded timber strips from Versace Timbers. >

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KITCHEN The reno masters kept the original kitchen intact, simply upgrading the cupboards with Polytec doors in divine Copper Leaf, and new oak handles from Kethy. As for the benchtops, Shelley is “a big fan of concrete”. She adds, “Using Slabshapers for my custom benchtops was a real treat.” A pair of ‘Canna’ bar stools from The Beach Furniture add a touch of coastal charm.

FLOORING Riviera Oak veneer in Amalfi by Carpet Court.

“FINDING WAYS TO OPEN UP YOUR HOME TO LET IN

natural light

AND AIR IS VITAL” ~

SHELLEY

LOUNGE ROOM

A carved timber table takes centrestage, grounding the snug space amid indoor plants and a luscious green outlook. “I bought the ‘Bamileke’ coffee table from Zoe and Jimmy of [fashion label] Mister Zimi, who were having a garage sale,” recalls Shelley. “I’ve got some good neighbours!” The ‘Montauk’ sofa in Grey from Hope & May provides a relaxed hub for the family to unwind, with an extra seat created by the leather floor cushion from Tigmi Trading. >

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“IN BYRON, THERE’S A LOT OF PEOPLE IN THE INTERIOR

design

SPACE;

IT’S ALMOST CONTAGIOUS FAN ‘Haiku’ ceiling fan in Caramel Bamboo, $1495/1.3m, Big Ass Fans.

AROUND HERE” ~ SHELLEY BATHROOM

Shelley’s must-have – brushed copper – was a vision she brought to life in the bathroom through the sleek tapware and sink from ABI Interiors (top left). “I really wanted to use it, and thankfully this house lent itself to that design,” she says. The hand-painted barn slider doors (above) made from the same timber slabs used on the feature wall and kitchen benches were “just an extra bit of fun”, she laughs. “It makes all the difference to the room, because suddenly your doors become a feature, rather than something you hope will blend in.” MAIN BEDROOM

The sweeping ‘Bhola’ jute rug from The Dharma Door turns the floor of Shelley and Christian’s bedroom into a feature (left). Blush pink bedding from I Love Linen and a sweet pot plant from The Plant People borrow rosy accents from Tania Blanchard’s artwork, titled ‘Transcendent III’, while the view of palm trees offers a soothing reminder of their wonderfully laid-back Byron Bay surroundings.

EXTERIOR Surrounded by an oasis of greenery – from palm trees in the garden to pot plants on the deck – the front porch (opposite) creates a welcoming entrance. The warm tones of a round ‘Sayulita’ hand-braided jute rug from Miss Amara set a coastal scene for this beach cottage, beneath a cane lounge from Biku scattered with cosy cushions. This restful retreat is lit by a twin set of ‘Vega’ wall lamps from Konstsmide, which Shelley bought in white to match Taubmans Cotton Sheets exterior paint on the window frames and ceiling. >

DREAM I DEAS Landscape designer Matt Leacy shares his tricks to make small-scale outdoor spaces look large 1. Break up the visuals leading out into the space so everything isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t revealed as soon as you open the door. By angling the decking or changing up the paving patterns you can direct the eye where you want it to go. 2. Play with levelling and break the space up into different zones, which will help to make the space feel more expansive and multi-purposeful. 3. Vertical gardens provide height without encroaching on space â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from hanging pots and baskets through to pallet planters and trellis planter holders. If wind is an issue, consider installing a trellis with a tough climber to create a windbreak.

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dream

HO M E S P E C I A L

POOL

“We live a very busy outdoor lifestyle,” says Shelley. “We’re always at the beach, riding our bikes, on the deck or down by the pool.” Below, Milla prepares to make a splash from the decking by Decktec.

MILLA’S BEDROOM A grey bedhead by Bed Nest is a neutral base for Milla to switch around her styles at leisure. For now, the ‘Daintree Tile’ pillow in Clay by Bonnie And Neil takes pride of place, beside the chic side table from Fenton & Fenton.

OUTDOOR SHOWER

BATH

BED

KITCHEN

DINING

LIVING

STUDY

CONTACTS Construction and project management: Marloane Building Co, marloanebuildingco.com.

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ILLUSTRATION KENZIEDESIGN.COM. ACTUAL PAINT COLOURS MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

F LO OR PLAN

GARAGE

A beautiful slab of green Moroccan mosaic tiles from Jatana Interiors provides a perfect rinse-off zone, while a white chair from Biku is a welcome respite from a day’s activity in the sunshine.

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SUSTAINABLE LIVING

OFF THE GRID ON AN UNTOUCHED MOUNTAINSIDE, THIS CONTEMPORARY COTTAGE IS AT ONE WITH THE LANDSCAPE AND COMBINES SMART DESIGN WITH METICULOUS ATTENTION TO DETAIL Words ROBYN ALEXANDER & TONYA TURNER Styling SVEN ALBERDING Photography WARREN HEATH

TH E DREAM WHO: Karen and Rudi, with children Ruan, eight, Karmi, six, and baby Liela. WHERE: Sitting an hour outside Cape Town in South Africa. THE DREAM: “It was our dream to design and build an eco-friendly home that fits into our environment perfectly,” says Karen. “It’s meant to look like it is hovering above the fynbos (plants) and to have minimal impact on its surroundings.” WHY NOW? “We’d been looking for the right piece of land for some time, and by chance this block came up for sale. We were lucky enough to have the time and money to build it.”

dream

HO M E S P E C I A L

EXTERIOR

STORY COURTESY OF BUREAUX

Nestled amongst the indigenous fynbos plants of the region, this cosy eco retreat was dreamt up and bought to life by innovative homeowners Rudi and Karen, (pictured here with their daughter Liela) who designed the cabin as a place to relax and reconnect with themselves, with nature and with one another. Timber exterior cladding and decking softens the sleek lines of the home’s concrete shell, helping it to disappear into the surrounding environment. A dining table (try the ‘Dalton’ reclaimed dining table in Rustic Natural from Interior Secrets for similar) is well positioned near the traditional South African braai (open fire barbecue) at the end of the deck. For similar, try a Barbaco Braai from The Alfresco Factory. >

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connection to nature is at the very heart of this tiny home on South Africa’s Western Cape, which is a standing testament that small really is beautiful. For more than a decade, owners Rudi and Karen patiently watched and studied the natural characteristics of their property, imagining where they would one day build the modern but modest holiday home they had long dreamed about. No strangers to the landscape, the couple had already built a set of rustic mountain cabins on one of the higher slopes to get their KolKol Mountain Lodge up and running. But when it came to the pod they envisaged, they knew they needed to pay extra special attention. “We carefully considered where to place it,” says Rudi, whose own two hands built much of structure as well as the custom furniture that sits inside. “I spent more than a decade getting to know all this land and then looked with the utmost care at precisely where this structure should be situated, taking into account the views, the movements of the sun, the prevailing winds and the impact on the indigenous fynbos plants that surround it.” Created as a place to relax, unwind and reconnect with nature, the pod was designed by the couple with a clear and careful vision in mind. “I’ve always had this sort of shape in my head,” says Rudi. “When the time came to build this, I drew it all, and then got an architect to make detailed plans.” Both rustic and futuristic all at once, the pod hovers between two: the minimalist design and clean lines of the structure are softened by rounded edges where the walls meet the floor and ceiling, while a variety of timbers and exposed concrete are used in abundance throughout the interiors to celebrate the natural world, creating the perfect space to escape the real one.

LIVING AREA

While Rudi played an essential role in the construction of the pod, Karen took the reins when it came to the interiors, opting for a casually luxe look with lots of warm colours and textures to set off the concrete and wood finishes. As a place to truly switch off, she wanted to create a laidback natural vibe: woven lampshades hang in the kitchen and lounge zones (try the ‘Bindu’ pendant from The Lighting Collective and the ‘Weave’ floor lamp from Zanui for similar), and a welcoming couch is paired with a lush velvety rug to bring plush softness to the lounge area (for a similarly chic lounging option try King Living’s ‘Delta III’ 3-seater in Manhattan Natural.) Meanwhile, the contemporary shape of the chairs – similar to the ‘Byron’ dining chairs from Life Interiors – offer a touch of contrast. The curvy dining table was hand-crafted by Rudi (try the ‘Nena’ reclaimed round dining table from Interior Secrets) and plays the perfect host to family dinners where they enjoy home cooked pizzas from the wood-fired pizza oven. >

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WALL PANELS For similar, try Rough Sawn Sleeper Feature Wall Panels, $141/sqm, Northern Rivers Recycled Timber.

“WE WANTED IT TO FEEL COSY,

homely,

SPACIOUS AND

LIGHT WITH ALL THE CREATURE COMFORTS” - KAREN

TIMBER CEILING For similar, try Reclaimed Oregon Wire Brushed, $125/sqm, Northern Rivers Recycled Timber.

“IT FEELS AS IF YOU ARE

miles away

FROM

CIVILISATION, BUT WE ARE ONLY ONE AND A HALF HOURS AWAY” - KAREN

OUTDOOR CONNECTION

Karen, Rudi and the kids love visiting the home whenever they can. “When we’re here, the kids play in the hot tub, we listen to music and play board games or go for walks,” says Karen. “The children love playing outside.” The materials and textures used both indoors and on the deck make for a seamless feel across the spaces, while a midnight blue chair in the bedroom (opposite) adds a colour contrast (try Matt Blatt for similar). The outdoor wood-fired hot tub is another of Rudi’s handmade creations (below, but Ukko Wood-Fired Cedar Hot Tubs are a great alternative) and is a magical place to stargaze when night falls. “Everyone loves a warm soak. Add the perfect views and a glass of fine wine and we’re set,” says Karen. >

DECKING For similar, try Recycled Australian hardwood 85mm x 19mm, from $99/sqm, Northern Rivers Recycled Timber.

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DREAM I DEAS Architect Joe Snell, of Studio Snell, shares his top tips for designing a more sustainable home.

1. You can never have too much insulation! The more controlled separation you can have from the elements, the better – this way you have more control of the internal environment and any artificial heating and cooling you use will be more efficient. 2. Research is the key to choosing good building materials. The options are endless, but sustainability parameters will narrow the field quite quickly.

BEDROOM “It’s such a comfortable, luxurious and peaceful room,” says Karen of the pod’s main suite. Rudi built the bed using spruce timber (try Outlast Naturally Timber for similar), using tree stumps as bedside tables (the Trunk side table in Natural from Uniqwa is a stylish option). Black hanging lampshades (try the ‘Bardem’ pendant light from Temple & Webster for similar) contrast against the timber wall panels. Patterned scatter cushions on the bed echo the landscape outside (the ‘Jura Forest’ square cushion from Adairs is similar).

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TILE ‘Majorca’ TIMBERsubway tile in Jade Gloss, CLADDING $89/sqm supply For similar, try only, Teranova Tiles. Reclaimed Cube, $267.30/sqm, Timberwall.

BATHROOM The only thing better than weekend getaways spent immersing yourself in nature is taking it all in from the indulgent comfort of a luxe freestanding bath (the Agape ‘Normal’ bathtub from Artedomus offers a similarly luxurious feel). A beautiful, curved timber-cladded wall adds a tactile, natural feeling to the inviting space. “It took quite a while to put up, but the result made it so worth it in the end,” explains Karen. The elegant basin (try the Agape ‘Neb’ basin from Artedomus for similar) is a mini version of the bath, while the textural, floor-mounted bath tap is yet another stunning feature here (try the ‘Oscar’ bath filler from ABI Interiors for similar). >

dream

HO M E S P E C I A L

EXTERIOR

Warm and textural Shou Sugi Ban treated pine – a traditional Japanese method of charring timber used to preserve wood – is encased by the concrete shell (below, try Trendplank cladding from Mortlock Timber). BATHROOM A round gold frame mirror (right) picks up the tones in the stunning copper tapware – the ‘Milani’ Assembly Taps and Spout set in Brushed Copper from ABI Interiors is a similarly glamorous match. KITCHEN Forming an elegant curved feature wall, white subway tiles run all the way up to the ceiling from the patchwork tiled splashback to form a soft and unique architectural statement in the kitchen, while providing a rare sleekness in the home (bottom, try Arcade Central Multicolour tiles from Beaumont Tiles for similar).

F LO OR PLAN

DECK BED

SPA LIVING

KITCHEN

CONTACTS

Designer/Builder: Rudi Oosthuyse, kolkol.co.za Interior Designer: Karen Oosthuyse, kolkol.co.za Timber Doors: Metal Bark, metalbark.co.za

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BATH

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HO M E S P E C I A L

COUNTRY LIVING

EARTHLY DELIGHT PALM SPRINGS-INSPIRED DESIGN MEETS BOHO COASTAL STYLE IN THIS LUXURIOUS, LIGHT-FILLED FAMILY HOME Words TONYA TURNER Styling RACHEL PETERS Photography SIMON WHITBREAD

KITCHEN Designer-builder duo Heather and Aaron had a lot to consider when creating the ultimate ‘forever’ place for their young family of five – namely, adopting a timeless style they would never tire of and allowing enough space for their growing brood. For casual mealtimes, they gather around the kitchen island bench (opposite) on ‘Malawi’ tub bar chairs from Uniqwa Furniture. On other occasions they pull up a ‘Nalu’ dining chair (from Yak And Yeti Traders) at the three-metre-long ‘Barcelona’ dining table (from 55 Parrots), where there is plenty of room to accommodate extra friends and family. LIVING When they’re at home, you’ll often find the couple and their three children playing games around the fireplace (a Universal Insert 1500mm from Jetmaster, below). “We don’t have a TV in this area and, when people come over, it’s where everyone sits playing Charades or Celebrity Heads,” smiles Heather (pictured opposite with Stella, Ami and Ace). The elegant ‘Como’ sofas by James Lane and tonal cushions by Raw Decor make for comfy seating around a vintage coffee table from T&C Furniture and the ‘Amira’ Moroccan rug in Natural from Rugs For Good provides a soft spot for game-playing bare feet. >

TH E DREAM WHO: Heather, Aaron and children Stella, eight, Ami, seven, and Ace, five; with Bruno the British Bulldog. WHERE: Mulgoa in western Sydney. THE DREAM: “I wanted it to feel relaxing and like an escape, so it feels like we’re on holiday in our own home,” says Heather. WHY NOW: “We’ve always kept an eye out for a place in this area – it’s rare for acreage to come up here,” she says.

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BRICKS ‘Commons’ in Dulux Surfmist ¾ strength and Monument, $1357/1000, Austral Bricks.

DINING

In their last house, Heather felt the pendant lights over the kitchen island bench were wasted. “It was more of a prep area, so this time around we decided to have them over the dining table where we’ll often sit with friends after dinner and play cards or board games,” she explains (pictured above with Aaron). The ‘Hanging Ball Lamps’ in Natural Wicker from House Of Orange also help to fill the spacious open-plan area and balance the polished concrete floors (right). “I love the intimacy created by pendant lights over the dining table and the earthiness of the rattan – it just softens the space and works really well,” she says. The ‘Coral Casino’ print by photographer Ilana Sallick from United Interiors, paired with a ‘Meadow’ braided woollen rug in Ivory by Rugs For Good, completes the dining zone’s breezy, Palm Beach-inspired look.

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“AARON LOVES THE KAUFMANN HOUSE IN

palm springs

, SO

OUR STARTING POINT WAS GETTING THE OUTSIDE RIGHT” ~ HEATHER

PHOTOGRAPHY (OPPOSITE) CLARITY PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRYSTAL DEMPSEY

hen Heather and Aaron married 13 years ago, they knew exactly where they wanted to end up living and raising their children. The acreage properties in a village west of Sydney were what dreams of country living were made of – a home surrounded by wide open spaces and nature, where kids could roam free and family and friends could come together for weekend getaways. Having both grown up in its neighbouring suburbs, Heather, an interior designer, and Aaron, a builder, spent the next decade buying, renovating and selling houses with the hopes of one day purchasing a property there. “We spent many years doing Sunday drives through here,” says Heather. “It was our dream and we were always working towards it. Friends and family would say, ‘Oh my gosh they’re selling again’ but in the back of our minds we were never settled. It wasn’t a big deal to us because we knew this was the ultimate goal.” When a rare parcel of land came onto the market, it seemed their moment had finally arrived. Their brand new home is a culmination of all the renovating lessons they’ve learnt over the years and marries Aaron’s love of mid-century architecture with Heather’s obsession for interiors inspired by Balinese villas and Byron Bay holiday homes. “I’ve never been to Byron and we went to Bali for the first time this year, but when I was searching for inspiration I kept being drawn to those places,” she says. “The style is just so comfortable and relaxing.”

TIMBER CEILING Blackbutt battens, 45mm x 45mm, $5.70/lm, Bunnings.

KITCHEN The couple’s love of timber inspired them to use it beautifully and creatively throughout the property. “We wanted to have that Balinese villa feel coming through,” says Heather. Extending the timber battens on the four-metre-high ceiling down onto the wall was a stroke of genius. “The generous height meant we could have a feature like this without closing in the space,” she explains. “Kitchen cabinets can only go so high.” Aaron designed and formed the concrete island bench to balance the materials in the room and added shadow lines in Rural Oak by Laminex between the custom polyurethane cabinetry – painted in Dulux Natural White to match the walls. A sleek open bench extends into the butler’s pantry and the kitchen is deliberately designed without a rangehood. “They’re hard to keep clean,” says Heather, “and since we had the open space, we didn’t need it for ventilation. We didn’t want any overhead cabinetry, either.” >

“WE WANTED THE STAIRS TO BE A

statement

FEATURE IN THE HOME” ~

HEATHER

STAIRS With the staircase close to the front door, the homeowners were keen to do something different. “Aaron had seen a full timber version of our stairs and thought a half-concrete, half-timber design would look great,” says Heather. The warm tones of the blackbutt timber floorboards, 140mm, from Radial Timbers, pick up the earthy colours in the ‘Lodge’ wall cladding from Artisan Stone at the back (and front) of the fireplace. “We picked that stone because it most resembled the Palm Springs modernist style,” explains Heather of the stairs, which double up as a play centre for Ami, seven, and Ace, five (pictured). A ‘Barely There’ shade in Natural by Lumiere Shades was selected for its understated elegance.

MAIN BEDROOM

When the kids are finally asleep in their beds, Heather and Aaron love retreating to their suite before waking in the morning to glorious views. “This is the only two-storey component of the home, so when we sit up in bed we are among the treetops,” enthuses Heather. “The land falls away from this room and we are left with views of the bushland and the whole valley.” At night, when she is reading, Heather loves how the ‘Abby’ pendant from Uniqwa throws a beautiful pattern onto the walls. A ‘Maya’ rug from Miss Amara lends another layer of texture, while the bedside table from 55 Parrots matches the tones in the ceiling, which is lined with Silvertop Ash, 90mm, from Radial Timbers. >

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“TO ME, KIDS’ ROOMS SHOULD BE A

calming

PLACE FOR THEM TO SIT AND READ OR PLAY QUIETLY AND INDEPENDENTLY” ~

HEATHER

STELLA’S ROOM

Heather wanted to create a cute and feminine room for Stella before she gets older. “I chose a more muted palette but used pink as she is my only girl and probably won’t like pink forever,” she says. A hanging chair from Barbara’s Storehouse, adorned with a ‘Luana’ European pillowcase from Linen House and ‘Stella’ star cushion from Freedom, makes a beautiful focal point. The pink tones continue in a ‘Vintage’ washed linen quilt cover in Nude Pink by Home Republic from Adairs. An arched Demi bedhead in Trinity Silver from Beds Ahead and a white Juju Hat from Rose Avenue add a touch of whimsy, while the ‘Mitre’ floor rug in Ghost from Weave and ‘Shore 1’ lamp from Beacon Lighting deliver earthy goodness.

DREAM I DEAS HB’s renovation expert and House Rules judge Saul Myers shares his top tips to make the most of natural light

1. If you’re bound by walls, look up and think about windows in your roof! Installing ceiling skylights, light wells, roof windows or sun tunnels will bring a new sense of depth and volume.

2. Use large mirrors and floor mirrors and position them in a place to catch the natural light and bounce them into other rooms. They can be disguised as functional mirrors or wall art that serves a double purpose.

3. Consider glass panel doors (opaque glass is a good option for privacy) to let in natural light from adjacent rooms.

SURFACE Rural Oak by Laminex, from $86.57/sqm.

MAIN BATHROOM A curved brick wall at the front of the home (designed to hide the front door from the street) makes a shapely statement in the family bathroom. “The bathroom sits here as it didn’t require a window,” says Heather. Instead, a large skylight invites natural light in, while an extra section of wall hides the toilet – a practical feature in a large, open wash zone. Overhead storage with mirrored doors was custom-made by INZ Kitchens and recessed into the wall to maximise space. ‘Craquel’ wall tiles in Grey Gloss from Beaumont Tiles team perfectly with 600mm x 600mm ‘Kierrastone’ floor tiles in Ash from Color Tile Australia. A ‘Kado Lussi’ freestanding bath from Reece adds extra curves to the space. >

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HO M E S P E C I A L

FACADE

Natural Snow Gum cladding, 75mm x 75mm, from Deco Wood Australia (below) makes a fine backdrop to the Blue Grass Tree from Draco Concepts and large sandstone boulders from Australian Native Landscapes.

BUTLER’S PANTRY The benches and splashback in ‘Fresh Concrete’ Caesarstone, 40mm, from Stone Tech, create a clean and minimalist look.

F LO OR PLAN

Scala taps in Brushed Nickel from Reece add sophistication. ENS BED

STORE

LOUNGE

LIVING

BATH BED DINING BED

BED

ENS

CONTACTS

KITCHEN ENTERTAIN ROOM

BED

Interior Designer: Oak And Orange, oakandorange.com.au. Builder: Better Built Homes, betterbuilthomes.com.au. Cabinet Makers: INZ Kitchens, inzkitchens.com.au. Concrete Polishing: Stoneart Australia, stoneartaust.com.au

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PHOTOGRAPHY (TOP RIGHT) CLARITY PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRYSTAL DEMPSEY ILLUSTRATION KENZIEDESIGN.COM ACTUAL PAINT COLOURS MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

GARAGE LNDR’Y

MAIN BATHROOM

SHOP

IN STORE

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

SPIRIT OF THE BUSH

Luxaflex® PolySatin® Shutters are made from a tough, UVresistant polyresin compound that creates an attractive, soft matte lustre, and are virtually maintenance-free. Backed by a 20-year warranty, they are made in Australia to withstand our harsh climate for years to come. Visit luxaflex.com.au

Inspired by the powerful skin-boosting properties of native Australian flora, the new Natio Spirit collection of skincare and bodycare products for women and men celebrates the remarkable nutrients and distinct aromas of our nourishing native wildflowers and plant extracts. RRP $10.95-$16.95. Visit natio.com.au

ADD COLOUR AND LIGHT TO YOUR WALLS Mellissa Read-Devine’s style is distinctive, with her electric palette and layered application of brush strokes. Her sought-after paintings are vibrant and optimistic visions of colour and light inspired by the natural world. For a list of galleries and upcoming exhibitions visit her site at readdevine.com and on Instagram @readdevine

FORM AND FUNCTION Designer Appliances are your luxury kitchen and laundry appliance specialists. With all premium brands, we’ll help you transform your kitchen and laundry into functional paradises. Visit your local gallery or browse online to see how our luxury brands can revolutionise your home. Visit designerappliances.com.au

EMBRACE YOUR STYLE Wear something that makes your heart sing. Zebrano’s range is unbelievable, in all-embracing styles and sizes from 14 to 24. The spectrum of style ranges from gorgeously gothic to feminine and flirty in beautiful, touchable fabrics. Shown here is the Euphoria Brooklyn Top. Visit zebrano.com.au

CLASSIC AND CONTEMPORARY Introducing the ‘Metal No. 1’ pendant by celebrated American interior designer Mark D. Sikes, for Hudson Valley Lighting. Renowned for mixing traditional and modern sensibilities, Mark believes design should be beautiful and brings this philosophy to his new ‘Classics’ lighting collection. Available through The Montauk Lighting Co.

TURN UP THE HEAT

THE EASY WAY TO A WHOLE NEW LOOK

Heating to 400°C in four minutes, this compact Breville Pizzaiolo Cooker will take pride of place on your kitchen bench to deliver an authentic woodfired-style pizza in just 80 seconds. The unique Element iQ system replicates the ideal baking environment for all of your favourite pizza crust styles. Exclusive to Harvey Norman.

Discover Easycraft’s range of wall and ceiling linings. They’re the perfect complement to any space. The possibilities for creating beautiful spaces are endless, with the comprehensive range of traditional Easycraft profiles. Visit the website to see how you can get the look. Visit easycraft.com.au

THE AWARD-WINNING SOFA YOU’LL LOVE TO LIVE ON King Living’s award-winning Jasper II sofa provides the ultimate in personal comfort and practicality, with its luxurious contemporary aesthetic, hidden storage solutions and modular flexibility. The addition of revolutionary Smart Pockets lets you customise your sofa with a range of smart accessories, such as an LED reading light, and a charging table to wirelessly charge your mobile device. Visit kingliving.com.au

EUROPEAN STYLE TO MIX AND MATCH Add a touch of European style to your home with Capi indoor pots. Inspired by nature, the elegant structure of these pots will make a statement in your home. Each pot is handmade and available in various shapes and sizes, so you’re sure to find the perfect match for your style. RRP from $7.98. Available at Bunnings Warehouse. Visit capi-europe.com

STOCKISTS

DIRECTORY FIND THE SHOPS AND DESTINATIONS TO GET THE LOOK 3 Beaches (07) 5578 6991, 3beaches.com.au. 55 Parrots 0466 634 171, 55parrots.com. A-B ABI Interiors (07) 5520 2775, abiinteriors.com. au. Adairs adairs.com.au. AEG 1300 363 664, aegaustralia.com.au. Affordable Decorators (07) 5527 6728, affordabledecorators.com. au. Alternative Surfaces (03) 9427 1100, alternativesurfaces.com.au. Amara Home (02) 4464 2910. Antoinette Ferwerda antoinetteferwerda.com. au. Aqua Technics aquatechnics.com.au. Artedomus 1300 278 336, artedomus.com. Arthur G arthurg. com.au. Artisan Stone 1300 301 898, artisanstone. com.au. Ascraft (02) 9360 2311, ascraft.com.au. Astro astrolighting.com. Australian Native Landscapes (02) 9450 1444, anlscape.com.au. Bandhini Design (07) 5533 8545, bandhinidesign. com. Barbara’s Storehouse (02) 4871 1558, facebook. com/pg/BarbarasStorehouse. Barefoot Gypsy 0410 642 685, barefootgypsy.com.au. Barnaby Lane Furniture (03) 9077 3792, barnabylane.com.au. Beacon Lighting (03) 8561 1599, beaconlighting.com. au. Beaumont Tiles beaumont-tiles.com.au. Bed Threads bedthreads.com.au. Beds Ahead 0435 655 853, bedsahead.com.au. Benton’s Finer Bathrooms (03) 9552 0300, bentons.com.au. Big Ass Fans bigassfans.com. Biku (07) 5538 0133, biku.com.au. Biome biome.com.au. Bonnie and Neil (03) 9384 2234, bonnieandneil.com.au. Bonnie Gray bonniegrayart.com. Bosch bosch.com.au. Bungalow Living Bali bungalowlivingbali.com. Bunnings bunnings.com.au. Byzantine Design (03) 9078 2811, byzantinedesign.com.au. C-D Cabana Joe’s (02) 4464 3490. Caesarstone 1300 119 119, caesarstone.com.au. Carnival Homewares (03) 9808 2222, carnivalhomewares.com.au. Carpet Court 1800 816 948, carpetcourt.com.au. CDK Stone (03) 8552 6000, cdkstone.com.au. Coco Republic 1300 000 220, cocorepublic.com. au. Color Tile Australia 1300 265 678, colortile.com. au. Concrete Nation (07) 5593 4075, concretenation. com.au. Corian 1300 795 044, casf.com.au. Cosentino cosentino.com. Create Estate (07) 5438 8670, createestate.com.au. Cult Design cultdesign. com.au. Cultiver (02) 9438 1588, cultiver.com. Cushion Factory 1300 448 297, cushionfactory.com. au. David Jones davidjones.com.au. Decktec 1300 235 044, decktec.com.au. Deco Wood (02) 9603 1888, decorativeimaging.com.au. Dianna-Lynn Decor diannalynndecor.com.au. Dirty Janes (02) 4861 3231, dirtyjanes.com. Domo (03) 9277 8888, domo.com.au. Draco Concepts 1300 372 267, dracoconcepts.com. au. Driftwood Interiors driftwoodinteriors.com.au. Dulux 13 25 25, dulux.com.au. E-F Earp Bros (02) 9410 3222, (03) 9328 8598, earp.com. au. Easycraft easycraft.com.au. Eco Outdoor 1300 131 413, ecooutdoor.com.au. Electrolux 1300 363 640, electrolux.com.au. English Tapware Company (02) 9362 4736, englishtapware.com.au. Falcon 1800 685 899, falconworld.com/au. Fenton & Fenton 1800 433 686, fentonandfenton.com.au. Few And Far (02) 4464 1684, fewandfar.com.au. Finnish Design Shop finnishdesignshop.com. Fisher & Paykel fisherpaykel.com. Florence Broadhurst Fabrics florencebroadhurstfabrics.com. Flower Bowl (03) 5229 6506, flowerbowl.com.au. Freedom freedom.com.au. French Knot frenchknot.com.au.

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SA TY RT L ES S TT OOR RE E Claire McCall

MODERN IMPRESSIONIST ARTIST

TABITHA STOWE ART

artworks@clairemccallartist.com

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LAST WORD

UNSUNG ICONS:

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

or a generation raised on the concept of two-wears-and-you’redone fast fashion, it may be difficult to comprehend how long their forebears held onto things. Where do you think all those vintage Gucci/Coogi sweaters you’re now paying hundreds of dollars for online came from? Well, the longevity of these items is partly due to years of ad hoc repairs, so many years in fact, that these items often crossed the threshold from merely old into the fabled land of vintage. All held together by the mercurial art of needle and thread. But here’s the thing. Long before we had tuned into mindfulness, the simple, meditative rhythm of sewing provided its own escape. Inevitably and eventually, we sought to do it for personal pleasure and aesthetic enhancement. Necessity was transmuted to hobby amid balls of yarn and through the finest of needles. For many people, the gateway drug to this addiction was crossstitch. Using fairly thick strands of wool or cotton, and guided by a faint pattern printed on a taut piece of minutely perforated fabric, the push/pull rhythm was not merely relaxing, you also got a reward at the end in the form of a picture. The beginners’ kits were ideal for little hands and made for an ideal project between generations. Take that Tik-Tok (whatever on earth that happens to be). All it took was a few hours, a decent lamp and some slight hand cramp to produce an adorable depiction of a slightly cartoonish playful spaniel, a cherubic angel or even the crest of a beloved football club. Ponies were a perennial favourite for teens, and most every holiday home you ever rented had either a landscape or a seascape made from dust-laden intertwined yarn. Cross-stitch also lent itself to the visual portrayal of treasured sayings. Biblical verses that struck a spiritual chord were common among the houses of the reverent (or reverend for that matter), as was the ubiquitous “bless this home”. If your olds were a little bit zany and not afraid of showing it, they might even opt for a “bless this mess”. Then there was Aunty Dawn’s slightly uncomfortable for youngsters “home is where the bra comes off” or spritzer justifying “wine not”. For an entire generation, it was our “live laugh love”. Today, of course, in the era of automation, the kids are all about two things: the instant gratification of internet purchases delivered overnight and transposing this supposedly staid and traditional format with some rather raunchy or ironic sayings. This writer’s

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home, for example, is adorned with a cross-stitched “that’s what she said”. Ask that person in your office who’s always banging on about The Office why that’s so funny. The next-level players were drawn to the mesmeric attention to detail required by needlepoint and embroidery. Again, this was in the pre-computerised-automation era, where a palette of different hued superfine threads was used to render the petals of flowers with exquisite nuance. There was shadowing, there was bordering, there was shading. There was all sorts of up-close squinting so the end of the filament could successfully be passed through the seemingly diminishing eye of the needle. Speaking of eyes, the older that one got, the tougher it became to complete this task without multiple attempts, and who among us hasn’t resorted to sucking on one end to moisten the thread into a more compliant tip? The needles themselves were also uber sharp, often resulting in more pricks than the last season of most reality TV dating shows. The frustration that arose from this combination of dodgy vision, piercing pain and too many attempts at loading the needle often gave rise to the first time a child ever saw their nanna or mum use a swear word. And didn’t that make them that little bit more human.

mindfulness, escape

“LONG BEFORE WE ALL TUNED INTO THE MEDITATIVE RHYTHM OF SEWING ” PROVIDED ITS OWN

simple

In this DIY mix was the magic of patchwork. Akin to a fabric mosaic, it, too, most likely started as a mend that transformed into something more striking. This was upcycling years before the term got a hashtag or was most likely even invented. With some fabric scraps left over from various curtain, tablecloth or clothing projects, you could create a blanket that would somehow become an heirloom quicker than the family silverware. In their slightly mismatched and pushing-the-bounds-of-complementary-colours way, they spoke of home with a voice both nostalgic and comforting. How many of us snuck them away when we left home for university or our first share house? The common thread among all these things was, of course, common thread itself, and the joy its use could so often bring.