In Focus Winter 2024

Front cover and inside cover:

Merritts Road, Panton Hill

Malvern

TASTEMAKERS: ALESSANDRA SMITH DESIGN

Interior Decorator, Alessandra Smith takes us through how to integrate vintage pieces in a contemporary setting and and how to make an impact with a focal piece.

53 HYNE STREET, LILYDALE

Presenting an unsurpassed lifestyle opportunity amidst five acres of private parkland grounds, this inimitable contemporary residence showcases breathtaking design elements across an enviable entertainers’ layout.

Using marbled clay, Elena Strohfeldt crafts pieces that echo the intricate layers of our natural world. We sat down with Elena to discuss what she loves about this handmade artistry.

PROJECTS: NEW JOHNSTON 44

Introducing New Johnston to Abbotsford. This development heralds a new design that cleverly constructs seclusion while seamlessly connecting to its neighbourhood.

Jellis Craig is delighted to be open and operating in the beautiful Yarra Ranges and Maroondah regions. We sat down with Geoff, Greg and Brent Earney to discuss what they love about working alongside their family in Melbourne’s leafy east.

JELLIS CRAIG CONNECTED

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MY NEIGHBOURHOOD WITH GEOFF, BRENT & GREG EARNEY

MEET THE MAKER: ELENA STROHFELDT CERAMICS

Alessandra Smith of Alessandra Smith Design is an emerging interior decorator in Melbourne, focused on the curation of furniture, lighting, art and objects in high-end residential projects.

We visited Alessandra at Elwood Residence, a recently completed project in Melbourne’s bayside with thoughtful, layered interiors that are both timeless and soulful. Here, Alessandra takes us through how to integrate vintage pieces in a contemporary setting and how to create a focal point in a room.

How to integrate vintage pieces in a contemporary setting

Just because your home may be a modern, contemporary build, this doesn’t mean that all the furniture in the space must match this style. Mixing vintage with contemporary is a great way of adding depth, personality and history to a space.

Try and strike a balance with vintage and contemporary

In this space, the modular sofa, coffee table and metal side table are contemporary, and they sit in harmony with the vintage pieces. Mixing vintage and contemporary helps to create a space that feels timeless rather than a time capsule dedicated to one design era.

Embrace the patina

The natural patina that vintage pieces carry helps create a sense of warmth and soul. Vintage pieces may not look perfect but that is a part of their charm. If pieces are looking particularly worn, you can always look to have them reupholstered or restored by a professional. In this space, we had the original armchair reupholstered in a modern, patterned fabric. Not only does it look beautiful, but it prolongs the life of the piece, making it a sustainable choice.

Add vintage pieces from different eras and countries

For a timeless and dynamic look, I recommend including pieces from different design eras and countries. For example in the living room, we have an elegant Danish timber side table that was designed in the 1960s, alongside an original 1970s Italian armchair. The striking paper lantern was designed by Isamu Noguchi in Japan in the 1950s. Despite each piece being designed over 50 years ago, all of them have stood the test of time and bring a modern spirit to the space.

How to create a focal point in a room

A focal point is the first thing you notice when you walk into a room. Rooms sometimes have a natural focal point like a beautiful view or an architectural feature. Alternatively there may be no obvious focal point or there may be too many pieces demanding attention.

In this dining room, this large abstract painting by Greg Mallyon became our focal point which then informed all the other design choices in the space.

This piece became our focal point because of it’s placement, scale and colour. If we were to have hung this artwork on the brick wall, the colours would have competed with the colour in the bricks, causing it to clash and look visually cluttered. By hanging it on the dark timber veneer, the painting pops against the wall which helps command attention and draw your eye to it.

Byhangingourfocalpointonthedark timberveneer,thepaintingpopsagainst thewallwhichhelpscommandattention anddrawyoureyetoit.

The colours in the artwork influenced the colours in the space. We chose to reupholster the bench seat in a tangerine coloured leather to pick up on the vibrant red hues in the painting. The fruit bowl on the table also references the work with it spherical base echoing the organic abstract forms in the painting. These design decisions further reinforce the influence this focal point has on the other elements in the room.

It was crucial that the other pieces in the space do not compete with the painting or draw attention away from it. The choice of pendant light was very important as we needed something sleek that wouldn’t obstruct the view of the painting but that would still provide enough light whilst dining. This space originally had two large round pendant lights that were competing for attention and blocked the view of the painting. By replacing those with a sleek, black pendant, it allows the artwork to be seen and appreciated from all areas in this open plan space.

Alessandra Smith Design offers interior decorating for residential projects, encompassing home or colour consultations, art and object curation, or a full design service. If you would like to speak to Alessandra about your next design project, visit her website to book a consult.

Watch Jellis Craig Tastemakers with Alessandra Smith Design now.

Living Room

Easy Chair G 1973, Verner Panton, produced by Fritz Hansen Akari 33N Pendant 1950s, Noguchi ND Trisse table, green side table, 1962. Re-issue by Great Dane Smooth Table, corten steel, Nicole Lawrence

Dining Room

Painting, Greg Mallyon 'Broad’ pendant, Coco Flip

Photography by Shannon McGrath www.asdstudio.com.au @alessandrasmith_design

Meet the MAKER

ELENA STROHFELDT CERAMICS

Elena Strohfeldt discovered her passion for ceramics recently. A self-taught artist with an eye for detail,, Elena sculpts raw clay into pieces that are not just art, but companions for daily life. Fired in hues reminiscent of the earth itself – browns, creams, and sands – each creation is a testament to her refined craftsmanship.

Elena's work has found its place in prestigious markets and galleries across Victoria and Queensland, as well as the pages of Marie Claire, The Design Files, Home Beautiful, and more. Elena’s latest exhibition, LAYERS, will debut during the 2024 Melbourne Design Week at Honey Bones Gallery.

Using marbled clay, Elena crafts pieces that echo the intricate layers of our natural world, reminding us of its fragility and resilience. We sat down with Elena to discuss what she loves about this handmade artistry.

Can you tell us about your journey into ceramics and how you developed your unique approach to working with clay?

My journey in art started as a painter of abstract landscapes. I have always loved texture so in a way my progression into ceramics feels quite natural.

While I experimented a little with ceramics in high school, I didn’t pick up clay properly until recently, when a friend kindly gifted me a pottery kit from her brand Crockd Pottery. I began using clay as a way to keep my hands and mind busy during lockdown, along the way I found my passion for it and surprised myself with the creations I made.

I studied Ancient History in high school and have always gravitated towards the textures and shapes of the Roman columns. Italy is my favourite country (outside Australia of course!) and I have travelled there a few times. This is what inspired the sculptural forms that you see me create today.

What challenges have you faced as a self-taught ceramic artist, and how have you overcome them?

The biggest challenge I face almost every day as a self-taught ceramic artist is imposter syndrome. I look up to other notable ceramic artists and they all have formal training, something I do not have. It took me years to comfortably call myself an artist.

I have not overcome it as it is something I still experience most days, however, I find taking moments to celebrate everything, from small to big, allows me to step away and see the big picture. To see what I have achieved and to be proud of myself.

I have also turned my thinking on its head by seeing being self-taught as a blessing. I have been able to experiment with clay outside the restrictions the structure of a class has.

Talk to us about the inspiration behind your new collection LAYERS and how do you translate those inspirations through clay?

The theme for Melbourne Design Week this year is “create the world you want” and this collection felt perfect for it. Living in Australia we understand more than many the importance of our beautiful environment and how much it needs our help. I wanted to demonstrate both the fragility and the resilience of our environment through my ceramics. As ceramics go through stages of vulnerability and strength, so does the land around us.

I have always loved earthy tones and textures. Even before ceramics I painted Australian landscapes, using whatever tools I could to build texture. In my paintings I would create in layers. I still have my Art Express painting from 2010 and that is what inspired this collection. I wanted to see if I could create those same layers in my ceramics. The goal was for each piece to look like excavated earth, showing remnants of the civilizations that lived before. This collection brings my two art passions together.

Can you describe the significance of texture and earthy tones in your work? How do these elements contribute to the overall aesthetic and storytelling aspect of your pieces?

The tactility of clay is what makes it so healing during the creation process. Once the piece is finished, I don’t want to lose that texture, so I choose to keep my pieces raw on the outside when fired.

My goal with texture is to create a more intimate experience with viewers. I want them to interact with the piece, for the texture to call them to touch and feel each piece.

I believe art shouldn’t just be viewed. It should be experienced and felt.

Could you walk us through your creative process from the initial interaction with the raw clay to the final piece? How do you navigate the balance between spontaneity and intentionality in your work?

I usually don’t have anything specific in mind when I am creating, however, with this collection I had a clear vision which was a new and exciting process for me.

I began with a moodboard, a mix of paintings, fabrics, landscapes, ceramics, and textures. Once I was happy with the overall look and feel of the collection, I moved onto building the pieces.

I rolled out each of the coils. I have recently started doing this, I find I am more efficient if I have all my coils ready to do. I then experimented with marbling techniques as I had only used this technique on three pieces before.

The handbuilding stage is where my intention turns to spontaneity. I don’t have a shape in mind as I build, I just let my hands guide me.

Your journey from self-taught ceramicist to showcasing your work in prestigious markets and galleries is remarkable. Can you share any significant milestones or lessons learned along the way, and what advice would you offer to aspiring artists looking to carve their path in the industry?

On my ceramics journey I have learned three key things:

1. Be your biggest ambassador

It can be super intimidating to advocate for yourself but if you aren’t going to then who will? I secured my first solo exhibition by just reaching out to galleries and pitching myself and my work.

2. Persistence is key

If they say no the first time, keep trying. I secured my feature in The Design Files by staying in touch with the team and updating them on my progress for a year. It was a defining moment in my career.

3. Go for it

I apply for all opportunities, no matter how big of a long shot it is. The worst thing that can happen is they say no. The best? They say yes. I applied for Melbourne Design Week in 2022 not even sure I was at the level an artist should be to participate and now this year I am part of the satellite program for a second year in a row.

Your ceramics have made their way into the pages of Marie Claire, Home Beautiful and Country Style to name a few. What has been your proudest moment so far?

This is a hard question to answer, I am lucky and proud to have a few moments that stand out:

• My first solo exhibition in Melbourne, ‘Her’ at Brunswick Street Gallery, as part of Melbourne Design Week

• My feature in The Design Files

• Steve Cordony styling my ceramics in his home

• My first magazine feature in House & Garden

These moments were career defining and proved to myself that I can call myself a ceramic artist.

What’s next for Elena Strohfeldt Ceramics?

I have another exhibition in October at Brunswick Street Gallery, and I am going to start teaching which I am very excited about.

QUICK SIX

Tell us about your signature style. Earthy, textured and sculptural.

Somewhere that inspires you?

Italy. I love the ancient architecture, especially the Roman columns.

Someone who inspires you?

Taylor Swift. Her balance between art, creativity and business is unmatched.

Something you want to do more of this year?

Teach workshops.

Favourite interiors store / hidden gem in Melbourne?

Craft Victoria, it hides behind Supernormal down Flinders Lane.

What is one skill you want to master?

Ceramics, I am still honing my skills and I hope to never master it so I can keep learning and experimenting.

See LAYERS during Melbourne Design Week at Honey Bones Gallery. 24 May – 2 June 2024

See online for Elena Strohfeldt Ceramics Stockists. www.elenastrohfeldtceramics.com.au @elenastrohfeldt

Images via Amelia Stanwix for The Design Files and Elena Strohfeldt

My

Neighbourhood with

Geoff, Brent & Greg Earney

Jellis Craig is delighted to be open and operating in the beautiful Yarra Ranges and Maroondah regions. Directors Geoff, Greg, and Brent Earney from our Mooroolbark, Croydon and Lilydale offices are delighted to have joined Jellis Craig in a period of growth and expansion for their business.

The family has 3 generations of real estate experience, with Geoff joining his father’s business in 1972, and then being joined by his two sons Brent and Greg. We sat down with the trio to discuss what they love about working alongside their family in Melbourne’s leafy east.

You recently joined Jellis Craig, tell us about the impetus for this change and your plans for the future.

Greg: We are really excited for the change, to now be aligned with a Melbourne-based leading agency that provides the best marketing options for our clients is really exciting. We have noticed over the last 5 years a significant shift in buyer movements with more buyers coming to us from out of our region. Being a part of the Jellis Craig network, now allows us to tap into a broader buyer market for our vendors, and that’s something we could not do before. The Jellis Craig brand is known for quality, consistency and is very well trusted. Their ethics and culture are aligned with ours and that’s the reason why Jellis Craig was the only company we considered when looking to make this move.

Brent: Years ago, most buyers tended to stay in the same suburbs and not move too far from their current address. We have seen a shift in recent years thanks to improved technology and changed working arrangements that has allowed people to think about a change in lifestyle and consequently the suburb they choose to reside in.

You have been locals for many years, what makes the neighbourhood so great for families, and what have you loved about it?

Greg: I love that we are the gateway to the Yarra Valley with such amazing scenery and wineries and yet just a short drive to get to Lake Eildon if a day on the lake is in order. I’m very much an outdoors person who loves being amongst the mountains and that is one of the reasons that living in the Yarra Ranges ticks so many boxes for me.

Brent: The area offers a lot to all the residents who choose to live in our part of the world. Public transport to the city is on your doorstep and then in the other direction you have access to the Yarra Valley and some of the country’s best vineyards. Great schooling options, sporting facilities, shopping centres, and park lands are just some of the benefits that living in the region offers.

How has the property market in your area changed over recent years?

Geoff: Our market is always changing, however, property prices have remained very stable as we are limited to new land becoming available. People are having to buy established homes and renovate them to their own tastes or demolish and build their dream home. We are bounded by the Dandenong Ranges, the vineyards in the Yarra Valley and lots of green land, so chances of vacant land becoming available is limited.

Brent: In my time in real estate the area has changed a lot in terms of the style of houses and the use of the land. Dual occupancy houses are now extremely popular and there are more sub-divided blocks in our area. In more recent years, high density townhouse sites and apartments have started to emerge.

Talk to us about the community culture in your area?

Geoff: Our community culture is excellent. We have a huge choice of government and private schools and are surrounded by excellent sporting clubs and facilities.

Greg: The Yarra Ranges has a great family-based culture We have great sporting clubs that provide great places for people to connect, socialise and have a few laughs. I think people are proud to say that they live in the Yarra Ranges, and I think that says something about the wonderful area that we are in.

Ithinkpeopleareproudtosaythatthey liveintheYarraRanges,andIthinkthat sayssomethingaboutthewonderful area that we are in.

What is the best piece of advice you've received?

Geoff: Work hard, always tell the truth. Sometimes telling the truth might not win you the business but in the long run you will be rewarded.

Brent: Make it happen. Don’t just take opportunities that may come to you, create your own as well.

What is a must-read book or podcast you recommend?

Greg: Maximum Achievement by Brian Tracey. I was given this book at the age of 20 and to this day it is the most influential book I’ve read. Chapter 5 on goal setting is one of the best and I would encourage anyone to pick it up and have a read.

Brent: Legacy by James Kerr. It talks of the culture and success of the New Zealand All Blacks and what it takes to be on the team both on and off the field. I think a lot of these principles can be used in life.

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Beautifully

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A Hamptons style dream in the back streets of Bentleigh East, this owner builder’s near new masterpiece reaches a new pinnacle in the beauty of family living. Completed in March 2023 under the guidance of Design 21 Architecture, this awe-inspiring home uses quartz stone sourced from a Castlemaine quarry, and a spectacular skylit vault to create an unmistakable ambience.

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Spellbinding sophistication in a distinguished palette, this enchanting 3 bedroom 2 bathroom Art Deco wonder infuses its original charm with contemporary living in a tropical poolside paradise. Majestic from the engaging entrance foyer that introduces the rich timber detailing, high decorative ceilings, and double leadlight doors.

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TIMELESS GRANDEUR STEPS FROM HEDGELEY DENE

Nestled on a serene 20-acre parcel of land, this two-storey family home beckons those seeking a tranquil country lifestyle with peace and privacy amongst the gum trees. There are four generously proportioned bedrooms, each boasting built-in robes, and the master suite feature both a walk-in robe and ensuite, along with a private balcony

This stunning residence offers unparalleled luxury and comfort, nestled in one of Geelong’s most sought-after

THE ULTIMATE FAMILY HAVEN

A true modern masterpiece, this state-of-the-art sanctuary has been architecturally designed to the highest calibre, and offers faultless owner-built craftsmanship, creating a family home that simply transcends the ordinary. An unforgettable façade, towering ceilings, stunning skylights and a combination of polished concrete and chevron timber flooring elicit visual appeal.

ARCHITECTURALLY DESIGNED SHOWPIECE LUXURY

SERENE COASTAL SANCTUARY

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Redefining the concepts of luxury, this architectural 5 bedroom, 5 bathroom 60sq marvel sets the bar high for contemporary indulgence, with its elegant façade, high-end finishes and multiple living zones. Expansive in scale, timber floors, exclusive light fittings and saturating natural light make a dramatic statement throughout the vast open-plan living/dining area.

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The ornate heritage façade of ‘Hawthorn’ in the Napier Street cul-de-sac reflects the elegance and beauty of a captivating interior flowing to an enchanting rear garden oasis. Graceful and refined in an exciting lifestyle location, this outstanding balcony terrace superbly combines rich classical character and stylish modern enhancement in a serene city-edge setting designed for secluded enjoyment.

‘HAWTHORN’ - CLASSICAL REFINEMENT & TRANQUIL GARDEN

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A masterful reimagining of a classic Californian, this extraordinary residence displays vogue and innovation in the pursuit of family-focused luxury. Nestled in the tree-lined heart of family-friendly Coburg, an endlessly elegant, white-picket stance prefaces a gracefully transformed interior, showcasing airy refinement and functional fluency across a series of inspired spaces.

398-400 JOHNSTON STREET, ABBOTSFORD

New Johnston, your new haven amongst the hustle and bustle. A design that cleverly constructs seclusion while seamlessly connecting to its neighbourhood. It’s the best part of Abbotsford’s vibrant and diverse suburb.

Designed around the principles of sustainability, liveability and community, New Johnston takes inspiration from the distinct industrial heritage of the area, while maximising comfort for residents. Offering generous open living spaces, private balconies or terraces and thoughtful interior finishes. Surrounded by an array of green community spaces, native parklands and river trails, New Johnston offers a rare taste of suburban bliss within Melbourne's vibrant city fringe.

At the heart of Jellis Craig is connection.

Our open and shared database, centralised systems, and cohesive team set us apart as a truly connected property agency. This means that you benefit from a unified effort towards one common goal: achieving the best possible result when selling your home.

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