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ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S A CHRISTMAS MIRACLE: HOW TO DO A DRAMA-FREE FESTIVE LUNCH

DECEMBER 2017

EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY! WE SPEND THE HOLIDAYS WITH

RACHEL CASTLE, PONY RIDER AND DOWN TO THE WOODS

DECEMBER $8.50

JOY TO THE WORLD 25 GIFTS THAT GIVE BACK

Discover the subtle art of standing out. Introducing new COLORBOND steel Matt. Understated yet contemporary, this rooďŹ ng and walling material is unequalled in its ability to draw attention. In fact, the only thing that does match its looks is its durability in our harsh Australian environment. Visit COLORBOND.COM or call 1800 702 764

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BARTOLO Dining Table, available in two sizes, 270 x 120cm (as displayed) and 220 x 105cm PIPPIN & PETER Leather Dining Chairs WEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;RE OPEN 7 DAYS. Visit one of our 47 SHOWROOMS across New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia, ACT and Tasmania. Find a store near you and view our full range online at nickscali.com.au

Harper sofa in ocean (made to order) $2599.00, Bourkley cushion in midnight $59.95, Greta rug in carbon from $599.95, Wall art from $99.95, Vases, pots and planters from $14.95, Milly hurricane in carbon $109.95, Books from $39.99, Alena throw in carbon $229.95.

YEARS

Now you can introduce Sheridan into every room of the house with our new collection of homewares â&#x20AC;&#x201C; including limited edition wall art, made to order furniture, rugs, wallpaper and more. Blending modern style with time-tested craftsmanship. AVAIL ABLE AT SHERIDAN S TUDIO S TORES: BELROSE, C AMBERWELL, CL AREMONT, INDOOROOPILLY, MARIBY RNONG, MAROOCHY DORE, ROBINA AND SHERIDAN.COM. AU

CONTENTS I S S U E

1 3 9

P E A C E

O N

E A R T H

117

HOME S

LOV ING

4 0 SEASIDE GREETINGS

2 0 ALL IS CALM… ALL IS BRIGHT Pop some carols on repeat, deck your halls with our edit of non-traditional trimmings and have yourself a merry little Christmas

A beautiful beach shack in Sydney is the perfect place for a relaxed family gathering

5 4 JOY TO THE WORLD Artist and creative Rachel Castle sets the table poolside for a festive ladies’ lunch

2 6 FEEL GOOD FINDS Give something back this festive season with these charitable and sustainable buys

6 8 NORDIC NOEL

Meanwhile, in Finland, a more traditional white Christmas is taking shape

3 2 ARTIST IN RESIDENCE Down To The Woods owner and designer Amber Clohesy lives and breathes Christmas

GI V E

8 8 CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

Find the perfect pressies for your loved ones with our selection for every personality type

110 MERRILY MODERN 10 8 BEAUTY SPOT Get your glow on for the party season with one of these pretty make-up palettes

Treat your guests to a visual feast for the eyes by going all out with glorious wreaths and vibrant table centrepieces A real living

CONTENTS

130

149

154 PA RT Y 13 9 JINGLE BELL ROCK

Sydney chef Jake Smyth puts on a tasty Christmas spread for his mates, and kindly shares all the recipes with us!

O U T SIDE 155

MAKE 12 1 50 FESTIVE DIYS TO TRY Add a personal ï¬&#x201A;avour to your Christmas decor with these simple craft ideas that require next to no effort or expense

13 6 MAN ABOUT THE HOUSE Our resident funnyman Tim Ross shares some helpful tips on how best to avoid a family bust-up on Christmas Day @reallivingmag

15 3 SHUT THE FRONT DOOR! Make a festive statement from the outset with these stylish door decoration ideas

E V ERY MON T H 13 WELCOME 17 Bauer Media Privacy Notice 118 SUBSCRIBE to real living this month for your chance to win a $10,000 cash prize! 16 2 FULL STOP Five minutes with Mecca founder Jo Horgan

140

Featuring O Christmas Tree, Swank & Elemental

GETTING FESTIVE

From unique in-house designs, to the world’s leading luxury brands, find the perfect wallpaper at Porter’s. PAINT AND SPECIALITY FINISHES | LUXURY WALLPAPER | FRENCH OAK FLOORING For your closest showroom or stockist, visit www.porterspaints.com or call 1800 656 664 Featured: Designers Guild Wallpaper ‘Tulipa Stellata Fuchsia PDG1037/01’

HELLO

Jingle all the way Christmas decor is so personal; what you like depends on what you’ve experienced. I love a modern take on traditional – it reminds me of my best Christmas ever, in Canada!

WHAT’S ON EMMA’S CHRISTMAS WISHLIST?

photography maree homer (emma) | fashion styling charlotte stokes | hair & make-up allison boyle/the artist group emma wears dress by zara, earrings by susan driver; ontwerpduo candle (on table) from gingerﬁnch

Jazzy Hedgehog Bottle Brush ornament, $14, West Elm. Peppermint Bark chocolate, $42, WilliamsSonoma. Samsonite “Cosmolite 3.0” Hard Spinner case (81cm), $899, Myer. Muuto Small Crushed bowl, $75, Luisaviaroma. BG Barware “Stirred & Shaken” Complete Copper cocktail kit, $129, Temple & Webster. Maison Sarah Lavoine “Syracuse” candle, $120, Bastille And Sons.

IT MAY SOUND CRAZY but when we first sat down months ago to discuss the direction of our Christmas edition, we couldn’t ignore the atmosphere around us. Political unrest, terrorism – to say 2017 has been a bumpy ride would be an understatement. Interior design, like any creative endeavour, doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Just as writers and musicians are influenced by what’s happening around the globe, so too is our little corner of the creative universe. So this issue we wanted to create an antidote to the collective state of anxiety. It started with our cover; a custom-made neon sign a bright shining symbol of what we all want for Christmas more than anything, peace. We looked for gift ideas that give back in some way (p26). We searched high and low for simple ideas to decorate your space and make meaningful presents (p121) because, really, who needs another pair of socks. And when it came to dropping in on Rachel Castle (p54) and Kelly Searl from Pony Rider (p40) we wanted to know all about the festive traditions and rituals they cherish most. Yes, you’ll find recipes and plenty of interior inspo and lots of fun things to buy, but more than anything we wanted to celebrate what makes the holidays so special: the joy of giving, sharing and the promise of a brighter year ahead. See you in 2018!

L OV E

, WOR K YO U R BODE INIA @ MYM

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AT EF U L F O

AT A R E

GR U

We’re about to move house and since I’ve done all the packing, he said he will do all the lifting and I can just “supervise”.

Friends and family...

My husband...

editorial Editor Deputy editor Creative director Deputy art director Senior designer Style editor Chief subeditor & features writer Deputy chief subeditor & features writer Editorial coordinator & style assistant

Emma Vidgen Elle Lovelock Sandy Dao Ann Do Madeleine Wright Kerrie-Ann Jones Victoria Kingsbury Stephanie Hope Lisa Burden (02) 8275 6414; lburden@bauer-media.com.au Art assistant Kate Kiryk Thanks to Isla Evans; Alice Ierace; Frances Pearson

production Title controller Rachel Rae Advertising controller Dominic Roy Production planner Rosanna Quinzon

A hot, sunny, Southern Hemisphere Christmas... Christmas isn’t Christmas without a bit of festive sweltering!

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marketing, research & circulation A year that has been ﬁ lled with such family joy and creative challenges…

Commercial analyst Assistant publisher Group subscriptions marketing manager Subscriptions campaign manager Research and insights manager

It’s definitely kept me on my toes, and I wouldn’t have had it any other way.

Marisa Spasich (02) 9282 8024 Kathleen Chu (02) 9282 8669 Kit Wilson (02) 9288 9609 Thea Mahony (02) 9282 8583 Miriam Condon (02) 9282 8641

I’m grateful I’ ll have lots of family and friends from interstate and overseas in town to celebrate with this year.

My growing family... A year ago my nephew came into the world and he’s made Christmas that little bit more special. Brighter, happier and sunnier with his infectious laughter!

My little people... Having little kiddies has made Christmas fun again. It was just another day before they came along – now it’s so much fun!

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bauer media Chief executive ofﬁcer General manager, publishing Commercial director Australia Director of brands & categories Director of media solutions

The feel-good vibe… I’m grateful for all the smiling faces on the street and the festive cheer they bring!

Paul Dykzeul Fiorella Di Santo Paul Gardiner Jane Serember Warwick Taylor

Letters to: real living, Reply Paid 5252, Sydney, NSW 2000. Printed by PMP Ltd Moorebank, 31-37 Heathcote Rd, Moorebank, NSW, 2170. Published by Bauer Media Pty Limited (ACN 053 273 546), 54-58 Park Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, (02) 9282 8000. The trade mark real living is the property of Bauer Consumer Media Limited and is used under licence. Distributed by Network Services, 54 Park Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, (02) 9282 8777. *Recommended price, real living. No material may be reproduced in part or in whole without written consent from the copyright holders. Bauer Media Pty Limited does not accept responsibility for damage to, or loss of, freelance material submitted for publication. Allow several weeks for acceptance or return. © 2017 Bauer Media Pty Limited. All rights reserved. ISSN 1833-0398

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FaceTime... I’m from the UK and I get serious FOMO when my family get together over Christmas. But I’m also thankful for the Aussie sunshine reminding me it’s not all bad – I’ ll survive!

real living magazine is published by Bauer Media Pty Limited

Our backyard! It’s still a work in progress but hopefully we will finally have our new entertaining space in time for Christmas.

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My massive Italian family... Nothing beats the feeling of love, togetherness and a European-style Chrissie feed!

real living

Little ďŹ&#x201A;uffy clouds Time to change up your Christmas decorations? This dreamy cool blue look has got our vote. Turn the page for three very different looks for your tree and more. A

LOVING T A L E N T

S P A C E S

D E S I G N

real living

A L L I S C A L Mâ&#x20AC;¦ A L L I S BR IGH T Skip the tinsel and deck your halls with unexpected colours, textures and prints for a fresh take on festive

PHOTOGRAPHY MAREE HOMER

INTERIOR STYLING KERRIE-ANN JONES

FASHION STYLING CHARLOTTE STOKES

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Dreaming

of a

wh ite Christmas

8ft Fresh Cut Christmas tree, $158, and Cinco Medium Christmas tree stand (for up to 9ft tree), $66, Dural Christmas Tree Farm. Harper 2.5 Seater sofa in Toorak Ocean, $2599, Sheridan. Timothy Oulton “Cave” chair, $3395, and Jonathan Adler Mongolian Lamb bench, $2995, Coco Republic. Friends & Founders “Knock Out” Square Base table in White, from $1533, Fred International. ON TREE Jolly & Joy Wire tree topper in Silver (25cm), $9.99, Spotlight. Midnight Glitter Feather Tip decoration, $4.95, Midnight Glitter Feather Dot decoration, $4.95, White Glitter Feather Tip decoration, $4.95 and White Feather with Pearl decoration, $2.95, Down To The Woods. UNDER THE TREE Presents wrapped with various wrapping paper from Vandoros Fine Packaging. Google Home Mini digital assistant in Chalk (on top of gifts), $79, Google. ON SOFA Metallic Foil cushion cover in Silver, $64, West Elm. ON TABLE Flowers and vase by Boutierre Girls. Ontwerpduo “Tallow” candle in Rainy Blue, $69, Gingerﬁnch. Milly Dent Marbled Gem cup, $50, DEA Store. ON WALL Scandinavian Wallpaper & Décor Splotched Paint wallpaper in Blue Grey, $99 a sq m, Rebel Walls. ON FLOOR Porcelain Tanglier tiles in White with Grey (20cm x 20cm), $149 a sq m, Tera Nova. MODEL WEARS dress, $790, Alice McCall. A real living

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8ft Fresh Cut Christmas tree, $158, and Cinco Medium Christmas tree stand (for up to 9ft tree), $66, Dural Christmas Tree Farm. The Big Apple Velvet 3 Seater sofa in Claret Red, $2495, Matt Blatt. Ancona Marble table, $299, Sheridan. Bogart Carousel ottoman in Emerald Green Velvet, $1235, Globe West. ON TREE Tartan bows, made with a selection of fabrics from Spotlight. ON SOFA Peace Plaid Applique cushion cover, $49, Pottery Barn. Velvet Lumbar cushion in Ivy Green, $83.95, The Vignette Room. ON SIDE TABLE Crystal decanter set, $625, The Vignette Room. The Emily & Meritt Gold Ceramic box with bow, $49, Pottery Barn. Jonathan Adler Tiger valet tray, $159, The Vignette Room. ON MANTLE Gloria Brass Ring candle holder, from $275, Great Dane. Plaid Homescent candle pot, $29, Pottery Barn. Madison Jar candle in Fresh Pine, $44.95, Fresh Pine. Presents wrapped in various tartan fabric from Spotlight. ON WALL Tartan wallpaper in Lead Forest Firebrick, $117 a lineal m (1.27m wide), Emily Ziz. Peace On Earth neon sign, $750, What She Said. Regent Electric ďŹ replace, $1099, Early Settler. ON FLOOR Glasgow Tartan rug, $250, Matt Blatt. MODEL WEARS Sandro Paris dress, $560, David Jones. Boots, $79, Nasty Gal. Headpiece, $645, and bracelets, $145 each, JY Jewels. A real living

@reallivingmag

hair & make-up allison boyle/the artist group | styling assistants lisa burden; kate kiryk, libby williams | photography assistant louise mcfadden

8ft Fresh Cut Christmas tree, $158, and Cinco Medium Christmas tree stand (for up to 9ft tree), $66, Dural Christmas Tree Farm. Sketch “Greco” 2.5 Seater sofa in Mustard, $3520, Clickon Furniture. Grace side table in Gold, $199, Life Interiors. ON TREE 25th Avenue 300 LED Low Voltage fairy string lights, $16.99, Aldi. Candy cane decorations, $2.50, The Reject Shop. ON SOFA Disco mirror ball (25cm), $29.95, Discount Party Warehouse. Bonnie And Neil Goldie 40cm cushion, $155, Life Interiors. ON TABLE Kitch & Co Christmas Glitter serving bowl in White, $7.99, Spotlight. Celestial Burst ornament, $9, West Elm. Dorset Champagne ﬂute, $40, Williams-Sonoma. Pure White Wine glasses S/4, $54.90, Città. Jumbo confetti in Metallic, $10.95, Poppies For Grace. ON WALLS Greg Natale Aquarius wallpaper in Gold on White, $182.90 per roll (10.5m), Porter’s Paints. Metallic streamers, $29.95, Poppies For Grace. ON FLOOR Saskia Stripe Flokati rug (2m x 3m), $1835, Globe West. Disco mirror ball (40cm), $79.95, and Disco mirror ball (15cm), $12.95, Discount Party Warehouse. Lytworx 8m Warm White LED Connectable rope light with timer, $30, Bunnings. Kate Spade ice bucket, $109, Mr & Mrs Jones. Chandon x Seafolly Limited Edition “Palm Beach” Brut sparkling wine, $29, Dan Murphy’s. Crosley Nomad USB turntable, $299, Rockit. Bouclair Dazzling string lights, $19.99, Spotlight. Meri Meri Coral crackers, $49.95, Meri Meri Moon Star pinata, $19.95, and Meri Meri Diamond pinata (on top of gifts), $14.95, Mr & Mrs Jones. Presents wrapped in various wrapping paper from Vandoros Fine Packaging. MODEL WEARS Top, $189, IRO. Jeans, $399, Trelise Cooper. Shoes, $88.94, ASOS. Atmos&Here jacket, $119.95, The Iconic. R

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Beaut buys that help make the wo

rld a better place…

OH, GLOW ON THEN

P LY O N E A RT H You’ve found the perfect plant, but what about a pot to hold it? May we suggest the Flor planter from Plyroom – it’s made from sustainable FSC certiﬁed wood with a non-toxic ﬁnish so you know it’s a safe bet. $185; Plyroom.com.au

Not only is Abhati Suisse skincare good for your complexion (the washes, lotions and lip treatments are incredible), it’s good for the world, too. They work with Educategirls.in and Weforest.org to fund education initiatives and support communities and sustainable development in India. Buy it at Mecca.com.au

A GIFT T H AT GIVES

Pa s s it on Treats you right Abhati Suisse One Hand Washes The Other soap, $52, Kanva body lotion, $73, and Mahanadi Natural lip treatment, $22, Mecca. @reallivingmag

Each year, Aussie lifestyle brand Hills & West donates 10 per cent of its proﬁts to children’s charities like Rainbow Children’s Home in Nepal. Do your bit and buy a Petite purse (we like Rose Gold) for $59. Hillsandwest.com A

Cool Comfort. Live brighter in an oasis of summer cool with designs from Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest range of ceiling fans.

A. Bayside Calypso 122cm 3 blade fan in white $8995.B. Airfusion Radar 132cm 3 blade direct current (DC), close to ceiling fan in white with white wash oak blades. Remote control included. Light adaptable $379. C. Nordic 142cm 3 blade direct current (DC) fan in black $ 495.

Call 1300 BEACON for a store near you shop online beaconlighting.com.au

LIVE LIFE IN FULL COLOUR.

FEATURED ITEMS: MENZIES 3.5 SEATER SOFA - MADE IN AUSTRALIA $2,495 | STOCKHOLM NEST OF 2 TABLES $295 | SEAN DIX TALL BOOKSHELF $995 | CUSHIONS FROM $85 | ART FROM $145 TEAM MEMBER AND STYLIST: JUDYTA HULME

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Slip into something more ecologically comfortable, like this slinky Ingrid dress from Ginger & Smart. The Ingrid range is made from biodegradable, sustainable, recyclable eco Lyocell. $579; Gingerandsmart.com

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We love it when two of our faves do a collab – this instance it’s Kowtow (they design clothes that are organic, fair trade and ethically and sustainably made) and Melbourne artist Caroline Walls. The T-shirts cost $120 each, $20 of which will go to charity. Buy them at Kowtowclothing.com A

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OUT OF A F R I CA Deck your table with Wonki Ware ceramics and you’ll be supporting a team of artisans from disadvantaged backgrounds in South Africa. Wonkiware.com.au real living

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CLEAN U P AU S TRALI A! The Clean Coast Collective is a group of eco warriors who sell beautiful plastic-free products – like this Seaside Shampoo Bar – to fund their cleaning efforts. They send out Trash Tribes to comb Australia’s beaches for rubbish that’s washed ashore, and have removed over 10,000 kilos of ocean pollution so far. To shop or ﬁnd out how to join a Trash Tribe, head to Cleancoastcollective.org

NAT UR A L B E AUT Y Vegan, organic and made in Australia, Theseeke skincare is good for the body and the earth. Our picks are the Regenerate botanical hand and body lotion and the Balance Elixir balancing face oil (which you can also use to defrizz your hair). From $39.95. Theseeke.com

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t a ke it out side This is one of the new rugs from Armadillo&Co – and it’s marvellous. You can use it indoors or outside, it’s washable and made from recycled ﬁbres. Called Tide Weave, it’s available in two timeless colours (Basalt & Fog or Fog & Linen) and four sizes, from a 90cm wide runner to a 2.5m x 3.5m area rug. Priced from $280. Armadillo-co.com

@reallivingmag

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THE PAWFECT PRESENT Treat your fur baby to a new collar from Animals in Charge and ﬁve per cent of the purchase price will be donated to animal rescue and rehabilitation. Animals in Charge even fosters dogs in need of a loving environment until a forever home becomes available. Sweet, huh? Collars from $40. Animalsincharge.com.au R

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WE TAKE A WANDER THROUGH THE ENCHANTED WORLD OF DOWN TO THE WOODSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; QUEEN OF CHRISTMAS AMBER CLOHESY

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STEP INSIDE DOWN TO THE WOODS’ HQ IN FITZROY and it feels like you’ve hopped off a sleigh and landed in Santa’s workshop. Amber Clohesy, owner of the whimsical homewares brand, has always had a strong festive focus in her designs, but as the company grew she decided to stick to what she loved… Christmas. “Travelling to Europe during the festive season last year inspired me to create a more traditional range, incorporating reds and Scandinavian mythology,” Amber says. “I always pick up decorations on my travels.” The new Festive Collection (which also includes a Treats range, inspired by Amber’s children, and an Antipodean range) is creative and enchanting, and it ﬁlls every space of the new studio, which has been inhabited by Amber and her team for the past six months. “It took a dash of imagination to turn the studio into a creative workspace,” Amber says. And creative it is. As soon as the new collections are launched, Amber and her team start designing the collections for the following year. “When I tell people I’m working on Christmas 2018 it hurts their heads,” she says. The result is a year-round festive feel in the studio. “Because it’s my daily workspace and reﬂects what is going on in my mind, my eyes have adjusted. It isn’t until someone steps in and reacts to it I remember how special it is,” Amber remarks. A

Feeling festive A large felt moodboard decorated with colourful images, fabrics, felt decorations and Christmas tags hangs on the wall. As well as an abundance of Christmas trees, angels, reindeers, tinkling bells, feathers and a whole lot of sparkle ﬁlling the entire studio.

real living

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at WORK

Made by hand Many of the decorations are made from ethically sourced felt – a favourite material of Amber’s. She hand-sews all of her felt decoration prototypes ﬁrst. All in order A Scandinavian plywood basket organises felt by colour for easy selection.

10 QUESTIONS WITH AMBER CLOHESY 1. How did you end up being the queen of Chrissie decorations? “I certainly didn’t sit on Santa’s knee as a child and say I wanted to be an elf one day! Christmas for me has been an evolution and I really have tried to work to the adage ‘Do what you love’.” 2. What is it about Christmas that you love so much? “Each year, when you pull out your decoration box, it’s like being reacquainted with old friends. I’m a maximalist when it comes to trees, more is more. It’s like a visual history of years past.” 3. What is your favourite piece from the new DTTW festive range? “The Christmas Wishes tea towel – there’s something about adding a dash of Christmas to the kitchen that makes me really happy.” 4. Where is your favourite destination? “For pleasure, Italy, because of the food and scenery. For work, it has to be Nepal, with its colour, beautiful people and chaos.” 5. Your best decorating tip is… “Make your space timeless. Don’t focus on fashion and what is ‘in’.” 6. What quality do you admire most in others? “Kindness and a generosity of spirit.” 7. What’s your party trick? “Not showing up! I’m such a homebody.” 8. What’s on your Chrissie wishlist? “A light feature by local glassmaker Mark Douglass.” 9. Do you have a mantra you live by? “Attract what you expect. Reﬂect what you desire. Become what you respect. Mirror what you admire.” 10. What are you currently working on? “A house renovation and a new work project for 2018.” R

SEE AMBER’S WHIMSICAL WARES AT DOWNTOTHEWOODS.COM.AU AND INSTAGRAM @DOWNTOTHEWOODS @reallivingmag

interview karlie verkerk | photography kristina soljo

Cool yule Tags are at the ready for stockist visits. “We do the surface design for our cards and Santa sacks here, too, which we initially work in watercolour,” Amber says. Where the magic happens The studio is used for a range of things including creating and editing new ranges, making samples and photographing products.

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Home for Christmas From a relaxed family Christmas by the water, to a glam girls-only lunch by the pool, to a traditional yulefest in the snow, there are endless ways to celebrate Christmas. Turn the page to see how these three homes prepare for the festive season. An

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D R O P A N C H O R As itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only accessible by boat, homeowner Kellyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s holiday house is the ultimate getaway for her family and their guests. A

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S E A S I D E A beautiful beach shack north of Sydney is the perfect place for a relaxed Aussie Christmas with friends and family

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text karlie verkerk | photography maree homer | photographerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s assistant lucy lemasurier | styling kerrie-ann jones | styling assistants lisa burden; jen schipper

L O W - M A I N T E N A N C E Kelly keeps it simple with a tree hanging from Pony Rider. The gifts are wrapped in calico and brown paper, tied with brown twine. Each one is adorned with decorations from Ruby Star Traders and Country Road. C O F F E E T I M E Pony Rider throws and cushions make for a cosy spot under the trees in the garden (opposite). The cheeseboard is from CittĂ , the coffee pot from Koskela, the cups from Pony Rider and a Classic Rope quoits set is from Koskela.

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KELLY SEARL, DIRECTOR OF HOMEWARES BRAND PONY RIDER, WITH HER PHOTOGRAPHER HUSBAND CHRIS, THEIR KIDS, MAX, 10, DYL AN, EIGHT, RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK X STAFF Y, SCOUT, AND FIGHTING FISH, MR CHAPPY AND CHOPS. PONYRIDER.COM.AU | @PONY_RIDER A

CHRISTMAS SEEMS SO EFFORTLESS at Kelly Searl’s beachside home. It might have something to do with the hammock swinging in the front garden, the coming and going of friends and family, or the understated palette of washed timber and butcher’s paper. “We’re pretty relaxed when it comes to the big day, but the lead up is ridiculous,” Kelly says. “Gift wrapping always seems to happen after midnight with bleary eyes.” FAMILY MATTERS Kelly, who is the director of homewares brand Pony Rider, spends Christmas with her husband Chris and their two children, Max and Dylan, at the family home, Camp Seabird at Coasters in Sydney. “Our day is full to the brim with family, friends and the odd traveller,” she says. The kitchen is Kelly’s domain but everyone contributes. “Chris’s mum is the ultimate roaster, my sisters are dessert queens and Mum is the pudding lady – we all hang out for her potent brandy custard!” FESTIVE FEELS When it comes to Christmas traditions, the kids leave carrots out for the reindeers and play “cheesy” carols as they decorate. “I’m like a big kid, pulling out decorations and loved items we’ve collected over the years,” Kelly says. “We make a big effort each year to keep the traditions going.” SIMPLE TRIMMINGS The family’s relaxed style is also reﬂected in their choice of Christmas tree, which is actually a printed wall banner from Pony Rider. “I don’t feel I can aesthetically master a tree, which is why I came up with the festive tree banner – keep it simple!” Kelly says. Almost all of the decorations are handmade or bought in a place of meaning. “Every decoration has a place in time for me,” Kelly says. Star buntings, straw ornaments, and timber animals and trees are a stylish nod to the season and perfectly complement the home’s beachside aesthetic. A

E A R T H Y @reallivingmag

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T U C K I N The family table is set with simple place settings and minimal decorations. Throws and cushions from Pony Rider keep things relaxed and casual. The plates are from The Society Inc, the napkins are by Cultiver, the cutlery is from Freedom and the candles are also Pony Rider.

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T A K E A S E A T In the living room, a small timber tree is surrounded by a selection of decorations from Sunny Life, Ruby Star Traders and Amigos de Hoy. “I go for the same decorations every year but always add something new; I’m a selective hoarder,” Kelly says. The rug and throw (on the sofa) are by Society Inc and the large hanging tassel is also from Amigos de Hoy. A

DON’T LIMIT DECORATIONS TO ONE ROOM. CREATE LITTLE CHRISTMAS VIGNETTES THROUGHOUT THE HOUSE

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S T A R A T T R A C T I O N Even the bedroom gets a Chrissie makeover, with a super-star garland from Mr & Mrs Jones and pretty feather wreath from Down To The Woods.

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F A M I L Y F E A S T Kelly’s simple kitchen has a relaxed rustic, beachy feel. The tea towels are from Koskela, the plates are from Society Inc and the bonbons from Mr & Mrs Jones. “The biggest food prep I do for Christmas Day is basting the ham,” Kelly says. “The rest is quite simple and ﬂung off to various family members – a nice slab of salmon, some salads, a quiche for the vegos, bread and butter and good wine are a must.” A

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A H O Y T H E R E Son Max comes ashore with a shipment of ﬂowers and pressies, ready for the celebrations ahead. H I T S N O O Z E “Somehow we eat all day and I relish my 2.30pm hammock nap before kicking off for the evening. A s’mores session in the afternoon (if we have no ﬁre ban) is always a great way to get pepped up for the night.” A

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IF YOUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;RE HAVING A BIG GROUP OVER FOR CHRISSIE, SET UP EXTRA AREAS FOR PEOPLE TO SIT AND CHILL OUT

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S I L E N T N I G H T Adding a few festive ďŹ nishes is a nice touch in a guest bedroom. Here, the baubles are from Ruby Star Traders and the bedlinen from Pony Rider. Wreath and garland, as before.

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TA K E I NSPIR ATION FROM K ELLY’S R EL A X ED NAU TIC A L HOM E

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1 Long arrow with ﬂetching, $30, The Society Inc. 2 AM Living royal barge oar in Blue & White Stripe, $149, Temple & Webster. 3 Inartisan Handwoven Bamboo Pendant Short light shade in Black, $129.95, Zanui. 4 Large anchor glass, $8.95, Scout. 5 Peace Maker cushion, $169, Pony Rider. 6 Blanket box in Black, from $319, Zanui. 7 Ladonia small Christmas tree in Whitewash, $49.95, Freedom. 8 Sockerärt vase, $9.99, Ikea. 9 Blaze throw, $149, Pony Rider. 10 Vinter 2017 star hanging decorations in White, $7.99 for set of 3, Ikea. 11 Sleigh Loop dining table, from $7450, Mark Tuckey. 12 Warehouse bench seat, $1800, Mark Tuckey. 13 Vintage tumblers in White, $39 for set of 2, Pony Rider. 14 World ﬂag cushion in Black, $149, Pony Rider. 15 Bottle crate, $87.50, The Society Inc. 16 Hanna canvas folding stool in Nude, $89.95, Sheridan. 17 Galleon mirror, $185, The Society Inc. 18 1856 dinner plate, $45, The Society Inc.

Colours and finishes FROM LEFT Solid Tasmanian blackwood flooring, from $110.50 a sq m, SE Timber. Dulux Weathershield low sheen exterior paint in Black, $95.30 for 4L, Bunnings. Karlby walnut worktop (2.46m x 63.5cm x 3.8cm), $240, Ikea. British Paints Clean & Protect low sheen paint in Infinity White, $59 for 4L, Bunnings. real living

Join artist Rachel Castle and her closest friends for a festive ladiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; lunch in her stunning light-ďŹ lled home

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Homeowner Rachel spent a decade working in the UK and always felt most homesick at Christmas. “I don’t think you really appreciate an Aussie Christmas until you don’t have it,” she says. Cake stand, gold-rimmed bowls and Christmas tree candle from The Bay Tree, cutlery from Freedom, small resin bowl from Dinosaur Designs and framed David Shrigley “Life is Fantastic” tea towel from Third Drawer Down. F L O R A L FA N TA S Y Rachel handprinted the linen table cloth (opposite), made specially for the occasion. A

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S H A R E T H E L O A D Everyone contributes to the girls’ lunch. “The bone broth cocktails are Michelle’s recipe, Heidi always comes with decorations from her styling jobs and we are so lucky to ever see Megan, so she is allowed to come with only her Kris Kringle gift,” Rachel says. The white outdoor coffee table is from Terrace, the Balloon Dawg and noughts and crosses game are from The Vignette Room and the gold ﬂoor cushion is Castle. A

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ARTIST, DESIGNER AND CRE ATIVE R ACHEL CASTLE PL AYS HOST TO GOOD MATES INTERIOR STYLIST MEGAN MORTON, MICHELLE SCHOEPS OF LOVE & BONES BROTH AND HEIDI M O O R E G I L L , D E S I G N D I R E C T O R O F L’ E S T R A N G E J E W E L L E R Y AND E VENT ST YLING BUSINESS, THE BESPOK ERY. @RACHELCASTLEANDTHINGS; @MEGAN_MORTON;@LOVEANDBONESBROTH; @THE_LESTRANGE AND @THE_BESPOKERY

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PERSONALISE PRESSIES AND STICK PAPER SPOTS OR STARS ONTO GIFTS WRAPPED IN BROWN PAPER. TIE WITH SHINY GOLD RIBBON

E A S Y T R E E The Christmas tree painting makes an appearance each year. “I made it for the ofﬁce one year and took it home because it was super-easy to pop spots on with sticky tape,” Rachel says. “I’m always looking to cut a corner!”

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WHEN IT COMES TO ENTERTAINING, Rachel Castle insists she’s a laidback host. Not that you’d guess it, seeing her beautiful styling and Michelin star-worthy menu. “I’m not one of those hosts that fusses around,” Rachel says. “My entertaining style is that I make all the food, then I sit at the table. I don’t like it when I don’t get to talk to everyone. It’s a precious day.” GIRL TIME Rachel has spent the last decade ﬁnetuning her festive ladies’ lunch that traditionally begins at 2pm and never ends before midnight. There’s no ham or turkey – nibbles only, please – no kids or husbands (or “handbrakes” as Rachel affectionately calls them), and plenty of French Champagne. “We make a toast and catch up on the last few crazy months of the year when we’ve all been tearing our hair out with work, the children’s end-of-year arrangements and preparing for Christmas Day,” she says. SEASONAL STYLE Unsurprisingly, Christmas in the Castle house is a stylish affair. From hand-printed table cloths to original festive artworks, their home has a jolly vibe with a signature Castle brand spin. Yet despite the unique bells and whistles, there’s one thing that Rachel says is a yuletide mainstay, and that’s her trusty Kmart Christmas tree. “Last year we had a real one, but it kept falling over and nearly killed the dog and broke all the decorations. This year I’ve gone back to the fake one,” she laughs. BEACH BOUND The family usually spend a quiet Christmas Day at home with Rachel’s mum, before packing their bags and heading down the coast with friends to the seaside town of Mollymook. “It’s a quintessential Aussie beach holiday where the children have all their friends and you can just be a gypsy for two weeks,” Rachel says. “It’s just a beautiful place.” A

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@reallivingmag

text erica watson | photography maree homer | photographer’s assistant lucy lemasurier | style assistants lisa burden; jen schipper | fashion styling aileen marr hair and make-up allison boyle/the artist group | ﬂowers hermetica ﬂowers | rachel wears scanlan theodore dress; megan wears trelise cooper dress and the l’estrange jewellery; heidi wears manning cartell blouse and pants, scanlan theodore heels and the l’estrange jewellery; michelle wears her own clothes

G U E S T O F H O N O U R Sydney the sausage dog loves Christmas! “She just hoovers the crumbs and licks the plates in the dishwasher,” Rachel laughs. “And she always gets a Christmas present – my husband hand-makes biscuits for her.” C H R I S T M A S T I P P L E Michelle whips up special bone broth cocktails for the girls, made from Hendrick’s gin, pineapple, strawberries and frozen Love & Bones Smoothie Broth cubes. T U C K I N Also on the menu is homemade pate on toasted bread with tomato, radish and capers, and goat’s cheese, capers and chilli on crackers. J U S T D E S S E R T S Rachel’s signature dish – a delicious pavlova topped with fresh fruit – is always a crowd-pleaser. A L L P R E S E N T The girls put a lot of thought into each other’s Kris Kringles, but not for reasons you might expect. “We try to outdo each other with the most hilarious gift we can ﬁnd,” Rachel says. “The objective is to try and get the most laughs.” TA K E I T O U T S I D E Rachel’s gorgeous garden is the perfect spot for a party. “To me, an Aussie Christmas is all about the glorious sunshine,” she says. S E T T H E S C E N E Festoon lights, colourful penny round cushions from Rachel’s Castle range, Ikea glass tumblers, gold votives from Ruby Star Traders and paper trees courtesy of The Bespokery add a festive touch (opposite). A

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LAY YOUR TABLE WITH ONLY THE ESSENTIALS FOR LUNCH â&#x20AC;&#x201C; THE LESS CUTLERY AND CROCKERY YOU USE, THE LESS WASHING UP TO BE DONE LATER

BLACK LINEN NAPKINS CREATE CONTRAST AGAINST THE PRETTY FLORAL HAND-PRINTED TABLE CLOTH. A TOUCH OF GOLD UPS THE GLAMOUR

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A handmade card from Rachel gets Megan’s tick of approval. “There’s always an in-joke,” Rachel explains. COM PU L SORY C R ACK E R S

Rachel likes to source “the biggest bonbons I can ﬁnd.” These ones, opposite, are Meri Meri, available at Mr & Mrs Jones. Also on the table are Città dinner plates, gold-rimmed bowls from The Bay Tree, Freedom cutlery, Vera Wang Wedgwood Champagne ﬂutes, a Kate Spade ice bucket from Mr & Mrs Jones and a bottle of Chandon x Seafolly Limited Edition “Modern Love” sparkling rosé. A

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L I F E I N C O L O U R Artist Rachel is constantly

changing up her displays. Here, her This Is Love 1 painting takes pride of place on the wall next to some framed letter posters from an old calendar. The Big Apple paper sculpture and loveheart prints are also from Castle, while a Confetti System garland adds a festive touch. Hotdog the Sausage Dog is from The Vignette Room.

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B E D R E S T Rachel loves to

while away the Chrissie break reading books. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have stacks of them beside my bed that I collect during the year and only get to read at Christmas time.â&#x20AC;? The bedlinen and cushions are all Castle, the pink candle and brass candle holder come from The Bay Tree and the gold garland is Meri Meri, available at Mr & Mrs Jones. A

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MIX CHRISSIE DECORATIONS WITH YOUR WALL ART FOR AN EYE-CATCHING DISPLAY

F O O D C O M A Sydney enjoys a post-lunch kip on her Castle ï¬&#x201A;oor cushion. A felt reindeer head and pinata star from Meri Meri add a Christmassy touch to the gallery wall.

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CH A N N EL R ACH EL’S COLOU R FU L CH R ISSIE ST Y LE

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1 Penny round velvet cushion covers in Dusty Blue and Baby Pink, $49 each, Castle. 2 Johanna Grawunder for Flos Wan S pendant lamp in Shiny White, $443, Euroluce. 3 Milan Direct outdoor festoon lights, $69 for 10m, Temple & Webster. 4 Doggie art print, $150, Castle, in small timber art print frame, $89, Hunting For George. 5 Mozart Kugel music box in Golden Oak, $148, Safari Living. 6 Nordstjerne paper Christmas decoration in Dusty Pink, $46 for pack of 4, Designstuff. 7 Tristan bar cart, $534, Pottery Barn. 8 Spiegelau Perfect Serve Collection Perfect Coupette glass, $79.95 for 4, Riedel. 9 Jumbo velvet ﬂoor cushion cover in Pink, $149, Castle. 10 Solid Block side table, $450, Mark Tuckey. 11 Baker chair in James Dunlop Velluti fabric, $2440, Arthur G. 12 Muuto The Dots wall hooks in Ash, $45 for medium, Living Edge. 13 Iittala Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec Ruutu vase (11.5cm x 14cm) in Salmon Pink, $249, David Jones. 14 Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec Ruutu vase (11.5cm x 8cm) in Desert, $125, Iittala. 15 Multi spot ﬂ at sheet, $125 for queen, Castle. 16 Big Apple paper sculpture, $69, Castle.

Colours and finishes FROM LEFT Lignapel timber veneer in Walnut Crown Cut, $148 per sq m, George Fethers & Co. Haymes Interior Expressions low-sheen acrylic paint in Buttercorn, $74.90 for 4L. European Oak flooring in Herringbone, $118 a sq m, Precision Flooring. Polysatin shutters in White Tones, $1896.40 (incl. installation), Luxaflex. real living

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Mea nwh i le , i n Fi n la nd , a ver y d i f fer ent fa m i ly Ch r i st m a s i s t a k i n g shap e

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All that glows Homeowner Emilia loves candles, and has them dotted all around her home. Here, tea lights and tapers are displayed on an antique dresser alongside a bowl, vase and lamp from her favourite Danish homewares brand, Tine K Home. A

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text & styling jonna kivilahti/living inside | photography krista keltana/living inside

Winter warmers Emilia heats glögg – a Swedish type of mulled wine – on the stove each day and serves it in classic Iittala glasses. Rice pudding topped with cinnamon sugar (opposite) is another family favourite – cats included!

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LIFESTYLE BLOGGER EMILIA RUUSKANEN AND HER HUSBAND TIMO, THEIR SON NIILO, EIGHT, DAUGHTER K L A AR A , THREE, AND THEIR THREE PETS, ALMA THE DOG, KYLII THE CAT AND KITTEN TA AVI. UUSIKUU.INDIEDAYS.COM | @EMILIANUUSIKUU

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Hearth and home Panelled walls feature throughout the home and add a rustic touch. The ďŹ replace gets daily use, with a Moroccan-style rug from Ellos and Tine K Home basket adding to the roomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cosy feel. A

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ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE WORLD, in a snow-covered field in Kokemäki, Finland, there sits a quaint old farmhouse. Smoke puffs from the chimney and the delicious smells of spicy candles and freshly baked treats emanate from within. The owners of this house – and its tempting aromas – are lifestyle blogger Emilia Ruuskanen and her husband Timo. They purchased the 1940s double-storey home in 2012, and have spent the past five years updating it while still retaining its rustic character. FAMILY TIES “The house is old and comes with a nice story and family connection,” Emilia says. “There used to be a grocery store downstairs, and my mother would come here as a child with a milk can to collect milk. Now our kitchen is in exactly the same spot as the old shop.” ROOM TO MOVE At 220 square metres, the house has ample room for all the trinkets Emilia has collected during her years blogging, along with two old cupboards that she’s affectionately named Old Gentleman and Old Lady. And while in previous homes she has favoured a brighter colour scheme, here Emilia has used chalk paint in a pared-back, predominantly white palette, with touches of grey, brown and blue. YULE TIDINGS Each year, Emilia begins her festive preparations early. Starting in October, she adds fairylights, lanterns and scented candles to the rooms, along with arrangements of her favourite sweet-scented white blooms. Big pots of mulled wine boil away on the stove in anticipation of days and nights spent in front of the fire playing board games and congregating around Timo’s treasured piano. Sounds utterly divine to us! R

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Indoor retreat Flickering candles and soft furnishings create an inviting atmosphere. The coffee table, cushions and lamp are Tine K Home, while the rug is from Ellos.

CHALK-PAINTED WALLS ADD WARMTH AND TEXTURE TO AN ALL-WHITE ROOM

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Let it snow Snow-covered ﬁr trees surround the home. It doesn’t get more Christmassy than that! Quiet paws Emilia’s daughter Klaara gets a quick weather update from the window, with pets Kylii and Alma her constant companions. Green state Come Christmas, the potting table gets a festive makeover courtesy of decorative lanterns. Emilia stocks up on her favourite white hyacinths as soon as they arrive in stores and pots them up as gifts. In the red The home’s red facade works perfectly in its rural setting, which is conveniently only a few kilometres from town. A real living

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re welcome A simple wreath made from ďŹ r sprigs greets guests at the front door. @reallivingmag

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High notes Music is an important pastime in the Ruuskanen family, and the piano was an impulse buy of Timoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. At Christmas he puts on a special performance with son Niilo. A

That’s a wrap This year, Emilia has opted for a simple white and gold Christmas wrapping theme, enlisting the help of the kids who hand-stamped some of the paper. Floor play The Ellos rug (in front of the ﬁre) is clearly Kylii the cat’s favourite spot. Wall ﬂower A traditional Scandinavian himmeli wreath is a lovely festive touch in keeping with Emilia’s neutral colour scheme. Boredom busters Board games keep Klaara and Niilo entertained when inclement weather keeps them indoors.

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Room to move Covering a substantial 50 square metres, the kitchen houses an extendable dining table and Eames DSR chairs, a black Ton chair by Forme, Ikea pendants painted grey, a long workbench custom-made by Emilia and Timo, open shelves also from Ikea and round chalkboards courtesy of Tine K Home. A

FLOORBOARDS PAINTED WHITE GIVE THE FARMHOUSE KITCHEN A FRESH UPDATE

Sleigh bells ring The family escape outside for some traditionally Finnish sledding fun whenever the weather allows. Exterior motives Outside, Emilia and Timo have left some of the original wood unpainted to retain its character. Other outdoor buildings on the property include a sauna, cold cellar and storage spaces.

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Local ﬂavour Emilia prefers to shop local and all the sheepskins around her home were sourced from nearby farms. Meanwhile, an old wardrobe, nicknamed “Old Lady”, takes pride of place in the master bedroom. A

Kids’ zone In Klaara and Niilo’s room, the walls are painted in a nougat shade of chalk paint. A Numero 74 canopy is draped over an antique bed on Klaara’s side.

SOFT TEXTILES AND FAIRY LIGHTS ADD WHIMSY TO A ROOM

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BE I NSPIR ED BY EM ILI A’S FESTI V E NOR DIC ST Y LI NG

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1 LED glitter wreath, $109, West Elm. 2 By Lassen Kubus four candle holder in Black, $199, Designstuff. 3 Numero74 velvet bunting garland in Red Macaron, $29, Talo Interiors. 4 Kastehelmi clear votives, $24.95 each, Iittala. 5 Hektar pendant lamp in Dark Grey, $99, Ikea. 6 Joe deep sofa with arms in White, from $3350, MCM House. 7 Indus lamp (globe not included) in Brass, $124.95, Oz Design Furniture. 8 Morgan & Finch round chain mirror in Brass, $59.95, Bed Bath N’ Table. 9 Svenska Hem Glass cloche (candle not included), $19.95, Kikki.K. 10 Flimra wine glasses, $3.99 each, Ikea. 11 Sino coffee table in Matt Black, $520, Clickon Furniture. 12 Numero74 cotton canopy in Powder Pink, $219, Talo Interiors. 13 Jo Sampson half and half creamer in Magenta, $249, Waterford. 14 Ashford dining chair, from Nick Scali. 15 Tribe Home “Baxter” rug, $1219, Clickon Furniture. 16 Gordon Ramsay “Bread Street” bowl in Dark Red, $15.95, Royal Doulton.

Colours and ﬁnishes FROM LEFT Steel rooﬁng in Manor Red, from Colorbond. Rugged Concrete benchtop, from $900 a sq m installed, Caesarstone. Duratile gloss wall tiles in White (25cm x 40cm), $15.50 for 10, Bunnings. Easycraft EasyVJ primed MDF wall panelling (90cm x 1.2m x 9mm), $27.13, Bunnings. real living

Inspired by Sheridan ⁄ Styled by Australian Artist Liz Payne

SE ASONAL TONES Reinvigorate your living room by embracing the season’s freshest colours. Not sure where to begin? We spoke to Australian artist, Liz Payne, for her thoughts on how to easily adopt spring’s hottest new-season tones at home.

Australian artist Liz Payne Liz worked as a designer both in Sydney and London before she followed her passion for creating artworks that drew upon her background in the visual arts and design, with her love of all things craft.

THIS PAGE: Wall Art (left to right) Westcourt Wall art, $199.95; Misty View Wall Art, $199.95; Harper Chair and Ottman (made to order), $1999; Kresler Breakfast Cushion, $35.97; Kalypso Cushion, $59.95; Lena Woven Basket, from $39.95; Oscar Antique Mirrored Table, from $249.95; Mia Platter, $37.46; Wells Glass Vase, from $29.95; Cashmere Candle, $39.95.

a real living P R O M OT I O N

What colours best capture spring for you? For me, spring is best represented by bright colours. This season reminds me of ﬂowers blooming, fresh air, and lots of light. So I like to take that inspiration from the outside through to the indoors, with lots of bright pinks, reds and yellows, paired with tropical teal green. Given that spring is a season for decluttering, it’s also a good time to simplify your interiors and go for much lighter, brighter alternatives – and in a more unrestricted and untraditional colour palette. I always feel as though you can afford to go a little wilder and take some risks in spring, which applies to your décor too. Try pairing together colours you wouldn’ t normally, and break the rules — red with pink, ﬂorals with stripes, green with blues, anything goes.

HUE KNOW IT! To subtly bring the new-season colours into your home, play with on-trend homewares and accessories.

Green is perhaps the simplest to introduce at home, as it will transition throughout the seasons easily. Green can be brought in to counteract the pink and red hues, and can be introduced by adding a side table, or through the addition of big, leafy, potted green plants. How does colour transform a room for you? A lot of people can be scared off by the prospect of introducing big colours in their home, but it shouldn’t be so daunting. Colour makes you happy, and it’s good to be surrounded by things that make you happy at home. As an artist, I love using colour – a lot of it – and the best advice I’ve ever been given is to just have fun with it. Don’t get hung up on making everything match, just let go and experiment with different tones.

What are your three favourite new-season tones to play with? Pink: Love it or hate it, pink is here to stay, and for me the brighter the better. I love pink because you can either go all out and introduce it in a big way, or you can be subtler and use it as an accent. Pink goes great with black and white, not to mention colour-blocked against other bright hues, such as... Red: I love the clash of red and pink together – it makes for a bold statement, and it’s an easy way to inject personality into your space. Teal: Not only does this green-hue balance out bolder tones like pink, but it also adds brightness too. How can readers easily adopt these colours at home? Both pink and green are great colours for statement pieces like a sofa or chair — and are the perfect way to instantly add some colour at home. If a pink chair is too much for your décor, try adding accents of pink through a statement artwork, a rug or (for the not-so-convinced) a few scatter cushions that you can easily change. I like to boldly ‘clash’ pink with red, but this can also be done subtly, by introducing red in smaller doses — through decorative objects, a throw or bright ﬂowers.

THIS PAGE: Oscar Antique Mirrored Table, from $249.95; Mia Platter, $37.46; Wells Glass Vase, from $29.95; Cashmere Candle, $39.95; Harper Chair and Ottman (made to order), $1999; Lena Woven Basket, from $39.95; Wall Art (left to right) Westcourt Wall Art, $199.95; Misty View Wall Art, $199.95.

MAKE A BOLD STATEMENT WITH SHERIDAN’S VELVET AND METAL HARPER CHAIR AND OTTOMAN IN THIS SEASON’S HOTTEST HUE: PINK.

YEARS

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photography nic gossage | styling sandy dao

Light the way Nothing says Christmas like a festive red lip. Here are our picks, from left: Chanel Rouge Allure Luminous Intense Lip Colour in Indépendante, $53, 1300 242 635. Lipstick Queen Velvet Rope Lipstick in Brat Pack, $72, Mecca. Bobbi Brown Luxe Lip Color in Parisian Red, $56. MDMﬂow Semi-Matte Lipstick in Supreme, $28, Mecca. Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Pur Couture Lipstick in Orange Électro, $55. Turn the page for more gorgeous gift ideas for your nearest and dearest. A

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THESE ER TH INGS IN LIFE, APPRECIATES TH E FIN O WH L SE EA GIR PL E TH TO R FO IES ARE SURE DESIGNER ACCESSOR D AN S ET DG GA XE LU 8

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1 Lace trim satin cami and shorts pyjama set, $46.55, Romwe. 2 The House Of Dior: Seventy Years Of Haute Couture book by Kate Somerville, $49.95, Dymocks. 3 Beoplay H4 over-ear wireless via Bluetooth headphones in Sand, $399, Bang & Olufsen. 4 Giant Magic Cream Instant Turnaround moisturiser, $320, Charlotte Tilbury. 5 Supersonic hairdryer in White/Silver, $499, Dyson. 6 The Original watch in Brushed Rose Gold with Natural Vegetable Tan strap, $149, The Horse. 7 Reliquia star sign pendant with chain in Sagittarius, $149, The Undone. 8 Hunter silk scarf in Emerald, $89, 66 The Label. 9 Sarah & Sebastian baroque 9-karat gold pearl hoop earring, $295, Net-A-Porter. 10 Fornasetti Bacio Otto scented candle with lid in White/Red, $274, Luisaviaroma. 11 Tiffany EDP fragrance, $195 for 2.5oz, Tiffany & Co. 12 NARS limited edition Mecca20 audacious lip collection, $234, Mecca. 13 Large orb jewellery box in Ash Dust, $245, Studio Elke. A @reallivingmag

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1 Circle basket sling bag, $79.95, Sportsgirl. 2 The Ventura boater hat, $79, Lack of Color. 3 Black Sands beach umbrella, $249, Sunday Supply Co. 4 Luna swing chair in Natural, $129.95, Salt & Pepper. 5 Limited edition The Boathouse candle in Jasmine & Lime, $42.95, Palm Beach Collection. 6 The Playa sunglasses in Gold/Pink, $60, Quay Australia. 7 McTavish Surfboards collaboration palm tree stepdeck surfboard, $1570, The Society Inc. 8 Le Spot one-piece, $169, Peony. 9 Apollo designer beach towel, $139, Ziporah Lifestyle. 10 Stainless steel flask in Black, $38, T2 Tea. 11 Luxe ride-on flamingo float in Rose Gold, $99.95, Sunnylife. 12 Gradual Tan Plus Sculpt and Glow lotion, $35.99, St. Tropez. 13 Ruark R1 Mk3 digital radio with Bluetooth in Sea Green, $449, Synergy Audio Visual. A real living

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A CR A ZY-BUSY YE AR WARR AN TS ON E BIG THESE BEAU S PLU RG E, AN TIES CERTAIN D LY FIT THE BIL L. YOU’VE EA RNED IT!

1 Adriana sneakers in Metallic Silver, $580, Acne Studios. 2 111Skin Cryo Energising face serum, $262, Mecca. 3 Balboa vase, $480, Den holm. 4 Women’s bike, $2995, Copper Co. Bikes. 5 Black and white Mark Making oil on linen artwork, $4000, Sylvia McEwan. 6 Gucci round-frame acetate and gold-tone sunglasses, $749.38, Net-A-Porter. 7 Coralla Maiuri Ciociara Cinese small porcelain dish, $168, Luisaviaroma. 8 Concrete stratosphere lamp in Granite Rose, $699.95, Addition Studio. 9 Crème de la Mer La Mer limited edition moisturising cream, $445, Mecca. 10 Polka-dot elaphe zip-around wallet, $1030, Fendi. 11 Fashion Eye limited edition book collection, $600, Louis Vuitton. 12 Double Moon sculpture by Kristina Dam, $599, The Minimalist. 13 Le Deun table light in Bronze (30cm), $1750, Bastille and Sons. A @reallivingmag

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new season 2017

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1 Angler cocktail clutch, $350, Lucy Folk. 2 Connan vintage clear sunglasses, $260.43, Karen Walker. 3 Sonos One speaker, $299, Sonos. 4 Kenzo World EDP fragrance gift set, $134, Kenzo. 5 Lup wall candle holder in Round Brass, $99, Hay. 6 Saguaro cactus glasses, $75.90 for set of 6, Top3 by Design. 7 Small resin atelier boulder vase in Sandy Pearl, $160, Dinosaur Designs. 8 Jonathan Niclaus Hocko throw, about $290, Slowdown Studio. 9 Terrazzo MacBook skin and case, $24.99, Uniqﬁnd. 10 Arch earrings in Black, $59, Hyworks. 11 Memobottle A6 water bottle, $39.95, Opus Design. A real living

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1 Holiday Glow beauty duo (includes inner beauty powder supplement and inner beauty boost probiotic), $80, The Beauty Chef. 2 Crop top, $24, Next. 3 The small towel, $25, Lululemon. 4 Night indigo icon hoodie, $100, Stella McCartney. 5 Cilk Rose Extract drops, $79 for 100ml, Sephora. 6 Nimble Activewear moto mesh leggings in Plum, $99, Stylerunner. 7 Marble dumbbells, $129.95 each, Addition Studio. 8 Repetto large dufďŹ&#x201A;e bag in Gris Chine, $205, Mode Sportif. 9 Celcius leather skipping rope, $24.99, Rebel. 10 Sports cap thermal traveller bottle (750ml) and night rain carry cover, $45, Temple & Webster. 11 New Balance 574 trainers in Pink, $150, Stylerunner. 12 Garmin Fenix 5S GPS watch in Rose Goldtone Sapphire, $949, Harvey Norman. 13 Plantronics Backbeat Fit wireless headphones, $179, Rebel. 14 Active yoga mat in Fernando, $19.95, Cotton On Body. A real living

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1 One Thousand & Ninety Two badger brush and Mach3 razor set in Ash Wood, $199, Men’s Biz. 2 Tonal paisley tie in Navy, $79.95, Country Road. 3 Classic billfold with credit card case, $89.95, Country Road. 4 Eight & Bob Nuit de Megève EDP fragrance, $240 for 100ml, Mind Over Manor. 5 Jonny’s Sister personalised initial hip ﬂ ask, $92, Hard To Find. 6 Face wash, $18.95, Charles + Lee. 7 QuietComfort 35 wireless headphones II, $499.95, Bose. 8 Clean Sound AM vinyl record cleaner box set, $60, Hunting For George. 9 Saddle Noir bar shaker, $44, Pottery Barn. 10 Fold out comb, $39.95, Country Road. 11 Normann Copenhagen liqueur glasses, $65 for set of 2, Top3 by Design. 12 Classic reading watch in Rose Gold, $329, Daniel Wellington. 13 Corban & Blair A5 brown leather journal, $44.95, Temple & Webster. A @reallivingmag

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Alvar Aalto Collection

Looking like nothing else, the Aalto Collection laid the foundation for timeless design. Ever since it has become an icon of Finnish design and one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most famous glass objects. Simple yet rebellious, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the shape that moves.

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ESE AWAY, TH ES THEM K A T O R A B LE T A M H E OR E M A SU R E T M E L Y P E R N O R OU ESS TH E IR J IT’S BUSIN LP M A K E E W H E T H ER H L IL W E GIF TS PORTABL

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1 Epic Drives of the World book by Lonely Planet, $44.99, Dymocks. 2 Grainy leather personalised luggage tag in Navy Blue with gold metal detail, $69, Mon Purse. 3 No.352 leather and cedar travel candle, $29, Lumira. 4 Moss Zulu fedora hat, $89, Lack of Color. 5 Jet lag recovery kit (includes recovery mist and gel), $69, Sodashi. 6 Le Voyage travel journal, $29.95, Blacklist. 7 Round double bridge sunglasses in Gold Brown Classic, $285, Ray-Ban. 8 The large suitcase in Brick, approx. $375, and the carry-on suitcase in Green, approx. $285, Away Travel. 9 Lucky sweater, $95, Castle. 10 Total block out travel set (includes eye mask and ear plugs) $14.99, Typo. 11 Afternoons With Albert tan leather cord roll, $74.95, Temple & Webster. 12 Fujiﬁlm Instax Square SQ10 instant camera, $399, Harvey Norman. A @reallivingmag

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ATTICUS 3 seater sofa WILTON side table and console

OZ DESIGN FURNITURE COLLECTIONS AVAILABLE IN STORE & ONLINE ANYWHERE ANYTIME AUSTRALIA WIDE SHIPPING

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EE CO F F HIZZ , W IFE L G OUR AKIN ST IN Y THE B A R I O S F U S H TRE AT I L E NT LISING CKTA O C R TANTA UR O OIS SE CO N N

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1 Two piece coffee brewer in Brass, $45, Zakkia. 2 The Everleigh Bottling Co Famous Four classic cocktails, $85 for set of 4, Hard To Find. 3 Smeg Pump Espresso coffee machine in Black, $499, David Jones. 4 How To Make Coffee: The Science Behind The Bean book by Lani Kingston, $16.99, Murdoch Books. 5 Brass post box pepper grinder, $119, DEA Store. 6 Stelton peak brass candy bowl, $124, Luisaviaroma. 7 100% Raw honeycomb, $20, Maya Sunny Honey. 8 Eva Solo “Nordic” knife block in Black, $150, Top3 by Design. 9 Black trufﬂe salt, $28.50, Tetsuya’s. 10 Milk chocolate apron in Rust, $44, Worktones. 11 Futagami frame bottle opener, $79, DEA Store. 12 Copper ﬁnish measuring spoons, $2 for set of 4, Kmart. 13 Field cutting board, $110, Hay. A real living

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1 Sharon Muir Memphis vase, $175, DEA Store. 2 Plaid Merino blanket, $295, The Design Hunter. 3 Bright Beads Pendant light art, $505, The Design Hunter. 4 Escape bag in Khaki, $299, State Of Escape. 5 Zakkia Botanical large vase in Brass, $49, Designstuff. 6 Hennie Rattan slides in Tan, $149, St. Agni. 7 P&S Small Little Sandy Desert pot in Big Sur Eucalyptus (plants not included), $145, Pop & Scott. 8 Marrakech Intense eau de toilette, $85, Aesop. 9 Beanbag in Elsie, $845, Koskela. 10 Lil Bump cups, $35 each, Lemons Ceramics. A real living

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1 Milk chocolate speckles tins, $12.95 for 100g, Haigh’s Chocolates. 2 Two-piece Rose Gold salad servers, $6, Kmart. 3 Totally Crackers bonbon (includes Mulled Wine Magic, Hot Choc and Red Choc Mint loose leaf tea/tisanes), $26, T2. 4 Bon bon mini hand cream gift set, $35 for set of 3, Ecoya. 5 Alin tea towels, $34.95 for pack of 3, Country Road. 6 Gourmet Traveller restaurant gift card, Gourmettravellergiftcard.com.au 7 Handpicked x Romance Was Born 2017 Selections Yarra Valley Rosé wine, $28.99, Handpicked Wines. 8 Ecology Event white wine glasses (350ml), $29.95 for set of 4, Temple & Webster. 9 Boxed Inspiration card set, $49.95 for 52 cards, Kikki.K. 10 Christmas cracker (includes Blackberry & Bay Cologne, Basil & Neroli Body & Hand Wash and English Pear & Freesia Body Creme), $78, Jo Malone. 11 Limited edition Craig Redman & Karl Maier TOUCH espresso cups, $30 for set of 2, Nespresso. 12 Otto A5 Goals journal in Gold, and Dreams journal in Salmon, $16.98 each, Ofﬁceworks. R @reallivingmag

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a real living P R O M OT I O N

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TIZZY UP THE SILLY SEASON WITH PRETTY MAKE-UP PALETTES THAT LOOK JUST AS GOOD UNDER THE TREE AS THEY DO IN YOUR HANDBAG. SHINE ON!

LIGHT SHOW

’TIS THE SEASON TO BE GLOWY, and these limited-edition palettes add just the right amount of sparkle in all the right places. Think of it as a neverending gift to yourself: treat yourself now, and enjoy the compliments all year round. FROM LEFT: 1 By Terry Preciosity Flash Dual Compact Highlighter, $97, Mecca. From the creator of YSL’s iconic Touché Éclat comes the perfect holiday compact with pigments of bronzey-gold to contour and amber and pink to give cheeks a hint of colour. 2 Hourglass Ambient Lighting Edit – Volume 3, $117, Mecca. The cult Ambient series is renowned for giving the kind of perfectly lit glow that warrants a thousand selﬁes. The three best-selling shades join forces here, so you’ll always be seen in the best light. 3 Givenchy Striking Night Lights Eye Palette, $93, Sephora. For a grown-up way to wear glitter, this eye palette is infused with a pearlescent shine and a lightweight texture that can be worn over the lid or as an eyeliner. 4 Smith & Cult Book of Sun Blush/ Bronzer Duette in Chapter 1, $58, Sephora. Micro-reﬁned powders will take you from “yoga glow” to “all-out glam”. R

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text sarah tarca | photography nic gossage | styling sandy dao

Use illuminating powders as the last step in your make-up routine, sweeping across the areas of the face where the light would naturally catch. Think: cheek bones, forehead and bridge of the nose.

TOPS ON TOP

On Top

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Treat your VIPs to a festive feast for the eyes this Christmas and go all out with your decorations. From the moment they set foot in the door, guests will know theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in for something special PHOTOGRAPHY NIC GOSSAGE STYLING LISA BURDEN

OPPOSITE Wingnut & Co Koudai bowl in Momo, $36, Koskela. Rose Gold Look cutlery, $19 for 16-piece set, Kmart. Sharon Muir Hands platter, $180, DEA Store. Earth dinner plate in Earth Natural, $29.95, Robert Gordon. Linen table napkin in Nude, $50 for set of 4, Cultiver. Soh Ceramic bowl from $18, DEA Store. Lil cup in Stone, $35, Lemons Ceramics. Speedy Colour goblet in Orange, $261 for set of 6, Top3 by Design.

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You can buy ready-made twig wreaths from craft stores or floristry suppliers, and for a truly Aussie feel, decorate with native flowers from your garden, such as Grevillea, bottlebrushes or flowering gum. A

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If you love all that glitters, try this twinkly rose-gold look. To make sure it feels grown up, temper the sparkle with natural elements, such as this Scandi-style wall decoration – the perfect carrier for a string of fairy lights.

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LY R K Scandi wall deco in Natural, $149.95, Down To The Woods. Twinkle lights in Copper (3m), $19.95, Typo. OPPOSITE Premium table runner in Gold Glitter (2.5m x 30cm), $19.99, Premium table runner in Rose Gold Glitter (2.5m x 30cm), $19.99, and confetti, $9.99, Typo. Futagami trivet in Brass, $149, DEA Store. Flint serving platter w/Gold Foil, $69.90, Città. Speckle serving dish in Rose, $54, and Speckle oversize tumbler in Pink, $29, Zakkia. RM Hall “Malmo” 24 piece cutlery set in Old Gold, $370, Hardtoﬁnd. IVV “Speedy” colour goblet in Pink, $261 for set of 6, and “Speedy” coloured bowl in Pink, $261 for set of 6, Top3 by Design. Sprayed Pinkie Linen napkin, $69 for set of 6, Kip&Co. A

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Wreath by Your Flower Muse. OPPOSITE Floral posy by Your Flower Muse. Linen tablecloth in Black, $145 for small, and Linen table napkins in Black, $50 for set of 4, Cultiver. Merchant Dinnerware Med Round plate in Merchant Charcoal, $18.95, and Sml Round plate in Merchant Charcoal, $14.95, Robert Gordon. Cutlery, for similar try Charm 16-piece cutlery set in Black, $70, Freedom. Salt pinch pot in Plum, $20, Mud Australia. Waterford Crystal Elegance Optic Sauvignon Blanc glass, $99.95 for pair, Waterford. Shin Azumi for Kinto â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hibiâ&#x20AC;? tumbler in Purple, $24.90, Top3 by Design.

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Blackberry, raspberry and deep plum shades are a beautiful alternative to traditional bright red decorations. This fresh flower wreath also acts as a luxe centrepiece â&#x20AC;&#x201C; simply place a pillar candle in the centre. A

100% Linen table cloth in White, from $132, In Bed. Waterford Crystal Elegance Optic Champagne Belle coupe, $99.95 for pair, Waterford. Ferm Living â&#x20AC;&#x153;Rippleâ&#x20AC;? glasses, $59 for set of 4 and carafe, Designstuff. Linen Table napkins in Smoke Grey, $50 for set of 4, Cultiver. Irregular dinner plate in White, $3, and Irregular side plate in White, $3, Kmart. Futagami cutlery, $284 for 3-piece set, DEA Store. R

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styling assistant sophie zielinski

R A L U T

I NS TI N

The ultimate symbol of peace, olive branches also make pretty wreaths. Combine with other green foliage with leaves in a variety of different shapes to create interest. And keep table settings clean and simple.

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Made with love When it comes to Christmas style, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the personal touches that mean the most. This origami bauble costs next to nothing to make, but is so pretty to look at! Turn the page for more clever ideas. A

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Subtle changes The trick to successful Christmas decor is to make just a few additions that are in keeping with your style. After all, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be living with them for a month, so you need to love them! This star marquee light, candle centrepiece and mistletoe hanging from the ceiling ďŹ ts the brief.

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The best way to throw a memorable soiree for the holidays is to create a unique occasion full of personal touches. Here’s everything you need to customise your Christmas space

YOU WILL NEED

WAXED FLOSS + NEEDLE + AIR-POPPED POPCORN

For a fun kid-friendly activity, why not make traditional popcorn garlands? Top tip: use waxed ﬂoss instead of twine for a smoother process.

Edible gifts are always a winner. Bake cookies for all the teachers/ clients/friends in your life and package in vintage tins (eBay is a great source for bulk lots).

If you’re opting for fresh seafood for Christmas dinner, theme your table to match. Cleaned oyster shells make great salt and pepper servers, while a gold Sharpie and a handful of mussel shells will create unique name cards.

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Cacti, succulents and pine cones make adorable mini tree centrepieces placed under a cloche. Try the Ikea Härliga glass dome with base, $16.99.

For a nod to a Northern Hemispherical white Christmas, use sprigs of rosemary as napkin rings – simply tie together or use ﬂoral tape. Not only do they look like mini pine wreaths, your table will smell like heaven.

Flowers make a tablescape, but if you use foliage alone, it will last longer. Eucalyptus is perfect for an Aussiethemed Christmas table and can be strung together using ﬂoral wire to make a table runner. If you use fresh leaves, it should last up to a week.

Bring your tablescape up a notch by opting for linen napkins over the paper variety. For a playful twist, tie each one in a knot and place at each setting for an effortless feature.

Buy a length of plain red fabric from your local haberdasher (around six to eight metres) and tie a big red bow around your front door as you would a gift box. The result? An instantly festive house without the electricity bill that comes with all those fairy lights. See page 153 for more front door decorating ideas. A

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Country spread Dressing a table doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to be an expensive or time-consuming exercise. A vase of cotton stems, a collection of festive pine cones, some artfully knotted napkins and a few sprigs of rosemary and this rustic set-up is complete.

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Midas touch Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no need to deviate from your usual decor over the holiday season. Some gold foil-wrapped boxes tie in nicely with the metallic accents on this bureau, and they take next to no time to whip up.

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Chalkboard paint – easily found at any hardware store – can be used to transform the most unlikely of objects. Chopping boards, jugs, even baubles.

For a fun twist on traditional place cards, head to your local dollar store to stock up on mini easels or photo frames, and ﬁll them with black and white photos of each of your guests. Everyone will get a kick out of ﬁnding their face among the crowd.

Candles create instant atmosphere, and even more so when they have a special Christmassy fragrance! We love the Glasshouse Fragrances Under the Mistletoe candle, $46.95 for 350g.

To get that cosy fireside feeling without the heat, fill a fire pit with logs wrapped in fairy lights and place in the centre of the living room.

Nothing boosts the excitement factor like presents! But who says they have to be real? Practise your wrapping skills on empty boxes and pile around the house for instant visual glee.

Bunting isn’t just for walls – make mini bunting for cakes, pies and more with nothing but a few wooden skewers, some twine and small paper cut-outs.

Battery-operated twinkle lights are easy, cheap and far less likely to tangle than their corded counterparts. Drape them over all your house plants for a festive atmosphere in every room.

As far as sweet Christmas customs go, mistletoe has to be the sweetest. While originally a European tradition, Australia actually has 90 native species of mistletoe. Tie with a red ribbon, hang above your entryway and let the impromptu kisses begin! A

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Tie bunches of cinnamon sticks together with twine and leave in choice spots around the house for a home that smells like Christmas cake all season long.

Gingerbread cookies can double as name tags with just a little precision icing.

Wrapping makes a gift, so put a little effort into your gift toppers. Try gluing on fun trinkets like silk ﬂowers, glass beads, pom poms, miniature toys and custom bunting (see tip #13). Try Nordic hanging star with silver edge, $4.95, Papaya.

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In lieu of traditional stockings, string baby socks together to make a merry garland for the mantle or window sill.

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DIY paper ornaments are by far the cheapest way to decorate a tree. A packet of A4 printer paper and an afternoon spent trawling YouTube for easy origami is all you need. Try cranes or stars.

YOU WILL NEED

LARGE BR A NCH + GOLD SPR AY PAINT

Christmas budget stretched to the max? Skip the tree and forage around for a large branch instead. Simply spray paint it gold and voilà – a minimalist tree ready for ornaments.

Silicone baking moulds aren’t just for cakes. Try ﬁlling a large Bundt cake mould with melted chocolate before cooling for an easy (and edible) table centrepiece. A

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Old keys, kitchen utensils and matchbox cars can all be repurposed as tree ornaments. Simply lay them down on newspaper, spray them white and hang with red ribbon.

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It takes a village Children will love a miniature Christmas village or nativity display on the window sill. Source ceramic houses and ďŹ gurines from eBay or Christmas shops, or encourage them to make their own using modelling clay.

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Oh Christmas tree Arrange some greenery from your garden in a glass vase for a quick and easy alternative to the traditional tree. It doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t take up much room, but it delivers a similar delicious scent.

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Use kraft paper and a sewing machine to make yuletide gift packets. Simply measure your gift then cut two of the same sized shapes out of kraft paper (stars and stockings work best) and sew your gift inside. 1

Pretty pieces of fabric are a good gift-wrap alternative for awkwardly shaped objects.

With a couple of bunches of flowers and some floral wire and tape, you can set up your own flower crown station. Guests can make their own before sitting down to dinner (much nicer than the paper ones they’ll get inside their Christmas crackers!).

Customise a Guess Who? game with pictures of your family and friends for a cheeky twist on the traditional pastime. Try the Hasbro Guess Who? board game, $29, Target.

Flavoured salts, sugars and oils make great take-home Christmas gifts. Get creative with lemon, garlic, chilli, bacon, bourbon and caramel.

Make truly unique Christmas cards by printing your favourite photos from the year that was and writing messages on the back.

Fillable baubles are easy enough to ﬁnd at most craft or dollar stores – try stufﬁng with glitter, eucalyptus, toy animals or hand-written notes. Try Jolly & Joy glass baubles, $9.99, Spotlight.

Cookie cutters aren’t just for biscuits – use them to cut shapes out of melon slices for a twist on the traditional fruit platter. Try Gingerbread Man Copper cookie cutter set, $22, Williams-Sonoma. A

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Instead of reserving your baubles for the tree, try piling them high in bowls and on trays in any corner that could use a little invigorating.

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To give any drink a merry twist, thread fresh cranberries onto small bamboo skewers and freeze. Not only will they keep your chardonnay cold, they double as a festive drink stirrer.

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Christmas doesn’t have to mean red and green – make like the Scandinavians and use a neutral palette of whites, golds, silvers and browns in your bespoke creations. Try Vinter 2017 paper gift bag, $5.99 for 2 pack, Ikea.

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Forget the old paper hats and bad jokes – ﬁll Christmas crackers with high-end chocolates, shortbread and even mini bottles of gin. Try Hendrick’s gin, $9.99 for 50ml, Dan Murphy’s.

Throw a wrapping party – invite your favourites to bring over all their gifts and provide paper, ribbon and wine. Nothing makes a chore feel more like a party. Try ELC Assorted ribbons, $3.50 for a pack of 20, Ofﬁceworks.

Fancy a tipple? Fill a large tub with water, insert an empty champagne bottle in the middle and add cranberries and rosemary to the water before freezing. When you turn it out, you’ll have an ice bucket ready to chill your favourite sparkling.

Make your guests “ornamentinis” – pre-made martinis served inside ﬁllable glass baubles and presented in a traditional martini glass.

If you have an awkwardly shaped present that needs a box, use popcorn instead of packing pellets to cushion your gift. Not only is it festive, it’s biodegradable. A

YOU WILL NEED

PLAIN PAPER + TAPE + CR AYONS

Got kids who can’t keep their mitts to themselves? Wrap their presents in white paper then use washi tape to ﬁx a couple of coloured crayons to the top. Decorating their own presents as they sit under the tree will help keep them distracted until Santa arrives.

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Raise a glass A vintage drinks trolley is the perfect accessory when entertaining a crowd. Fill it with a selection of spirits and wines so guests can ﬁll their own glasses – and don’t forget some Chrissie baubles. ’Tis the season to be merry! real living

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Tree trimmings Give your tree a heartfelt, homemade touch by making a few of the ornaments yourself. Then invite loved ones to select one as a gift.

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For a festive take on cake decorating, try placing a lace or paper doily over your cake and sift icing sugar over the top. Remove to reveal the pretty pattern. Try Scalloped doilies, $7 for a pack of 12, The Party Cupboard.

Create an advent calendar out of matchboxes, jars – anything you have lying around. Just wrap each one in kraft paper and number them. What’s inside is up to you, but little notes telling the recipient all the things you love about them certainly never goes astray.

For a jingle-bell vibe, stock up on packets of silver bells from your local craft store, tie along lengths of twine and hang across doorways and windows. Try Bouclair dazzling bells in Silver, $14.99, Spotlight.

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text emma markezic | photography pernille kaalund/house of pictures/living inside | styling pia olsen

For cute, personalised decorations, take polaroids of each family member, glue or tape a peg on the back and attach to your tree.

Try some DIY himmeli, a Scandinavian style of decoration. While usually made from straw or reeds, you can mimic a himmeli tree-topper using paper straws, string and some gold spray paint.

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For the easiest DIY wreath, stretch out a wire coat hanger until it resembles a circle and then use a hot glue gun to attach baubles, felt pom poms or anything else your heart desires. Even hard-wearing foliage will stand the test of the season.

Wine bottles make great candle holders – wash off the labels and use tapered candles for a surprisingly elegant tablescape.

YOU WILL NEED

POTATOES + SCALPEL + SHARPIE + KR AFT PAPER

Potato printing isn’t just for kids – cut a cross, star or triangle in your spud and use to edge a kraft paper table runner.

Want truly bespoke wrapping? Use a label maker – such as Dymo LetraTag Handheld labeller, $39, from Ofﬁceworks – to write loved ones customised Christmas messages, then use the resulting labels instead of tape when wrapping your gifts. R L OV

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NOTED

O N … AV O I D I N G F E S T I V E FA M I LY B U S T- U P S

It might astound you if you are a regular reader of this column and subconsciously your partner will think it’s nearing the time that I’m not going to devote this Christmas piece to a dining to go. When they go to the toilet, get up and put the kids in the table so full of decorations and overpriced reindeer woven out car and when they return they have no option but to leave. of sticks that there’s no room for the actual turkey. Instead, I’m Always be the host. going to give you some timely advice on how to avoid family When things get a bit hairy or someone is annoying you it’s arguments over the festive season. Follow my advice and much easier to disappear when you’re in your own home. you’ll soon be on the sleigh to happiness. “Where are you going, honey?” Learn to bite your tongue. “I’m just putting Dan down for a nap.” You’ve spent a bundle on decent wine “But he’s 15!” Y O U T O O K H O U R S and an organic piece of meat that cost Flee the country. T O F I N D T H E more than your first car and then family Taking a holiday to miss Christmas is the P E R F E C T L E G O member A turns up with a carousel new eloping. Invent a fictional conference S E T F O R Y O U R of peeled supermarket prawns freshly in Bali or Mildura and escape the N E P H E W A N D defrosted from Thailand. Rather than madness. Not only do you miss out on T H E N H E O P E N S saying something snarky like, “Thank the fights, you can get away with sending I T , T A K E S O N E you so much. I saw these getting your nieces and nephews $10 in a card. L O O K , S H R U G S price checked yesterday” or “You’re Throw some grenades. H I S S H O U L D E R S , so resourceful, you’ll be buying your I only recommend this as a last resort. D R O P S I T O N clothes at Aldi soon”, simply bite If the thought of years of punishment T H E F L O O R A N D your tongue and accidentally on purpose with your partner’s family is unbearable, O P E N S T H E N E X T leave the prawns somewhere the cat can put a stop to it by creating a rift that will P R E S E N T . eat them, like next to its bowl. last a generation. Start with, “This is the Go easy on the booze. worst meal I’ve ever eaten.” Finish with, You took hours to find the perfect Lego set for your nephew “You’re the reason (insert partner’s name) cries themselves to and then he opens it, takes one look, shrugs his shoulders, sleep every night. It’s because you are a bad mother!” Do this drops it on the floor and opens the next present. You are and you’ll be watching movies on Christmas Day for years. 10 times more likely to find yourself in the follow-up to The Go hard on the booze. Slap if you’ve had 10 glasses of rosé. Stick to mineral water, If all else fails, reassign the driving duties and drink up. Booze juice or Stilnox and you will sail through the day. solidly all day and when it gets to fight o’clock make sure you Designate yourself the driver. are passed out on the sofa with a paper hat for a blanket. R If you hold the keys you can pull the ripcord whenever you Signed copies of Tim’s book The Rumpus Room are available as a reasonable want. Start dangling them just after mains have been served Christmas gift from Themanaboutthehouse.net | Follow him at @modernister

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KEEPING THE PEACE)

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Crowning glory When it comes to Christmas lunch, it doesn’t get much better than a relaxed spread out in the backyard – especially when it’s prepared by top-notch chef, Jake Smyth! Flip the page for his simple yet delicious (and princess-approved) recipes. A

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Garden party “We have a lovely mix of vegetables, natives and ﬂowering plants in the backyard,” says Jake. “It gives it a lovely perfume and also a utilitarian nature.” Table, bench and orange folding chair from Cafe Culture + Insitu. Pink and blue dining chairs from Fenton&Fenton. Hanging stars from Papier D’Amour.

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PA R T Y

W U NDER KIND S M Y T H D C HE F J A K E L AIDBAC ISHES UP A K FOR YOU LUNCH MENU R MOS T CHRISSIE REL A XED YE T

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A good crowd “Friends feel welcome anytime and know there is always a place to stay,” says Ali of the couple’s hosting style. Today they’re joined by Jake’s business partner Kenny, his wife Amiee and their daughter Hunter, and good pal Oscar.

ake and Ali Smyth know a thing or two about throwing a party. Ali organises events for a living as part of her publicity business, while Jake and his business partner Kenny Graham have taken the Sydney hospitality scene by storm, revamping Paddington’s The Unicorn Hotel to take out Pub of the Year at Time Out’s Sydney Pub Awards. So when it came to ﬁnding a fresh take on festive food, we couldn’t think of a better family Christmas to crash than the Smyth’s. “Relaxed sharing was the inspo for this menu,” says Jake, who is also one of the masterminds behind Sydney’s legendary burger joint, Mary’s. “I used to spend hours and hours in the days leading up to Christmas shopping or cooking, and I’m so over it! Time with family should be about wrestling children and kissing wives, not sweating in a kitchen or hustling in a pre-Christmas shopping queue.” Jake assures us that even reluctant hosts should feel conﬁdent with this fun menu. “If you don’t have a particular herb on hand, trade it for another, give it a squeeze of lemon, and away you go! Life’s too short to pay closer attention to recipes at home.” A

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True colours When it comes to Chrissie style, Ali says, “Colour is key! It comes through via the food, wine, cocktails, bonbons and gifts.” Orange serving bowl from Batch. Oak board from Città. Gift wrap and star decorations from Ikea. Salt dish from Studio Enti. Coasters and bonbons from Papier D’Amour. Dinner plates and salad servers from Country Road. Napkins from Kip&Co.

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Fill ’er up When it comes to effortless hosting, play to your strengths. “I can’t cook; that’s why I married Jake!” Ali says. “My forte is deﬁnitely keeping wine glasses topped up.” Enamel baking tray and gratin dish from The Lost + Found Department. Dip bowl from Città. Salt dish from Studio Enti. Star garland from Papier D’Amour. Napkins from Outliving.

PA R T Y

BUY ING “ A LI LIFE VE L ’S G O R BSTE E AT IT O R IS JOYS NE O ONE – F LI AND ENJO OF FE’S PAY I Y IT S T NG F RESS AND OR ES. ACT EVER TRY LIKE TO Y OT Y O U DO HER WEE IT K. ”

LOBSTER WITH PANZ ANELL A Serves 6 people Prep time 20 mins, plus 30 mins freezing time Cooking time 12 mins, depending on the size of your lobster Equipment Small saucepan; cling wrap; large pot with lid; bowl of iced water; scissors 100ml good quality sherry vinegar, plus 50ml for dressing 3 baby onions, sliced 2kg live Aussie lobster (or if you can’t ﬁt it in your pot, buy 2 of something smaller) Good quality extra-virgin olive oil Salt and pepper Favourite soft herbs 1kg heirloom tomatoes 200g sourdough bread, sliced, rubbed with fresh garlic and grilled 1 Bring sherry vinegar to the boil in a small saucepan and pour over half the baby onions. Leave to cool, covered with cling wrap. 2 Pop the lobster in the freezer to help it relax for 30 mins. Get some salted water on

the boil (season until it tastes like the ocean). Plunge the sleepy little sucker into the boiling water and ﬁrmly hold a lid on top until it stops kicking. Cook for 12 mins for an 800g lobster and add 1 minute per 100g over that. 3 Remove and plunge the red beastie into iced water. When thoroughly cooled, remove the tail from the head then carefully snip the inside of the tail with a pair of scissors to release the tail meat in one piece. Slice the tail meat, placing it back inside the tail shell, though now in reverse. Pick any meat from the claws – this can be eaten on the spot as a reward for your hard work thus far. 4 Dress the lobster with a good glug of extra-virgin olive oil and some salt and pepper. Place the herbs on top. 5 Slice the heirloom tomatoes into weird and random shapes, and place around the lobster. Add some sliced raw and pickled onion and grilled sourdough. 6 Dress the salad liberally with sherry vinegar and extra-virgin olive oil, salt and plenty of freshly cracked pepper.

PR AWN BOIL Serves 8 people Prep time 5 mins Cooking time 7 mins Equipment Large pot with lid 8L salted water (make it taste like the ocean) 2kg large green Australian prawns 1 whole fennel ½ celery Aioli, to serve

1 Bring the water to boil in a large pot with a lid. 2 Pop the prawns in for 7 mins, with the veg joining the little crustaceans with 2 mins to go. 3 Serve with aioli and eat as quickly as your burning little ﬁngers can manage. The veg are not a garnish, but a refreshing highlight. A

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WHOLE ROAST TURBOT Serves 8 people Prep time 5 mins Cooking time 12 mins Equipment Fish grill; barbecue 2 large turbot Olive oil, for greasing Salt, for seasoning Leftover brown butter glaze from turkey (see recipe opposite), fresh melon juice, pikelets and aioli, to serve 1 Put the turbot inside a fish grill, which can be purchased at the markets or any good kitchen store, applying a tiny bit of olive oil to stop the delicate skin from sticking. Too much oil can make the coals flare, causing smoke that can affect the flavour of the fish. Season with a heap of good salt. 2 Place over the coals of your barbecue, belly side first, and cook until the top outside fins start to bubble, about 6 mins. Flip and cook for a further 6 mins until the fish has a decent colour, and the flesh on the spine is cooked through. 3 Douse in brown butter and fresh melon juice. Then create the world’s best fish taco, dipping into that aioli!

Fin pickings Mismatched dinnerware is ideal for outdoor occasions. Aqua bowl and oval plate from Batch. Baubles from Ruby Star Traders. Small bowl from Country Road. White plate, for similar try Kmart.

G BEIN “ FISH CH E U H H S T T T FIS ABOU D. A L A S F E S ATH TRE R A L S O F F T ’ N RY DON , EVE UT T SOLE O T, B R B O R U T DER ” LOUN AS F

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She’s a keeper “It drives us both a bit crazy, but I’m a bit of a hoarder,” Ali admits. Lounge chair from Fenton & Fenton. Cushion cover from Ikea. Wrapping and ribbons from Vandoros Fine Packaging.

PA R T Y

WE C “ HOSE THE T CHIC U RKEY KENS , BEC ARE KOOK AUSE B ORIN ABUR G AN RAS D ARE IMMO RAL. ”

BBQ CHRISTMAS BIRD Serves 8 people Prep time 10 mins, plus 36 hours brining time Cooking time 50 mins Equipment Large pot; frypan; barbecue; aluminium foil; meat thermometer 6kg free-range turkey 240g table salt 500g brown butter 1 Cut turkey between breast and thigh until reaching the spine. 2 Dilute table salt into 4L water in a large pot, and plunge the bird for 36 hours. 3 Warm butter in a frypan, until the solids catch and become dark blonde. Reserve some of the glaze for turbot (left). 4 Light barbecue and allow coals (if using) to simmer down. The heat should range between 190 and 220°C. 5 Place turkey, ribcage down, and cook for 50 mins, applying glaze every 5 mins. Wrap turkey wing tips, neck or parson’s nose in foil to stop burning, if required. 6 Use meat thermometer to check breast is cooked to 65°C. Leave to rest.

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Carve tableside, with plenty of brown butter glaze handy. A

Kids’ corner What’s top of Luna’s Christmas wish list? “A seahorse from the ﬁsh markets.” Luna (left) and Hunter take a break from the grown-ups on beanbags from Koskela. Vinyl rug from Bonnie and Neil.

On the table Rolls of gift wrap make cheap and easy table cloths – no ironing required! All dishes, bonbons and napkins, as before. Carving set from The Lost + Found Department.

Serves 8 people Prep time 5 mins Cooking time 25 mins Equipment Barbecue 200gm grape tomatoes on the vine 4 heads baby cos lettuce 200g Greek yoghurt 50g smoked almonds, crushed Salt and olive oil, to serve 1 Roast tomatoes, vine attached, over the ﬂames of the freshly lit barbecue at 220°C for 25 mins. When thoroughly split, set aside and allow to cool. 2 Halve the cos lengthways and dress liberally and equally with the yoghurt. 3 Firmly press the roasted tomatoes into the cut cos, and cover with crushed almonds, salt and olive oil.

“ DON’T E VEN TRY BUYING A PREMA BASE, Y OU LITT DE LE SNEA KS! ”

UNICORN PAV Serves 8 people Prep time 25 mins Cooking time 40 mins, plus cooling time Equipment Electric beater; oven tray MERINGUE BASE 6 egg whites, at room temperature 1½ cups caster sugar 3 tsp cornﬂour 2 tsp white vinegar 1 tsp vanilla essence

TOPPING Your favourite jam Whipped cream Banana creme pat (recipe below) Seasonal fruit, to serve

1 MERINGUE Use an electric beater to beat the egg whites in a clean, dry bowl until ﬁrm peaks form. Gradually add sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating constantly, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is thick and glossy. Beat in the cornﬂour, vinegar and vanilla. Bake in the oven at 150°C for 10 mins then 110°C for 30 mins, then turn the oven off and leave the meringue to cool inside. 2 Whip the Banana creme pat (recipe below) together with enough whipped cream to make it light and delicious – allow 150g of cream for every 300g of creme pat. 3 Place liberal amounts of jam on top of the pav base, followed by enough banana creme to make your guests groan. 4 Freckle the top with your favourite in-season fruit. Eat with spoons from the middle of the table…

BA N A N A CR EME PAT Serves 8 people Prep time 20 mins Cooking time 20 mins Equipment Saucepan; Thermomix 1.5L milk 1 vanilla pod 300g sugar Pinch of salt 300g custard powder 900g ripe banana 150g egg yolk (you’ll need 7 to 8 eggs) 150g egg (you’ll need 2 to 3 eggs) 4 gelatin leaves, soaked 170g unsalted butter

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Bring milk and vanilla to boil. Blend sugar, salt, custard powder, banana and eggs in Thermomix. Pour hot milk over and cook while stirring until you get the desired consistency. 3 Add gelatin and butter and blend until smooth. 1 2

COS, ROA S T TOM ATO, YOGHURT AND SMOKED ALMONDS

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JAKE’S CHEFFY TIPS FOR A DRAMA-FREE FEAST 1 Buy a huge chopping board. It will make your life (and bench) feel so much more organised than it is. 2 Put all your prep into separate containers as you chop, and pop into the fridge. Again, organisation. 3 Get the barbecue lit AT LEAST an hour before you think you will need it. 4 Only start properly drinking when the main courses have hit the grill. R

Dig in! “There is a ‘she’ll be right’ attitude at the pub [The Unicorn Hotel], and it’s one I encourage with all home cooking,” says Jake. Orange bowl from Batch. Serving spoon from The Lost + Found Department. Bonbons from Kikki.K.

RUSTIC MODERN Timber and woven rattan is a traditional combination for outdoor furniture. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re after a modern look, choose a style with simple angular lines; for a classic look, team a set of curved dining chairs with your table. And for outside, armchairs (rather than armless) are always a good idea.

outdoor decor Transform your outdoor space for summer with furniture and accessories that are big on style and easy on the budget

a real living P R O M OT I O N

A BAR TABLE SETTING IS GREAT FOR A POOL-SIDE ENTERTAINING AREA. GUESTS CAN EITHER SIT OR STAND, GIVING IT A MORE CASUAL FEEL. EASY BREEZY Pale grey and white is the perfect colour combination for coastal or pool-side settings. Meanwhile, an elegant metal design keeps the look fresh and contemporary.

Some products are not available in some stores, but may be ordered.

BARBECUES COME IN DIFFERENT SIZES SO YOU CAN FIND ONE TO SUIT YOUR SPACE AND THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE YOU COOK FOR

SET THE SCENE Summer in Australia is made for outdoor entertaining, and the perfect dining setting will ensure you eat alfresco in comfort and style. When choosing a table, consider how many people you’ll want to seat and select the size accordingly. Then, think about the style: are you contemporary concrete? Breezy white? Or natural timber? Choose a look to suit your outdoor space.

COMPLETE THE SET-UP Dining table selected, it’s time to add the finishing touches – the most important of which is the barbecue! Multiple burners mean more space to cook, while a hood allows you to roast, too. And don’t forget about the accessories – these days you can get everything from a pizza stone to a smoker box so you can create all your favourite dishes.

CONCRETE COOL A concrete-look table lends itself well to a range of styles, from industrial to boho, contemporary and urban. Timber legs bring an earthiness to balance the concrete, which makes it easy to mix with different chairs, too – we say go for metal seats in black or white.

1 Mimosa Mareeba timber dining table, $299. Mimosa Corsica timber and wicker armchairs, $79 each. Matador Titan 4 Burner Hooded BBQ, $1150. 2 Mimosa 7 Piece Coral Bay aluminium bar setting, $899. 3 Marquee Verna Acapulco chair, $38. 4 BeefEater 4 Burner Discovery BBQ, $549. 5 Mimosa Cement Nebraska dining table, $1699. 6 Mimosa Coral Bay aluminium corner lounge setting, $1299.

CHECK OUT THE OUTDOOR LIVING RANGE IN-STORE AND ONLINE AT BUNNINGS.COM.AU

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

AMAZING BEFORE & AFTER PHOTOS

RENOVATING FOR PROFIT TRANSFORM YOUR PROPERTY ON A BUDGET

CHERIE BARBER THE RENO QUEEN

Open door Tie a giant fabric bow around your door for a lavish welcome. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need six to eight metres. Corinthian Doors urban primed entrance door (2.04m x 82cm x 4cm), $288, Bunnings. Henley lever lock set in Chrome, $85.85, Schots Home Emporium. Premium cotton sateen in Fern (1.27m), $8 per m, Spotlight. Low sheen acrylic paint in Petal Pink, $43.95 for 1L, Porterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Paints. Olive tree, $319, Florabelle, in Northcote Pottery Precinct Lite maxim drum (32cm x 29cm), $39.98, Bunnings. Turn the page for more ways to make an entrance. A

OUTSIDE M A K E

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SHUT THE FRONT DOOR!

CREATE A FESTIVE FACADE THE WHOLE STREET WILL LOVE

AIM FOR THE STARS For this Christmas door ornament, the key is to go large. Choose an ornament you love – we’ve gone for a star – and hang it on a nail. A tassel adds festive ﬂair. Meri Meri hanging star, $30 for set of 3, Papier d’Amour. Low sheen acrylic paint in Sydney Harbour, $45.40 for 1L, Porter’s Paints.

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PAPER TR AIL Create your own yuletide bunting with paper ornaments. Simply attach them to a length of string or ribbon and use decorative tape to attach them to the door. A

stylist ﬁona michelon | photography nic gossage styling assistants savanna cohen, megan o’loughlin, rebecca sicari

Kensington knob latch set in Chrome, $70.45, Schots Home Emporium. Sandleford 75mm black zone numerals, $13.95 each, Bunnings. Nordstjerne paper Christmas decorations, from $46 per pack, Designstuff, on hemp rope (50cm), $11.99, Spotlight. Ultra ﬂat acrylic paint in Bone, $44.05 for 1L, Porter’s Paints.

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BLING IT ON Disco balls are a fun alternative to regular baubles! Cluster them in different sizes and insert a few sprigs of greenery for freshness. Small Victorian door knocker in Satin Chrome, $34.15, and Henley lever lock set in Chrome, $85.85, Schots Home Emporium. Mirror balls, from $2.50 each, The Base Warehouse. Ultra ďŹ&#x201A;at acrylic paint in Iceberg, $44.05 for 1L, Porterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Paints.

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COTTONING ON Take a different approach to wreath making and use a non-traditional material like cotton stems. Weave them into a circle, secure with wire twists and hang with a ribbonâ&#x20AC;Ś or just buy a beautiful ready-made wreath! A Sandleford 75mm brass numeral, $7.45, Bunnings. Cotton wreath, $134.95, The Doors of Berry. Low sheen acrylic paint in Library Red, $45.40 for 1L, Porterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Paints.

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FOR AGE FANCY This is a fun project for the foragers. Collect pine cones in various sizes and paint them to suit your Christmas scheme. Tie to a length of string and dangle over a doorknob. Fluted centre door knob in Polished Metal, $44.65, Schots Home Emporium. Pine cones painted in acrylic paint in Metallic Silver and White, $3 each, on cotton twine, $6.99, Spotlight. Ultra ďŹ&#x201A;at acrylic paint in Grey Goose, $44.05 for 1L, Porterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Paints.

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PERFECT SCENTS A bunch of herbs will make your entrance smell as good as it looks! Stick to woody herbs such as rosemary, bay and thyme â&#x20AC;&#x201C; parsley, basil et al will wilt quickly. Corinthian Doors urban primed entrance door (2.4m x 82cm x 4cm), $288, Bunnings. Plain knob on rose set in Polished Brass, $40.80, Schots Home Emporium. Rosemary herb arrangement, by Lime Tree Bower. Bouclair dazzling bells in Silver, $14.99 for 42, and Arbee folley bells in Gold, $5.49 for 25, Spotlight. Cinnamon sticks, $3, Woolworths. Low sheen acrylic paint in Whale Watching, $45.40 for 1L, Porterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Paints. R

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Christmas GIFT GUIDE

Choose from a great range of titles and pick up the perfect gift this Christmas!

off*

AVAILABLE TO EXISTING BAUER MEDIA MAGAZINE SUBSCRIBERS. CALL 136 116 AND QUOTE CODE M17XMAS

Australian Women’s Weekly The Butcher, $45.00; Australian Geographic A History of the World in 500 Railway Journeys, $39.95; Australian Women’s Weekly Christmas: The Complete Collection, $45.00

Australian Geographic Australia Gone Wild, $59.95; Australasian Nature Photography 2017, $34.95; Belle 21 Australian Architects Breaking New Ground $59.99

FREE

DELIVERY IN AUSTRALIA

Belle Beautiful Australian Homes Volume II, $59.99; Australian Women’s Weekly Simply Bread, $49.99; Australian Geographic A History of the World in 500 Walks, $39.95

Order today and get it in time for Christmas! WWW.MAGSHOP.COM.AU/XMASGIFTGUIDE OR CALL 136 116 *Terms & Conditions apply. Free postage available only in Australia. To be eligible for the 10% discount, current Bauer Media magazine subscribers must place their order via Magshop call centre on 136 116. 10% discount only applies to the books noted on this ad and at www.magshop.com.au/ xmasgiftguide. The 10% offer ends December 31, 2017 or until stocks last. No rainchecks.

a real living P R O M OT I O N

STUFF This month’s roundup of

super-duper products for your home and lifestyle

TOP ROW Choices Flooring Good interiors start from the floor up, so take advantage of Choices Flooring’s Floors for Living catalogue sale, on now until December 2. Choicesflooring.com.au Spotlight Perfect for summer entertaining, the Cooper & Co two-tone cutlery set in Copper and White is bang on trend. $49.99 for 16-piece set; Spotlightstores.com ENJO This month, $5 from every limited-edition Pink Floorcleaner sold goes towards funding a McGrath Breast Care Nurse in communities across Australia. Enjo.com.au 2ND ROW Mitsubishi Electric The 630L Multi-Drawer fridge is family-sized with a touch of luxury. Available in Argent Silver and Brilliant Black. RRP $3799; Mitsubishielectric.com.au KitchenAid Use your KitchenAid Proline Blender to make healthy, nutritious meals fast! RRP $1199; Kitchenaid.com.au 3RD ROW Royal Oak Floors offers a dreamy range of flooring solutions. Pictured here is the hard-wearing and low-maintenance Smoked & Limed board at $85 per sqm plus GST; Royaloakfloors.com.au Fujifilm Express your creativity in an instant, with the new Instax SQUARE SQ10. RRP $399; Instax.com Freedom For a contemporary take on Christmas, deck your halls with Freedom’s statement decorations, soft string lights and fresh colour palettes. Freedom.com.au BOTTOM ROW Scyon Whether your home is contemporary or traditional, the vertical grooves of the Scyon Axon cladding will bring interest outdoors and create stand-out walls inside. Scyon.com.au Corinthian Doors The Moda Collection is a sleek yet simple range of internal doors that are factory-primed on each side for a superior paint finish. RRP from $270; Corinthian.com.au Luxaflex Featuring the signature “S-Vane” suspended between two sheer facings, Luxaflex Silhouette Shadings softly filter the light. Luxaflex.com.au

NOTED

NGS FESTIVE THAN WHO BET TER TO CHAT ALL THI E GIF T DESTINATION MECCA… JO HORGAN, FOUNDER OF FAV ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS…

THIS YEAR I’M MOST GRATEFUL FOR…

THE SCENT I LOVE MOST AT CHRISTMAS IS…

MY FONDEST FESTIVE MEMORY IS…

ON CHRISTMAS DAY YOU’LL FIND ME…

A MECCA CHRISTMAS IS…

Giving back As part of its mission to support women in the arts, Mecca collaborates with a contemporary, female artist to design the packaging for its Holiday collection each year. The 2017 honours go to indigenous artist Claudia Moodoonuthi (one of her winning prints pictured in background). “The colour, energy and sheer beauty of her work struck a chord with us,” Jo says. “It’s so joyful … I love that our customers can take home (or gift) a piece of art.”

MY FAVOU RITE DESTINATION (AWAY FROM HOME) FOR CHRISTMAS IS…

I DECK MY HALLS WITH…

MY FAVOU RITE CHRISTMAS DRINK IS…

For the wishlist Byredo Rose hand wash, $62, Mecca Cosmetica Joy Burst cracker, $20, and Diptyque Carousel and candle duo, $147, Mecca. R @reallivingmag

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photography steven chee | background print claudia moodoonuthi/courtesy of mecca

CHRISTMAS ISN’T CHRISTMAS WITHOUT…

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