.com.au
ISSUE 6
A new take on the feature wall INSIDE a clever two-timing kitchen
Fibre Guide
DIY Marble Art
cosy up to the right quilt
FRESH BITES
Reinvent your favourite dishes
Savvy tricks to refine your style
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Editor’s Letter You and I have got a thing for interiors. You’ve downloaded this magazine so I know you’re keen on decorating, and a fan of stylish home designs – me too! Like me, you probably catch yourself shuffling things from room to room for a new look, finding ways to put your own twist on trends, and dabbling in the art of layering. So I know you’re going to love this issue that seeks to refine your styling skills. Our Home Improvement article is full of savvy tips from the professionals on how to take your look from so-so to pro. Interior decorator Shaynna Blaze shares her fresh take on the feature wall, Tim Neve spills his never-fail styling secret, and chef Danika Heslop helps us reinvent our favourite dishes to impress. We’ve upped the ante when it comes to clever design inspiration with our kitchen and bedroom tours. Each one is full of smart solutions that are fashionable and functional. And as always, we’ve shared a quick-andeasy DIY art project to try this weekend, and a stack of seasonal inspiration.
Happy reading!
Smart design ideas Read more The Home magazine PUBLISHED BY THEHOME.COM.AU 55 CLARENCE STREET, SYDNEY 2000 NEW SOUTH WALES, AUSTRALIA
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DECOR
INSPIRATION: MARSALA 6 Pantone’s colour of the year
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COSY LAYERS 7 Create a snug retreat LUSTROUS TOUCH 8 Take a shine to metal’s laid back luxe
CONTENTS
9
DIFFERENT STROKES
Fresh ideas for feature walls
HOME IMPROVEMENT 11 Savvy tips to refine your styling
EDITOR LAUREN CIRCOSTA FEATURE WRITER SUZANNE CHELLINGWORTH STYLIST NICOLE VALENTINE DON STYLING ASSISTANT DORINA LENARDUZZI GRAPHIC DESIGNER CHRISTINA LOCK & ATIEH MOHAMMADI PHOTOGRAPHER DARA TIPPAPART © The Home 2015
INSIDER
COASTAL COOL 17 Tim Neve’s styling secrets BREEZY LIVING 21 A clever kitchen and dining reno WAKE UP HAPPY 25 A pretty and practical bedroom
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LIFESTYLE
QUILTS UNCOVERED 30 Your guide to finding the perfect quilt COMFORT FOOD 33 Easy ideas to reinvent classic dishes
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BACK TO NATURE 36 Dine with dreamy details THE PET CHECKLIST 38 Planning your home and lifestyle CAT IS THE NEW BLACK 40 Life with a furry feline MOVIE NIGHT 42 The best film and TV interiors
DIY PROJECT MARBLE ART 41 DIY wall accents
DECOR
PROFESSIONAL ADVICE AND STYLING TIPS
9 8 11 INSPIRATION: MARSALA 6 Pantone’s colour of the year
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COSY LAYERS 7 Create a snug retreat
HOME IMPROVEMENT 11 Savvy tips to refine your styling
LUSTROUS TOUCH 8 Take a shine to metal’s laid back luxe
DIFFERENT STROKES
Fresh ideas for feature walls
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INspiration
Marsala
The wine that inspired Pantone’s Colour of the Year.
If not for an English merchant’s fortuitous tipple way back in 1773, marsala might have remained little known beyond the shores of Sicily. It was during an unscheduled stop en route to England that John Woodhouse first sampled the region’s local wine of the same name, and so enamoured was he, launched marsala into successful international export. To ensure the wine would endure the stress of lengthy sea travel, Woodhouse is thought to have bolstered the fortification process by adding brandy; a move that changed the alcohol and sugar content, and ultimately defined the flavour as it is known today. His altered elixir was well received in Britain and beyond, and enjoyed
soaring popularity for over a century. However the burgeoning trade and demand for higher yields saw a steady drop in quality, and by the 1950s marsala became renowned not for fine drinking, but as a seldom-used fixture of the cooking cupboard. Tasting of stewed apricots, vanilla, brown sugar and tobacco, it’s understandable that marsala should lace the spongy layers of tiramisu, sweeten creamy Italian custard and even simmer into syrupy glazes for veal, chicken and duck. And while it may await resurgence as a fashionable digestif, as a colour – whose gold-through-ruby gradation reminisces Sicily’s sun-baked terrain and liquor-soaked desserts – marsala brings a rich warmth to autumn decor.
It’s the deep end of the spectrum that has popped up on runways however, and perhaps most notably, inspired Pantone’s colour choice for 2015. Like its sippable counterpart, enjoy this plush hue in small volumes and within comfortable furnishings. ‘Marsala is a very dominant and dark colour so it’s best to use it sparingly in your home,’ says interior stylist Emma Blomfield, who warns that too much could transform a room into a ‘dark den’. Think small accents; ‘on cushion detailing like fringing, or as an accent colour in your floor rug’. Emma suggests pairing marsala with mustard yellow, deep teal blues and warm neutral tones like biscuit, beige and taupe. ‘Layering these colours with marsala will result in an earthy, natural look.’
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Cosy
Layers
DECOR
LOOK WE LOVE ...
Layering textural throws and comfy cushions for a snug retreat this cool season.
FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Hourglass Stool. Logan & Mason Natural Knitted Throw. Gilded Cable Knit Cushion. 5. Florence Broadhurst Lumbar Cushion. Logan & Mason Dove Spot Cushion. Florence Broadhurst Pebble throw. Navy Velvet Cushion. Royal Doulton Navy Stud Cushion. Love Bird Cushion. Logan & Mason Faux Fur Cushion. Royal Doulton Pippa Navy Throw. Grey Chevron Throw. Majestic Sky Rug.
Beat the chill with your favourite colourway in tactile finishes for an indulgent warmth.
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DECOR
Take a shine to metal’s laidback luxury. THE LOOK Refresh your classic decor with silver, copper, and rosy metallic accessories. These shiny additions effortlessly glam up an industrial look, and add inviting texture and drama to the modern room.
MIX & MATCH Metallics work best with a combination of materials and surfaces. Think rough hewn timber furniture as a haven for rose gold accents, or a grey cow hide rug to offset a silver side table. Metallics don’t always have to match. Mix finishes such as polished or brushed for added interest.
DOS & DON’TS Make the most of metallics in a small space that needs brightening up. These metal gems will reflect existing colours and light in the room making it feel brighter and larger. Avoid overdoing it in a room with an abundance of natural light; too many shiny surfaces will dazzle you in the sunlight.
‘Think of metallics as jewellery for your home: they aren’t necessarily the focal point, but they tie the space together for a complete look.’ - Emma Blomfield, The Home stylist
STYLING: NICOLE VALENTINE DON PHOTOGRAPHY: DARA TIPPAPART
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DECOR
Strokes
Bored of beige? Taubmans Colour Creative Director, Shaynna Blaze, shares her favourite ways to create fresh interest with paint. TheHome.com.au
Shaynna Blaze
BALANCED STRENGTH A common deterant when considering a paint project is the fear of overwhelming colours. Full colour on walls can create a rich, sophisticated look, but if you’re keen to calm the eye, paint two adjoining walls in a full strength colour to create a corner nook. Paint the remaining walls in a half strength of the same shade to ensure balance in the room. Make sure any timber, such as doors and window
frames, are painted in the same strength as their adjoining walls so the focus is on the colour and not lost in the frame lines. TRICKS FOR VISUAL EFFECT Paint frames and skirtings in a room where there’s an abundance of doors or windows in the same colour as the walls, but with a gloss finish. This touch will make the colour seem lighter, and the subtle surface change will add interest.
WISE WALLS If you have an older-style home, consider adding picture rails at the top line of the windows as a sort of dividing line. By painting a rich or dark colour from the floor to the picture rail line, and then the remainder of the wall and ceiling in white, you’ll extend the width of the ceiling making it feel larger and airier above.
Striking walls in Taubmans Dark Heather favour a fresh and spacious ceiling look.
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Look up for new ideas with paint. Ceiling in Taubmans Starry Night Blue.
EXPLORING NEW HEIGHTS For decades white has been considered the best and safest choice for ceilings. And while it’s a great option for bold coloured rooms, you can add visual texture with alternate colours. A contrasting shade on the ceiling can reflect light into a room, while a deeper colour adds warmth. WORDS: Shaynna Blaze taubmans.com.au
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Home
DECOR
ImprovEment From so-so to pro! Refine your styling talents with these savvy tips.
How to
decorate with pattern w i t h O r l a K i e ly
Colour and pattern are equally important in the eyes of designer Orla Kiely who notes successful styling comes by mastering this balance. She suggests adding your statement print where you want the room’s focus to be. Add the magic with decorative items such as rugs, cushions or lamps. Don’t over clutter, and always use pattern intelligently by taking a ‘more is less’ approach.
How to
shake up your bookshelf COLOUR BLOCK Stack book spines in order of the rainbow. FLIP IT Break your standard stack up by flipping a section of books to lay flat. This creates a mini podium to display decor.
THINK ART Add character with prints. Frame your favourite A4 or A3 designs and lean them on the shelf for added interest. GET CREATIVE Use your favourite vase or ornament for a look-at-me bookend.
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How to
style a coffee table
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Choose your colour palette using the soft furnishings already featured in your room. Vary heights for visual interest with books, trays, and vases. Display items that mean something to you such as travel momentos or special gifts. Don’t overclutter. You can rework your look regularly by rotating favourite pieces in and out every season. Leave breathing space around your ornaments – you want to be able to see that beautiful table top. Add flowers for an instant colour update.
How to
boost your curbside cool Looking to add a little extra to your ordinary front yard? Try these next-level looks. Paint your front door for instant impact. Swap part of your lawn for perennials that add lush colour. Make sure your garage looks great. Does it need a fresh coat of paint? Get creative with your house number. Go sleek for modern homes, weathered for rustic style, and homemade for cottages. For the city dweller Keep it simple with what you have to work with. It may just be a window planter box or unique street number that does the trick.
How to
reinvent the feature wall w i t h S h a y nna B l az e
Interior designer Shaynna Blaze is all about adding fun and interest with paint. Her fresh take on the traditional feature wall is to paint the wall that’s behind you when entering the room, as opposed to the opposite wall. Painting the wall behind you means no colour shock, so you can indulge your bold colour crush!
TheHome.com.au
14 How to
make a flooring statement Layer rugs for added texture and interest. We love cowhide over sisal for laid-back warmth or try layering 3-4 smaller rugs in a similar style for cosy impact.
How to
set a formal table with Steve Cordony
Always have a general theme in mind for styling your table. Don’t go overboard! Think about colours or looks that are easy to play with.
Event and interior stylist Steve Cordony takes the fuss out of figuring out which fork goes where. 1. Always work from the outside-in when it comes to laying cutlery. Start with the entree fork on the outer left of the plate, and the main fork next to it. Mirror this on the other side of the plate with knife blades always facing in. Your dessert and soup spoons will sit here too, with a small space separating them and the knives. 2. Lay your bread plate slightly higher than the dinner plate and to the left with the bread knife atop. 3. Water tumbler goes just above the dinner knife, anchoring the champagne flute, and the red and white wine glasses. TheHome.com.au
You can afford a beautifully styled home Save up to 70% on big brands, designer homewares and boutique finds on THEHOME.COM.AU Members enjoy exclusive access to new sales launched daily. Don’t miss out on your perfect piece, sign up for free now. THEHOME.COM.AU
GPO RECORD PLAYER $149 | 1000TC SHEET SET - QUEEN $59 | CUSHIONS FROM $16.95 | QUILT COVER SET - QUEEN $79 | JUTE RUGS FROM $69 | SHERBET CANDLE HOLDERS FROM $11.50 | DRIFTWOOD STOOL $149 | THROW RUGS FROM $14.95 | BLONDE WOOD SIDE TABLES FROM $169 | GOLD GEO TERRARIUM $39.95. PRICES CORRECT AS OF JANUARY 2015 ALL PRODUCTS FEATURED LANDING SOON AT THEHOME.COM.AU
INSIDER
An inspiring tour of homes with heart
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17 21 COASTAL COOL 17 Tim Neve’s styling secrets BREEZY LIVING 21 A clever kitchen and dining reno
WAKE UP HAPPY 25 A pretty and practical bedroom
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PROFILE
Coastal Cool Tim Neve on his latest book and styling secrets.
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18 Forget faux starfish and mass-produced Gone Fishin’ signs, Tim Neve’s latest book, Sandcastles, seeks to inspire coastal homes that are anything but clichéd. He’s reinterpreting the ‘real sea’ in a modern way for the fans of sun-bleached palettes, colourful bohemian looks, and everything in between. What do you love most about coastaL style? A majority of Aussies live by or near the coastline so it just makes sense to embrace it. It’s our backyard and our escape. I truly believe the coast has touched and transformed each of us at some point in our lives. The scale of the ocean always puts things into perspective for me, and it’s this freshness I hope to capture in the styling used throughout Sandcastles.
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‘Take the time to create an interior that truly resonates with you, it will stand the test of time.’
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Tell us your Sandcastles most memorable moment? I’d never had the chance to explore NSW’s South Coast until we were photographing homes for the book, opting usually to head north in search of a warmer climate. So it was wonderful to discover Culburra Beach, a couple of hours south of Sydney and its unique aesthetic. Its original homes are fibro beach shacks and, despite many having been pulled down to make way for modern houses, the ones that remain totally embrace their quirkiness. For example, the first home we visited was painted flamingo pink all over. A couple of weeks later and only a few streets away we discovered a lime green version, too!
Is there a decorating mistake you often see and cringe? We all rush into decorating too quickly. I can’t talk: I’m a hyperactive homebody that will start a D.I.Y project at 6pm on a Sunday evening, but the first part of the design process should be the most exciting part. Take your time and explore all your options. There are so many choices for all manner of products and finishes on the market these days, and the internet has opened up global solutions, too. I guess if you take the time to create an interior that truly resonates with you, it will be a much more honest result that’ll stand the test of time.
What’s your top styling secret? I’m always mystified by the styling power of odd numbers, particularly the number three. Cluster following this guide next time you’re decorating and see what happens. It’s magic! Things always look better following this simple rule.
Images from Sandcastles: Interiors Inspired by the Coast by Tim Neve (Murdoch Books) $39.99 available in all good bookstores and online.
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Tim Neve’s top tips
STYLE COASTAL I N A N Y SE A SO N
* Coastal isn’t all sunshine tones. Don’t be afraid to play with a dark and stormy palette to suit the winter mood. Grey tones found in an overcast ocean are perfect for creating layers of comfort. * Explore your local coastline for inspiration and ‘beachcomber’ discoveries to work into your styling for a more personal story. * If you can’t make it to the beach, showcase holiday postcards and photographs to re-imagine coastal memories.
‘I truly believe the coast has touched and transformed each of us at some point in our lives.’
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INSIDER
Breezy Living Smart design makes for fashionable function.
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FAST READ WHO LIVES HERE
Interior decorator and lifestyle blogger Briar Stanley, her husband Mark and their daughter, Sunday.
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FAVOURITE ROOM
The renovated kitchen and dining space in their Northern Beaches apartment.
WHAT WE LOVE
The clever office nook that is seamlessly concealed with pocket doors.
When Briar Stanley moved into her Northern Beaches apartment eight years ago, her kitchen and dining space became a mental work-in-progress. As a former set dresser and now interior decorator, she was quick to spot its potential, and began planning a space that was inviting, relaxed, and spacious. After 12 weeks of renovations last year, her vision finally came to life, and the new and improved kitchen/living/dining area has become the heart of this beachside home. The open-plan design is a far cry from its previous boxed-in look. ‘We spend most of our time in this area. My husband is a keen cook and Sunday is always our shadows, so we live in very close quarters. The layout update and removal of clutter works really well for us’, says Briar. Its seamless flow makes for easy entertaining, too, and it’s no surprise to find guests milling around the breakfast bar. ‘At first we weren’t sure about including the bench seating in the kitchen, but we’re so glad we did’. TheHome.com.au
23 ‘I’ve always loved classic Scandinavian interiors, and like to live with a bit of colour.’
It’s what you often can’t see that really sparks our interest here. Behind the cabinets that run the length of the kitchen and living room is a hidden office nook. What the creative haven lacks in size it makes up for in functionality, providing a dedicated workspace for Briar. When it’s not in use, the work hub is almost nonexistent behind its pocket doors, leaving the room with a seamless finish. This same hidden intelligence is found in the kitchen, too, where multiple large drawers are fitted under the benches to store everything from cutlery and crockery to pots
and pans. ‘I also love the built-in bins under our sink and the corner pantry that stores so much I sometimes forget what’s even in there’! ‘I’ve always loved classic Scandinavian interiors, yet I also like to live with quite a bit of colour,’ says Briar when describing her style. ‘Our home is a mixture of collected objects, furniture, and art accumulated along the way with a coastal influence as we’re so close to the beach.’ A blank canvas of whites and plenty of natural light sets the mood, with the help of new floorboards in natural oak, and timeless finishes. TheHome.com.au
On the built-in shelving you’ll spy an evolving assortment of thrift shop and antique finds. ‘I’m always updating things on display,’ says Briar, no doubt indulging a past spent trawling secondhand stores as a former set buyer. Resting on the console is one special keepsake that’s always seen. It’s a vintage garden pelican from the couple’s first house purchase, and sits in front of a mesmerising Kara Rosenlund photographic print that anchors the dining room. It’s these quirks and subtle touches that are the icing on the cake for this renovation. And by keeping to a smart formula, the light and bright results are an inspired canvas for everyday living and personalised style to blossom.
‘Its seamless flow makes for easy entertaining with guests milling around the breakfast bar.’
sundaycollector.com.au Photography Dara TippaparT
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INSIDER
Wake up Happy A pretty and practical bedroom.
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FAST READ WHO LIVES HERE?
Designer and director of The Bespokery, Heidi Moore-Gill, her husband and their daughter, Jemima.
FAVOURITE ROOM Jemima’s beautiful bedroom.
WHAT WE LOVE
A cute and quirky combination of fun and glamour.
As designer and director of The Bespokery: a dream-like studio that brings imagination and whimsy to events, Heidi Moore-Gill is surrounded by fanciful settings on a daily basis. At her restored gingerbread cottage in Sydney’s Woollahra; however, she’s turned the focus from flamboyant to relaxation and comfort. That is till you spy her daughter Jemima’s bedroom, where it’s evident that fun and playful streak has broken free and permeated its style. ‘My daughter’s room gives me licence to make a little wonderland at home,’ says Heidi, when referring to the pretty bedroom that’s fashioned with a soft palette and touch of glamour. ‘I love the colour we chose, it’s a feel-good shade that’s feminine without being the typical pink.’ The cosy alcove space is another of her favourite features, it’s outlined with custom cabinetry to maximise storage, and houses the head of Jemima’s antique iron bed. It’s not just Mum calling all the shots here. Jemima chose pieces from a selection of family antiques to dot her space with, and these have been paired with Rachel Castle and Catherine Swan artworks, fresh blooms, soft toys, a cosy armchair and imaginative books for a simple and stylish finish that doesn’t take itself too seriously. TheHome.com.au
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‘I love the colour, it’s a feel-good shade that’s feminine without being pink.’
thebespokery.com.au Photography: Jason Busch Photograpy
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LIFESTYLE & DIY PROJECTS Creative ideas and WEEKEND treats
33 36 QUILTS UNCOVERED 30 Your guide to finding the perfect quilt
CAT IS THE NEW BLACK 40 Life with a furry feline
COMFORT FOOD 33 Easy ideas to reinvent classic dishes
MARBLE ART 41 DIY wall accents
BACK TO NATURE 36 Dine with dreamy details
MOVIE NIGHT 42 The best film and TV interiors
THE PET CHECKLIST 38 Planning your home and lifestyle
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LIFESTYLE
Quilts Uncovered
Consider your quest for the perfect quilt demystified. Winter is coming, and you dream of diving into a cocoon of cosiness every night. But quilt shopping? Making sense of various fibres, weights and sizes, and landing on that ideal combination that’ll yield maximum zzz’s? This can be a less than sleep-inducing experience. According to The Home’s Head of Buying, Stacey Kastrounis, think first about fibre content and weight. ‘These two factors are the most important when determining what will suit you best, ensuring you sleep soundly every night.’
‘Go for a boxed cassette construction to ensure the filling stays evenly distributed’
Down: This fluffy natural insulator is top choice for vanquishing the cold, and Stacey suggests looking for a quilt with a high down-to-feather ratio. The loose structure of down conforms to the body and traps warm air, keeping you cosy without feeling weighed down. Down also has the most lofty appearance, and the ability to be compacted and fluffed into shape.
Wool: Another of nature’s great insulators, wool fibres have a honeycomb-like core that traps body heat and absorbs moisture, keeping you dry, warm and regulating your temperature. Wool quilts tend to feel heavier than down, but are a lighter alternative to blankets. Look for easy-care machine washable varieties.
Alpaca: With similar yet superior properties to wool, and a smoother, silkier texture, alpaca fleece is a luxurious option for winter. The fibre’s unique semi-hollow structure makes it lighter and warmer than wool, and highly absorbent. Unlike wool, alpaca fleece is lanolin free and requires less or no chemicals during processing.
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Hot Blooded? Cotton: Not just for sheets, quilts come filled with cotton fibres and offer a lightweight option for people in warm climates, or who overheat easily during the night. With low loft, excellent breathability and absorbency, a cotton quilt will keep you feeling cool and dry.
‘Temperature control is a growing trend, with more innovative fibres being sought after to assist with regulating the temperature of “hot” sleepers.’
Bamboo: Favoured for being eco-friendly and rife with natural health benefits, bamboo’s ultra fine fibres are increasingly utilised in quilt fillings. Bamboo’s inherent anti-microbial and anti-bacterial properties help prevent dust mites, mould and bacteria, making it a great option sensitive sleepers. Look for either pure bamboo or a bamboo/cotton blend.
If you suffer from asthma or allergies, opt for a good quality microfibre or synthetic quilt that has had an anti-allergy treatment applied. Advancements in fibre technology are also seeing more synthetic quilts emulating the properties of natural fibres. ‘Good quality synthetic fibres will keep you dry by transporting moisture away from the body. They also tend to stay light and fluffy without much extra care required.’
‘Regular washing and airing in sunlight will keep dust at bay.’
Silk: Associated with luxury around the world, it’s not surprising these gossamer threads have found their way into quilts. This incredibly fine fibre is usually layered rather than stuffed, resulting in a lightweight fill of low loft and excellent breathability. Depending on the weight you choose and your climate, silk quilts can be an ideal year-round option.
Weight and size While quilt weight can vary from brand to brand, summerweight typically starts at 200GSM, and winter-weight comes in at the 400 - 500 GSM mark. If your region experiences great temperature differences between seasons, Stacey recommends investing in two quilts and switching as needed. Sizing can be as simple as pairing queen with queen, however if you find your quilt on the floor in the morning, consider up-sizing. ‘The next size up will give the quilt more weight on each side of the bed to keep it in place.’ And don’t forget details. ‘Look for finishing touches that exude decadence such as black piping, classic striped, embossed or jacquard cover designs. Just because a quilt cover goes over your quilt doesn’t mean it can’t look and feel like luxury!’ TheHome.com.au
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www.thegourmet.com.au
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LIFESTYLE
Comfort food
Reinvent classic dishes with easy ideas.
We’re fans of whipping up a favourite dish when it comes warming heart and hunger. But what about those times when you’re after a little more finesse? We’ve asked Jamaica Blue’s executive chef, Danika Heslop, to show us how she reinvents her favourite meals to impress. DANIKA’S GO TO DISHES Soups are a favourite of mine in winter. They’re warm and nutritious, not to mention quick to make and very tasty. My staples include: Spicy Tomato and Lamb Brisket Soup, Jerusalem Artichoke Soup, and Cream and White Wine Mussel Soup.
Moroccan Lamb & Chickpea Salad
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‘Think creatively about how to join key ingredients together.’ SAME SAME BUT DIFFERENT The first thing I do when reinventing an old favourite is break down the key ingredients. For example, the key ingredients of classic fish and chips are fish and potatoes. From there, think creatively about how to join these key ingredients back together. You may like to try a new fish such as salmon, dory, barramundi or sardines; or work with a new flavour or texture such as beer batter, herb crust, and panko crumb. Think about how you’ll cook it: grilled, fried, or poached? Do the same thing with the potatoes, and then move onto sides. Instead of a lemon wedge, try citrus mayonnaise. Is it in need of colour? Try adding fresh pea shoots. Don’t be afraid to try something new. COOKING UP CONFIDENCE Cooking is really fun when you step outside your comfort zone. As with most things: the more you do it, the easier it gets. Don’t be afraid to adapt. If you’re missing an ingredient from your recipe such as fresh chilli, think of using something similar that will have the same result such as Tabasco, hot sauce, or chilli flakes. This type of trial and error is how the culinary world evolved. DECODING DINNER PARTIES People often complicate things in the kitchen when hosting a dinner party. My husband and I do tasty dishes that can be made in advance. Summer favourites include: hearty salads such as Sweet Potato and Char-Grilled Calamari with Saffron Citrus Dressing; and BBQ Chicken with Israeli Cous Cous and Cucumber Pickle. In the winter, braised meats are our protein go-to, and lamb shanks or pork belly are easy to prepare. We serve these with rosemary and garlic kiffler potatoes or potato gratin, and a fresh salad. These type of dishes can all be prepared well before guests arrive and need only a little reheating.
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Makes
35
Beef & Caramelised Onion Pastry Rolls
9
Serves
This recipe is Jamaica Blue’s twist on the traditional sausage roll. It’s easy to make at home and is popular with adults and kids alike. Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
Method
500g lean beef mince
1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
1 carrot, peeled and grated
2. Combine mince, carrot, onion, BBQ sauce, herbs, eggs, salt and pepper in a bowl. Mix together.
100g caramelised onion 50ml BBQ Sauce 1 tsp mixed herbs 2 eggs 1 tsp salt ¼ tsp ground pepper 3 sheets puff pastry Poppy seeds for decorating 1 extra egg for glazing
3. Lay out a sheet of puff pastry. Use 1 cup of the above mince mixture and lay it along the bottom of the pastry in a line. Roll the pastry around the mince until it forms a cylinder. Cut pastry roll into three on the angle, and transfer to baking tray. Repeat the process until all are made. 4. Crack the extra egg into a small bowl. Using a pastry brush, coat the rolls with the egg wash. Sprinkle with poppy seeds. 5. Bake in the oven for 20 – 25 minutes or until golden brown. Serve with a tomato relish and garden salt. jamaicablue.com.au
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LIFESTYLE
Dine with dreamy details.
3.
LUXE BASICS
Clean lines and snow white shades epitomise timeless tableware.
2.
1.
NATURAL TALENT
Bring the outdoors in for easy tabletop styling and rustic appeal.
Shop on The Home
1. Wood Chopping Board 2. Noritake 20-Piece Arctic White Dinner Set for 4 3. Laguiole 24-Piece Cutlery Set in Black
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4.
37 5.
RAW MATERIAL Soften warm and earthy textures with marble touches.
12.
11.
WINE AND DINE
7.
Elevate everyday dining with some elegant glassware.
9. 8.
Shop on The Home
10.
4. Laguiole 24-Piece Cutlery Set in Pearl 5. Stanley Rogers Acacia Butcher's Block | 35cm 6. Stanley Rogers 56-Piece Monte Carlo Cutlery Set 7. Stanley Rogers 5-Piece Bamboo Cheese Set 8. Waterfall Old Fashioned Tumbler | Set of 6 | 9. Arrow Marble Candle Holder 10. Marble Vase 11. Bohemia Crystal Claudia Goblet | Set of 6 12. Bohemia Crystal Waterfall Saucer
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LIFESTYLE
THE PET CHECKLIST
Considering a dog or cat for your family?
Pets can be extremely rewarding, but they’re also a huge responsibility. RSPCA Australia shares the need-to-know details when taking the big step.
CARING COMMITTMENT Purchasing a pet should never be an impulsive decision. It’s important to research the species or breed/crossbread prior to buying to ensure it’s the right choice for your lifestyle. Will you be available to walk your dog every day? Is there someone to look after your pet when you holiday? We all fall for cute kittens and puppies, but you need to remember you’ll be caring for an adult dog or cat down the track. With an average lifespan of 12 years, and in some cases even 1520 years, it’s important to understand the long-term nature of pet ownership.
COSTS & AFFORDABILITY These numbers will vary depending on the type of animal you choose, but it’s important to keep in mind upfront fees including: vaccination, microchipping, and desexing. Ongoing costs include: food, worming, annual health checks, vet bills, training, boarding, toys and bedding for the life of the animal. According to a study commissioned by the Australian Companion Animal Council, the average cost of owning a dog per annum was $1,056, and owning a cat was $602 per annum.
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SUITABLE SPACES
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Carefully consider if you can provide the right environment for your pet. Are you allowed to keep pets where you live? If you’re considering getting a dog, do you have a yard? Is it secure? And if there is no yard, where will the dog be kept? Often homeowners will give permission for renters to have pets, but what happens if you have to move? Although you can make almost any area pet friendly, there are some specific structural elements that make the space work at its optimum for pets. These include: - Access to outdoor areas - Contained inner courtyards and atriums - Enclosed balconies - Tiled or wooden floors - Long corridors (great for cats) - Access to direct, but not unavoidable light - Pet-friendly features such as cat flaps, doggy doors and cat climbing racks
HOME DANGERS Take note of products around the house that may be harmful to your pet. Fertilisers, rodent poisons, snail and slug bait, and insecticides are dangerous when consumed by pets, and you’ll need to be wary of poisonous plants such as lily plants and castor oil plants that can be fatal if consumed. Be careful with food. Avocado, chocolate and onions are just a few food items that cause serious harm to animals. CITY LIVING
DID YOU KNOW?
Research shows it’s possible to keep and enjoy pets in densely populated urban areas. It’s a matter of researching breeds to ensure you find the pet most suited to your city lifestyle. If you’re moving to a strata development, check the by-laws, which vary from developer to developer, to ensure your furry friend is welcome. And if you’re downsizing and moving your dog or cat to a home where they won’t have outdoor access, begin to restrict their existing access well before you make the move to ease them into the transition.
Pet owners are at a lower risk of cardiovascular disease than non pet owners.*
* according to RSPCA Australia. rspca.org.au
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LIFESTYLE
is the new black The life and times of living with a feline.
Black is no longer an option in my wardrobe. Since adopting a kitten eight months ago, I’ve had to cull the classic look and keep a lint roller close by at all times. It’s just one of the sacrifices I’ve made for my furry housemate, Amelia. We adopted Amelia with the self-pride of people who thought they knew what they were doing. We heavily researched costs, vaccinations, and the suitability of cats in apartments. We even underwent an early rite of passage in cat ownership, copping a few welcome-to-the-club scratches from Puss, a mischievous four-legged member of our extended family. On the flip side, so many cute and quirky discoveries have been made since Amelia came to live with us. It took no time to fall in love with her adorable loafing, curious crouching, affectionate foot weaving, and quirky grooming style. All of which we’ve
attempted to catch on camera by scrambling for mobile phones and snapping half a second too late ... you had to be there. Unfortunately, our decor and Amelia haven’t always seen eye to eye. We said goodbye to our pristine fabric couch and quilted bedhead that were quickly redesigned by ‘her’ sharp claws, and hello to not-so-glamorous scratching posts and kitty-litter boxes. Living in our apartment, I mean, her apartment, now means cat essentials are on show for everyone to see, so it’s become a new challenge to find pet products that are both functional and fashionable for our little hub. Sad to say, candles are a no-no now if at any point you need to leave the room, the beautiful peace lily plant had to find a new home because lilies are deadly for cats – who knew?! And
I can no longer guarantee the safety of decorative pieces such as vases, photo frames, and ornaments, since the infamous Snow Globe Incident. Christmas was not so merry that day. But what I will say is that having Amelia as the cute and cuddly in this trio (she’d say ‘the brains’) has been the icing on the cake in terms of creating a home in the true sense of the word. She brings fun, love, and companionship to our little haven, and makes you look forward to coming home and relaxing to her hypnotic purr – that’s after you’ve answered her furious meows by filling up the food bowl, of course.
Amelia was adopted from the Animal Welfare League in New South Wales. According to Adoptapet.com.au, there are currently 1,444 cats and kittens seeking new homes, and 673 dogs and puppies. Please consider adopting when planning this new addition to the family.
WORDS: Lauren Circosta
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DIY PROJECT
Art
MARBLE
Craft your own fashionable wall accent. Put those unwanted nail polish shades to good use with this quick-and-easy project. Pour drops of polish into a container of water and swirl with a stick to create a marbled look. Place a white piece of paper or canvas face down in the container to catch the colour swirls, remove, and lay flat to dry. Frame your finished look and hang for a one-of-a-kind piece of art.
Styling: Dorina Lenarduzzi Photography: Dara Tippapart
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LIFESTYLE
Staying in? Grab the popcorn and get cosy with our pick of the best movie and TV interiors.
FILM THE GREAT GATSBY (2013) The classic Jazz Age story of love and ambition set in Long Island, New York, leaves nothing to the imagination when it comes to ostentatious wealth. Gatsby’s nouveau riche mansion in Baz Lurmann’s adaptation oozes excess from the gold-filigreed ceiling hung with ornate crystal chandeliers to the harlequin-pattern wall covering
of silk criss-crossed with ribbons of wood. Daisy’s Georgian redbrick manor boasts luxury Hollywood Regency and Deco-infused furnishings in a swoon worthy sitting room that’s hard to forget. It’s perfect for the Art Deco fan.
Movie Marathon Play it back-to-back with Luhrmann’s Moulin Rouge: a theatrical love story set in Montmarte’s famous cabaret.
THE GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL (2014) Wes Anderson’s whimsical tale of friendship, loyalty and murder is a masterpiece in colour, lighting and detail. Production designer Adam Stockhausen transformed an old department store in Gorlitz, Germany into one of the film’s leading characters: the grand hotel itself with an Eastern European, 1930s vibe in tow. The idea of
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luxury travel comes to life with candycoloured spaces, painted murals, art deco wall details, symmetrical design, and even an early 1900’s arch-laden bath house that doubles as the hotel’s pool and spa.
BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY’S (1961) Living with champagne tastes on a beer budget doesn’t stop Holly Golightly from creating an inviting and eclectic apartment. In this romantic comedy, she proves repurposing is the best way to get more bang for your buck. Her DIY glam is found in the upcycled couch made with one half of a bathtub, raw wooden boxes that double as coffee and side tables, and fuss free furnishings such as cushions and a statement rug. Each simple addition pops on a neutral canvas for a fresh and fuss-free style.
SEX AND THE CITY 2 (2010)
‘I’ve been cheating on fashion with furniture,’ confesses Carrie Bradshaw at the start of this movie sequel. And it’s clearly evident by the fashionable interiors that grace the screen. What we love about this film is the way Carrie marries her style with that of her husband’s – think masculine midcentury furnishings and dark wood with feminine accessories such as whimsical rugs and botanical-themed textiles. And don’t forget the grand his-andhers wardrobe!
IRON MAN (2008, 2010 & 2013) It’s fair to say Tony Stark’s ultra modern home takes its decor cues from his name – it’s stark. But it gets an honourable mention for its sleek, biomorphic design that’s brings to life any tech-lover’s fantasy home. The futuristic space includes sweeping floor to ceiling windows, a garage hidden under the cantilevered living
room, cylindrical glass waterfall, spiral staircase, and its own integrated computer system. It’s one for the fan of modernist architecture, and those that appreciate the magic of film CG.
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Movie Marathon with Tim Play it back-to-back a touch of Burton's Batman for grandeur. Wayne Manor Gothic
AMÉLIE (2001) Red takes the stage in Amelie’s Montmarte apartment. Her bohemian space is awash with the energetic shade that plays on the film’s heart-warming plot. The rich palette is dotted with wonderful detail including chequered tiling, beaded curtains, antique accents, contrasting wallpaper, and whimsical artwork for an eclectic charm. There’s always something new to discover in this cosy haven.
TV FRIENDS (1994-2004) They were the kooky group of New Yorkers we all saw ourselves in. Are you a ‘Monica’? If not, you no doubt appreciated her funky apartment that still resonates with its kitsch flea market buys and courageous mix of colours including: yellows, lavender, blues and greens. It’s the quirky points of surprise that we love most about this inviting home such as the mismatched antique couches, the pre-loved patchwork cushions, and who could forget that yellow picture frame around the door’s peep hole.
MAD MEN (2007- )
Aside from the engaging plot, it’s the unwavering commitment to set authenticity that makes Mad Men fascinating to watch. Creator
Matthew Weiner has often voiced his desire to ‘not continue the tradition of doing period as glamour’, and you can see this determination in the show’s carefully considered sets. While American social change unfolds during the 60s in New York, modernist design and mid-century details – from furniture and decor right through to fashion and accessories – plays a staring role.
REVENGE (2011 - ) With plot twists and cliff hangers that keep you guessing, it’s comforting to know the beautiful Hamptons backdrop to Revenge is always a definite. From Emily Thorne’s beach house that’s dotted with feminine furnishings and classic coastal decor, to Grayson Manor’s formal take on Hampton’s style with its grand entrance and lavish use of glass and mirror, there’s something to satisfy anyone’s style. Styling: Dorina Lenarduzzi Photography: Dara Tippapart
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