The Home magazine issue 8

ISSUE 8

Make it Yours FESTIVE STYLE TROPICAL FLAVOURS BRIGHT IDEAS

THEHOME.COM.AU

EDITOR’S LETTER Tropical touches

Home is where the heart is. And it’s this saying that’s been on loop in my thoughts over the last month as I said goodbye to friends and family that made bold decisions to pack up their worlds and seek new adventures overseas. With new country codes comes new homes, and although I’m sad to see them off, I’m excited for the memorable experiences they’ll have and the impressions they’ll make on their new environments. Be it soft fairy lights strung in a London bedroom or a sophisticated table setting for two in a Singapore apartment, finding inspiration for your home transcends borders.

The beauty of thehome.com.au magazine is that it can be accessed easily online for an instant style hit no matter where in the world you are. Flip though this issue and you’ll see we’ve gone tropical, dissecting the fun look and showcasing a villa-inspired studio to inspire. And despite it sneaking up on us (as it seems to every year), we’re celebrating Christmas with some fun DIY decor and party ideas.

Happy holidays,

se

Make this copper va

THE HOME MAGAZINE PUBLISHED BY THEHOME.COM.AU 201 KENT STREET, SYDNEY 2000 NEW SOUTH WALES, AUSTRALIA

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COVER A festive dining look with a twist STORY, PAGE 38.

Styling: George & Smee Photography: Leigh Griffiths

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CONTENTS DECOR 7 INSPIRATION: PISTACHIO A pale green with a quirky past 8 TOTALLY TROPICAL Try this fun and fresh style 12 FLORAL X GEOMETRIC The next big thing 14 ESCAPE TO THE HAMPTONS How to balance beach charm with sophistication 16 CRYSTAL PALACE Why these gems tick all our boxes 19 MERRY DIY A playful take on festive trim

INSIDER 22 WORKING CANVAS An ever-changing space echoes fresh beach vibes 25 ALL IN THE FAMILY A second life for a busy living space 28 PROFILE: CARLA COULSON The world through Carla’s lens 32 SUMMER LOVIN’ Seasonal loves of our favourite creatives 35 STYLE STALKER Must-follow Instagram accounts

LIFESTYLE & DIY

38 NATURAL TALENT A festive dining look with a twist 40 DIY PARTY PALMS Make your own table runner 43 SPARKLING COCTAIL With nectarine & rosemary

CREATIVE DIRECTOR MELBA GOUNAS EDITOR LAUREN CIRCOSTA FEATURE WRITER SUZANNE CHELLINGWORTH & SARAH RYAN SENIOR STYLIST MARJ SILVA

46 MULBERRY YOGURT ICEBLOCKS A delicious Cornershop recipe

STYLING ASSISTANT

47 DIY GIFT IDEAS A cool weekend project

PHOTOGRAPHER

49 THE LAST WORD Blogger Chris Carroll’s Christmas addiction

MELINDA WOODFORD GRAPHIC DESIGNER ATIEH MOHAMMADI LEIGH GRIFFITHS © The Home 2015

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DE S IG N SCO UT OUR ROUND UP OF NEWS AND DECORATING BITES

IN FINE FEATHER There’s a new contender for prime perch in our interiors.

The owl may have served an exceptionally long term, and we’ll always have a place for a pink flamingo on our lawns, but the dawn of the swan is officially upon us. Watch these elegant creatures take flight on cushions and stationery this season.

SUMMER SUPERFOODS Superfoods is a buzz word that isn’t likely to leave our vocabulary any time soon. Especially not with the world’s most influential chef Jamie Oliver advocating power-packed fodder in his new cookbook, Everyday Super Food. Grab yourself a copy and scour the farmer’s markets for summer’s most scrumptious spoils. We’re loving mangoes, berries and stonefruit, and can’t wait for March’s pomegranates for their juicy anti-oxidant-rich seeds which can be sprinkled in salads, desserts and cocktails for a tart, citrusy twist.

Try Jamie Oliver’s Grilled Corn & Quinoa Salad recipe on The Home blog.

DEADLINE DESIGN Shaynna Blaze stole our design hearts from the first moment she swooned over generous storage space on The Block. So we’re excited to catch her in 2016 hosting a new renovation show, Deadline Design. Not least because the homeowners will achieve their renovating goals in the face of real life deadlines – a baby on the way, growing teens, a wedding or special event – but because it’s about designing ‘forever homes’. ‘I have wanted to do a show for a long time that gets me designing interiors for people to live and have that feeling of, ‘I never, ever want to leave’,’ says Shaynna.

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MERRY MEALS If you’re tired of a traditional roast turkey or seafood spread, consider what might be put before you on Christmas day if you lived in Japan.

Due to an insanely successful and tenacious marketing campaign in 1974, it has become tradition for

Japanese folks to tuck into a merry feed of KFC. In some eastern European countries carp soup is a festive staple, while Norwegian families devour the whole lamb’s head!

RETRO REMIX MEET ME IN NAPLES ‘Naples was my first love. It was the place in Italy that set my photographer’s heart on fire.

Naples is raw, emotional, fast, voluptuous, confronting and generous.’ And Carla Coulson, photographer, traveller and dreamer, wants to meet you there. In her five day workshop, which runs from September 15th – 20th 2016, you’ll explore different themes of travel photography and learn how to create powerful, unforgettable images in the streets of Naples’ historic heart. Needless to say, we’ve cleared our calendars.

See more of Carla on page 28.

The post-modern era saw colour permeate our homes in unexpected combinations and neverbefore-seen forms. Dulux’s 2016 colour palette Retro Remix explores colour with the same sense of experimentation and innovation, inspiring a new retro movement. The playful remix pairs faded, muddied tones with acid brights.

Photography: Lisa Cohen Styled by: Bree Leech & Heather Nette King

DECOR

PROFESSIONAL ADVICE AND STYLING TIPS

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A PALE GREEN WITH A QUIRKY PAST.

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he humble pistachio has experienced a curious relationship with colour in recent decades. While its mottled greenish brown skin has inspired pastel palettes of late, up until the 1980s pistachios were the subject of a cunning cover-up.

It became common practice in the Middle East, where the majority of pistachios were grown and harvested for export, to use bright red or green dye to disguise unattractive stains on the shell which would occur when the seeds were hand-picked. The advent of modernised picking technology eventually eliminated the need for such a ruse, and apart from the occasional novelty bag found at Christmas, pistachios have been restored to their rightful – though perhaps less festive – colour.

It’s a specific shade of green; warmer than mint, more subdued than lime, and with a name that not only recalls some of the world’s favourite food exports (think nutty gelato, sticky baklava and chewy nougat) but also looks exotic on a page and rolls deliciously off the tongue, this is a colour that can certainly rouse the senses.

In their recent colour forecast, Dulux included a number of natural, barely-there pastels across their 2016 paint palettes.

Funnily enough, the pistachio nut, whose high oil and low water content makes it susceptible to spontaneous combustion in stuffy shipping containers, appears on the aptly named Dulux palette ‘Biofragility’.

Despite its drastic colour changes over the years, and a tendency to burst into flames, pistachio as a styling tool isn’t such a hard nut to crack. ‘This is because green appears so readily in nature alongside other colours’ explains interior stylist Emma Blomfield, challenging the common misconception that shades of green are difficult to decorate with. Emma suggests using pistachio as a background colour, rather than a statement colour to open up endless options such as splashes in artwork, details in cushions and table napery. ‘Think soft gelato tones paired back with Scandinavian oak timber, gritty textured linen and even metallics.’ If this intriguing nut still doesn’t pander to your design sensibility, pistachio ice cream is a fine compromise this summer.

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TOTALLY TROPICAL BORED OF BEIGE? PLAY WITH THE FUN AND FRESH VIBE OF TROPICAL STYLE.

EXOTIC SHADES Ease into a tropical look with moody blues and greens then turn up the heat with vivid colour.

We love bursts of tangerine, lemon, coral and lime to offset rainforest shades.

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PALM PRINT Decorate with leaf motifs, banana palm prints, and natural elements for an exotic look when it comes to cushions and art.

WARM TOUCHES Add inviting texture to tropical spaces with woven pendants, floor rugs, and throws.

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TROPICAL SMARTS Tame jungle fever with neutral shades that add timeless appeal.

EASY OUTDOORS The loose weave of rattan pieces makes for a casual alfresco feel.

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BLENDED LOOKS Team elegant wingback chairs with tropical trinkets for a relaxed take on sophistication.

PERFECT PATTERNS Go large scale with rug patterns.

Statement-making motifs below eye level ensures you’re not overwhelmed.

Styling: Marj Silva & Melinda Woodford

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TREND WATCH PLAY ALL THE RIGHT ANGLES WITH A LOOK THAT CLEVERLY CLASHES TWO FAVOURITES.

Bedlinen: Luxotic

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MAKE ONE PATTERN MORE DOMINANT, AND KEEP COLOURS CONSISTENT.

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Seek solace from the heat with an interior seachange. The Hamptons look is all about balancing breezy beach charm with classic sophistication for an effortlessly timeless space. Be sure to maximise all your natural light for this style as well as the following decorating tips.

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CHOOSE A TIMELESS PALETTE Opt for a fresh mix of white and neutrals as your base. You’ll be on point with sandy creams and driftwood browns, and turn to timbers and wicker for touches of texture. Add character with one hero colour such as aqua or china blue that reflects the ocean.

CALL ON COMFORT Choose puffy and overstuffed sofas. Upholster chairs in linen or reinvent with linen slip covers for a cool summer feel. Continue the theme outdoors and pair driftwood, bamboo, wicker or cane furniture with cushions and throws.

THINK ‘HIGH END’ AS OPPOSED TO ‘SHABBY CHIC’

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MASTER THE DETAILS Mix the old with the new for an interesting look. Rustic items such as pre-loved wicker baskets and timber tables pair perfectly with contemporary lamps and artwork. Keep decorating balanced and clutter free with beautiful accents such as coral or ceramics for a tranquil feel.

Styling: Marj Silva & Melinda Woodford

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CRYS PA L A I

n an Agust 2015 interview with Vogue Australia magazine, pop star-turnedfashion-designer Victoria Beckham revealed crystals play a significant role in her life. From the frost-white lump on her office desk to the small stones she carries in her pocket, she uses them to promote a positive attitude and energy at all times.

Is it the kick of energy that drew you in or simply the beauty of the raw form that caught your eye?

Whatever it was, you’ve no doubt spied crystals and geodes popping up in homes and workplaces of late. As their mainstream popularity grows, we’ve dug for details on why these faceted finds are ticking all our boxes.

It’s not just the Beckhams embracing this potential.

The emotional, spiritual and physical benefits of crystal energy have been harnessed for millennia.

Be it the Romans that kept amulets of crystals for health, the ancient Egyptian females who wore crushed Lapis Lazuli stones on their eyes for enlightenment or the ancient Greeks that crushed hematite and rubbed it on their soldiers in the belief it made them invincible, we’ve always had a penchant for the power of gems.

Jean Sheehan, principal and director at Absolute Empowerment, is on the same page as the Romans.

She attributes the growing popularity of crystals to a desire for new ways to assist with health and lifestyle. ‘People are seeking ways to create the life they want, and crystals are a part of that just as they were in ancient times. They’re gentle and powerful, and people are drawn to them in forms of beautiful jewellery and accessories.’

Pair this with a geometric trend we can’t seem to kick and we have a beautiful interior look crystalising. The Home stylist Emma Blomfield says: ‘I personally love using crystals in styling because of their organic shapes and colours. There is no colour that isn’t featured in crystals, so you can match your decor to a specific gem.’

THE GROUND WORK Crystals have the most energy of all Earth’s objects.

This is the result of their creation that happens in the Earth’s crust over long periods of time at high pressure and heat. According to Australian crystal healer Amanda Coppa, the bodily system is nothing more than energy in various patterns and densities.

‘When these patterns of energy work together in a balanced way we experience good health, but stress, trauma, negative thought patterns, and electromagnetic interference can disrupt it.

Crystals around the body act like a tuning fork and realign the energetic system optimising good health and wellbeing.’

Still seeing pretty rocks? According to Megan Cameron, owner of Gypsy Head store in Sydney, you don’t have to be obsessed with new-age spirituality to use crystals. ‘Some people believe they’re nothing more than a placebo, and that’s fine. If they are simply uplifting your heart and brightening your home then they’re still benefitting you in some way.’

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STYLE A COFFEE TABLE WITH A CANDLE, VASE, AND A FEW BOOKS TOPPED WITH A QUARTZ CRYSTAL.

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CRYSTAL HAVEN There are no set rules when it comes to choosing and placing crystals. And most experts will tell you it’s the stone that chooses you with its energy in the form of gut feelings and intuition. But it’s commonly noted to always pick up and hold the piece you’re considering. It’s said there is an innate part of you that knows which crystal you need.

Some of the most common minerals you’ll see dotted around the home include: rose quartz, amethyst, and clear quartz because they’re easy to find, inexpensive, and all-round good crystals for general healing and balance. Sheehan suggest those wanting a decorative ornament for the coffee table may choose aventurine that brings about relaxation.

For those prone to sleeping problems, hematite on the bedside table may help, as may white howlite crystal in the bathroom if you have pain and stress.

And if you’re after a specific property such as clarity, a clear quartz crystal in the office or study may work.

In the end, it’s each to their own when it comes to believing in the power of these rocks. But something we can all agree on is an undeniable draw to them. Be it their striking shapes and shades that catch the eye or the energy and mystery you feel in their presence – we’re not shying away from this popular look. absoluteempowerment.com amandacoppa.com facebook.com/lovegypsyhead

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C R Y S TA L S A QUICK

AMAZONITE Said to calm ones emotions and nerves.

Improves self-confidence and positive attitude, and enhances creativity.

AMETHYST Calms emotions and encourages peace and serenity. Promotes restful sleep and is thought to ease headaches.

AGATE Imparts strength and courage and fosters loyalty in others.

AVENTURINE Helps release supressed fears and negativity.

Provides relaxation and a positive attitude.

CITRINE Promotes cheerfulness and abundance and enhances the body’s healing energy.

CLEAR QUARTZ Encourages focus, positivity and patience.

GARNET Popular talisman and protective stone.

DISCLAIMER: The information contained here is in no way intended as medical counselling. If you are experiencing mental or physical health problems, consult your healthcare professional.

GUIDE

HEMATITE Reduces fatigue and stress. Enhances optimism and gives courage.

HOWLITE Calm, gentle and comforting. Aids sleep and helps overcome stress, anger and pain.

JADE Promotes clarity, modesty, courage, justice, and wisdom. Powerful balancer.

LAPIS LAZULI Spiritual stone that facilitates vitality, and enhances the energy of other gemstones.

PYRITE Strengthens will and encourages a positive and practical outlook.

ROSE QUARTZ Heals wounds of the heart and clears stored anger. Reduces stress and encourages inner peace.

TURQUOISE Promotes peace, communication, and friendship. Balances and mood fluctuations.

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Merry A PLAYFUL TAKE ON FESTIVE TRIM.

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Pom Pom Wearth WHAT YOU’LL NEED yarn in various colours | pom pom disc stencil (available online) | cardboard | round timber frame | scissors HOW TO Make a batch of pom poms using yarn, pom pom stencil and cardboard – the more pom poms the better for a full wreath. Leave enough yarn spare on each pom pom to knot it to the timber frame.

Keep each one close to its neighbour for an almost bursting look, and don’t forget to balance the distribution of colour.

Geometric CHRISTMAS TREE WHAT YOU’LL NEED string in chosen colour | adhesive hooks | ruler HOW TO Using your ruler, create the triangle shape of your tree by marking its three outer points, and additional 5cm spaces along these points with adhesive hooks. Start your tree design by knotting the end of your string at a base hook, and wrapping it around opposite hooks on your frame. Keep wrapping up and down, and side to side till your heart’s content, fastening off your design at a base hook.

insider lead

INSIDER

INSPIRING PERSONALITIES AND HOMES WITH HEART

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AN EVER-CHANGING SPACE ECHOES FRESH BEACH VIBES.

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FAST READ WHO LIVES HERE?

Stylist and photographer, Louise Roche, and her husband Steven and their puppy, Ella.

FAVOURITE ROOM

The studio and office space in her Brisbane bungalow-style home.

WHAT WE LOVE

Fresh tropical touches that hint at resort style.

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n any given day Louise Roche can be found sourcing props, building sets, styling products, photographing or editing images.

And don’t forget managing her blog! So it comes as no surprise the busy creative spends most of her time in her purpose-built studio at home. The studio and office space is a stylish foundation to her 70s bungalow-style home, and is a lightfilled area inspired by a love of the ocean.

‘My husband and I could see the potential the house had to become a beautiful tropical oasis,’ says Roche recalling its early days as a renovator’s delight. The interior’s entire bottom level was bare. With no walls in sight it hinted at great working space straight off the bat, so a large laundry, Balinese-style bathroom, and office space were added. The couple then converted the double-garage into a studio to bring her full vision to life, and smart storage, such as a walk-in cupboard and large cabinetry, were added to make it functional for photoshoots.

When it came to the finishes, Roche kept the foundations simple with crisp walls and whitewash tiling for a working canvas. Everyday a new job comes in and a whole new look is created, but when the task is done, it’s back to her signature style: villa resort and tropical greenery.

It’s evident in additions peppered throughout the space such as pieces from Roche’s huge shell collection, a raw and textured rug, her surfboard,

and a classic summer palette of zesty yellows and coastal blues.

As always with the nature of her work, the creative space is currently evolving. In the coming weeks it’s set to become a dual living area with a lounge and sideboards added for more comfort and relaxed living. ‘It’s such a beautiful open and airy space, which is just too lovely not to enjoy as a living space, too,’ she says. thedesignvilla.com.au Styling & photography: Louise Roche

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EVERY DAY A NEW JOB COMES IN AND A WHOLE NEW LOOK IS CREATED.

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ALL IN THE FAMILY A SECOND LIFE FOR A BUSY LIVING SPACE.

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FAST READ WHO LIVES HERE?

Interior decorator and stylist, Emma Duckworth, her husband and two daughters.

FAVOURITE ROOM

The living and kitchen space in her Sydney brick home

WHAT WE LOVE

The clever blend of cosy features from country and industrial styles.

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years ago Emma Duckworth fell in love with the northern beaches of Sydney while backpacking with her best friend. ‘I knew the minute I landed here I wanted to call this place home,’ she says.

And as if spoken into existence, today the interior decorator and stylist lives in the very suburb with her husband and two daughters.

Duckworth didn’t need to look far when it came to making her dream a reality. The couple’s 4-bedroom original 60s brick home was owned by her husband’s parents for 40 years, and they purchased the property from them when they downsized four years ago. Over time they’ve slowly renovated the inside and clad the exterior with weatherboard giving it a more contemporary feel Duckworth describes as: a mix of clean

country with a hint of industrial.

One of the big changes made was turning the two separate living and dining rooms into one open space. ‘I love that the girls can be reading on the sofas or doing their homework at the breakfast bar while I’m in the kitchen pottering around,’ she says. The plan was to create something light and airy, with a timeless palette: charcoal, indigo, white and chocolate. ‘I love the contrast of dark tones with crisp white that’s off-set with wood.’

In keeping with the bright and spacious feel the original taupe sofas were reinvented with white slip covers, a herringbone rug laid for an inviting contrast and warmth, and a relaxed approach to decorating taken. ‘I don’t believe in hiding things away, but instead use them and enjoy them,’ she says, noting special

mementoes such as: precious boxes, coral, and shells all picked up over the last 10 years of marriage. ‘We’ve decorated it to be a relaxed environment that is very much lived in.’

There are more plans on the drawing board to nurture this relaxed vibe. The cream kitchen doors and dark benchtop will get a fresh spray of white over the next few months, and the living room will evolve into a simpler, cleaner Scandi look. It will no doubt add a fresh new feel to the busy hub while still celebrating its honest bones. emmaduckworth.com.au Photography: Emma Duckworth Potrait photography: Tealily Photography

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WE’VE DECORATED IT TO BE A RELAXED ENVIRONMENT.

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Carla Coulson THE WORLD THROUGH HER LENS We have a serious soft spot for internationally acclaimed photographer and author, Carla Coulson. Soul searching amid the chaos of the concrete jungle, Carla decided to take a leap of faith into the unknown.

She left her well-paid job in Sydney, boarded a plane to Italy, and turned over a new leaf as a successful photographer in Europe. In following her new life of adventure, passion and love, she now lives in Paris, and has an impressive number of books to her name including: Italian Joy, Chasing a Dream and Paris Tango.

For Carla, the people are her favourite subject and the heart of any city, and her photos elicit thoughts, feelings, and emotions when words don’t suffice.

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When did it all start?

I started taking photos for fun in my 20s. I did a course at night at the local TAFE, but managed to be the only person who developed a roll of film with no images! I was too embarrassed to go back.

Tell us about your light-bulb moment.

In my 30s I realised I was living the wrong life. I did a lot of soul searching and took time off work to find out what I wanted in life. This led me to Italy where I realised I didn’t want to go back to my old life. I asked myself what I liked doing, and the only answer I kept coming up with was photography. So I decided to study photography in Florence, and once I started at photography school and developed my first print, it was an instant love affair.

Carla’s Parisian home office.

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What subjects interest you the most?

I love travel and spent the first 12 years working for Australian and International magazines as a travel photographer. I had the opportunity to do a lot of portraiture and life photography, and I still love this, connecting with and trying to bring out the humanity and emotions in a person – it’s pure magic.

Describe a typical day at work?

I don’t really have a typical day as it depends on what’s on. If I am shooting I often start early in the morning while Paris is still dark. I prepare everything the day prior so I can grab everything and go.

When I’m not shooting, I love working in my new office. I start by checking emails and the rest of the day can involve planning a shoot, organising prints, picking up props and planning workshops.

Is there a favourite photo you’ve taken?

Tough question. Photos have an emotional attachment because of where you were in your life when you took them. I change my mind all the time, but I do love the underwater photo I took of two Italian ladies chatting.

What do you do other than photography?

Is there anything else? I find photography for me is part of my lifestyle. It seems to weave its way into all aspects of my life.

I am interested in natural health and my hubby is studying to be a naturopath, so we love to explore all things health. I love to cook; I find lots of inspiration in museums and galleries, and adore travelling.

Ladies Underwater by Carla Coulson.

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Tell us about your home?

I used to live in an old apartment for the past 10 years with fabric coloured walls. It was kind of ‘the worst place in the best street’.

All I wanted was a white, light space, and an architect friend of mine was re-doing a place and put me first in the queue.

We have two bedrooms – one I use as my office, and we have an open lounge dining room we share with our cat, Avedon.

Describe your perfect holiday?

Swimming is always involved.

Whether it be on a remote Greek island swimming in crystal clear waters or on a secluded beach on the Amalfi Coast, I am happiest surrounded by the sea. After a busy year in the city, I love to be re-connected with nature, delicious simple food and lots of swimming.

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Where do you live now?

I recently moved from Le Marais in Paris to Belleville – just a couple of stops away on the Metro, but it’s like a whole new Paris. I love it.

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I’m in Paris for 12 hours. What do I do?

Walk. Paris is a fabulous city to walk around and you see far more this way than jumping on the Metro. Don’t worry about rushing to the tourist spots, take a walk along the river, have lunch in a local bistrot, check out a small gallery and the shops in Le Marais, and have a long apéritif with the locals.

Check out Carla’s new series of images, La Vacanza Italiana, at carlacoulson.com Photography: Carla Coulson

PHOTOGRAPHY FOR ME IS PART OF MY LIFESTYLE. IT SEEMS TO WEAVE ITS WAY INTO ALL ASPECTS OF MY LIFE.

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Summer Lovin’ WHAT’S YOUR HOT SEASON INDULGENCE?

Michele Cranston cookbook author and food editor

Tomatoes, peaches, mangoes and cherries! Summer fruits are fantastic to combine with meats and bring a sweet fresh flavour to all those summer salads. I love figs with ham and prosciutto or mangoes combined with chilli prawns and fresh coriander.

Tara Dennis television presenter and designer

We have a cute wooden house up on the Hawkesbury in Sydney’s north, and during the summer holidays we tend to work on the house in the mornings and head out on the boat for swimming in the afternoons. Being lazy and enjoying a glass of wine always feels better when you’ve ‘earned’ it!

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Tim Neve interior stylist

I plan my working weekdays around my lunchtime swim in Newcastle’s iconic ocean baths. So if I don’t answer my phone in the middle of a summer’s day, you know I’m busy swimming! It’s a dead giveaway when I arrive to afternoon meetings with salty hair and sandy flip-flops on!

Gina Ciancio blogger at Style Curator

We will finally be moving into our new house after more than two years of planning and building. The balcony will be top on my decorating list so I can enjoy the space with friends and family this summer.

Louise de Weger visual artist and designer A new colourful hammock for the veranda, and indulging a love of fairy lights.

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Dani Butchart creative stylist and designer

This will be the first summer I get to share with my little boy, Dallas.

It will be a time to enjoy adventures in the sun and savour the simple things like icy poles, midnight swims and mangoes!

Zoe Bigley-Pullin nutritionist and presenter

Every year I pull out my Christmas tree made out of gum tree branches and decorate it with flowers, baubles and other fun items. We’re anything but traditional in our house!

Sean Cook florist The smell of gardenias, taking the dogs to the beach, and enjoying a real tree this Christmas for the first time – a Blue Norwegian Spruce.

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STYLE STALKER From bakers to bloggers, designers to gardeners, we’ve compiled our favourite Instagram accounts for a daily dose of inspiration.

p a t e l b u o d s Let to that! ‘

stevecordony

whitneyleighmorris

WHO: Whitney Leigh Morris, Californian creative director.

FOLLOW HER FOR: Inspiration for living large in a tiny home aka her Venice Beach bungalow. From movies on the porch to hosting lunch in the combined living/ guest/office/dining room – it’s a fascinating insight into small-space living with style.

WHO: Steve Cordony, Australian interiors and events stylist.

FOLLOW HIM FOR: A glimpse at what Steve does best: modern luxe. Whether it be snaps from his latest styling project or captured moments from his travels, Steve’s look and feed is always suave and sophisticated. And he’s not one to shy away from bold wallpaper, too!

clairecollected WHO: Claire, Australian lifestyle blogger.

FOLLOW HER FOR: A hit of colour. This feed is a kaleidoscope of juicy shades indicative of Claire’s self-professed happy mess: rooms at home bursting with vivid cushions, craft, books and children!

She shares all things fashion, interiors, and DIY in look-at-me palettes.

abeachcottage WHO: Sarah, British born Australian stylist and blogger.

FOLLOW HER FOR: The beautiful transformation of a run down 100 year old cottage on Sydney’s Northern Beaches.

Her feed is full of light and bright interior shots that show off her laid back coastal style, and upcycling talent.

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trestylist WHO: Amy and Sara Chamberlain, Australian creative directors at The Real Estate Stylists.

theplanthunter WHO: Georgina Reid, Australian landscape architect, and editor of The Planthunter online magazine.

FOLLOW THEm FOR: A glimpse inside the world of boutique property styling. This sister duo share snaps of their work that includes drool-worthy contemporary furniture and decor in some of Melbourne’s most beautiful homes and apartments.

FOLLOW HER FOR: A fascinating exploration of why we can’t help but be drawn to plants. You’ll be mesmerised by the celebration of all things botanical in the form of snippets from the magazine, and captured moments from the lush gardens she traverses.

lemonpiy WHO: Yu-ching Lee, Australian cook, home baker and blogger.

FOLLOW HER FOR: Satisfying your sweet tooth minus the calories. Yu-ching Lee’s clean and crisp snaps showcase beautiful baked creations such as gourmet tarts and mouth-watering eclairs.

The visual feast is also peppered with travel photos for the perfect daydreaming combo.

gelatomessina WHO: Australian gelato making royalty.

FOLLOW THEM FOR: It’s summer, and their feed is full of tantalising chilled treats – enough said!

LIFESTYLE & DIY PROJECTS CREATIVE IDEAS AND WEEKEND TREATS.

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L I F E S T Y L E

CELEBRATE WITH A TWIST ON TRADITIONAL. Event stylists George & Smee share their festive dining look that awakens the senses with natural textures, colour, and delicious aroma. Be inspired.

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GET THE LOOK • Start with a muted palette and punctuate with vibrant colour in the form of native flowers, and seasonal fruit and spices.

• Hand-painted name cards make for a personal touch. Any imperfections simply add to the overall look.

• Group candles for a magical Christmas glow. Lighting creates a relaxed mood and should never be overlooked.

• Collect and decorate with antique brass, tarnished silver and copper pots for added texture and interest.

georgeandsmee.com Styling: Georgina Van Hee & Katie Smee Photography: Leigh Griffiths

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DIY PARTY

Palms

HOW TO Matisse meets tropical touches in this easy DIY table runner. Just like the artist’s intricate designs, this cutout creation packs its punch when layered. Simply sketch palm shapes on a favourite palette of cardboard, cut them out, and use double-sided tape to layer a fun and fresh runner or place card for your summer do.

Tip: skip the sketch and find some palm leaf templates online to trace.

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PRICE EXAMPLES QUEEN SHEET SETS FROM $59 QUEEN QUILT COVER SETS FROM $59 CUSHIONS AND THROWS FROM $12 RUGS FROM $149 ACCENT CHAIRS FROM $199 SIDE TABLES FROM $95 DECORATIVE ACCENTS FROM $9 PENDANT LIGHTING FROM $40 ARTWORK FROM $89

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Nectarine & Rosemary Sparkling Cocktail ENJOY SUMMER SUNSETS WITH THIS FRESH TWIST. SERVES: 2 INGREDIENTS 2 ripe nectarines, peeled and cored 1 tbsp. fresh rosemary plus a few sprigs for decoration 3 tbsp. water 1 tbsp. honey 1 bottle of Moscato or any sweet sparkling wine In a blender, combine the nectarines, fresh rosemary, water and honey. Blend until you achieve a thick syrup.

Fill two glasses with ice cubes and divide the nectarine syrup between them. Top with cold Moscato.

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Seasonal Treats

Today a basket of herbs can get you a free coffee. Tomorrow you may walk in with a tub of mulberries and leave with a jar of jam or pickles – that’s how Cornersmith cafe in Sydney’s Marrickville does business. Its beloved philosophy, which includes a trading system, seasonal menu, and pickling and preserving classes, takes advantage of wholesome and healthy ingredients thriving in the local community. All this and more is celebrated in the new cookbook, Cornersmith: Recipes from the Café and Picklery by husband + wife team ALex Elliett-Hewery and James Grant.

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Mulberry Compote It was mulberry season when we first opened Cornersmith, and there are mulberry trees everywhere in Marrickville.

They hang over fences and stain the footpaths purple. For a while there we’d pull over every time we saw a fruitfilled tree and make the kids stand on the roof of the car to fill up buckets. Eventually we took to keeping a ladder and buckets in the back of our van for the duration of the mulberry season!

We make mulberry compote for our milkshakes and serve it on top of muesli at the cafe. You can also spoon this over ice cream or use it as a sweet braise for pork or gamey meats. It will keep for up to a week in the fridge.

PREPARATION TIME: 15 minutes, plus 1–12 hours macerating COOKING TIME: 30 minutes MAKES: about 500 ml (17 fl oz/2 cups) 750 g (1 lb 10 oz) mulberries, stems removed 75 g (21⁄2 oz/¹⁄³ cup) caster (superfine) or raw sugar juice and finely grated zest of 1 orange 2 tablespoons honey Put the mulberries into a non-reactive saucepan, lightly crushing them with your hands as you go. Sprinkle over the sugar and mix well, then leave to sit for at least 1 hour or up to 12 hours.

Add the orange juice and zest to the pan, along with the honey, then place over low heat. Stir until the honey and sugar have completely dissolved, then simmer for 20 minutes or until the berries have really broken down. Taste for sweetness, adding more sugar if necessary.

At this stage you can leave the compote as is or purée it with a stick blender for a smoother texture. We tend to blitz this one, as mulberry seeds can often be quite tough and they don’t break down during the cooking process.

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Mulberry Yoghurt Ice Blocks This is an easy recipe for the warmer months. We made these a lot for our kids when they were little, and now they make them on their own. You can do this with any kind of fruit compote, such as apricot and cardamom on page 118.

PREPARATION TIME: 10 minutes, plus overnight freezing MAKES: 12 ice blocks 500 ml (17 fl oz/2 cups) mulberry compote (see previous) 520 g (1 lb 21⁄2 oz/2 cups) natural yoghurt honey, to taste – optional Stir the mulberry compote into the yoghurt. Taste and add honey if you think it needs it – the mulberry compote already has honey in it, remember. Pour into ice-block moulds, then add paddle-pop sticks and freeze overnight.

Recipes and images from Cornersmith by Alex Elliott-Howery and James Grant (MurdochBooks).

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GIVE THE GIFT OF HANDMADE STYLE.

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WHAT YOU’LL NEED

vase | metal leaf strips | sandpaper | paint brush | super glue | painter’s tape | sealing spray

1. Mask your pattern on the vase using painter’s tape. Gently sand area where leaf is to be applied and wipe clean.

2. Apply glue to glass, and gently layer metal leaf on top by patting down lightly with a clean paint brush to avoid it sticking to your fingers. Note: it’s not important for leafing to be neat at this point, just ensure all glue is covered. If you make a mistake, cover with additional layers. Leave to dry for time specified on packet.

3. Remove masking tape and brush excess metal off. Spray with gloss seal to avoid tarnish.

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The Last Word CHRIS CARROLL: I’M ADDICTED TO CHRISTMAS (AND THE STRUGGLE IS REAL)!

W

hen you’re obsessed with all things festive, meeting people who don’t care for it is like entering a parallel universe; filled with creatures you don’t understand who speak a language you can’t comprehend. For us Christmas addicts, not feeling waves of joy and rapture the moment the stores release their festive decor each year is downright bizarre and unnatural (and no, a September drop is not too soon!).

Being around people who don’t have heart palpitation over all things Christmas is a tough gig - and I feel your pain. When your partner isn’t fussed over Christmas colour schemes and says ridiculous things like: ‘Can’t we just do what we did last year?’ with regard to your proposed wrapping and ribbon theme, there’s nobody to confide

in that divorce may be imminent.

If you’re a Christmas addict, you’ll also understand what I mean when I say that shopping at this time is a weird experience. Everyone is stressed out; kids are crying, mothers contemplate running away to join the circus, and fathers question their life choices. But me ... I’m gliding through the mall with a smile on my face, pleased to hear the 95th rendition of Jingle Bell Rock.

Of course, the worst part about being a Christmas addict who owns pets is trying to keep them away from the tree for a month. I’ve never wanted to send my cats away more than when they’ve ripped baubles off my masterpiece or are spotted galloping away from the tree with ribbon in their mouth.

If you’re reading this and you’re a Christmas addict, know that you’re not alone. You actually belong to a special club. A club of glorious, wonderful, completely crazy people who understand the pain you want to inflict on your partner when Mariah’s All I Want for Christmas is You comes on and they roll their eyes.

Have a Merry (and stress-free) Christmas!

Check in with Chris Carroll’s Christmas adventures at thelifecreativeblog.com

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