InPlace 8

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inplace

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Autumn 2012 • Issue 8

!

magazine

Make Mum Smile

10

stunning ideas for Mother’s Day

Baby

Brilliance All you need for an organised nursery till pre-school

the best

storage solutions for your home!

Get up and go!

Get organised and discover the real you!

Plus: Amazing airers, dining in Rome, kitchen style and more! simply organised

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GET IN TOUCH! We love to hear your thoughts!

email us at inplace@hsw.com.au

Cover photography: ACPSyndication.com

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26

contents

Issue 8 Autumn 2012

10 18

8

4 Indulge

22 Overcoming the Excuses

The latest news from Howards Storage World.

Simple ways to get yourself motivated.

7 In an Organised Fashion

25 Crêpe Cheer

Sue Blake shares her secrets for success.

A brilliant gift idea for Mother’s Day!

8 Bright Ideas

26 Keeping Mum

Silicone, the material of the future – today!

Ten treats every Mother will love.

10 Baby Bliss

28 Chaos Controlled

Create the perfect nursery for every age.

We step in to rescue a chaotic linen cupboard.

14 Hidden Charms

30 When in Rome

You’ll be amazed by this tiny kitchen!

Get the best from Italy’s capital.

16 Industrial Revelation

32 Airers for a Greener Future

Get the look of a professional kitchen.

Airers have come a long way. We’ve got the best.

18 Supper Surprise

34 The Challenge is On!

The recipe for a classic dish, with a twist.

We’ve set four bloggers a makeover challenge!

20 Inspirations

35 List of Stores

Welcome to Howards Inspirations.

Contact details for every Australian Howards store.

Not all products or advertised prices are available in all stores.

Prices valid to 1/7/12. Every effort is put into ensuring that products shown are available. However, from time to time some products may become out of stock, discontinued or be replaced by new models. Please check with your local store to avoid disappointment. See inside back cover for more information about store locations.

From the Editor Mums are brilliant. Most of us are lucky just to be able to take their presence for granted, knowing that they'll always be by our sides when we need them.

That's why it's so important to make a special fuss on days such as Mother's Day – they deserve it.

Chocolates and flowers are an obvious choice of present, but this year why not go a step further with the gift of organisation?

On page 26 we've got a host of excellent and affordable ways you can make your Mum's life better all year round.

Maintaining the parental theme, we've put together a guide to getting the most from your nursery from newborn to preschooler. Check it out on page 10.

We’d also like to welcome our new columnist, Sue Blake. She's an organisational expert and is guaranteed to get you thinking. Turn to page 7 now!

Enjoy!

Gil ian

Gillian Serisier Editor

inplace magazine 3

news

indulge The latest Howards news

T

he quality of the new simplehuman Recycler Sensor Bin is extraordinary.

Evident from the first time you use its nylon discs to effortlessly glide it across the floor, or activate the silent motion-activated opening-and-closing mechanism, the bin actually responds to how you’re using it.

Sensors detect when you approach and the bin opens its lid automatically, ready to receive your rubbish.

Incredible technology

Where it gets really clever, however, is that the bin can sense when you’re doing longer chores – like peeling something or changing the liner. In these cases, it'll not only open its lid wider to accommodate your needs, it'll also stay open for an extended 30-second period – even if you walk away.

The trigger zone is a focused space directly above the lid. It's easy to reach when you want to use the bin, but it's also very precise.

The sensor's signal doesn't spill out in front of the bin where it can be mistakenly triggered by people walking nearby.

You're unlikely to find a fresher-smelling bin either. Fitted with special carbon filters that eliminate odours naturally, it should keep your kitchen smelling of treats, not trash.

Speaking of trash, it's worth mentioning that the bin is pretty clever on the inside too,

coming with two internal buckets to allow easy separation between general waste and recycling. Each of these buckets lifts out separately, so you won't have to wait for the garbage section to be full before taking out the recycling – and vice versa.

With technology, quality is paramount, so the bin's high-tech features have been thoroughly tested by the simplehuman team as part of their ongoing, rigorous quality checks. “This testing assures the quality of the products we sell and is backed up by simplehuman's five-year international warranty,” says Cathy Player of Howards.

In particular, Cathy has been impressed with the closing mechanism: “It's been designed to withstand just about anything a family would subject a bin to!”

It'll stay looking smart too, with a stainless steel fingerprint-proof surface.

In fact, the simplehuman Recycler is so progressive it feels like a glimpse into the future every time you use it! simplehuman Rectangular Sensor Bin – Recycler $549

Two separate buckets for easier recycling

The neater beater We’re big fans of understated, elegant design – such as this flat whisk and balloon whisk in one from Joseph Joseph. Simply twist the base of handle to select flat whisk or balloon whisk.

Because the whisk is able to lie flat, it makes storage much easier – vastly reducing the amount of drawer-hogging space needed by more conventional whisks.

The parts are easy to separate for quick cleaning and it's completely dishwasher safe.

Best of all, the silicone blades ensure that the product will never stain or discolour!

Joseph Joseph Twist 2 in 1 Silicone Whisk $19.95

4 inplace magazine

A splash of colour lifts anything, from a bare room to a plain outfit. Cooking is no exception, as these cheerfully bright Joseph Joseph sets prove.

The top picture is of the five-piece measuring cup set, which is designed to ensure the cups fit inside one another for maximum storage.

Below that is the seven-piece collection, which adds mixing bowls with non-slip bases to complete the set.

Joseph Joseph Nest Cups $24.95 Joseph Joseph Nest Set 7 Plus $49.95

www.hsw.com.au

news Win an award-winning mop!

Winner of the prestigious Red Dot Design Award for Households and Kitchens, the White Magic Spinning Microfibre Mop is now available at Howards Storage World!

Created for ergonomic cleaning, the handle adjusts to user height, the head rotates 360 degrees and the handle is completely articulated.

This innovative cleaning system has been carefully designed to allow the

Winner of the Red Dot

Design Aw ard

mop to work perfectly under couches and around hard-to-navigate corners.

Best of all, we have 10 White Magic Spinning Microfibre Mops (worth $79 each) to be won.

To enter, simply visit the promotion page at hsw.com.au and finish the following sentence in 25 words or less:

“I would love a White Magic Spinning Microfibre Mop because...”

Entries close 4pm, May 1, 2012. This is a game of skill, chance plays no part in determining the winner. The judge’s decision is final. For full terms and conditions visit the promotions section of the Howards website, hsw.com.au

■ Modular Bamboo unit as shown $1050

Top shelf ideas

The Avita Eco Build Bamboo shelving system is beautifully designed and entirely sustainable, as it’s made from ecologically-grown bamboo free of pesticides and fertilisers. Each component piece is curved using steam generated by

recycling off-cuts, so it’s perfect for use anywhere in the home, from bedroom to bathroom. The natural properties of bamboo mean it won't swell or buckle as humidity rises. Components can be configured into almost any combination.

Meet the owners: Helensvale Howards: Ian and Gay Redmile

Eight years ago, Ian and Gay Redmile were working in the corporate world. Gay was a professional recruiter, while Ian was General Manager of Barbeques Galore Wholesale and Export Division – but they both wanted something different.

“Ian had always wanted his own business and fell in love with Howards from shopping in the store,” says Gay. They were living in Sydney at the time, but no shops were due to open there in the short-term. “We were originally from Melbourne, so we decided to take an opportunity there and move back.”

After six great years in Melbourne, Ian and Gay decided a sea change was in order: “I've got family in Helensvale so when the store became available it was an opportunity we couldn't resist,” says Gay. They have loved every minute in Queensland, particularly with the customers. “Our customers are really lovely; most are repeat visitors and they are like friends.”

Being franchisees has made sense to this ex-corporate couple. “You have your own business, but are part of an organisation,” says Gay. She adds: “We like the support; we can talk to other stores, share good things.

And it's good to have the Group Office. We can go to it for any situation.”

Gay says the greatest reward has been the sense of achievement: “We love the self satisfaction of running our own business; being in control of our own destiny.” inplace magazine 5

news Have your say

Efficient solutions to reader problems Dear Howards, I love bangles and necklaces – every birthday and Christmas I seem to be given more! Do you have anything that would help me keep my collection in order?

Claire Tang – Fremantle, West Australia Dear Claire, We have the perfect solution: Stackable Faux Leather or Timber Look Jewellery Trays. Designed to stack and grow as your collection grows, these trays come with flock-lined compartments so that you can sort your jewellery by type, colour, style – whatever takes your fancy! We hope this helps!

The Howards Team

Save a fortune on bottled water!

■ Mix and Match Timber Look Jewellery Trays, from $12.95

Designed by Karim Rashid, the Bobble Water Jug is a gorgeous touch of eco-home perfection. The design is streamlined and modern, while the function is simple and easy to use, which results in a constant supply of filtered water that you can take straight to the table. The filter will give you the equivalent of 300 bottles of water! Bobble Jug, 2Litre $39.95 Replacement filter $12.95

Aladdin Papillon's Travel Mug and Lunch Set are entirely ecofriendly, recyclable, BPA-free, dishwasher-safe and thermal. Made from 100% recycled, food-grade polypropylene including up to 25% previously used packaging. No wonder the travel mug says: “This mug is actually GREEN!” Travel Mug blue/grey 350 ml $14.95 and Lunch Set $39.95

■ Stackable Faux Leather Jewellery Trays, from $34.95

Reader product review Space Bag Jumbo

We had family visit over winter so I had to buy extra doonas. Unfortunately, they take up so much room, and I was really impressed at how effectively the Space Bag shrank five doonas down to about the size of one and a half. You basically clean and dry everything then pile them into the bag – it only takes a minute. Then attach the vacuum cleaner to remove excess air (my son loved this bit). Really, it's that easy!

Richard Ryan – Sydney, NSW

■ Space Bags, from $13.95

Join the Howards test team Perfect for school lunches!

Interested in testing a Howards product? Apply to become a member of the Howards Test Team online at hsw.com.au for your opportunity to be part of this fun experience.

Be rewarded

Become a Howards Inspirations member. Benefits include a $10 welcome voucher when you activate your account, plus a $10 Rewards voucher for every $200 you spend. Valid for use in participating stores Australia-wide. Being a Howards Inspirations member means great offers, member-only competitions, VIP nights, fantastic storage solutions and great tips. Just visit a store to apply! For terms and conditions, see hsw.com.au.

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column In an

Organised Fashion with Sue Blake

Professional organiser Sue Blake shares her secrets for success in our new column...

M

y client was dismayed! Her 1930s, delicately painted, fine bone china afternoon tea set was worthless – not because it was poor quality, but because she had failed to use it. We were decluttering her attic and she decided the tea set inherited from her uncle could be sold, but upon inspection, the antiques expert advised it was full of star cracks and would disintegrate once filled with hot beverages. Fine bone china needs to be used. By storing it for “good”, not only had she denied herself the pleasure of using it but potentially several hundred dollars from ultimately selling it.

The saying “use it or lose it” is applicable to more than fitness; it can also apply to our possessions.

We have expensive dinner sets, wine glasses and cutlery, which we save for special occasions.

For over 30 years, I hung on to a set of water glasses that were a wedding gift. Recently, the ordinary kitchen glasses needed replacement and, rather than purchase new ones, I commissioned the ‘special set’ for everyday use. The whole family commented on how nice they were to drink from.

he could afford; he needed his purchases to last. And as for wear and tear, items used and loved gain a genuine patina, which can become an inherent part of its beauty. Think of an antique kitchen table.

So after my experience with the glasses,

“I have resolved to start using ‘special’ items every day and, in doing so, make every day more special”

I saved money and the time involved purchasing a new set and also gained some precious storage real estate.

Furthermore, the environmental cost of purchasing duplicate items for ‘good’ and for ‘every day’ is worth considering.

Using quality items for everyday use means simple pleasures are enhanced.

A cup of tea is a little nicer from a fine cup than a cheap, clunky mug. Of course, there is always a risk that in using an item it could be damaged, but at least we will have had the enjoyment of its use on a daily basis. And quality items may need replacing less frequently.

My grandfather used to say: “I am too ■ Why wait for a special occasion? poor to buy cheap.” He bought the best

I have resolved to use ‘special’ items every day and, in doing so, make every day more special. To enjoy using quality hangers that extend the life of my clothes, to write with a smooth roller ball pen rather than the hotel give-away, to store leftovers in quality containers with a good seal and easy snap locking. Investing in quality for every day, rather than having duplicates for ‘good’, is a small step in the quest for a little more organisation. Fewer items of better quality pays dividends in time, space and money... which we could all do with.

Sue

Sue Blake is an accredited Professional Organiser who lives and works in the Sydney surrounds. For more information on her services and to sign up for her free newsletter, go to www.organisedfashion.com.au

inplace magazine 7

silicone focus

Bright Ideas Who says kitchen utensils have to be black and silver? These beauties break the trend.

S

Makes stirring and serving a breeze!

Basting, 21st century style!

Perfect for use on non-stick pans

Available in aqua, lime, black and red too

■ Zeal Silicone Basting Brush $9.95 ■ Zeal Silicone Spatula Spoon $13.95 ■ Zeal Silicone Traditional Cooks Spoon $16.95 ■ Zeal Cutlery Drainer $14.95

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ilicone is fast becoming the material of choice for many home applications.

There are, however, different types of silicones, and while they may all initially perform the desired function, it is with time that quality becomes important.

Silicone itself is an inert synthetic compound/polymer chiefly comprising silicon, carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. Its characteristics are a rubber-like texture with low conductivity, low reactivity and low toxicity. In short, it is a flexible, thermally stable compound that does not support microbial growth, doesn’t stick and is UV resistant (so its bright colours won’t fade).

These key attributes translate, in goodquality silicone, to an item that will withstand heat to 250°C, remain flexible during heating or cooling, resist flavour or odour absorption, and not leech colour or chemicals.

Over the last 10 years, silicone has slowly moved from the lab and into our kitchens in the form of muffin trays and coated surfaces.

But it’s only recently that designers have embraced the vast array of colours available and started thinking about the fact that the kitchen, while functional, is also a place for beauty. To this end, hot pinks, bright aquas and lime greens are among the range available in store at Howards.

If you’re looking for high-quality products to add a splash of colour to your kitchen, here are some really funky options! ■ inplace

Never suffer from scorched fingers again, with this fantastic silicone glove, which protects to temperatures of up to 250°C. It includes an inner washable lining too!

■ Mastrad Orka Oven Mitt $34.95

www.hsw.com.au

inspiration

For a bit of fun that will save your fingers from scolding, grab your next hot plate with a pair of luscious pink lips!

■ Zeal Hot Lips Plate Grab $8.95

Add a bit of flair to your prawns and kebabs knowing these skewers won't burn your fingers, discolour or fade, ever!

■ Zeal Skewers $4.95 each

Keep hot handles safe with these colourful covers. They're no-fuss too! If they get dirty, just clean them in the dishwasher.

Perfect for holding hot oven dishes – and funny, too!

Protect your kitchen surfaces with these ‘if you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen’ mats.

■ Zeal Silicone Patterned Hot Mat $12.95

■ Zeal Silicone Pan Handles $12.95

Perfect for flavouring your soups, stews and stocks, this silicone herb infuser only needs to be filled and dropped into your cooking pot.

Soft to the touch, these silicone mills come with high quality ceramic grinding plates.

■ Zeal Salt and Pepper Mill $19.95

■ Mastrad Herb Infuser $11.95

Great for the barbecue too!

Having tongs and spatulas with silicone ends makes perfect sense – they won't scratch non-stick cookware and they'll never melt. Plus, they don't absorb stains or flavours.

■ Zeal Silicone Tongs $19.95 ■ Zeal Silicone Spatula $12.95

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small people

Baby Bliss

Coathangers and removable hooks are great for displaying art!

With a little planning, your baby's nursery can be an oasis of organised calm at every age.

F

or new mums and mums-to-be, the challenge of keeping everything under control lies in creating a functional space that is well organised with a place for everything. Key to this are simple systems that can be maintained with very little fuss and can evolve as your child's needs change, through three early phases – newborn, toddler and preschool.

To help you get organised, here are our top tips.

4 Runner Drawer Set $210.65 7 Runner Drawer Set $324.55 10 Runner Drawer Set $399.40

Draw units teach tidy habits from the start

Skirt Hanger 2 Pack $9.95 3M Command Hooks 2 Pack $8.95 10 inplace magazine

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small people

■ elfa® units can easily transform any space.

Newborn

Spice racks double up as great bookshelves

Organising a room for a newborn brings many challenges, not least of which is finding a home for the large amount of clothes your new baby will use on a daily basis. Before you have a baby, you think you have everything you’ll need for a week without washing, but some days you feel like you are changing your baby's outfit every hour – so be prepared!

Did you know?

Howards offer a free elfa® design measure and quote service?

Ask in store.

top drawer is always the easiest option. As such, the best solution is a system with either several top drawers or a large top drawer containing dividers so that rompers, singlets, tops, booties and warm items can be kept separate but always visible and easy to locate.

While your newborn is small, another great idea is a purpose-specific change table, as

“Taking a fresh jumpsuit or singlet from the top drawer is always the easiest option ” Also, keep in mind that sizing isn't an exact science. If your baby arrives looking a touch smaller than you expected, your 000 size isn't going to fit for a few weeks and you'll be scrambling to find 0000. Conversely, growth spurts can see last week's top suddenly become a size too small!

Allocate a drawer for each size of clothes and move them upwards as you need them.

Outgrown clothes can go directly into storage or to another mum.

If you're standing with a baby in your arms, taking a fresh jumpsuit or singlet from the

it's not only the right height but also houses everything needed for efficient and safe nappy changing, from wipes to disposal bags.

Place this near your set of drawers so you can reach a change of clothes with one hand.

Don't worry – this will soon be second nature!

Quick tips Figure out how much storage space you'll need… then put in more. Almost without fail, parents underestimate the amount of stuff they'll acquire for their newborn.

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small people Toddler The sense of peace and calm that you once tried so hard to create for your newborn's nursery has disappeared. Within two minutes of you tidying up, your giggling toddler has pulled everything onto the floor looking for a book.

Now is the time to edit your child's toy collection. We sympathise with how heartbreaking it can be to take Mr Fluffy out of circulation, as particular toys are a potent reminder of those exciting first months. But if your toddler no longer plays with him, Mr Fluffy should go – less unused toys mean less mess and easy organisation.

Fear not though – if Mr Fluffy is too precious to throw away, store him safely

■ Kids are messy, but adorability goes a long way.

Shoe organisers don't have to contain shoes.

They're perfect for toys too!

“An elfa® system is an excellent option as it can grow with your needs ” and he can be a fantastic keepsake for when your child is older.

Next, get all the toys and books off the floor to give your child more room to play and reduce trip hazards. Invest in a compartmentalised bookshelf or hanging shelves to lift everything up and away.

As such, a system using elfa® drawers and shelves is an excellent option, as it can

grow with your needs. Specific space can be allocated to toys, books, cars, dolls or balls.

It's never too early to get a child into the habit of being tidy; don't expect too much, but encourage your toddler to put items away. They'll usually make mistakes (or ignore you completely!), but treat it as a game. Kids love the praise that comes with achieving a task, so have fun with it.

■ Shallow Tubtrug 15L $13.95

Easy to fil and simply slide out of sight!

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Pre-schooler

Organising your child’s space is now about making room for a range of activities from painting to playing at the beach.

By now a more child-friendly system will be needed for your child's clothes and the hanging part of the wardrobe plays a larger role for storing dresses and shirts. Looser items like jumpers and cardigans are starting to have a longer life. They are also getting bulkier and clothing like this is still best stored lower, with everyday items above.

The ever-expanding toy collection is now a thing to behold. Your child should be in the habit of putting things away in groups, and their understanding of what goes where should have improved dramatically.

If your child is still confused, take a photo of what the drawer should contain and attach the image to the front as a visual label.

Crouch down for a child's-eye view. Are the things they need easy for them to reach and put back? Sit on the floor and see!

It's well worth bringing your child into the process too. Watch them for a while and see if you can understand their organisational logic. It may well make perfect sense for an adult to separate cars and dinosaurs, but if the child likes to keep them together then you might as well stick to their system.

Finally, take toys in and out of circulation.

Kids get a huge amount of pleasure being reacquainted with a toy they'd forgotten about. www.hsw.com.au

small people Top tips for keeping kids organised!

■ neatfreak! Whimsical Wardrobe $299. Shelf and drawer units not included.

#1

Break the job down For example, instead of saying, “Go clean your room,” say, “Do you want to pick up the dolls or the crayons? The big things or the little things? The clothes or the books?”

This creates a productive team between the parent and child, and breaks the cleaning into manageable tasks so that the child knows exactly where to start and how to get it done.

A

B

D

#2

Create a game Another option at clean-up time is to make it into a competition. Pull out a kitchen timer and see how many toys the kids can get in the right box before the timer goes off.

You can probably do this a few times before the thrill wears off. After that you may need to offer an extra incentive, such as a sticker as a prize for winning the overall competition.

#3

Stay on their level Keep toys that are used regularly in easy-to-access places. If a child can't reach a shelf, they're unlikely to put anything back there! A neat solution are Shallow Tubtrugs ($13.95) which can slide easily under most beds. They come in an array of bright colours too – to suit any bedroom!

#4

Give them ownership Encourage your child to pick some kids posters and put them on their bedroom wall. Make them feel that it's their room to look after and make it nice for them. If they are proud of their space, they should have more respect for it.

C E

■ neatfreak! range A: 10 Shelf Shoe Storer $64.95 B: Expandable MAXbar $29.95 C: 7 Day Organiser $149 D: Shelf Drawer $19.95 E: 6 Shelf Organiser $64.95 F: Rectangle Bin $24.95 G: Shelf Drawer $19.95

#5

Add some excitement Buy storage solutions that excite your child and he or she will be much more inclined to use them. After all, a sense of ownership is the first step towards having a desire to keep their own space clean. A great idea here is the neatfreak! range of products, which come in brilliant candy colours and can be hung in a wardrobe, vastly increasing its storage capacity. ■ inplace

F

Supporting BEAR COTTAGE Bear Cottage is a medically supported home away from home providing support and respite for children with terminal illnesses and their families. At Bear Cottage they believe that life, however brief, should be enriched and celebrated. Bear Cottage is a home full of special moments and cherished memories – a place where life is for living. Howards Storage World and its customers have been helping to keep the doors open at Bear Cottage since 2004 through the sales of the ‘Mouse for House’, ‘Pocket Pad’ and, most recently, the ‘Bag for a Bear’ products. Profits from these product sales have enabled Bear Cottage to care for many precious children and their families.

If you would like to help Bear Cottage, simply buy a ‘Bag for a Bear’ in store – with all profits going directly to Bear Cottage, located on Sydney's Northern Beaches. You can also make donations via their website: www.bearcottage.chw.edu.au

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different by design

Hidden Charms

The telescopic tap retracts when the lid is closed

■ Comes with everything, including the kitchen sink.

Neat, tidy and ready for use as a cabinet or desk

■ A very literal interpretation of “the kitchen's closed”.

A lack of space in tiny apartments is no longer a barrier to having a fully functioning kitchen!

I

f you live in the kind of apartment where swinging a cat is logistically impossible, this cabinet-sized kitchen could be just the answer.

Designed by French company Kitchoo for spaces such as studio apartments and hotel rooms, it’s everything a kitchen should be. It’s neater, more compactly organised and comes with everything – even the kitchen sink – optimally placed within a very small space.

14 inplace magazine

In the standard kit you get an integrated refrigerator, two-burner induction cooktop and a sink with a telescopic mixer tap. If you want to splash the cash, Kitchoo can create a version that includes a freezer, dishwasher, washing machine, microwave and utensils drawer too!

When the kitchen is not in use, the cover folds down and hides the kitchen top, making it look like a cabinet or a cupboard

■ XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

based on three simple ideas: it had to look good, be functional and have great build quality. Adhering to these design principles, the Kitchoo range has now sold in the thousands and has even been expanded to

“As standard equipment you get an integrated refrigerator, induction cooktop and a sink” – exactly the kind of trick that will leave your dinner guests wondering where you made your wonderful meal.

The original Kitchoo, created in 1993, was

include a bathroom cabinet which hides a washing machine under the sink (but doesn’t hide a fold-out bath, unfortunately!). Who knows, maybe that’ll be next! ■ inplace www.hsw.com.au

small people

inplace magazine 15

get the look

Industrial Revelation The stark beauty of industrial kitchens is the latest style cue in interior design. Now you can have the look too...

A

n industrial kitchen has a magnificently unembellished simplicity. Best of all, this sleek look and efficient solution can be replicated at home with just a few key items.

The idea behind an industrial kitchen is to transform a space into a machine, with the chef being the moving parts. For this to work, everything has to be positioned to provide the least possible movement for optimal performance. Effectively, things that are used daily are closest at hand, with task-specific items grouped together.

“An easy-build Custom Cooking Station is a fantastic way to get the style of an industrial kitchen” To get this look you have to think like a chef.

Your first question should be: “What items are used every day, and how accessible are they?” Next, “Are these items on hand and, if not, how can they become so?” An easybuild Custom Cooking Station is a fantastic way to get the industrial kitchen look without a complete overhaul.

Placed directly onto the bench top, the Cooking Station essentially transforms a single storage platform into six shelves, giving you much-needed accessible storage options and

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get the look Get the look: Professional kitchen

■ Porcelain Storage Cup s Small $24.95, Large $26 .95

■ Wall Rail Baskets Small $24.95, Large $26.95

kitchen tool organiser and a pod dispenser for your coffee pods!

Made of matt brushed stainless steel, rail units are available in two lengths – 40 cm and 60 cm – and are supplied with five or seven movable hooks.

Add a great splash of colour to the kitchen with red, purple or green Soehnle Flip Digital Scales or keep it sharp with silver, black or white. Whatever the shade, the sharp minimal statement is always impressive. $39.95 Keeping a consistent look is important, so accessories such as the Mastrad Spice Tower With Grinder are great because they fit right in with the metallic look of industrial kitchens. It's not a case of style without substance though, as the Mastrad Spice Tower With Grinder keeps spices, salt and herbs fresh. It even comes with a removable shaking lid. $49.95

‘Efficiency’ is the aim when trying to create a professional kitchen at home – everything should be close at hand.

With that in mind, Brabantia has created the Profile Kitchen Today System, which will be available in selected Howards stores starting from April 2012.

The system is based on an amazing wall-rail unit that allows you to hang your favourite utensils and gadgets with either universal hooks or magnets.

There are handy shelves and holders for storing salt, pepper and regularly used herbs, spices and condiments, and these can easily be removed and taken to the kitchen table.

Dispensers for kitchen foil, cling film and paper towels can be positioned at just the right height, and there’s even a herb jar organiser,

■ Soehnle Flip Digital Scales, $39.95

■ Kitchen Tool Organiser $89.95

■ Easywrapper $39.95

allowing you to put your favourite cooking equipment on display rather than hidden away in a cupboard.

For a truly professional edge, why not include an Easywrapper for $39.95? This fabulous design not only looks the part, but has been created by chef Dave Pynt to make wrapping anything in cling wrap simple, easy and hygienic. Having spent several years at Tetsuya's and currently working at The Loft Project in London, Dave understands the importance of getting this right and has designed the Easywrapper to answer all the problems of traditional cling wrap dispensers. Key to the design is a two-way cutting system that cuts perfectly every time with no effort (making this great for anyone with limited mobility) in conjunction with an internal axle that spins easily for unhampered dispensing. ■ inplace

■ Jars Organiser $89.95

■ Paper Towel Holder $59.95

■ Set of two Magnets $26.95

■ Pod Dispenser $44.95

■ Mastrad Spice Tower with Grinder $49.95

inplace magazine 17

recipe

■ A dash of wine transforms this traditional dish.

Supper Surprise!

Recipe: Gewürztraminer Baba in Apricot Syrup Let the babas soak in syrup for at least 20 minutes!

Jared Ingersoll gives the rum baba, a traditional favourite, a surprising twist.

T

ypically, a baba is soaked in a syrup made from dark rum. I came up with this version one night when trying to pair a dessert with a particularly delicious Gewürztraminer wine. I really like the results as this wine variety is big enough in flavour and body to enable some very good flavour combinations. It is best to make the syrup first.

For the syrup

150 ml (5 fl oz) water 335 g (11¾ oz/1½ cups) sugar 6 dried apricots 6 pieces of dried pear 1 vanilla bean, split 400 ml (14 fl oz) Gewürztraminer wine

For the babas

60 g (2¼ oz/½ cup) raisins 100 ml (3½ fl oz) Gewürztraminer wine 1 teaspoon dried yeast 80 ml (2½ fl oz/ ¹ ⁄3 cup) milk, warmed slightly 125 g (4½ oz/1 cup) plain (all-purpose) flour 2 eggs a big pinch of sugar a pinch of salt 100 g (3½ oz) unsalted butter, softened 18 inplace magazine

What is Gewürztraminer?

Gewürztraminer white wine was huge in the '70s and is making a comeback. Vineyards scattered across Adelaide Hills, Tasmania, Clare Valley, Hunter Valley and the Yarra Valley are all making this spicy, lychee-infused wine.

To make the syrup, combine the water and sugar in a saucepan, then place over a high heat and stir until the sugar has dissolved, then add the dried fruit, vanilla bean and wine. Bring back up to heat but do not boil.

Just before it is about to simmer, remove from the heat and allow to cool.

To make the babas, put the raisins in a small bowl with the wine and set to one side to soak.

In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in the milk and let it sit for a moment. Now mix in the flour and eggs and beat until you have a smooth dough, then cover with plastic wrap and allow to rise at room temperature for about 45 minutes.

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F/Gas 4).

Add the sugar, salt and butter to the batter, mixing vigorously to incorporate.

When all of the butter is combined, add the

soaked raisins and wine and beat really well.

Grease a six-hole 125 ml (4 fl oz/½ cup) muffin tin with a little butter before dividing the batter among the holes. Let the mixture rise until the holes are full, then place them in the oven for 20–25 minutes until golden.

To test if the babas are ready, insert a skewer – if it comes out clean, the babas are cooked.

When the babas have been allowed to cool slightly, lift them from the tin, place them in the syrup and let them soak for at least 20 minutes. You can actually store the babas in the syrup overnight. When you are ready to serve, lift a baba onto a plate and add a piece of the apricot and pear.

Spoon some of the syrup into a saucepan and place over high heat and bring to the boil. Pour the hot syrup over the cake and, if you feel inclined, serve with a little whipped cream. ■ inplace www.hsw.com.au

interview

Recipe for success A great way of keeping small items organised while looking fantastic is a set of Water Hyacinth Baskets, which can sit on the top shelf of your pantry, looking good, but out of the way.

From $17.95 If your recipe collection is especially large, it’s well worth creating a system to keep them in order. Bamboo A4 Magazine Holders create the perfect vehicle for recipe books, loose leaf recipes and magazine collections. Allocate a recipe type to each holder (mains, desserts, seafood, etc). Place loose recipes in a plastic sleeve that will keep them clean and then store them in the appropriate folder. $19.95 For high-tech cooks, Claude keeps your iPad at just the right angle for ‘Net-savvy cooking – simply rest it against his supportive arms! Claude Recipe/iPad Holder $39.95 Keeping your recipe book upright and open on the right page can be extremely stylish with a Zyliss Stainless Steel Cookbook Holder $49.95

Group recipe books by type using file holders

Let Claude hold your iPad!

■ Custom easy-build Shelving Unit $197

About Jared

Prior to opening the celebrated restaurants Danks Street Depot and Cotton Duck in Sydney, Jared worked at the two-Michelin-star-rated The Square in London. He's also a regular on Channel 10's Ready Steady Cook and The Morning Show.

inplace magazine 19

different by design inspirations

Membership benefits

Be Inspired!

Your rewards program

Welcome to Howards Inspirations, our customer rewards program. Have a look at the benefits...

E

verybody loves the VIP treatment – whether it’s an upgrade on a plane or the best seats in a restaurant.

At Howards we take a lot of pleasure in providing that VIP experience.

We already offer special treats such as our free measure and quote service (where we come to your home or office to discuss the perfect storage solutions for your needs). But for stand-out sophistication, nothing comes close to being a Howards Inspirations Member.

Free to join, the Inspirations Reward Program offers a host of benefits: receive a free $10 ‘Welcome’ voucher# when you enrol, earn a $10 ‘Reward’ voucher# for every $200 spent, exclusive competitions, unique offers, professional workshops and VIP events. That’s what five star service is like!

Join the Inspirations program in-store or online with an eShop purchase.

For more information, including terms and conditions, visit our website: howardsinspirations.com.au

● $10 Vouchers Activate your membership online and receive a $10 ‘Welcome’ voucher#.

Earn a $10 ‘Reward’ voucher# for every $200 spent. ● Special offers Receive regular and exclusive Member-only offers. ● VIP events On special occasions we will hold VIP events exclusive to Inspirations Members*. ● Workshops Enjoy free access to our Howards inControl workshops and obtain professional advice on a range of home organisational projects.* ● Competitions Enter our Member-only competitions for a chance to win fabulous prizes.

The advantages of membership...

Connie Foster is a proud Howards Inspirations Member. Here’s why:

■ The Members-only section of our website includes special offers and exclusive competitions. # Inspirations vouchers can be redeemed in store and via the Howards eShop. Voucher terms and conditions apply. $10 Rewards Vouchers will be issued for every $200 or multiples of $200 spent. Only 1 voucher will be issued for the total reward value earned per single transaction; eg., if you spend $410 you will receive one $20 voucher. * Workshops and VIP events may not be available in all store locations.

20 inplace magazine

I like being recognised as a VIP customer at Mt Gravatt. The staff are helpful and friendly.

I look forward to spending my rewards and finding certain products that you can’t find at other stores. I appreciate the quality of the products at Howards.

Connie Foster, Mt Gravatt, QLD

www.hsw.com.au

© Make Architects

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“Not only has the ‘prang’ factor been removed, but car theft is impossible”

■ Inside, The Cube has the feel of a glittering jewellery box.

■ The building is at its most impressive from above.

inplace magazine 21

motivation

Overcoming the Excuses The fear of starting new projects is a universal trait.

We find out how to overcome distractions with ease.

“Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your eyes off your goal” – Henry Ford, American businessman and founder of the Ford Corporation.

L

ife is full of potential distractions, from “unmissable” TV shows to “making a quick cup of tea before I start”. The magic of distractions is how they sit in hiding until you resolve to do something important.

Overcoming these obstacles is difficult, but with a bit of willpower you could soon be the super-fit, super-organised person that you know you can be.

Health We all know that a healthier lifestyle is better in every way, so what's stopping us from getting off that couch and heading to the gym, taking a walk or saying “no thank you” to unhealthy food? Professional Ironwoman and three time winner of the Coolangatta Gold, Hayley Bateup (also known as Nitro from her starring role on Australian Gladiators) says she feels “people are often overwhelmed by the big picture and need to break their goals down into components.”

Hayley also believes that many people are after a miracle result, which creates new obstacles: “When an advertising campaign or promotion tells people they can lose 5kg in a week, expectations become skewed and, 22 inplace magazine

when we fail to achieve an unrealistic goal, we become disheartened.” If weight loss is the goal, she suggests taking a long term view and, instead of focusing on the 5kg mark, to aim each week for a small but sustainable loss: “Any healthy weight loss is a step in the right direction, so be proud of your achievements.”

It's also worth remembering that we are all human and sometimes weight loss does not go to plan. “If your weight goes up, don't give up. Think about what caused it and create a strategy to avoid that situation or manage that meal in the future,” Hayley says.

The same applies to physical fitness; no-one is going to wake up one morning and run a marathon having never run a kilometre in their life.

That said, unless you actually start by running that single kilometre, you will never run a marathon (have a chat with your doctor before setting off though, as everyone has different ■ Better health begins health considerations). with a first step.

Some of the obstacles we tend to put in the way of exercise include time, effort, and the old “I just don't like it.” www.hsw.com.au

motivation ■ Don't let fear stop you striving for your goals.

■ Make time for learning and self-improvement.

An organised desk is a desk you'l enjoy being at!

Hayley suggests starting small and calling on friends to get started: “A half-hour walk or run is always going to be better for you than half an hour on the couch, and if you are meeting a friend it's even harder to talk yourself out of it.”

It's okay to fall off the exercise wagon; we all get too busy occasionally. The most important thing is simply to stick with it!

Education The idea of going back to school and learning a new set of skills is something most people consider at some point in their lives. Obstacles can be as deep as fear and as practical as time constraints. To overcome

fear, try to break the issue down into manageable portions. If, for example, you were considering a course in Australian literature, rather than buying all the books at once and feeling overwhelmed, start small, familiarise yourself with the reading list and read the novel that seems the most appealing. By starting with baby steps, you'll be on your way to giving yourself the boost of confidence needed to get on with the next novel.

Time is an entirely different problem and requires good organisational skills. It also needs the realisation that the time you have freed up is time for pursuing your new goal. For example, a well-organised pantry in conjunction with a well-planned menu for the entire week will save you oodles of time when shopping and cooking.

This spare time can now be used to read, research and think. inplace magazine 23

motivation

Happiness Dr Tony Grant, Director of the Coaching Psychology Unit at the University of Sydney, star of the hit ABC documentary, Making Australia Happy and author of Eight Steps to Happiness, is a firm believer in positive psychology. “We have a huge amount of influence on how happy we are – the choices we make on a daily basis determine our happiness,” says Dr Grant.

He believes our levels of happiness are largely determined by the level of meaning and engagement we have in our lives, including how we feel about ourselves and the world.

■ Take the time to catch up on reading.

“We have a huge amount of influence on how happy we are – the choices we make on a daily basis determine our happiness” When it comes to happiness, obstacles to motivation can be deep-seated and require complex analysis, but getting started may be as simple as reviewing the way you greet each day. Start by listing the positives, such as family, friends and opportunities. These are the areas that enrich our lives. By focusing on these soul-enriching parts of life, rather than objects and short term satisfactions, long-term happiness can be achievable.

Next, think about how you interpret things.

Dr Grant suggests examining your view to determine if it's “helpful in enhancing your wellbeing – or not.” Orientating yourself toward happiness and wellbeing does not mean suddenly loving everything and everyone, but can be as simple as looking for the good in a cold rainy day – you might take it as a great opportunity to cook a great meal, read a new book, or organise a messy cupboard. ■ inplace 24 inplace magazine

Consider this...

Some of the world's most famous people had to overcome massive obstacles before achieving their dreams. ● Beethoven's teacher called him hopeless as a composer. ● Walt Disney was fired by a newspaper editor for lack of ideas. ● Car maker Henry Ford failed and

went broke five times before he finally succeeded with the Model T. ● KFC's Colonel Sanders went to over 1,000 restaurants trying to sell his chicken recipe before he found a buyer interested in his 11 herbs and spices. ● After Fred Astaire's first screen test, MGM said “Can't act! Slightly bald!

Can dance a little...”

www.hsw.com.au

mother's day

Crêpe Cheer Give Mum a special gift this Mother's Day with these incredible Crème Brûlée and Crêpe Kits!

Cook like a pro with your own Chef 's Blowtorch!

Win a gift set for Mum!

We have one Crêpes and Pancakes Gift Set, worth $79.95, and one Crème Brûlée Gift Set, worth $79.95, to win.

Simply ask your little angel to draw a picture of someone they love.

We'll print the best in a future issue of inplace!

It only takes moments to make a crêpe, whether it 's for breakfast or dessert!

I

f your Mum loves being creative in the kitchen, she'll adore these two cooking kits from Howards.

The first is a five-piece crème brûlée gift box including a blowtorch and four ceramic ramekins, along with a booklet of delicious recipe ideas. With a few minutes of practice, Mum will be able to create restaurantquality desserts that are guaranteed to impress dinner guests on every occasion.

The second kit is perfect for fans of crêpes and pancakes. It includes a 28cm professional crêpe pan – compatible with all heat sources, including induction – a dedicated crêpe flipper, a brush to help lightly oil the pan, and a special rake to ensure a thin, even spread of batter across the pan. Add to that a book of delicious recipes and breakfast (or lunch and dinner) will never be the same! ■ inplace

Please include your child's name and age along with your own contact details. Don't forget to indicate your kit preference on your entry.

Unfortunately, Howards is unable to return your drawings.

Entries can be mailed to Drawing Competition, Howards Storage World Group Office, No. 4, 49 Frenchs Forest Rd, Frenchs Forest NSW 2086.

Entries close 4pm, May 1, 2012. This is a game of skill, chance plays no part in determining the winner. The judge’s decision is final. For full terms and conditions visit the promotions section of the Howards website, hsw. com.au

inplace magazine 25

mother's day

Keeping Mum How better for kids to celebrate Mother's Day than with 10 simple projects that will make the whole year easier for Mum? 1

Embrace technology

Bring Mum into the 21st century with a guided tour of smartphone apps you think she might like. If she's into cooking, show her Epicurious; if gardening is more her thing, try Botany Buddy. A little research and your Mum will have information always at hand.

3

Cool idea

To help your Mum enjoy a stress-free (and more economical) year, create a great fridge system as a terrific family project.

Howards has created a video to give you all the advice you need. Check it out on: insider.hsw.com.au/category/video/kitchen

“Creating a storage system for Mum’s shoes will win you loads of points for the year” 2

Shoe ■ Sophie Collapsible Boxes, $14.95 each

26 inplace magazine

Shoe-biz

Creating a storage system for Mum's shoes will win you loads of points for the year. After all, many Mums say that nice shoes are one of their favourite treats, so keeping them where she can see them just makes sense. Sophie Collapsible Shoe Boxes (like the ones pictured left) cost from $14.95 each.

4

Handbag harmony

Small tasks can be finished in a flash, but save loads of time down the track. Give Mum a real surprise by organising her handbag with a nifty Grid-It, from $21.95, that instantly snaps everything from lipstick to an iPod into place.

5

Clean and tidy Another great treat is to organise the www.hsw.com.au

mother's day Gifts Mum will love...

Help Mum have an organised year with this selection of great gifts that will bring her pleasure month after month.

■ Borne Naked range, starting from $19.95

Make it simple for Mum to transfer her essentials from one handbag to another with an innovative Borne Naked Handbag Organiser. The liner clearly organises and declutters Mum's handbag, making it quicker and easier than ever for her to transfer her essentials from her Gucci tote to her Chloe clutch... not to mention keeping her handbag clean and protected from spills and makeup marks.

There are a range of sizes, to suit all types of handbag. From $19.95 Tidy and save your Mum's handbags from the bottom of the cupboard with a very cleverly designed Handbag Holder. It's designed to hold 14 handbags in clear sleeves to allow Mum to see all of her bags at a glance. $35.95 Mum will be able to find the perfect accessory for any outfit with the luxurious black velvet Dial Jewellery range, which

laundry. Get Mum involved with the design; once you get her and Howards together, an efficient system can be tailored to meet her every need. Then you just need to maintain it!

Active change

6 If the family has a new hobby – skiing, surfing or camping, for example – there will suddenly be a whole stack of extra things that need storage. Rather than waiting for it to get out of hand, why not buy some storage containers and devote one to each activity, so all the equipment you need is in one place? Howards has a huge range of boxes and tubs in store, so there's bound to be one that's ideal.

7

Be a movie star

Many families have a library of DVDs that fill shelf after shelf with no rhyme or reason. Getting these in order (maybe by genre or by title) and well stored is a great

starts from $14.95. These sophisticated trays and trees keep jewellery looking great and easy to access.

Mums with a passion for earrings will adore the Allure Folding Earring Screen as it makes organisation easy.

Simply hang the earrings through the holes! $34.95

■ Handbag Holder $35.95

■ Dial Jewellery range, from $14.95

gift for Mum and might just unearth some long-forgotten favourites!

8

Keys to success

Take the stress out of Mum’s life by installing a key storage system by the front door. It's simple and really saves time knowing where your keys are when you need them.

Howards' range of hooks start from $6.95.

9

Odd ones out

Every house has a cupboard for all the odds and ends such as cords and cables. Baskets with labels are a quick fix that will really make Mum smile!

10

■ Allure Folding Ear ring Screen $34.95

■ Grid-It from $21.95

Going the extra mile

It's a big effort, but you know your Mum would be amazed if you managed to get the garage sorted. It's likely to be a massive job though, so why not enlist the whole family for this project? ■ inplace inplace magazine 27

After

makeover

Chaos Controlled When a reader said she was sick of losing sheets in her linen cupboard, we stepped in to help!

Triple your storage space with Space Bags!

DampRid keeps moisture away

B

eautifully folded, fresh linen stored in neat stacks might be the ideal for a linen cupboard, but without good organisation, a simple search for a matching pillowcase can turn the whole cupboard into a chaotic mess.

Most of us have several different sheet sets that never seem to stay together; we also tend to use the towels on top over and over while those below stay fresh, new and unused. Getting these items organised isn't just about maximising space – it's about saving time and reducing stress.

For this makeover, we began transforming the deep-set shelves by fitting elfa® Easy

Before

Drawers make it a breeze to use the full depth of the cupboard

■ A linen cupboard in need of help!

28 inplace magazine

■ DampRid 300g Moisture Absorbing Granules $7.75

■ elfa® Easy Gliders start from $35, baskets from $17.45

www.hsw.com.au

makeover ■ Space Bag Totes from $49.95

■ Labels make organisation easy.

Win!

One of 12 DampRid 3Pack Hanging Moisture Absorbers, valued at $32.95.

To enter, simply visit the promotion page at hsw.com.au and finish the following sentence in 25 words or less:

Gliders and elfa® baskets on each shelf, creating instant drawers. To better utilise the remaining shelves, Space Bag Cubes and Totes were used to reduce the bulk of doonas, blankets and pillows. These were

was labelled, making finding all parts of each ensemble as simple as opening the drawer. Cli-Mate sachets were added to the blanket drawers to keep them fresh for future use.

“Getting these items organised isn't just about maximising space – it's about reducing stress” then moved to the top shelf to stay fresh and ready for the change of season. A DampRid tub was placed on the shelf to keep moisture away from the stored items.

The next step was to create an organisational system. A requirement of this makeover was that sheet and doona sets be easily found. As such, each basket

The next request was for bath towels to be more visible so they all get used. To facilitate this, bath towels were separated into colour sets and beach towels were given their own basket. The extra space created through reducing bulky items with Space Bags allowed smaller items that tended to get lost to be gathered together in a basket.

I use DampRid around my home because...

Entries close 4pm, May 1, 2012.

This is a game of skill, chance plays no part in determining the winner. The judge’s decision is final. For full terms and conditions visit the promotions section of the Howards website, hsw.com.au The beauty of this makeover is the fact that it is simple and system based. These two principles together mean a longlasting, stress-free linen cupboard where everything is easy to put away, find and remove without making a mess. ■ inplace

inplace magazine 29

travel

When in Rome...

Defined by its divine food as much as its rich history, Rome stands alone as a travel experience.

â– Tourists enjoy the Spanish Steps.

30 inplace magazine

www.hsw.com.au

travel

O

ne of the most spectacular cities in the world, Rome boasts an incredible history of architecture, art and food.

And while the Colosseum and Pantheon revel in antiquity, Roman cuisine has perpetually evolved, pushing boundaries yet remaining coloured with the flavours of the past, making this city the perfect gourmet destination.

The Spanish Steps have long been the great meeting place of Rome and remain the perfect place to begin the day. Start from the large house just to their right, where the English poet John Keats lived (and which now houses a museum of his work). Then head down to the Piazza Navona for breakfast in any one of the bustling cafés or restaurants.

Sit back and sip your espresso while you delight in the joys of people-watching.

To set your epicurean heart aflutter, nothing beats a trip to Roscioli. At this exceptional provedore you'll be able to fill

your picnic basket with delectable hams, handmade salami, deliciously pungent cheeses, wines and the family's famous Lariano bread (filled with raisins, nuts or olives). The restaurant, though small, is a Roman tradition as brothers Alessandro and Pierluigi follow in the footsteps of their parents with mouth-watering Roman cuisine.

The swordfish fillet in a crust of black pepper and raspberry sauce is as beautiful as it is delicious. So too are the traditional Roman Meatballs served on Smoked Ricotta and Chestnut Polenta.

A strenuous afternoon's walk to the Sistine Chapel to view Michelangelo's masterpiece will prepare you for a fabulous feast at La Rosetta, where chef Massimo Riccioli will woo you with an exquisite tasting menu with fare such as Risotto with Lupini Clams or Chitarra with Langoustines and Porcini Mushrooms. Buon appetito! ■ inplace

■ Traditional Trippa alla Romana.

■ Risotto with clams.

GETTING THERE Where to stay: For a traditional Italian experience, Inn at the Spanish Steps is just about as close as you can stay to the Trevi Fountain without getting wet!

For more, visit the website: atspanishsteps.com.

If money is no object, the Vialla Spalleti Trevelli is definitely the place to enjoy the sublime opulence of a classical Roman Villa.

For more, visit: villaspalletti.it How to get there: Emirates flies from Sydney to Rome daily with a stopover in Dubai. Qantas flies via London, with flights daily.

inplace magazine 31

environment

Airers for a Greener Future Save money, save the planet, save your clothes.

What reason is there for not using an airer? Here are some of the benefits...

A

ustralian households generate at least one-fifth of Australia's greenhouse gases. That's equal to more than 18 tonnes per household each year, according to Sustainability Victoria's latest findings.

Unfortunately, the tumble dryer is a significant contributor, generating around 159kg of C02 per annum (about the same as flying from Melbourne to Adelaide return).

The airer is, however, a truly viable alternative.

This remarkable laundry item has been around for several centuries, so it couldn't be more tried and true.

However, while the concept of using a folding frame to dry clothes remains the same, technology, design principles and

Did You Know?

Clothes made from natural fibres like cotton and wool can shrink when washed in warm water, as the fibres are made from proteins which denature with heat. This is why line drying is essential for cotton and wool clothing!

Drying socks couldn't be easier, with this attachment

Ridges keep hangers separated and in place

Hangers 'snap ' on

Covered corners protect floors â– Leifheit Pegasus 200 Deluxe $199

â– The 42 Rail 3 Tier Mobile Airer makes it easy to hang drying shirts. $119

32 inplace magazine

quality have greatly improved. Nowadays, lifestyles are a key part of the designer's thoughts. For example, with more of us living in apartments, new generation airers now stand no higher than balcony railings, making them invisible to neighbours. Happily, this does not diminish drying ability at all and allows the airer to be used for rack drying jumpers that you don't want to either peg or have blown away.

Apartments are not the only households embracing the airer, with many house dwellers taking up this green alternative.

Given the amount of rain Australia endures over summer, there are also very practical

reasons to utilise a lightweight airer that can be moved under shelter in a flash. The airer also reduces wear-and-tear on clothing, particularly delicates that can suffer horribly in a tumble dryer. Compounding these positives is the actual feel and smell of clothes dried in the open air.

The portability of an airer is another huge benefit. Many people now take one with them on holidays to the beach and snowfields alike. They realise that not only are airers the best answer for a load of laundry, but they're also convenient for all those wet swimming costumes, wetsuits, parkas and ski gear that can be dried out www.hsw.com.au

■ 28 Rail Stainless Steel Frame Airer $79.95

■ Ciclone 3 Tier Double Sided Airer $169

with the minimum of fuss and be ready for use the next day.

One of the biggest changes over the years has been quality. Once, an airer was a flimsy affair that blew over at a gust or collapsed if bumped. This has changed as demand for more robust solutions emerged. Essentially, today's airer is sturdy, folds flat, is made of materials that won't rust or damage clothes and has been designed with today's lifestyle in mind. Most contemporary airers are also visually aesthetic, with streamlined finishes and clever engineering that allows them to carry various weights without losing balance.

Synonymous with quality, the Foppapedretti brand is known for engineering excellence coupled with Italian design acumen. Made from solid satin beech wood, the Gulliver Clothes Airer has twin side arms that can extend the overall hanging space to 27 metres.

Amazingly, it folds to just 9 cm thick. It's design excellence with brains, beauty and brawn – the Rolls-Royce of airers! $449 The Metaltex Ciclone Airer is tall, rather than wide, for smaller spaces, yet doesn't skimp on drying space. Extendable, telescopic feet give added stability. $169 Offering a potential 20 metres of hanging space, Leifheit’s Pegasus 200 Deluxe is the perfect balcony solution. Robust, high-quality manufacture and a stable, sturdy design keep the Pegasus upright on even the windiest days. It comes with five wind-resistant hangers, a bag for pegs, two holders for small items and mesh for soft drying delicates. $199 ■ inplace

“Today’s airer is sturdy, folds flat and is made of materials that won’t rust or damage clothes ”

■ Foppapedretti Gulliver Clothes Airer $449

inplace magazine 33

blogging

The Challenge is On! The Howards Blogger Challenge has begun – but what does it take to run a top blog?

O

ver the past few years the world of personal blogging has exploded.

One of the most exciting topics being covered is the home, with bloggers sharing their opinions on everything from decorating to organising.

So, who better than bloggers for our latest makeover challenge? We’ve picked four of Australia’s best and given each of them a $1000 voucher to bring organisation to an area of their home.

What is the Howards Blogger Challenge?

Selected bloggers have been given a Howards $1000 gift card to spend on their homes so that they can share their experience of improving their home’s organisation.

Each blogger will receive a one-onone consultation with organisation expert Cathy Player to review their areas of concern. Cathy will make suggestions regarding positioning of items in the home, workflow and Howards products that could make a difference.

The blogger’s task is to then share what they’ve learnt, giving their site’s readers the opportunity to learn too!

34 inplace magazine

But what does it take to run a popular blog? An excellent example is Table Tonic – a fabulously eclectic meld of interior design, home solutions, food and life. It was started

by Louise Bell in 2009: “I was looking for a new career path and everyone else was blogging.

It was December and I had some time and just dived in.”

The ability to communicate mood is essential to good blogging and Louise sees this reflected in the way some blogs have

evolved into books and television. Also key to Louise’s success has been the fact that she blogs every day: “There is just so much to blog about, so much to be inspired about; it just comes and out it goes.”

Louise’s dedication creates a continuous dialogue with her readers and also allows the blog’s focus to shift: “I have thrown in fashion and that went really well, and lately food and, even more recently, healthy food. There has been a great response to that.”

Blogs to watch

The sites taking part in the Howards Blogger Challenge are:

jenius.com.au

tabletonic.blogspot.com.au

Food blogger Jennifer Lam will add structure to her kitchen.

Louise Bell will be bringing organisation to her children (and home!).

sassybella.com

lifestyled.com.au

Fashion blogger Helen Lee will be making over her home office.

Style expert Paula Joye will get her makeup and cosmetics in order.

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Howards Storage World stores Visit hsw.com.au to find your local store with the ‘Store Locator’.

New South Wales Artamon Home HQ North Shore (02) 9437 1955

Shellharbour Stockland, Shellharbour Square (02) 4297 0811

Mt Barker Adelaide Hills Homemaker Centre (08) 8391 4755

Bathurst Bathurst City Centre (02) 6331 4044

Tuggerah Westfield Tuggerah (02) 4353 9066

Norwood 220 The Parade (08) 8332 0415

Belrose Homemakers Supa Centa (02) 9986 2480 Bondi Junction Westfield Bondi Junction (02) 9387 5733

Queensland Aspley Homemaker City Cnr Gympie Road & Zillmere Road (07) 3862 7633

Tasmania Hobart 140 Liverpool Street (03) 6234 8422

Brookvale Warringah Mall (02) 9907 2200

Cairns 327 Mulgrave Road (07) 4054 4966

Burwood Westfield Burwood (02) 9744 8077

Fortitude Valley Homemaker City North 650 Wickham Street (07) 3216 0222

Campbelltown Macarthur Square (02) 4627 5222 Castle Hill Castle Hill Supa Centa South Building (02) 9634 4200 Coffs Harbour Park Beach Plaza (02) 6652 4848 Erina Erina Fair (02) 4367 0433 Hornsby Westfield Hornsby (02) 9987 2700 Kotara Homemaker Centre 150 Park Ave (02) 4952 9333 Moore Park Homemaker Supa Centa (02) 9697 2777 North Ryde Macquarie Centre (02) 9888 6655 Northbridge Northbridge Plaza (02) 9958 4699 Port Macquarie Port Home Zone (02) 6584 3500 Rhodes Rhodes Shopping Centre (02) 9736 3111 Rouse Hill Rouse Hill Town Centre (02) 8883 2577 Rutherford Hunter Supa Centre (02) 4932 4655

Helensvale Homeworld Helensvale (07) 5502 6677 Jindalee Homemaker City (07) 3279 2611 Mackay Canelands Shopping Centre (07) 4942 0228 Maroochydore 50 Plaza Parade (07) 5479 3833 Robina Robina Town Centre (07) 5575 7133 Rockhampton Redhill Homemaker Centre, Cnr Richardson Road & Yamba Road (07) 4928 6511 Springwood The Logan Mega Centre (07) 3209 2777 Toowoomba Harvey Norman Centre (07) 4613 5315 NEW STORE!

Townsville Domain Central (07) 4779 9411 Upper Mt. Gravatt Westfield Garden City (07) 3422 2003 South Australia Gepps Cross Gepps Cross Centre Home HQ (08) 8162 9160 Mile End Homemaker Centre 122 Railway Terrace (08) 8152 0400

Mandurah Shop 2, 65 Reserve Drive (08) 9583 4900 Myaree Primewest Melville, Shop 8, 276 Leach Highway, Melville (08) 9317 8700

Southern River Cnr Ranford Rd & Boardwalk Bvd (08) 9394 0900

Essendon Homemaker Hub (03) 9374 2903 Maribyrnong Highpoint Shopping Centre (03) 9318 1855 Mornington Peninsula Lifestyle Centre (03) 5973 5399 Nunawading Home HQ, 372 Whitehorse Road (03) 9894 8411

South Wharf Homemaker Hub (03) 9682 0911 Shepparton Riverside Plaza Shopping Centre (03) 58235877

Northern Territory Darwin Shop 20, Jape Homemaker Village (08) 8948 2088

Karrinyup Karrinyup Shopping Centre (08) 9244 4333

Like to know a little more about Howards Storage World? Become a Howards Facebook fan or follow us on Twitter. Visit our website to join: www.hsw.com.au

e-shop hsw.com.au eshop@hsw.com.au 1300-ESHOP-1

Shop online Shop 24/7 in the comfort of your home. Need some help to get organised? Our website has loads of tips: visit hsw.com.au

Free measure and quote Your local store is happy to assist with your elfa®, easy-build wardrobe and wine rack planning with an obligation-free measure and quote.

We can even arrange delivery and installation.

Important information Prices: Some Howards Storage World stores are independently owned and operated. Prices are recommended retail prices only and the price at your local store may be different. Advertised prices are valid only until 1/7/12 and after this date may not be available. Listed prices include GST and do not include accessories where shown.

Springvale Springvale Homemaker Centre (03) 9545 5499

Cannington Shop 1, 38 William Street (08) 9356 3511

Group Office No. 4 Forest Central Business Park 49 Frenchs Forest Road Frenchs Forest NSW 2086 Tel (02) 9452 8888 Fax (02) 9452 8899 mail@hsw.com.au

International Stores Now open in: New Zealand, Dubai, Singapore, Spain, Ireland, Philippines, India, Norway and the U.K. Visit: hswgroup.com

Richmond Victoria Gardens Shopping Centre (03) 9428 4060

It’s fine to change your mind We’ll gladly exchange or refund on presentation of a docket where goods are in original packaging (saleable condition). An exchange is offered where a docket is not presented.

Subiaco 427 Hay Street (08) 9381 4599

Cheltenham Westfield Southland (03) 9583 9155

Western Australia Bunbury 175-181 Blair Street (08) 9792 4880

Gift Cards are available for amounts over $20. Redemption is only available through Australian stores.

Rockingham 2 Commodore Drive (08) 9528 5044

Victoria Chadstone Chadstone Shopping Centre (03) 9568 6200

Can’t decide?

Give a Gift Card

Availability: Not all products in this magazine may be available at your local store.

Some products may become out of stock or in some instances be discontinued.

We recommend contacting your local store by telephone to confirm product availability and price to avoid disappointment.

Product specifications: All care is taken to ensure that product information is accurate at the time of print (February 2012). However some modifications to product specifications may occur during the life of this magazine. Dimensions are included as a guide only. Some products may require self assembly.

Warranty information: At Howards, we respect your rights and our goods come with guarantees that cannot be excluded under Australian Consumer Law. You are entitled to a replacement or refund for a major failure and for compensation for any other reasonably foreseeable loss or damage. You are entitled to have the goods repaired or replaced if the goods fail to be of acceptable quality and the failure does not amount to a major failure.

Howards Storage World® is the registered trademark of Howards Storage World Pty Ltd ©

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inplace is published by Citrus Media on behalf of Howards Storage World. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior written permission from the publisher. © Howards Storage World 2012.

inplace magazine 35